Our Top 8 Itineraries for Visiting Spain for the First Time

Length: 8 Days

Places visited: Barcelona, Madrid, Córdoba, Seville, Toledo

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Standing beneath the soaring organic columns of La Sagrada Familia on our Luxury 8-Day First-Timers Tour of Spain's Highlight Cities, you'll feel architect Antoni Gaudí's genius surround you as your private guide reveals the mathematical secrets behind Barcelona's most iconic landmark. With exclusive early access, commune with Velázquez and Goya in the Prado’s hushed galleries as stories of royal intrigue and artistic revolution come alive. In a century-old kitchen in Madrid's Literary Quarter, knead dough alongside a chef who shares family recipes passed down through generations before wandering ancient alleyways on a private tapas crawl for a taste of Spain's diverse regions.

Length: 10 Days

Places visited: Madrid, San Sebastián, Toledo, Barcelona

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Your children will be wide-eyed inside Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia on Zicasso’s 10-Day Highlights of Northern Spain: Madrid, San Sebastián, and Barcelona Tour. As your private guide turns stone columns into a forest adventure, your young adventurers will be challenged to spot hidden animals in the façade. Follow clues on a treasure hunt in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter that’s designed to turn history lessons into memories that are sure to surface in their school essays one day. For some heart-pumping adventure, zipline over the Tagus River as medieval Toledo sprawls beneath you before heading for a kitchen to master the perfect tortilla flip under a chef's watchful eye.

Length: 7 Days

Places visited: Madrid, Barcelona, Toledo, Zaragoza, Poblet, Montseratt

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Zicasso’s Serene Spain Tour for Seniors: Madrid and Barcelona will introduce you to Park Güell, where your knowledgeable guide will explain how Antoni Gaudí transformed natural forms into architectural showpieces. Inside La Sagrada Familia, settle comfortably to absorb the cathedral's kaleidoscopic light show while your guide ensures you catch every fascinating detail of this spectacular building. For a taste of Spain, enjoy each region’s famous cuisine, including dishes like xuixo and jamón ibérico. On a guided tour of city markets and restaurants, you'll learn about the local food culture and traditions that have shaped the region's culinary identity.

Length: 8 Days

Places visited: Barcelona, Toledo, Córdoba, Mezquita, Seville, Santa Cruz, Giralda

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

As Toledo glows amber against the Castilian sky at daybreak, your private guide will lead you through narrow cobblestone streets where Jewish, Muslim, and Christian histories intertwine. Pause at El Greco's masterpiece, Burial of the Count of Orgaz, where the artist's swirling brushstrokes seem to breathe in the Toledo cathedral’s quiet interior. As evening settles over Seville, lanterns light up courtyards as you enjoy a private flamenco demonstration before dinner. Try local cuisine like paella, sample the region's famous wines, and experience the city's lively tapas culture. With expert guidance, exclusive access to historical landmarks, and immersive cultural experiences, the Perfect Luxury 8-Day Spain Itinerary is the ultimate way to explore the beauty and charm of this country.

Length: 7 Days

Places visited: Seville, Ronda, Madrid, Toledo

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Join us on a journey through the country's most iconic cities and landmarks when you embark on our Romantic 1-Week Tour of Seville and Madrid with your loved one. As evening falls on Seville, you might find yourself at a hidden tapas bar known only to locals, where the bartender slides a plate of glistening jamón ibérico before you as flamenco music drifts from a nearby courtyard and the Guadalquivir River glimmers in the moonlight. At Ronda's Puente Nuevo, morning light casts dramatic shadows across El Tajo Gorge's 390-foot drop while eagles soar through the mist. If you are an art lover, a renowned historian in Madrid will take you on a tour through the Prado's hallowed halls after closing time, allowing you to pause before masterpieces like Velázquez's Las Meninas.

Length: 12 Days

Places visited: Madrid, Tena Valley, Alquézar, Barcelona

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

On our Best Relaxing Spain Vacation: Wine, Yoga, Thermal Pools, and More, follow ancient shepherds' paths up Piedrafita de Jaca, your expert guide pointing out rare alpine flowers that peek between rocks. Soothe your tired muscles in Panticosa's mineral-rich thermal pools as you float weightlessly below Pyrenean peaks, enjoying a chilled glass of wine. Medieval Alquézar reveals itself slowly as you wander its honey-colored stone streets, your private guide leading you to an olive oil sampling from trees planted during Moorish rule. In a family-owned bodega, a vintner's hands pull a rare tempranillo directly from an oak barrel as afternoon sun streams through ancient cellar windows and time seems to slow to match Spain's unhurried pace.

Length: 12 Days

Places visited: Barcelona, Sitges, Seville, Tena Valley, Alquézar

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

From the Parc Güell to the Sagrada Familia, the CosmoCaixa science museum to the Poble Espanyol, The Best of Kid-Friendly Spain Tour: City and Beach will bring you and your children that much closer to appreciating Spain's history and culture. With expert guidance, exclusive access to historical landmarks, and immersive cultural experiences, this tour is a fabulous way to explore the charm of Spain with your youngsters. Experience the thrill of a 3-D recreation of ancient Seville for children, where you'll relive the city's history through interactive films and explore the Metropol Parasol, a collection of architectural mushrooms that allow you to gaze down upon what Roman Seville looked like. Take a funicular ride to enjoy stunning views of the city, explore the Sky Walk, and relax on Spain’s spectacular beaches on this fun, educational journey.

Length: 12 Days

Places visited: Barcelona, Penedès, Montserrat, Granada, Seville, Ronda, Marbella, Madrid

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

The Unrivaled Luxuries of Spain Tour takes you from the glitz and glamour of Barcelona to the passion of the people in Seville, the ancient cultural origins of Montserrat's monastery, and the dream destination of Ronda. With expert guides, you will have exclusive access to historical landmarks and cultural experiences. Visit the Alhambra Palace in Granada, discover the Moorish neighborhood of Albayzin, and marvel at the intricate works of Moorish art and architecture. Enjoy elaborate shows that demonstrate the culture and cuisine of Seville, and experience the emotion and passionate energy of the city's craftspeople during private workshops. Toward the end of your trip, relax in Marbella, enjoying unobstructed views of the sprawling seascape from your balcony.

These itineraries showcase the diverse experiences that await in Spain, from artistic masterpieces and architectural marvels to culinary adventures and natural escapes. Each journey offers a unique lens through which to discover the country, whether you're traveling with family, seeking romance, or simply wanting to immerse yourself in Spanish culture at a pace that suits your preferences.

For more inspiration and detailed information about Spain's regions, seasonal festivities, and insider recommendations, explore our comprehensive Spain travel guide to find everything you need to transform these itinerary ideas into your own unforgettable Spanish adventure. You can also take a look at other Spain tours and vacations.