What To Do In Spain For A Week
If you're looking to explore Spain in just one week, we have the perfect itinerary that includes everything you'll want to see and do. From cities and beaches to museums and history, filling your days will be a breeze.
Start your trip off in Madrid, the vibrant capital. After some time here, venture north towards Basque country and experience its famed wine.
1. Royal El Escorial monastery
The royal monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is one of Spain's most significant architectural landmarks, built during the 16th century and now a World Heritage Site located near Madrid in San Lorenzo de El Escorial.
Philip II of Spain commissioned this monastery, intended to serve multiple purposes: as a necropolis for his father Charles V; a Hieronymite monastery; and royal palace. Designed by Juan Bautista de Toledo in 1563-84 under his pupil Juan de Herrera's supervision, construction took place between 1563-84.
This majestic monument stands as a towering presence with an unmistakably rigid architectural style and dramatic effect. It's a must-see for visitors to Avila, Segovia and Madrid.
Aside from being an impressive building, the monastery also serves as an outstanding example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. It was designed with Philip II in mind - who wanted a refined and sophisticated structure without ostentation or arrogance.
The monastery features a library (home to over 45,000 books and manuscripts), two museums, as well as the cloisters where monks/priests met. Furthermore, there are some paintings donated by Philip II and his family which can be admired within its walls.
The monastery is an excellent destination to visit, and the tour is both informative and comprehensive. You'll learn about its fascinating history as well as take in some of its stunning interiors. We suggest taking a guided tour to make the most of your time here.
After visiting El Escorial you can go on to see another of Spain's incredible buildings, the Teatro Real Coliseo de Carlos III (it was built by this monarch so that there would be rooms available for theatrical performances at the Royal Sites). It is one of the oldest theaters in the country and is worth a look around to see how it has been used over the years.
2. Alcazar of Segovia
High on a cliff overlooking two rivers in Segovia, this UNESCO-listed castle was once home to several of Spain's royal families. Rumored to have inspired one of Disney's castles, this majestic structure rises out from the cliffside as it looks down over Ciguinuela and Eresma rivers' confluence.
This impressive fortress began as a Roman castrum, but the Berber Almoravids took control in the early Middle Ages. King Philip II of Spain transformed it into a royal palace during the 15th century, modernizing many rooms with European influences.
Experience the Alcazar of Segovia on your own or join a guided tour to learn more about its palace and military history. Climb the tower for an impressive panoramic view of the cityscape.
If you're travelling with children, there are plenty of benches and a baby-changing station near the ticket office. Alternatively, wheelchair-accessible toilets can be found inside or outside in either of two gardens: inside the palace itself or its adjacent garden.
The Alcazar of Segovia is easily accessible by foot or bus. It takes 10 minutes to drive there along Paseo Santo Domingo de Guzman road, or you can take a 30-minute walk via Av. Padre Claret/CL-601a roads from Segovia's centre.
For those interested in exploring the palace and artillery museum, regular tours are offered - tickets must be purchased ahead of time at the information desk. EU citizens and residents of Segovia can access both sites free of charge while larger groups enjoy discounted rates.
3. Toledo
Park Guell, situated in one of Barcelona's most charming neighborhoods, is a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. Here you'll find the world's longest continuous park bench, an adorable cafe, as well as some of Gaudi's most unique buildings.
To avoid the crowds, come early in the morning when it's cooler and fewer people are around. Then, you can enjoy a leisurely walk through the sculptural park without feeling overwhelmed.
Tickets to enter Gaudi's Monumental Zone, a 12 hectares (39 acres) area filled with his most iconic structures, can be purchased. Some of its highlights include the Dragon Staircase, Hypostyle Room, Nature Square and Laundry Room Portico.
This area is perfect for picnicking, so bring your own food. If you have time, climb up the Metropol Parasol to watch the sun set over the city.
