Spain Travel Insights

Barcelona, Seville, Madrid & Valencia: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that nine to 12 days is perfect for a well-paced Spain trip with stops in Barcelona, Seville, Madrid, and Valencia. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in five to eight 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 Granada, Málaga, or Córdoba. Keep reading for more inspiring Barcelona, Seville, Madrid, and Valencia itineraries.

Culture, Cuisine & Cruise: Valencia, Madrid, Seville & Barcelona - 11 Days

This enriching 11-day itinerary unlocks Spain's culture, cuisine, and natural beauty with enough time to slow down and experience the vibrant cities of Valencia, Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona. Explore Spain's strong culinary side with tapas tours, a hands-on cooking workshop, wine tasting, and a farm-to-table lunch. Join guided tours on foot, then set sail and appreciate the beauty from the water with nature and sunset cruises. See the best of each city and squeeze in day trips to historic Toledo and Montserrat.

Barcelona & Valencia: Best Itinerary Ideas

Eight to 10 days is the most popular trip length for Spain travelers interested in visiting both Barcelona and Valencia, especially when also including Madrid. For travelers wanting to visit Barcelona and Valencia exclusively, plan six to eight days for a well-paced trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as four or five days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Barcelona and Valencia, and beyond.

Flavors of Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid & Seville - 9 Days

This nine-day journey gets to the heart of Spain with tapas crawls, culinary workshops, and guided experiences in Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, and Seville. Delve into the world of Catalan modernism with a private tour of Sagrada Família, then visit Valencia's local markets and learn how to make paella step-by-step. Feel the rhythmic fervor of a flamenco show in Madrid and cycle along the charming streets of Seville. Finally, visit a historic olive oil estate in the Andalusian countryside.

Barcelona & Valencia Experience - 6 Days

Feel the vibrant energy of Barcelona and the rich culture of Valencia with this six-day tour of eastern Spain. Enjoy a private encounter with the iconic Sagrada Família and indulge in Catalan tapas. Treat yourself to a spa day and sail toward family-run wineries where the famous sparkling cava is produced. Eat your way across Valencia, the home of paella, then float along an underground river system. This short but immersive trip blends gastronomy, relaxation, adventure, and architectural wonders.

The 6 Best Hotels Near the Beach in San Sebastián

San Sebastián is famous for its long, picturesque La Concha Beach and waterfront promenade, so staying at a hotel near the sea or at least within quick walking distance is definitely a perk. Though there aren't too many options, kimkim staff visited San Sebastián and found the best hotels near the beach. And many properties provide amenities like rooftops, restaurants, spas, and suites with large windows opening up to the bay to make your stay even more memorable.

The 13 Best Historic Hotels in San Sebastián

Historic hotels are aplenty in San Sebastián, and some of the best include those housed in luxurious villas, beautiful convents, and even famous city landmarks. After visiting and evaluating the hotels in San Sebastián, kimkim staff agreed that these 13 options were the best regarding historic elements, architecture, backstories, and amenities. And despite their age, these hotels still provide modern comforts like on-site restaurants, opulent lobbies, outdoor pools, stylish rooms, and more.

Discover Madrid & Andalusia: Culture, History & Nature - 11 Days

Culture, history, and culinary delights converge with this 11-day journey through Madrid and southern Spain. Start in the capital with a walking tour, tapas class, and a Prado museum visit. Then, venture south to Andalusia, where a rich mix of Moorish and Jewish history awaits. Explore the best of Seville, admire the Alhambra in Granada, and experience the picturesque beaches of the Costa del Sol near Málaga. Gain even more from your 11-day tour with insightful day trips to Toledo, Córdoba, and Ronda.

Seville, Granada & Málaga: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten to 11 days is the most popular trip length for Spain travelers interested in visiting Seville, Granada, and Málaga, especially when also including Madrid. If you're only headed to Seville, Granada, and Málaga, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in six to eight days. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as five days. Check out our favorite Seville, Granada, and Málaga trips below.

Spain Andalusia Loop: Seville, Málaga & Granada - 7 Days

This weeklong itinerary explores the best of Spain's southern Andalusia region, starting in the vibrant capital of Seville with a tapas crawl and guided tour. You'll then board a train southeast to Málaga to soak up the sunshine on the Costa del Sol and kayak and snorkel along the Costa Tropical. Continue to Granada, where the imposing Alhambra awaits, and hike through quiet mountain villages, ending your trip with a relaxing hammam experience before departure.

