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Ultimate Spain travel itinerary

Spain is vibrant and diverse. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder Spain takes its place at the top of every bucket list. Use this ultimate Spain itinerary to plan your dream trip to Spain today.

Luciano Una Vuelta por el Universo

Jan 30, 2023

Aw, Spain. I simply love you. I am not sure why. Well... no, wait. I know why I love you. Your beautiful people. Your incredible food. Your liveliness and joy, present everywhere. Your smiles. Your rich history and vibrant culture.

Traveling to Barcelona means experiencing Catalunya. Flying to the Canary Islands means leaning about the history of Cristobal Colon. Going to Madrid means seeing the work of Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Joan Miro. And that's just the beginning. There's also the Basque Country, Galicia, Valencia, Andalusia, and so on. Spain is an entire Universe in and of itself. And it might be the best Universe I've ever been in.

Making a travel itinerary through Spain is not an easy job. There are so many things to see and do. In this guide, I've made my best attempt to create the ultimate Spain trip itinerary — one that will allow you to truly experience Spain in all of its complexity, colors, and beautiful layers.

Lists and itineraries are subjective. Every traveler has his or her own pleasures and things he or she prefers. After extensive experience living in and traveling around Spain , I've created the following best of Spain itinerary  to reflect what I believe makes Spain a bucket-list destination for people around the globe. 

Read carefully, but remember to leave room for your own preferences. If there's a specific place or experience in Spain that I haven't mentioned and that calls your name, add it to this itinerary and make it happen! Spain has so many places to visit that it's impossible to include them all .

Before diving into the itinerary , let's talk about the best time to visit Spain, how to get around , and the types of accommodation you'll find.

Best time to visit Spain

Except for the Canary Islands, Spain has its peak season between May and October , when the sun shines over most of the country. Places like Barcelona, San Sebastian, Mallorca and Ibiza are full of tourists visiting different beaches and eating in every place they find.

If you decide to visit Spain during these months, be aware that prices will be higher than usual. For example, you may pay more than $120 USD for a bed in a shared dorm in a hostel in Barcelona. But don't stress — if you want to  travel Europe on a budget , Spain is one of the best countries in which to do so!

If you are traveling on a budget , I recommend planning your trip to Spain between October and December. The weather won't be that cold in most places and prices will certainly be cheaper. 

If you want to visit the Canary Islands specifically, this changes things a bit. The Canary Islands have their peak season between October and April. Why? Weather in the Canary Islands is always nice, between 18 and 22º C, even in December and January when in Northern Europe, temperatures can be below 0º C. Not bad, right?

Also, if you are thinking about going to Madrid or Seville between July and August, be aware that it can get extremely hot during these months. Temperatures will be around 40º C.

How to get around Spain

Traveling through Spain is easy and comfortable. There are plenty of travel options and all of them suit the pocket of a budget backpacker or digital nomad . The means of transport you choose depends on your personal preference, how much time you have to visit, and the places you want to see.

There are lots of low-cost airline companies that travel to, from, and within Spain . Vueling , Iberia Express , Air Europa , Norwegian , and Ryanair  are just a few! These budget airlines make flying from one place to another in Spain quick and easy. For example, a flight from Madrid to Tenerife in the Canary Islands will take you three hours, and can cost anywhere between 15 and 100 Euros, depending.

Pro tip: Always remember that even though some flight tickets may be really cheap, you will need to add the cost of reaching your departure airport and the cost of going from your destination's airport to your accommodation. So, always add at least $10 USD. For this reason, I prefer to book my accommodation in the city-center, as there is usually regular and cost-effective public transport I can take to and from airports!

I love traveling by train . It's old-world and has its own special magic. But unfortunately, it is not the cheapest way to travel. Unless you are lucky enough to get an offer or you buy a ticket in advance, prices are often much more expensive than a bus or plane.

Spain has beautiful landscapes and a well-connected railway system. If you choose to travel Spain by train , your journey will be unique. And if you are like me and love taking the train, then it's definitely worth spending the extra money and doing so in Spain.

Traveling by bus is your cheapest option for getting around Spain . Companies like  Flixbus  and  ALSA offer very cheap tickets that allow you to visit lot of places in Spain, even if you travel on a budget. But it won't be as fast as a plane, that's for sure.

Pro tip : If you buy a night ticket (let's say Barcelona-Madrid) you will not only save on the ticket cost, but also on a night's accommodation!

Are you familiar with the concept of carpooling? Carpooling — or ride-sharing — happens when a person making a trip by car is willing to share fuel expenses with other travelers. Carpooling is just one of the many perks of the collaborative travel community , and is a fantastic advantage for travelers looking to travel on a budget .

