Spain Travel Guide: Barcelona, Madrid and Andalusia

Spain mixes lively cities, beaches, Moorish palaces and late dinners. Good trains and short flights make it easy to link regions in one trip.

Quick facts

  • Getting there: Madrid (MAD) and Barcelona (BCN) are the main gateways, with Malaga and Seville for the south.
  • Best months: April to June and September to October. Summer is very hot inland.
  • Time needed: 8 to 14 days.
  • Currency: Euro (EUR).

A simple first route

  • Barcelona (3 to 4 nights): Gaudi buildings, the old quarter and the beach.
  • Madrid (2 to 3 nights): world-class museums, plus Toledo as a day trip.
  • Seville and Granada (3 to 4 nights): the Alhambra, flamenco and orange-tree streets.

Money-saving tips

  • Book the Alhambra and Sagrada Familia early, since tickets sell out.
  • Order the “menu del dia” at lunch for a full meal at a low price.
  • Compare high-speed trains and budget flights for long legs.
  • Dinner is late. Eat tapas early to find calmer, cheaper places.
  • Get mobile data before you land so maps and tickets work at once.

Prices, schedules and entry rules change. Always confirm with airlines, hotels and official sources before booking.