Eight to 10 days is a great length for a Spain trip with stops in Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in six or seven days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Seville, Costa Brava, or Vilafranca del Penedès. Keep reading for more inspiring Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia itineraries.

How many days do you need in Barcelona, Madrid & Valencia?

  • Most travelers spend 8-10 days in Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia combined
  • Visiting Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia in 6 or 7 days is possible, but it will feel rushed
  • With 11 or more days, most travelers choose to add more stops to their trip
  • The most common extensions are Seville, Costa Brava, and Vilafranca del Penedès

How Many Days to Spend in Barcelona
How Many Days to Spend in Madrid
How Many Days to Spend in Valencia

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Recommended Itineraries for Barcelona, Madrid & Valencia

Recommended Itinerary for 8 Days

Aerial View of Madrid Cathedral
Aerial View of Madrid Cathedral
Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Madrid, Evening Tapas Tour Madrid
Day 2 Tour the Prado Museum & World's Oldest Restaurant Lunch Madrid
Day 3 Free Day in Madrid or Optional Day Trip Madrid
Day 4 Drive to Valencia, Walking Tour & Paella Tasting Valencia
Day 5 Train to Barcelona, Sailing Excursion Barcelona
Day 6 Barcelona Food Tour Barcelona
Day 7 Free Day in Barcelona or Optional Day Trip Barcelona
Day 8 Depart Barcelona  


This eight-day tour takes you through the historic districts of Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona, starting with a tapas tour and a visit to the famous El Prado Museum in Spain's capital. Enjoy a day trip to a medieval city near Madrid before driving to the coast and eating paella in Valencia. End the trip in Barcelona by sailing its coastline and exploring its culinary scene. Read more

How to travel between Barcelona, Madrid & Valencia

How to get from Madrid to Valencia
The distance between Madrid and Valencia is 222 miles (357 km). The quickest mode of transportation to get from one city to the other is by plane, a quick one-hour flight. You can also take a two-hour train ride or a leisurely 3.5-hour drive (with a rental car or private transfer), depending on your preference. The bus is the longest option available and offers a four-hour route. Read more

How to get from Madrid to Barcelona
Madrid and Barcelona are 386 miles (620 km) apart, and the quickest way to make the trip is by plane, which will take just over an hour. There are other options to consider, including by train, car, and bus, depending on your preference. Read more

Map

Map of Barcelona, Madrid & Valencia: Best Itinerary Ideas
Map of Barcelona, Madrid & Valencia: Best Itinerary Ideas