Carpooling is really popular in Spain and is almost always cheap.  In the worst case scenario, it will be the same price as a bus or train, but at least you'll be in a car full of like-minded travelers!

Accommodation in Spain

In Spain, you will find the accommodation that your pocket is willing to provide. If you are on vacation and want to spend a bit more money, you can find the boutique and luxury hotels of your dreams. If you're visiting Spain on a budget , you can find tons of hostels and guesthouses offering reasonable and affordable prices .

Airbnb is technically not 100% permitted as owners of homes need to have a special permit. Nonetheless, you can still find an infinite number of accommodation options through this platform.

Even if you are traveling Spain on a budget , do not discard Airbnb. If you look for an Airbnb 20-30 minutes away from the city center, you can often find really cheap prices and, more importantly, incredibly nice places to stay.

Ultimately, finding accommodation in Spain is about your preferences and your budget. Of course, if you travel to Spain during low season , prices will be much cheaper than they are during the high season of May-September. For example, during low season, you can find a bed in a shared dorm of a hostel for $12-15 USD, or even less. On the other hand, a bed in a shared hostel dorm in Barcelona in July can be around $120 USD!

Finally, if you're a budget backpacker and want to save money while traveling , w hy not exchange your skills for accommodation and live like a local?  Worldpackers offers an incredible variety of work exchange opportunities in Spain!

Pro tip: Have you tried  Couchsurfing ?  It is a really nice way of knowing new people and sharing your travel memories. Couchsurfing is quite popular in Spain and, if you're on a budget, it's a great way of saving money. However, Couchsurfing should not be used solely as a means to stay for free in the homes of locals. Couchsurfing is about  sharing moments with your host. If you don't have the time or energy to connect with your host, you're better off going to a hostel, hotel, or Airbnb.

Ultimate Spain itinerary

First stop: barcelona.

Barcelona is getting more and more popular every day. And it's pretty obvious why. The city is just... stunning. With every corner you turn, it almost seems that each street is more beautiful than the last.

Barcelona is located in the northeast of Spain on the Mediterranean Sea .  National Geographic named Barcelona "the best beach city in the world", but the beach isn't all that makes this city magical! Barcelona is both Gothic and Modernist, quirky and cosmopolitan. From its magnificent architecture to its nonstop energy and cool vibe, Barcelona is one of Spain's most livable cities and one of the most exciting destinations in Europe .

It's easy to explore Barcelona on a budget , so I recommend staying in the city for at least a week. If you are in a rush, then three or four days. But no less than that, please!

Make sure to check out Worldpackers' awesome work exchange and volunteer programs in Barcelona !

Second stop: Madrid

Madrid, the capital city of Spain , will never lose its touch. The last time I visited Madrid , I walked the city from north to south. I cannot remember the last time I so thoroughly enjoyed a city the way I did Madrid.

In addition to having some of the best art museums on the continent , Madrid is incredibly full of life, culture, historic sights, and countless other charms.

The vibes, the art, the people, the food, the rooftop bars, the history — everything is marvelous in Madrid. 

As it's easy to see Madrid on a budget , you should stay in the city for at least a week.   If you are in a rush, then two or three days at the bare minimum.

Make sure to check out Worldpackers' awesome work exchange and volunteer programs in Madrid !

Third stop: Seville

Once you leave Madrid, I recommend heading south and stopping in Seville for at least two or three days. I insist. If you can stay longer, do it. Every city in Spain has its own touch, and Seville's is unforgettable.

Seville is the capital and largest city of Andalusia, and is famous for its historic churches and palaces, Moorish buildings, Gothic architecture, flamenco dancing, tapas, churros, and more .  The best way to enjoy and discover Seville is to walk. Get lost. Every corner you turn will reveal something unique, and with so much beauty to explore, there's no chance you'll be bored.

Reaching Seville from Madrid by car will take you around five hours (530 km). If you travel by train (AVE), it will take you three hours, and in case you want to fly, flight time is an hour and fifteen minutes. Up to you.

Must see places in Seville:

• Real Alcazar
• Cathedral (Catedral de Sevilla)
• Plaza de España
• Barrio Santa Cruz
• Sunset from "Las Setas de Sevilla"

Accommodation in Seville:

Whether you're looking for a hostel, Airbnb, or fancy hotel, you can find it in Seville.

My personal recommendation is Hostel One Catedral . Walking distance from the cathedral, Hostel One offers shared dorms and private rooms at reasonable prices. A light breakfast and free dinner are also included! 

Whatever type of accommodation you end up choosing, book in advance, as Seville can get really touristic during high season.

Make sure to check out Worldpackers' awesome work exchange and volunteer programs in Seville !