The 11 Best Hotels in the Basque Countryside

The Basque countryside is an exceptionally scenic stretch along northern Spain, between the Bay of Biscay and the region's inland hills. If you'd like to pair a city escape in Bilbao or San Sebastián with a rural retreat, kimkim visited and vetted several hotels in the Basque countryside, and some of the best come with incredible views, historical charm, and expansive outdoor spaces. Most of these top picks require a car or private transfer, but your reward is a relaxing stay among nature.

The 8 Best Rooftop Hotels in San Sebastián

Though most rooftop terraces in San Sebastián are only open through the summer months, some of the city's best hotels have them—which might be exactly what you need to enhance your stay. Kimkim staff checked out San Sebastián's famous rooftop hotels and listed the top options below. Many pair this perk with other amenities, like an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, spa, and historic elements.

The 4 Best Hotels in San Sebastian's Old Town

Spanish Old Towns are a perfect place to stay, and the best hotels of this category in San Sebastián are some of the city favorites. When kimkim staff visited and vetted the city's hotels, the following properties made the cut for San Sebastián's small yet charming historic center. Most are budget-friendly properties with prime locations and perks like trendy, modern rooms, a delicious breakfast, and terrace views.

16 Days in Spain - 4 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With 16 days in Spain—and convenient train and flight options—you can visit at least five regions with your family. Those keen on culture and cuisine can make paella in Madrid and learn to flamenco in Seville. History buffs will enjoy a tour of Toledo's monuments, and budding artists will craft ceramic keepsakes in Barcelona and follow the footsteps of Salvador Dalí along the Costa Brava. Those seeking outdoor adventures should snorkel in Málaga and head to the Sierra Nevadas for a hike.

The 4 Best Luxury Hotels in San Sebastián

Though San Sebastián is known for its authentic, laid-back charm, the city does have three luxury hotels for those seeking an upscale stay. Kimkim visited the top hotels in the city and recommends the following 5-star options, all offering exclusive amenities like incredible city or sea views, high-end dining options, relaxing spa treatments, and/or elegant decor.

The 9 Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in San Sebastián

As a relaxed city that focuses on its authenticity, you'll find that some of San Sebastián's best hotels actually fall into the standard category, meaning they're a bit friendlier on the budget. After visiting the city and checking out numerous hotels, the kimkim staff was impressed by the quality of this selection, ranging from modern urban properties with fresh aesthetics to charming yet rustic countryside retreats. You'll even find excellent amenities at some choices, including on-site restaurants, wellness facilities, bike rentals, and outdoor terraces.

The 13 Best Mid-Range Hotels in San Sebastián

Known for its down-to-earth, authentic character, there aren't many luxury properties in San Sebastián, meaning its mid-range selection is where you'll find the city's best hotels. Kimkim staff traveled to the Basque gem and visited over 30 of its accommodations, and by far, the mid-range hotels were the most impressive. Save a little money while enjoying perks like historical buildings, sea views, outdoor pools, on-site dining, and more.

13 Days in Spain - 4 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Spain's size and train options make it possible to visit at least four regions in 13 days with the family in tow. First-timers can hit the highlights on guided tours of Barcelona and Madrid, while active families can hit the trails in the Sierra Nevadas, tour Bilbao by bike, and snorkel in La Herradura. Budding chefs will learn the secrets of Spanish cuisine in culinary workshops in Seville and Toledo, and family-friendly activities, such as a hot-air balloon ride in Segovia and a treasure hunt in Málaga, will keep the little ones entertained.

15 Days in Spain - 4 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With 15 days in Spain as a family, you can embark on a family-friendly tour featuring city tours in Barcelona, Madrid, and Málaga or stretch your young ones' comfort zone while hiking, horseback riding, and joining hands-on workshops on a culture and natural wonders tour. Families looking for a mix of thrilling activities and kid-friendly city tours should include time in Córdoba and Seville in their itinerary, while those seeking abundant family time along the coast should opt for a trip in Northern Spain.

Spain Family Vacation: Madrid, Barcelona & Menorca - 14 Days

Introduce the kids to continental European life with this glorious two-week family trip to Spain. Starting in Madrid, you'll stroll medieval cobbled streets, feast on mouth-watering tapas, and experience centuries-old traditions in Toledo. Catch the train to vibrant Barcelona and gaze awestruck at the Sagrada Família as the city's turrets and steeples fire the kids' imaginations. Your trip finishes on the idyllic island of Menorca, where you'll swim in secret coves and sail the stunning coast.

Barcelona, Madrid & Málaga: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Barcelona, Madrid, and Málaga spend about 13 to 15 days in Spain, which usually includes some time in Seville and Granada as well. If you're not interested in Seville and Granada, 9 to 11 days is enough for your Barcelona, Madrid, and Málaga trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as six to eight days. For the best itineraries, including Barcelona, Madrid, and Málaga, keep reading below.

