If you’re planning a bespoke itinerary in Spain, make sure to include these must-visit Spanish cities: Barcelona, Valencia, Seville and Madrid. From history and culture to rich gastronomy and some of the world’s most beautiful views, a Spain travel itinerary with these destinations has everything. Whatever you’re looking for – be it incredible architecture, delicious local cuisine or vibrant city life – Spain has something to offer every traveller. Here, we’ll dig into these cities, including the best day trips and nearby destinations to explore authentic Spanish culture from each city.

What Must Visit Cities in Spain Should I Visit?

Our must-see Spanish cities for the perfect blend of architecture, culture, gastronomy and activity are the following:

Barcelona: Art, Architecture and Fiesta

Barcelona is a must for any Spain travel itinerary, thanks to its iconic architecture, beautiful Mediterranean coastline and vibrant atmosphere. If you’re visiting Barcelona for the first time, make sure to tick off Gaudi’s masterpieces, from the emblematic Sagrada Familia and Park Güell to Casa Batlló. Football fans might want to check out a match or tour of the Camp Nou stadium while culture vultures should explore the charming Gothic Quarter and soak up the atmosphere strolling down Las Ramblas. For the best view of Barcelona, take a funicular up to Montjuic Hill.

Easy Day Trips from Barcelona

Montserrat – just an hour away from Barcelona, Montserrat is a breathtaking monastery nestled in the mountains. 

Girona – with gorgeous riverfront houses of various colours and one of the best preserved Jewish Quarters in Europe, not to mention a Game of Thrones filming location, this Spanish gem has so much to offer.

Costa Brava – those with more time in Barcelona might want to visit the surrounding area of Costa Brava, including picturesque seaside villages like Cadaqués and Tossa de Mar – ideal for a relaxing escape. 

If you’re planning a Valencia, Barcelona, and Seville itinerary, Barcelona is a great place to start your journey before heading south.

Valencia: Paella, Avant-Garde Architecture and Rich History

Often overlooked when planning a Spain itinerary, Valencia is a true hidden gem on Spain’s east coast and one of the must visit cities in Spain. The city seamlessly blends past and future – the historic centre with iconic buildings like the Silk Exchange (La Lonja) and the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. As the birthplace of paella, it’s also a foodie paradise. Make sure to check out the Mercado Central de Valencia.

Best Day Trips from Valencia

Albufera Natural Park: Just 30 minutes away, this is the largest freshwater lagoon in Europe. This is the perfect place to enjoy a paella before taking a boat out to see wetlands and an unforgettable sunset.

Peñíscola: Another famous Game of Thrones location, this coastal town boasts a beautiful castle and truly magnificent views.

Montanejos: This hidden gem of the Valencian region is famous for the crystalline thermal baths set within a mountain – a perfect place to swim all year round! If you want to do a shorter trip, why not try this day trip to Montanejos?

For those looking for a fully escorted tour of Spain, Valencia and the local region have so much to offer.

Seville: Flamenco, Sherry and the Heart of Andalusia

Seville is famous for its flamenco and Moorish heritage, with beauty, passion and history around every corner. Make sure to explore the Alcázar of Seville, an architectural marvel with lush gardens and visit the imposing Seville Cathedral, home to Christopher Columbus’s tomb. For the best view in Seville, climb the Giralda Tower. No trip to Seville is complete without an authentic flamenco performance and trying some of the best tapas in Spain.

What Day Trips Can I Do from Seville?

Córdoba: Another gem of Andalusia, Cordoba can be found just an hour away by train and offers the stunning Mezquita-Catedral (a blend of both Catholic and Islamic architecture) and the charming Jewish Quarter.

Ronda: This picturesque mountaintop town is perched above a deep gorge, offering stunning views and rich history.

Jerez de la Frontera: A short distance from Seville, Jerez is famous for its sherry wine production and Andalusian horse shows.

Seville is a key destination in any Barcelona, Valencia, Seville itinerary, opening the door into Andalusia’s rich culture.

Madrid: The Capital of Culture and Royalty

Spain’s capital city Madrid is a must-see of any Spain itinerary. Home to world-class museums like the Prado Museum and Reina Sofia Museum, Madrid is a paradise for gallery hoppers. The city’s architecture and Beaux-Arts buildings make it the perfect city to stroll around. Admire the Royal Palace, relax in the peaceful Retiro Park and experience the city’s buzzing nightlife in areas like Malasaña and Chueca.

Unmissable Day Trips From Madrid

Toledo: Just 30 minutes from Madrid you’ll find the ancient city of Toledo – a walled wonder home to medieval Arab, Jewish and Christian monuments.

Segovia: For lovers of history, architecture and gastronomy, Segovia is an easy day trip from Madrid offering Romanesque churches, a fairy-tale palace and the famous roast suckling pig (cochinillo). 

Cuenca: Close to Madrid is Cuenca, famous for its hanging houses – which cling to the cliff edge, ancient architecture and an impressive array of modern art.

With regular flights and easy access to many of Spain’s top destinations, Madrid is a perfect starting or ending point for a fully escorted tour of Spain.

Plan Your Bespoke Spain Itinerary

Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, foodie delights, or stunning architecture, these four cities—Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, and Madrid—should definitely be included in your ideal Spain itinerary. With Valtournative, you can design your trip to Spain to include unforgettable day trips and unique local experiences and see Spain however you like.

For those looking for a totally stress-free experience, a fully escorted tour of Spain ensures you get the most out of your visit, with expert local guides leading you through authentic Spain.

Ready to start planning? Get in touch to create your bespoke itinerary in Spain today!