Fourth stop: Cadiz

Cadiz is an absolute gem . Surprisingly, it's not that touristic, or at least not as touristic as Seville or Malaga... but it's just as beautiful. Cadiz is one of the oldest cities in western Europe , and is full of charm, warmth, and fascinating attractions. Beaches in Cadiz are out of this world , making it one of the favorite destination spots of the Spanish people.

You can reach Cadiz from Seville by car in two hours. It's a short and beautiful ride and is a great option for a day trip. If you are not in a rush, try staying a night or two in Cadiz.

Must see places in Cadiz:

• Cadiz Cathedral
• Cadiz coastal walk
• Fortress San Sebastian

Accommodation in Cadiz:

Although Cadiz is a small city, it has plenty of options for accommodation, including  hostels, Airbnb, and boutique hotels. Choose something that suits your budget and personal preferences and is located close to the historic center.

Make sure to check out Worldpackers' awesome work exchange and volunteer programs in Cadiz !

Fifth stop: Tarifa

I have a special relationship with Tarifa. Often passed over in favor of more famous Andalusian destinations, Tarifa has so much to offer and should be on every traveler's Spain vacation itinerary . It's a pretty small town, but it's still worth staying at least a week. Tarifa is a place to simply  be . It is place to relax and tune in to the flow of energy the town's  magical Andalusian streets  give to the world.

Tarifa is famous for its wind, and when I visited Tarifa last March, I often found myself wishing that the wind wasn't so strong and annoying as I really wanted to enjoy Tarifa's white sand beaches and crystal clear sea . Still, I cannot deny that I left Tarifa with the feeling that, someday (not so far away in time), I would come back to this beautiful place.

Tarifa is just 105 km from Cadiz. It's a short ride and is easy accessible via rental car, carpooling, or even hitchhiking. Tarifa does not have a train station and the bus schedule is not the best. But, if you don't want to travel by car, finding a bus going from Cadiz to Tarifa is not impossible, just more expensive.

Must see places in Tarifa:

• Sunset at Playa de Los Lances
• Bolonia Beach
• Punta Paloma
• Flamenco Show at La Almedina

Because Tarifa is such a nice destination and I enjoyed it so much, I wrote a Tarifa travel guide that outlines where to stay, how to reach Tarifa, what to see and do in Tarifa, where to eat, and so many other tips.

Accommodation in Tarifa:

Tarifa has plenty of options for accommodation, and most of them are in the historic center. I strongly recommend  La Cocotera Boutique Hostel and Coworking ,  a hostel in the heart of the town that has a detail that makes it especially unique. It has a co-working space on the top floor! Perfect for digital nomads who always need good WiFi and a place to focus for a few hours each day.

Not only does La Cocotera have a co-working space, but it also has more than comfortable rooms, with beautiful decor and a lovely terrace, perfect for having a nice breakfast breathing Tarifa's fresh air (as long as the wind allows it, of course).

Pro tip: Tarifa can get really windy and, also, really touristic. The best month to enjoy the city without wind and without so many tourists is September.

Make sure to check out Worldpackers' awesome work exchange and volunteer programs in Tarifa !

Sixth stop: Malaga

Malaga is only 162 km away from Tarifa and, believe me, it is worth a visit. Loaded with history, youthful energy, a thriving arts scene, and Michelin star cuisine, Malaga has a vibe of its own .

You can reach Malaga by bus, train (from Algeciras, as Tarifa doesn't have a train station) or by car. All of the options are affordable. I would recommend visiting between September and November, in order to avoid most of the tourists visiting Malaga throughout the summer. Stay in Malaga for two or three days.

Must see places in Malaga:

• Picasso Museum
• Alcazaba Palace
• Malaga Cathedral
• Torremolinos

Accommodation in Malaga:

From fancy hotels to backpacker hostels, Malaga has it all. For the best prices  and deals, book in advance and stay away from the city center (I recommend staying close to  Mario Zambrano Train Station).

Tip : If you travel to Malaga from Tarifa by car, make a short stop in Gibraltar before reaching the city. (Gibraltar is in Spain but belongs to the UK, and makes for an interesting detour).

Make sure to check out Worldpackers' awesome work exchange and volunteer programs in Malaga !

Seventh and last stop: Gran Canaria

Why else did I add Malaga to this  itinerary besides it being such a nice place to visit? Because it has an airport w ith connections to almost all major Spanish cities! From Malaga, you can get really cheap tickets to the Canary Islands .

After a three hour flight, you will land in Gran Canaria, an island that belongs to Spain but is a true mix of Latin American and African cultures . Gran Canaria is really close to the Sahara, and has had a lot of immigration from Cuba and Venezuela. For this reason, the accent in the Canary Islands is more similar to the one you will hear in Central America than to the one you will hear in Madrid!