Barcelona, Seville, Madrid & Málaga: Best Itinerary Ideas

Thirteen to 15 days is the most popular trip length for Spain travelers interested in visiting Barcelona, Seville, Madrid, and Málaga, especially when also including Granada. For travelers wanting to visit Barcelona, Seville, Madrid, and Málaga exclusively, plan nine days to two weeks for a well-paced trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as eight days. Check out kimkim's favorite Barcelona, Seville, Madrid, and Málaga trips below.

Highlights of Spain Family Tour: Madrid, Seville & Granada - 8 Days

Kids of all ages will find plenty of fun on this eight-day family tour through southern Spain. Start in historic Madrid, where you'll stroll cobblestone streets and plazas, learn to make paella in a family cooking class, and see where royalty lived at the Royal Palace. Then, it's off to Seville for a luxurious river cruise and lessons in the art of flamenco, Spain's most famous dance! Your adventures finish in Granada, where you'll walk the ancient paths of kings at the Alhambra and hike the rugged trails of the Sierra Nevada.

Bilbao & San Sebastián: Best Itinerary Ideas

Eight to 10 days is the most popular trip length for Spain travelers interested in visiting both Bilbao and San Sebastián, especially when also including Barcelona. If you're only headed to Bilbao and San Sebastián, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in five to seven days. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible in four days for travelers with limited time. For the best itineraries, including Bilbao and San Sebastián, keep reading below.

Seville, Madrid, Granada, Málaga & Ronda: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, about two weeks is the perfect amount of time for a Spain trip, with stops in Seville, Madrid, Granada, Málaga, and Ronda. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in 11 to 13 days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favorite itinerary extensions include Barcelona, Córdoba, or Valencia. Get inspired with the below Seville, Madrid, Granada, Málaga, and Ronda trip ideas.

Seville & Madrid: Best Itinerary Ideas

Eight to 10 days is the most popular trip length for Spain travelers interested in visiting both Seville and Madrid, especially when also including Barcelona. If you're not interested in Barcelona, five to eight days is enough for your Seville and Madrid trip. Check out our favorite Seville and Madrid trips below.

Barcelona, Seville, Madrid, Granada & Ronda: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that 12 to 14 days is perfect for a well-paced Spain trip with stops in Barcelona, Seville, Madrid, Granada, and Ronda. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in 9 to 11 days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some of our favorite itinerary extensions include Málaga, Córdoba, or Vejer de la Frontera. See more ideas for Barcelona, Seville, Madrid, Granada, and Ronda itineraries below.

Barcelona & Mallorca: Best Itinerary Ideas

A week to 10 days is a great length for a Spain trip with stops in both Barcelona and Mallorca. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in five or six days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favorite itinerary extensions include Madrid, Seville, or Costa Brava. Keep reading for more inspiring Barcelona and Mallorca itineraries.

Seville, Madrid, Granada & Málaga: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten to 11 days is a great length for a Spain trip with stops in Seville, Madrid, Granada, and Málaga. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in six to nine days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some of our favorite itinerary extensions include Ronda, Barcelona, or Córdoba. Keep reading for more inspiring Seville, Madrid, Granada, and Málaga itineraries.

Ultimate Family Trip to Northern Spain, the Basque Country & Madrid - 16 Days

Starting in Barcelona, this 16-day trip to Spain ticks all the boxes for active families searching for the perfect blend of sightseeing, excursions, and beach time with the kids. See Gaudí's iconic works in Catalonia's capital before discovering Dalí in the Costa Brava. Next up is the Basque Country, where you'll feast on pintxos, marvel at the Guggenheim and sail around foodie hotspot San Sebastián. Finish your vacation in the cultural capital of Madrid, where you'll learn to flamenco and master the art of paella!

Epic Family Adventure in Spain - 16 Days

You'll find culture, history, and plenty of interactive fun on this kid-friendly 16-day trip to Spain. Touch down in Madrid, where the whole family can roll up their sleeves to learn how to make paella and brush up on their flamenco steps. Take to the skies over Segovia by hot-air balloon, play swordsmiths for the day in Toledo, explore the Moorish palaces of Córdoba, and learn to make pottery in Seville. After an epic treasure hunt and plenty of beach time in Málaga, wind down in Barcelona with a sunset sailing trip.

Seville, Madrid & Granada: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Seville, Madrid, and Granada spend about 10 to 12 days in Spain, which usually includes some time in Barcelona as well. For travelers wanting to visit Seville, Madrid, and Granada exclusively, plan a week to nine days for a well-paced trip. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible in six days for travelers with limited time. For the best itineraries, including Seville, Madrid, and Granada, keep reading below.