Another fantastic option is visiting the Reina Sofia Museum, which houses over 21,000 pieces from Spanish 20th-century artists such as Dali, Miro and Picasso. Housed inside a Gothic building, this museum provides guided tours led by art historians.
You could also visit the Prado Museum, home to one of Europe's finest collections of art. It boasts works by Velazquez, Goya and Titian.
It's easy to see why the museum is so popular, and it's definitely worth visiting if you want to learn about Cuba's history and diverse cultural heritage. For the best experience, book a guided tour with an expert who can explain each artwork in the exhibit as well as provide more background on its creators.
4. Park Guell Barcelona
Park Guell is an impressive green space in Barcelona designed by Antoni Gaudi and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's one of the city's most visited attractions.
Park Guell's terrace provides stunning views of the city and is lined with benches adorned with vibrant mosaics. Here, you can spend hours taking photos and discovering its many intriguing nooks and crannies.
From Barcelona, there are multiple ways to get to the park. Take the metro to Lesseps or Vallcarca and then walk for 20 minutes until the main entrance on Carrer de Larrard. Buses on lines H6, D40, D24 and V19 also stop here.
It is essential to be aware that Park Guell is divided into two zones - the Monumental Zone and Free Zone. The Monumental Zone requires a ticket; while the Free Zone can be viewed without charge.
In the Monumental Zone, you'll encounter a 2.4-meter dragon (known as Salamander) and an expansive bench made up of broken mosaic pieces. Additionally, many themes from Catalan nationalism, religious mysticism and ancient poetry are evident throughout the park's architecture.
On either side of the main entrance are two houses that seem straight out of a fairytale. Casa del Guarda, where doormen used to sleep; and Pabello de l'Aministracio, featuring a souvenir shop.
Gaudi designed the Gaudi House Museum in the park, featuring an exhibition of furniture and objects designed by him. You can also climb to the top of El Calvari, a calvary-shaped monument with three crosses known as El Calvari.
The best thing about this quirky and colorful park is that it’s free. This park was originally supposed to be a residential community for the rich, but due to incompatible building conditions, it folded and Gaudi decided to model it after gardens he had seen in England.
You’ll find twisted rock pillars, ornately tiled dragon statues and gingerbread-looking buildings here. The terrace at the top is a popular spot to sit and take in the scenery, with fantastic views across Barcelona.
5. Valencia
Are you searching for an exciting, vibrant city to visit during your next trip to Spain? Valencia is the perfect choice. This vibrant destination is renowned for its festivals, music and arts scene, providing visitors with plenty of activities to keep them engaged during their stay.
Valencia may be overlooked by travellers, but it offers a unique vacation experience for those seeking something a bit special from their traditional European vacation. Here, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Spanish culture and truly savor this stunning country's essence.
Valencia boasts an array of museums, so if you have time, make sure to explore them all. From ancient ruins to bustling marketplaces, there is no end of things to see and do in Valencia!
The City of Arts and Sciences is one of Barcelona's newest attractions, being one of Spain's 12 Treasures. Here you'll find numerous fascinating attractions such as Museu de les Ciencies Principe Felipe - a science museum designed like a whale - and L'Umbracle Sculpture Garden.
Another fantastic option is taking a guided tour of Ciutat Vella (Old Town), filled with stunning architecture and history. Not only will this give you an authentic taste of the city, but you can also sample some local food at this delicious spot.
In addition to all the historical sights to explore in this city, there are also plenty of festivals and events throughout the year. Be sure to attend the 3 Kings Day parade in January and Valentine's Day festival on October 9th!
For a great example of Valencia's unique architecture, head to La Lonja de la Seda (The Silk Exchange). Housed inside of the historic Civic Centre building it is a magical building that is one of Spain's UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a must see when you are in town.
The Gothic architecture of this UNESCO site is a sight to behold with its vaulted ceilings and beautiful spiral columns.
Hope you now know What to do in Spain for a week. Enjoy your trip and do not forget to leave us a comment with your experiences of Spain.
