Spain in summer feels like stepping into a sun-soaked dream – long days, sizzling evenings, food that lingers in your memory, and landscapes that change faster than you can snap a photo. Whether you’re doing a quick escape or a full-on two-week Spanish fiesta, there’s a way to make every day count. Here’s a not-so-perfect but very real guide to planning your Spain summer itinerary – from 7 to 14 days.
Spain summer itinerary for 7 days – see the highlights fast
If you’re working with just a week, you gotta move fast but still soak in the vibe. Best to stick to one region or focus on the classics.
Day 1-3: Barcelona – Gaudí, tapas, and beachy afternoons
Start in Barcelona. It’s lively, artistic and has the perfect balance of beach and city. Wander around the Gothic Quarter, eat way too many patatas bravas, and definitely make time for Sagrada Familia. If you’re into art – the Picasso Museum and Fundació Joan Miró are worth it. Day 3? Park Güell in the morning, then chill by Barceloneta beach with a cold drink.
Day 4-5: Madrid – museums and late nights
Hop on a fast train to Madrid. It’s only around 2.5-3 hours. Once you’re there, hit the Prado Museum and Retiro Park. Madrid doesn’t sleep much in summer – dinner at 10pm is normal. Check out the rooftop bars like Circulo de Bellas Artes for sunset views.
Day 6-7: Toledo or Segovia – easy day trips
End your trip with a quick escape from the city. Toledo feels like stepping into a medieval storybook, and Segovia has that famous Roman aqueduct and a fairytale castle. Either one is great – just depends on your mood. Head back to Madrid for your flight out.
Spain summer itinerary for 10 days – coast, cities and culture
With 10 days, you can slow down a bit and toss in another region.
Day 1-3: Barcelona
Keep the same start as the 7-day plan. The extra time means you can squeeze in a day trip – maybe to Montserrat for mountain views or Sitges if you want more beach life.
Day 4-6: Valencia – paella and seaside vibes
Take a train down to Valencia (around 3 hours). It’s less crowded than Barcelona, and it’s the birthplace of paella – so yes, food is a big deal here. The City of Arts and Sciences is futuristic and weird in the best way. Spend time biking through the Turia Gardens or swimming at Malvarrosa Beach.
Day 7-10: Madrid + Toledo
Wrap up in Madrid. Add that quick day trip to Toledo and maybe even squeeze in some shopping or just sit around eating churros at San Ginés. No rush – you’ve earned it.
Spain summer itinerary for 14 days – the full-on Spanish experience
Two weeks in Spain? Now we’re talking. You can actually breathe a little, toss in the south and maybe even the Basque Country if you’re feeling wild.
Day 1-3: Barcelona
Same start, but maybe slow down a bit – throw in a food tour or flamenco show.
Day 4-5: Valencia
Quick stop, soak in the city, enjoy some seafood and sunshine, then keep it moving.
Day 6-8: Granada and Seville – Andalusia magic
Now we’re heading south. Train to Granada might take a while (4-6 hours), but it’s worth it for the Alhambra alone. Flamenco here is raw and real. Then hop over to Seville – it’s hot, yes, but magical. The Alcazar, the Cathedral, and all those narrow orange tree-lined streets. Eat late, nap in the afternoon, repeat.
Day 9-11: Madrid + Segovia
Train up to Madrid again, take your time. Add Segovia this time for something new. Castles, cochinillo (roast suckling pig), and old-world charm.
Day 12-14: San Sebastián or Bilbao – finish in the north
Fly or take a train up north. San Sebastián is small but mighty – some of the best food in Spain, hands down. The beaches are clean, the vibe is relaxed. Bilbao has the Guggenheim and a cooler, artsy feel. Either works.
Final thoughts for planning your Spain summer itinerary
Spain’s not just about ticking cities off a list. The real magic is in the little things – late-night conversations over wine, random festivals, street musicians, siestas that stretch too long. Whatever version of the Spain summer itinerary you choose, keep it flexible. You’ll want room for the unexpected – trust me.