Barcelona, Seville, Madrid & Granada: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten to 12 days is a great length for a Spain trip, with stops in Barcelona, Seville, Madrid, and Granada. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as six to nine days. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Ronda, Córdoba, or Málaga. See more ideas for Barcelona, Seville, Madrid, and Granada itineraries below.

Ultimate Family Trip to Northern Spain, Basque Country & Madrid - 15 Days

Embrace Spanish culture and ease into the Mediterranean outdoor lifestyle with this 15-day family trip to Spain. Discover gastronomy in Barcelona and Madrid with child-friendly cooking classes, and experience the Basque Country's stunning scenery and history with cycle tours around Bilbao and San Sebastián. There'll be plenty of beach time, too, with a self-guided trip to the Costa Brava and the perfect blend of activities, relaxation, and sightseeing to make the most of your Spanish adventure.

Epic Family Adventure in Spain: Madrid, Toledo, Córdoba, Málaga & Barcelona - 15 Days

This 15-day family exploration of Spain starts in historic Madrid, where you'll stroll the lively Plaza Mayor, prepare (and eat!) delicious paella, and learn the art of flamenco. Visit Toledo and watch swordsmiths at work, then head to Córdoba for the Mezquita's stunning Moorish designs and a horseback ride through the nearby countryside. Cruise the Guadalquivir River in Seville, swim and surf on the beaches of Málaga, and end with a tour of Gaudí 's whimsical architecture in Barcelona.

Family Fun in Spain: History, Culture & Natural Wonders - 15 Days

This epic 15-day family adventure starts in Barcelona, where you'll tour Gaudí's fantastical creations, get creative with a pottery class, and learn to make a traditional Spanish meal. Head south to the beaches of Málaga for kayaking and snorkeling, then brave the heights of the Caminito del Rey with a family hike. Get lost in the Moorish palaces of Granada, put on a show with a flamenco class in Seville, and end in Madrid for a kid's-eye-view of the capital and ziplining over Toledo's Tagus River.

Family Fun in Spain: Barcelona, Andalusia & Madrid - 16 Days

Explore the wonders of Spain on this 16-day family tour, which starts in bustling Barcelona. See the whimsical works of Gaudí, ride horses through scenic Montserrat Park, and relax on local beaches. Then, it's off to Málaga for kayaking and snorkeling excursions at La Herradura and an exciting treasure hunt around the city. Visit Granada's impressive Alhambra fortress, don your dancing shoes for flamenco lessons in Seville, and end in Madrid with a visit to the Royal Palace and a wild zipline ride.

9 Days in Spain - 4 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

On a family trip, you can cover three to four destinations with nine days in Spain. Consider Barcelona, Valencia, Madrid, and Toledo if your family likes exploring cities. If you and the kids prefer outdoor adventures, try an itinerary with Barcelona and Andalusia, including snorkeling in Málaga. Families who like staying busy with hands-on workshops and activities will enjoy Toledo, Seville, and Segovia, while culture-focused families should see Granada and dance flamenco together in Seville.

Family Adventures in Spain: Madrid, Toledo, Cordoba & Seville - 13 Days

This 13-day family adventure starts in the capital city of Madrid, where you'll stroll through the vibrant Plaza Mayor, learn to make traditional Spanish paella, and show off your dancing skills in a flamenco class. Head to Toledo to see swordsmiths at work, then it's off to Córdoba for a family tour of the impressive architecture of the Mezquita Cathedral. Learn to make Triana pottery and cruise the Guadalquivir River in Seville, and end your trip with a relaxing visit to the gorgeous beaches of Málaga.

Family Fun in Spain: Barcelona, Málaga, Granada & Seville - 13 Days

Enjoy the highlights of Spain on this fun-filled family tour, starting in Catalonia's capital city, Barcelona. Here, you'll explore the historic Gothic Quarter, see the whimsical architecture of Gaudí, and ride horses through the lush greenery of Montserrat Natural Park. Then, it's off to the beaches of Málaga for a kayaking excursion and a guided family treasure hunt. Tour the majestic Alhambra fortress in Granada, learn the art of flamenco in Seville, and see perfectly pink flamingoes in Doñana National Park.

Active Family Trip to Barcelona, Northern Spain & Madrid - 13 Days

Discover the highlights of northern Spain and the Basque Country with this 13-day family vacation that combines the perfect blend of culture and fun outdoor activities. Explore castles and Gaudí's famous works in Barcelona, then fly north for scenic hikes and cruises around San Sebastián. Sharpen your taste buds in Bilbao and see spectacular art at the Guggenheim before learning classic flamenco moves and cooking the perfect paella in Madrid.