I chose to add Gran Canaria to this Spain holiday itinerary but you can also fly to Tenerife , Fuerteventura or Lanzarote. All of them are beautiful. La Palma, El Hierro, La Gomera and La Graciosa are smaller islands and harder to reach, but they are all worth the journey.

Gran Canaria has more than 80 beaches , but that's not all!

Must see places in Gran Canaria:

• Las Canteras Beach
• El Confital
• Roque Nublo
• Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo

Accommodation in Gran Canaria:

Gran Canaria offers a mix of well-equipped resorts, luxury hotels, and affordable hostels.  My favorite hostels in Gran Canaria are Hi Tide House and La Ventana Azul . Both are beach houses and for a reasonable price, you can enjoy your days relaxing on a stunning terrace overlooking the ocean.

Make sure to check out Worldpackers' awesome work exchange and volunteer programs in Gran Canaria !

Spain is vibrant and diverse . 

With so much to see and do, it's no wonder Spain takes its place at the top of every bucket list. 

There are so many places to visit in Spain that it's impossible to include them all in one itinerary. The Basque Country, Galicia, Valencia, Mallorca, and Menorca are just some examples of places I took out of this itinerary but are also well worth visiting. If you have more time, try visiting them. You could easily  spend a few months exploring Spain!

Use this suggested itinerary for Spain as a starting point to plan your dream trip to Spain today . 

Because believe me, Spain will make you fall in love and you will want to return. 

Read more:  The ultimate summer vacation in Spain: what to do, visit and eat

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Luciano Cicerchia

Una Vuelta por el Universo

My name is Luciano, I am from Argentina and I ve been travelling for more than 6 years. I actually live in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and my blog, Una Vuelta por el Universo, is the result of my journeys around the world. Come and travel with me!

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• Writing exercise: "Dream trips"

Dream trips

"viajes oníricos" spanish b2 writing exercise.

Have you ever experienced a dream trip?

Pay attention to the hints!

Some vocabulary you may want to look up before or during this exercise: "not only", "lucid dreams", "premonition" and "topic".

I’ll give you some sentences to translate into Spanish

• I’ll show you where you make mistakes
• I’ll keep track of what you need to practise
• Change my choices if you want

Here's a preview of the text for the writing challenge, when you're ready click the start button above:

Did you know that you can travel not only through words but also through dreams? The dream trip is considered a subject of study by scientists and that's why it's being researched. The dream trip was talked about for the first time in literature and it's usually about lucid dreams where the dreamer receives key messages that will affect him during his real life. They can be considered as a kind of premonition although not all people can experience them since it depends on personal psychology. The more I read about this topic, the more I want to learn.

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De Vacaciones: How to Talk About Your Vacation in Spanish

Talking about your vacaciones in Spanish is entertaining, and it enables your friends and family to join you in those unique experiences and memories. So, how about practicing your Spanish in this fun and endearing way? 

In this blog post, I break down all the essentials you need to master talking about your vacaciones in Spanish like a native speaker. 

Pack your bags, and let’s prepare you with the necessary vocabulary and details you’ll need to talk about your vacation in Spanish!  

Planning your Vacaciones

Have you decided on a destination? Are you organizing everything on your own or are you going through a travel agent? Are visas required? 

These are a few of the many details you need to consider for planning an unforgettable trip. When it comes to setting up your vacaciones in Spanish, there’s useful vocabulary and phrases that will come in handy. Let ‘s take a look!

Spanish Vacation Terms and Phrases

You may discuss going on a holiday in Spanish in various ways. The following forms referencing your vacaciones in Spanish are widely understood. 

They’re the first thing you should learn before going on the trip of a lifetime. Check out these frequently used phrases about traveling in Spanish.

Voy a vacacionar en un crucero. I’m vacationing on a cruise. 

Me quiero ir de vacaciones. I want to go on vacation.

Voy a viajar a Guatemala. I’m traveling to Guatemala.

Voy a hacer un viaje a México. I’m taking a trip to Mexico.

Pasaré las vacaciones en España. I’m going to spend the holidays in Spain.

Talking About Your Plans

Whether you’re planning everything on your own or you want a travel agent to set everything up, these useful phrases come in handy for you to elaborate on what you’re planning and want to do during your vacaciones in Spanish. 

Necesito ayuda planeando mis vacaciones. I need help planning my vacation. 

Yo quiero hacer un viaje. I want to take a trip.

Yo quiero visitar…(ciudad, país, o destino). I want to visit… (city, country, or destination).

Quiero viajar en avión. I want to travel by plane.

Me quiero hospedar en hotel. I want to stay in a hotel.

Yo necesito ayuda planeando mi viaje. I need help planning my trip. 

Voy a viajar por quince días. I’m traveling for fifteen days. 

