Spain, a country known for its passionate culture, diverse landscapes, and rich history, offers travelers an unforgettable experience. From the bustling streets of Madrid to the artistic allure of Barcelona and the historical charm of Granada, Spain is a destination that captivates the heart and soul. With its world-renowned cuisine, vibrant festivals, and architectural wonders, Spain is a must-visit for any traveler. This itinerary is designed for those who wish to explore Spain on a budget, ensuring you experience the best of what this beautiful country has to offer without breaking the bank.

Spain's cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors and traditions, with each region offering its own unique dishes. From the savory tapas of Madrid to the seafood paella of Valencia, Spanish food is a culinary adventure. The country's history is equally rich, with influences from the Romans, Moors, and Christians evident in its architecture and culture. Whether you're exploring the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona or the Alhambra in Granada, Spain's historical sites are a testament to its storied past.

Traveling through Spain is relatively easy, with an extensive network of trains and buses connecting major cities. For this itinerary, we'll focus on three key destinations: Madrid, Barcelona, and Granada. Each city offers its own unique attractions and experiences, ensuring a well-rounded trip. With a budget of 12 out of 100, this itinerary will highlight affordable activities, dining options, and accommodations, allowing you to make the most of your time in Spain.

Madrid at a Glance

• Best Sights: Royal Palace, Prado Museum, Retiro Park
• Must-Try Food: Tapas at Mercado de San Miguel, churros at Chocolatería San Ginés
• Fun Fact: Madrid is home to the oldest restaurant in the world, Sobrino de Botín, established in 1725.
• Accommodation: Find budget-friendly stays on VRBO or Hotels.com.

Day 1: Arrival in Madrid

Arrive in Madrid in the afternoon and settle into your accommodation. Spend the evening exploring the vibrant neighborhood of La Latina, known for its lively tapas bars and charming streets. Enjoy a traditional Spanish dinner at Casa Lucio, famous for its huevos rotos.

Day 2: Exploring Madrid

Start your morning with a visit to the Royal Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe. In the afternoon, explore the Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by Velázquez and Goya. For dinner, head to Mercado de San Miguel for a variety of affordable tapas options.

Day 3: More of Madrid

Spend the morning strolling through Retiro Park, a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the city's historic center with a Madrid Old Town & Royal Palace Walking Tour. End your day with a flamenco show at Torres Bermejas.

Barcelona at a Glance

• Best Sights: Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Gothic Quarter
• Must-Try Food: Seafood paella at La Barceloneta, tapas at El Xampanyet
• Fun Fact: Barcelona is home to nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, seven of which were designed by Antoni Gaudí.
• Accommodation: Find budget-friendly stays on VRBO or Hotels.com.

Day 4: Travel to Barcelona

Take a morning train to Barcelona, a journey of approximately 3 hours. Use Omio to find the best train options. Upon arrival, explore the Gothic Quarter, a maze of narrow streets filled with history and charm. For dinner, try the seafood paella at La Barceloneta.

Day 5: Discovering Gaudí's Barcelona

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Sagrada Familia. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Park Güell with skip-the-line tickets. For dinner, head to El Xampanyet for delicious tapas and cava.

Day 6: More of Barcelona

Spend the morning exploring the Picasso Museum, followed by a leisurely afternoon at the beach. In the evening, enjoy a sunset jazz cruise along the Barcelona coast.

Granada at a Glance

• Best Sights: Alhambra, Generalife, Albayzín
• Must-Try Food: Tapas at Bodegas Castañeda, piononos at Casa Isla
• Fun Fact: The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited monuments in Spain.
• Accommodation: Find budget-friendly stays on VRBO or Hotels.com.

Day 7: Travel to Granada

Take a morning train to Granada, a journey of approximately 6 hours. Use Omio to find the best train options. Upon arrival, explore the Albayzín, a historic neighborhood with stunning views of the Alhambra. For dinner, try the tapas at Bodegas Castañeda.

Day 8: Exploring the Alhambra

Spend your final day in Spain exploring the Alhambra and Generalife with a guided tour. This architectural masterpiece is a must-see for any visitor to Spain. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city's charming streets before heading to the airport for your departure.

This 8-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and relaxation, all while keeping your budget in mind. From the vibrant streets of Madrid to the artistic wonders of Barcelona and the historical charm of Granada, Spain is a destination that promises unforgettable memories. Enjoy your journey!