12 Days in Spain - 3 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With 12 days, you'll have the perfect amount of time to introduce young travelers to Spain's vibrant cities and stunning landscapes. Families looking to admire iconic city landmarks will love a highlights tour, while those seeking kid-friendly activities, including horseback riding, kayaking, and hiking, should focus their time in Barcelona and Andalusia. Or, if Northern Spain's beautiful coastlines have caught your eye, split your time between Barcelona, San Sebastián, and Madrid on an active family trip.

11 Days in Spain - 4 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

The convenience of train travel and the availability of domestic flights make it possible to visit four regions of Spain in 11 days with kids in tow. Families interested in the arts can create keepsakes in a pottery class and learn to dance flamenco in Seville, while budding chefs and foodies will enjoy a paella cooking lesson in Madrid, marzipan-making in Toledo, and a tapas crawl in Triana. Energetic families with various interests will appreciate an architecture walk in Barcelona and cycling tours in Bilbao and San Sebastián.

Highlights of Spain Family Tour: Madrid, Seville & Granada- 9 Days

This fun-filled family tour of Spain starts in the historic city of Madrid, where you'll stroll the lively Plaza Mayor, relax in Retiro Park, and learn to make traditional paella in a family cooking class. Then, it's off to Seville for a luxurious river cruise and a chance to dance with professional flamenco dancers. The trip ends with visits to Granada's magnificent Alhambra fortress and Generalife Gardens, a walk through the colorful Alcaicería market area, and of course, the city's delicious Spanish tapas!

Family Fun in Spain: Barcelona & Andalusia - 12 Days

With just the right blend of cultural and outdoor activities, this 12-day trip to Spain is perfect for families. Tour Barcelona's inspiring architecture, then ride the funicular to Monserrat's historic cliffside monastery. Kayak and snorkel in La Herradura before hunting for treasure in Málaga. You'll be hiking the Sierra Nevada mountains one moment, exploring Granada the next, and dancing your way through Seville before you know it. Round the trip off with horseback riding along Doñana's wild coastline.

Active Family Trip to Barcelona, Northern Spain & Madrid - 12 Days

Discover culture, royalty, gastronomy, and more on this epic 12-day family vacation to Spain. Through child-friendly walking and cycle tours, nature hikes, and cooking classes, you'll experience the best of northern Spain, the Basque Country, and Madrid. Marvel at Gaudí's iconic structures in Barcelona, enjoy beach life and art in San Sebastián and Bilbao, and then hop on a plane to the country's capital. You'll round off your trip with sightseeing and flamenco dancing in Madrid!

Family Fun in Spain: Barcelona & Andalusia - 11 Days

Discover Spain together with this 11-day family-friendly holiday that combines the cultural and the outdoors to perfection. Begin by touring Barcelona's highlights before heading off horseback riding in Montserrat and kayaking in Málaga. Explore the mountains and monuments of Granada, then stop by Seville for an introduction to flamenco. With bountiful opportunities to experience art, culture, history, and natural beauty hands-on, this itinerary has something to inspire every family member.

Family Adventures in Spain: Madrid, Toledo, Córdoba & Seville - 11 Days

See Spain's top sights from Madrid to Andalusia on this 11-day family tour. Start in the capital to stroll the lively Plaza Mayor, prepare (and eat!) delicious paella, and learn the art of flamenco. Visit Toledo and watch swordsmiths at work, then it's off to Córdoba to see the Moorish architecture of the Mezquita and take a horseback ride through the nearby countryside. End your adventure in Seville, exploring the Royal Alcázar, relaxing on a scenic river cruise, and getting crafty with a pottery workshop.

Family-Friendly Highlights of Barcelona, Northern Spain & Madrid - 11 Days

Experience the best of northern Spain and the Basque Country with this 11-day family trip that starts in Barcelona and ends in Madrid. Discover Gaudí, Roman ruins and castles in Catalonia's capital, then fly to Bilbao for family-friendly art and gastronomy. Explore the stunning San Sebastián coast with a cruise and hike along the Bay of Pasaia before discovering culture, royalty, and flamenco in the country's capital.

6 Days in Spain - 4 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With six days as a family in Spain, you can explore two destinations as its cities are an easy train ride or a short drive from each other. For a more relaxed pace, discover Barcelona and Valencia, complete with a family-friendly day trip, and pair Barcelona with Madrid for historical highlights. If the little ones are begging for beach time, follow Barcelona with the Costa Brava and Tossa de Mar, while families wanting a cultural experience can take cooking and flamenco dance classes together in Madrid and Seville.