Yo necesito tramitar mi visa. I need to process my visa.

Quiero tomar un crucero con todo incluido.  I want to take an all-inclusive cruise.

Estoy viajando con mi familia / amigos. I’m traveling with my family / friends. 

Me quiero ir de luna de miel. I want to go on my honeymoon. 

Tengo un presupuesto limitado para mis vacaciones. I have a limited budget for my vacation.

Necesito una reserva de hotel. I need a hotel reservation.

Necesito ayuda reservando mis boletos de avión. I need help booking my plane tickets. 

Estoy buscando un seguro de viaje. I’m looking for travel insurance.

Necesito alquilar un carro / coche. I need to rent a car.

Tengo que empacar mi maleta.  I have to pack my bag.

Quiero viajar en tren. I want to travel by train.

Quiero conocer todos los lugares posibles. I want to go to as many places as possible.

Mi viaje es para ir de compras y divertirme. My trip is for shopping and having fun.

Quiero viajar por estudios. I want to travel and study.

Mi viaje es para aprender historia. My trip is for learning history. 

Quiero hacer actividades en la naturaleza y al aire libre.  I want to do nature and outdoors activities. 

Me voy a otro país a un intercambio estudiantil.  I’m going to another country on a student exchange. 

Getting Around and Enjoying your Vacation

So you’ve laid out what you’re going to do, and you make it to the airport. Your vacaciones are about to begin! 

Knowing how to communicate the expectations for your vacaciones in Spanish is crucial! Let’s dive deep into the vocabulary and phrases to guarantee your vacation goes smoothly.

From the Airport to the Plane, Car, or Train

Here are some other phrases that will come in handy during the process of reaching your destination:

Quisiera chequear mi maleta. I would like to check my bags.

¿Cuál es la hora de llegada? At what time are we arriving?

Necesito cambiar de asiento por favor. I need to change seats please.

Tengo que imprimir mi pase de abordar. I need to print my boarding pass.

¿Me podrían subir de categoría? Can I get an upgrade?

Soy viajero frecuente. I’m a frequent flyer. 

Me mareo en el avión. I get motion sickness on planes.

Experiencing your Vacaciones in Spanish

You’ve made it to your destination and it’s time for you to fully enjoy your holiday. It’s okay if you just want to sit back and relax or maybe you want to go for a fast-paced vacation. These useful words will have you moving around like a local and discovering as much as you like. 

Phrases for Making the Most of Your Vacation

Let’s look at some phrases and sentences you can use in action throughout your vacation. These’ll be of great use for communicating any request or need you may have during your vacaciones in a Spanish-speaking country. 

Quiero ir a tomar algunas fotos. I want to go take some photos.

Voy a tomar una excursión. I’m going on a tour. 

Necesito cambiar dinero. I need to exchange money. 

Quiero visitar la playa. I want to visit the beach.

Quiero hacer una reservación para cenar. I want to make a dinner reservation.

Me quedaré en el hotel. I’m staying at the hotel.

Quiero ir a visitar los lugares turísticos. I want to go sightseeing.

Quiero aprender a bucear. I want to learn scuba diving. 

Soy vegetariana / vegana. I’m vegetarian / vegan.

Soy alérgica a… I’m allergic to…

Me gusta hacer senderismo. I like to hike. 

Quiero subir un volcán. I want to climb a volcano.

Me gustaría salir a caminar. I’d like to go for a walk. 

Quiero hacer kayak / rafting. I want to go kayaking / rafting. 

Disculpe, ¿dónde queda…? Excuse me, where’s the … located?

Necesito direcciones por favor. I need directions please. 

Quiero conocer gente. I want to meet new people. 

Voy a tomar un taxi / bus. I’m taking a taxi / bus.

¿A qué hora empieza el tour? At what time does the tour begin?

¿Qué debo llevar en el tour? What should I take on the tour?

Estoy de vacaciones. I’m on vacation. 

Remembering your Vacaciones in Spanish

If you’ve made it to this point, it means you’re ready to share with your loved ones the many experiences and lessons learned from the true wanderlust of venturing to a new destination. Use these phrases to discuss your vacaciones in Spanish, what you liked, disliked, the best venues, and useful tips you picked up!

Tengo que desempacar mis maletas. I need to unpack my bags.

Mis vacaciones fueron increíbles. My vacation was incredible. 

Mis amigos y yo la pasamos muy bien. My friends and I had a great time.

Me perdí en algunos lugares pero pedí direcciones y todo salió bien. I got lost in some places, but I asked for directions and things worked out.

Tome muchísimas fotos y videos. I took many photos and videos.

Mi lugar favorito fue… My favorite place was…

El hotel era muy bonito y cómodo. The hotel was quite nice and comfortable. 

La comida más rica que probé fue… The food I liked the most was…

Mi vuelo aterrizó a tiempo.  My flight landed on time.

No me gustó… I didn’t like…

Conocí a muchas personas. I met many people.

Me dieron la bienvenida muy amablemente. They welcomed me very kindly. 

Te traje un recuerdo especial. I brought you a special souvenir. 

Aprendí nuevas cosas. I learned new things. 

Te recomiendo visitar… I recommend you visit…

Necesito un descanso después de esas vacaciones. I need a break after that vacation. 

No puedo esperar a mis próximas vacaciones. I can’t wait for my next vacation. 

Time to Practice (Even if you’re not on Vacation)!

How are you feeling after studying these phrases and new vocabulary? ¿Estás listo para irte de vacaciones?

Now you have the necessary knowledge and basics for planning, enjoying, and remembering your vacaciones in Spanish. Whether your trip has already happened or you’re setting it up for the future, I hope you come back to this blog post to expand your vocabulary and take your conversational skills to the next level.

If you’re ready for a one-on-one conversation about your vacation, sign up for a free class with us at Homeschool Spanish Academy. Our professional, native Spanish-speaking teachers from Guatemala will improve your fluency and have you talking about your vacations and memories like a pro. 

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The 11 best things to do in Madrid in 2024

Feb 10, 2024 • 7 min read

From traditional tapas bars to frenzied flamenco shows, Madrid has so much to offer © RgStudio / Getty Images

The Spanish capital is a cultural and social behemoth that attracts visitors from around the world and they keep coming back for more. Madrid has something to tempt every traveler and will have many of them dancing until sunrise thanks to its thriving nightlife.

With architectural wonders, world-class gastronomy, famed art museums and even an Egyptian temple within the city limits, Madrid offers sights and attractions to satisfy all visitors. Here are 11 experiences not to be missed when you get there.

1. Visit the Golden Triangle of Art

Madrid’s "Golden Triangle of Art" consists of three renowned museums, the Museo del Prado, Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, which are home to some of the world’s most valuable art collections. Even if you’re not typically the gallery type, a stop at one of these venues is an essential Madrid experience.

The Prado houses several masterpieces by Spanish artists Diego Velázquez, Francisco Goya and Francisco Zurbarán. Arguably the most famous work people flock to see is Velázquez’s Las Meninas , an oil on canvas considered among the most important paintings in Western art.

The Reina Sofía is the Spanish national museum dedicated to 20th-century art, exhibiting impressive collections of Surrealist and Cubist masters Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso, including Picasso’s huge anti-war oil painting Guernica .

Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza , once the private art collection of Baron Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza and his son Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza, showcases nearly 1000 paintings of the world’s most celebrated European and American artists from the 13th to the 20th centuries. It’s a real feast for art fans.

2. Get a taste of Spain on a traditional tapas crawl

Tapas hopping, or ir de tapas , is a national pastime and a satisfying prelude to dinner, which in Spain is typically eaten between 9pm and midnight. A tapa is a small plate of food usually paired with a glass of wine, caña  (a small glass of beer) or vermút , Madrid’s popular aperitif. 

You can join locals after work any day of the week, hopping from one tapas bar to the next to sample a selection of Iberian hams, charcuterie and cheeses.

Planning tip: Sunday afternoons are the best time to visit Cava Baja, a popular street in the historic La Latina neighborhood with vibrant little bars, taverns and restaurants that are perfect for a laid-back tapas crawl.

3. Shop at El Rastro flea market 

Every Sunday and on public holidays, you can take part in a 400-year-old shopping tradition at  El Rastro flea market . Open from 9am to 3pm, El Rastro stretches along the La Latina neighborhood’s Plaza de Cascorro, La Ribera de Curtidores and Ronda de Toledo and features a labyrinth of open-air stalls peddling clothes, souvenirs, handicrafts, antiques and all the bric-a-brac you can imagine. 

Planning tip: Many of the vendors only accept efectivo  (cash). Get some cash out before heading to the market or you’ll be left hunting for an elusive ATM.

4. Follow Hemingway’s footsteps

"Hemingway did not drink here" is a popular joke written on signs hanging in some Madrid establishments. It’s no secret that the American literary giant, fondly called "Don Ernesto," was Madrid’s adopted sybarite who loved to drink, eat, write and watch bullfights while he was covering the Spanish Civil War as a foreign journalist. 

Fans of Hemingway can retrace his footsteps and enjoy some of his favorite haunts that still exist today, including Restaurante Botín , the world’s oldest restaurant, which houses a 16th-century cellar cradling dust-covered wine bottles.

Hemingway also used to frequent La Venencia , a dimly lit sherry bar that is virtually frozen in time with its massive molasses-stained wooden barrels, antique cash register and fading sepia-hued posters.

Planning tip: Don’t bother whipping out your phone to take some pictures at La Venencia – snapping photos is still strictly prohibited, just as it was in the 1930s when the bar was wary of fascist spies.

5. Watch a flamenco show

While Andalucía in southern Spain is the birthplace of flamenco, you don’t need to venture far from Madrid to watch live shows of the Spanish dance. Dinner, tapas and drinks are usually served during the performance, providing a full evening’s entertainment.

You can watch the frenetic spectacle in big touristy venues such as Cardamomo and Teatro Flamenco or smaller cozy venues like Las Tablas , which make up for their size with the big flamenco artists they attract.

Planning tip: For a truly luxurious experience, the Corral de la Moreria is an intimate space that also features a Michelin-starred restaurant.

6. Explore Retiro Park

Parque del Buen Retiro , Madrid’s most famous park, is an expansive 118-hectare (292-acre) area that was once reserved for Spanish royalty and aristocracy until it was opened to the public at the end of the 19th century. "El Retiro" is adorned with ornate fountains, statues of Spanish writers and heroes, gazebos and open-air cafes.

Different areas of the park reveal various landscaping styles, from French-inspired manicured lawns to craggy tree-lined pathways and the romantic La Rosaleda  rose garden with more than 4000 roses that are in full bloom in May and June.

The park's grounds have several landmarks, including the grand Monument to Alfonso XII depicting the former Spanish king atop his horse, the  "Fallen Angel" statue  (one of the only public statues of Lucifer in the world) and the oldest tree in Madrid, planted in 1633.

Planning tip: Don’t miss Palacio de Cristal , an architectural marvel of iron and glass that occasionally hosts events and reflects magnificently on the waters of the surrounding lake.

7. Stand in the center of Spain

Translated to "Gate of the Sun," Puerta del Sol  is Madrid’s busy central public square and main crossroads. A clock sits atop the plaza’s main building, the old Casa de Correos  – now the headquarters of the Madrid regional government – and every New Year’s Eve, thousands of revelers gather here to eat the traditional 12 grapes right before the clock strikes midnight. 

All roads (quite literally) lead to Sol, as it is the symbolic center of Spain, marked by the Kilometer Zero plaque at the footstep of the Casa de Correos. At the plaza’s center is the equestrian statue of King Charles III, though his popularity is overshadowed by a more famous character on the east side of the square – the Bear by the Madroño tree sculpture that represents Madrid’s coat of arms.

8. Tour Madrid’s iconic soccer stadiums

Spain is a soccer powerhouse, with its international teams winning both the World Cup and European Championships and its regional teams dominating European football.

Madrid has two teams, and soccer fans can enjoy a tour around both world-renowned stadiums – the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu  for Real Madrid and the Wanda Metropolitano for Atlético de Madrid. Guided tours of the museums display the teams’ trophies, jerseys throughout the years and memorabilia narrating their long, illustrious histories.

9. Pull up a chair in Plaza Mayor

At the heart of old Madrid, the beautiful, expansive Plaza Mayor  has been the stage for everything from royal crowning ceremonies and soccer games to outdoor markets, bullfights and public executions during the Spanish Inquisition. 

Today, 237 balconies peer out from a three-story residential compound embracing the plaza. While it’s easy to get distracted by the buskers, it’s worth taking a seat at one of the buzzing (albeit overpriced) cafes and taking time to admire the magnificent frescoes painted between the balconies.

Planning tip: The square also plays host to the city’s annual Christmas market, which has taken place since 1860.

10. Wander through an Egyptian temple 

Few people know that Madrid is home to an ancient Egyptian temple from the 2nd century BCE. Dedicated to the goddess Isis and the god Amun,  Templo de Debod was the Egyptian government’s token of gratitude to Spain for helping restore the temples of Abu Simbel in southern Egypt. Templo de Debod was transported and rebuilt stone by stone, opening to the public in 1972 in Madrid’s Cuartel de la Montaña Park, near Plaza España . 

Planning tip: The temple boasts some of the best panoramic views of western Madrid, particularly at sunset when the walls reflect off the surrounding pools, making for incredible photos.

11. See the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace of Madrid

Although you won’t find the Spanish king and queen living in  Palacio Real  anymore, it is still the official residence of the Spanish monarchy. Inspired by the Italian sculptor Bernini’s sketches for the construction of the Louvre in Paris, the palace faces a large central courtyard and contains 3418 rooms, making it the largest functioning royal palace in Europe. 

The biweekly changing of the guard happens every Wednesday and Saturday, but the grander spectacle is the Solemn Changing of the Guard that takes place every first Wednesday of the month, showcasing a parade of horses and the Spanish Royal Guard, as performed during the time of King Alfonso XII.

This article was first published Mar 2, 2020 and updated Feb 10, 2024.

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The National Recording Registry's best Spanish language songs (and what it's missing)

Felix Contreras

Anamaria Artemisa Sayre

Carlos Santana is featured on this week's episode of Alt.Latino. Photo by Gary Gershoff/Getty Images hide caption

Carlos Santana is featured on this week's episode of Alt.Latino.

The Library of Congress' National Recording Registry is more than just a collection of music and sound — it's a reflection of who we are as a country. In April, two new Spanish language songs were added to the registry: Juan Gabriel's "Amor Eterno" and Héctor Lavoe's "El Cantante."

This week on Alt.Latino , Felix and Ana take the opportunity to dive into the Spanish language songs that have made it into the historic collection, as well as share their dream picks for what should be chosen next.

Songs featured in this episode:

• Héctor Lavoe, "El Cantante"
• Juan Gabriel, "Amor Eterno (En Vivo [En el Palacio de Bellas Artes])"
• Buena Vista Social Club, "Chan Chan"
• Buena Vista Social Club, "Orgullecida"
• Buena Vista Social Club, "El Carretero"
• Santana, "Oye Como Va"
• Lydia Mendoza, "Mal Hombre (Cold-Hearted Man)"
• Dizzy Gillespie feat. Chano Pozo, "Manteca"
• Ivy Queen, "Quiero Bailar"
• Jose Feliciano, "El Reloj"

Audio for this episode of Alt.Latino was edited and mixed by Joaquin Cotler, with editorial support from Hazel Cills. Our project manager is Grace Chung. NPR Music's executive producer is Suraya Mohamed. Our VP of Music and Visuals is Keith Jenkins.

• Dizzy Gillespie
• Carlos Santana
• Buena Vista Social Club
• Juan Gabriel

• Entertainment

The-Dream, Famed Music Producer for Beyoncé, Accused of Rape in New Lawsuit

T he-Dream, a music producer and songwriter known for working closely with artists like Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Usher, has been accused of rape, sex trafficking, and sexual battery in a lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court in Los Angeles. The suit was filed by a former protégée of the producer named Channii Monroe, whose real name is Chanaaz Mangroe.

Mangroe alleges in the lawsuit that The-Dream, whose real name is Terius Gesteelde-Diamant, misled her into believing that he could help her career and that she was lured into an abusive relationship with him. Mangroe says Gesteelde-Diamant forced her to have sex on multiple occasions, forced her to drink excessive amounts of alcohol, physically assaulted her, and threatened to share footage of “an intimate encounter,” the New York Times reports.

“What Dream did to me made it impossible to live the life I envisioned for myself and pursue my goals as a singer and songwriter,” Mangroe said in a statement to the New York Times . “Ultimately, my silence has become too painful, and I realized that I need to tell my story to heal. I hope that doing so will also help others and prevent future horrific abuse.”

Gesteelde-Diamant is an eight-time Grammy winner and has connections with some of the biggest pop stars in the world, having collaborated with Beyoncé on her two most recent albums, as well as producing songs like “Umbrella” by Rihanna, “All of the Lights” by Kanye West, and “Baby” by Justin Bieber—just to name a few. 

The lawsuit says that he used his position as a frequent collaborator with two of the biggest pop stars in the world and “lured the young and vulnerable artist into an abusive, violent, and manipulative relationship filled with physical assaults, violent sexual encounters, and horrific psychological manipulation.”

TIME reached out to Gesteelde-Diamant’s representatives for comment but did not immediately hear back. In a statement to the New York Times , a representative for the producer says, “These claims are untrue and defamatory. I oppose all forms of harassment and have always strived to help people realize their career goals. As someone committed to making a positive impact on my fellow artists and the world at large, I am deeply offended and saddened by these accusations.”

Mangroe is being represented by the two attorneys who helped Cassie Ventura file a lawsuit against Diddy, Douglas Wigdor, and Meredith A. Firetog. The two attorneys said in a statement to Rolling Stone , “Dream, like Sean Combs did with Ms. Ventura and others, used his standing as a prominent recording artist and producer to subject Ms. Mangroe to vicious physical, psychological, and sexual abuse.” They continued, “While she will never fully recover from what he and those who supported him did to her, her willingness to speak out now is evidence of her extraordinary strength. We are honored to represent her.”

This is not the first time Gesteelde-Diamant has been accused of abuse. In 2014, he was charged with felony assault and strangulation, reckless endangerment, and child endangerment after it was reported that he kicked, punched, and choked his then-eight-month-pregnant girlfriend. The charges were dropped, and he was cleared. 

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Write to Moises Mendez II at [email protected]

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