Spain by Train: A 14-Day Journey Through Culture and Coastlines
Embark on a two-week rail adventure across Spain, starting in the vibrant capital of Madrid. Discover ancient Toledo, the futuristic city of Valencia, the architectural wonders of Barcelona, and the flamenco heart of Seville, all connected by efficient train travel.
- 1Madrid
- 2Valencia
- 3Barcelona
- 4Seville
Day 1: Arrive in Madrid
Begin your Spanish journey in Madrid, settling in and taking your first steps into the city's grand atmosphere. Arrive at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) and transfer to the city centre, or directly to Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes train station, both well-connected to your accommodation.
Highlights
- Explore the historic Plaza Mayor, Madrid's central square, lined with arcades and landmarks.
- Stroll through El Retiro Park, Madrid’s most famous park, offering gardens and a boating lake.
Day 2: Madrid's Artistic Treasures
Immerse yourself in Madrid's world-class art scene today, visiting two of its most renowned museums. Spend your day admiring masterpieces and significant works of Spanish art.
Highlights
- Discover the Museo del Prado, home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch.
- Visit the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, famous for Picasso’s Guernica and works by Dalí and Miró.
- Wander along the elegant Paseo del Prado, linking major museums and landmarks.
Day 3: Royal Grandeur and Historic Streets
Delve into Madrid's royal history and explore its charming historic core. Spend the day admiring grand architecture and soaking in the city's rich heritage.
Highlights
- Tour the Royal Palace of Madrid, a grand 18th-century royal residence with lavish rooms.
- See the iconic Puerta de Alcalá, a ceremonial gate in Plaza de la Independencia.
- Experience the lively Gran Vía, known for its architecture, shopping, and theatres.
Day 4: Day Trip to Ancient Toledo
Take a high-speed train from Madrid-Puerta de Atocha-Almudena Grandes to Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a captivating day trip. The journey takes around 36 minutes, with tickets starting from €11.
Highlights
- Depart Madrid as early as 06:25 and return from Toledo as late as 21:37 to maximise your day.
- Explore the Catedral Primada de Toledo, a Gothic cathedral famed for its sacristy and El Greco works.
- Visit the Alcázar de Toledo, a medieval hilltop fortress offering sweeping city views.
Day 5: Travel to Valencia
Journey by train from Madrid Chamartín to Valencia Joaquín Sorolla, a comfortable trip taking approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes, with tickets starting from €7. Upon arrival, begin exploring Valencia's modern architectural marvels.
Highlights
- Travel with train companies like iryo, AVE, or Renfe AVLO for your journey to Valencia.
- Discover the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, a bold complex by Santiago Calatrava.
- Stroll through the Jardín del Turia, a vast linear park connecting major sights.
Day 6: Valencia's Historic Heart
Dedicate your day to Valencia's rich history and vibrant local life. Explore its significant landmarks and experience the bustling atmosphere of its central market.
Highlights
- Visit Valencia Cathedral, known for its Miguelete tower and baroque chapels.
- Explore La Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO-listed Gothic silk exchange reflecting Valencia's mercantile past.
- Wander through the Mercado Central de València, a historic covered market with modernist architecture.
Day 7: Travel to Barcelona
Take a scenic train journey from Valencia Joaquín Sorolla to Barcelona Sants, a trip averaging 4 hours and 3 minutes, with tickets starting from €30. Settle into Barcelona and begin your exploration in its oldest district.
Highlights
- Travel with train companies such as Renfe EUROMED, Renfe INTERCITY, or Renfe for your journey.
- Wander through the Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter), a medieval district with narrow lanes and hidden squares.
- Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Plaça de la Verge, a monumental square near the cathedral.
Day 8: Gaudí's Barcelona Masterpieces
Devote your day to the extraordinary architectural genius of Antoni Gaudí, visiting his most iconic and breathtaking creations in Barcelona.
Highlights
- Marvel at the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s unfinished basilica and Barcelona’s defining landmark.
- Explore Park Güell's Monumental Zone, a whimsical hilltop park with mosaics and city views.
- Admire Casa Batlló, Gaudí’s imaginative mansion on Passeig de Gràcia with its unique façade.
Day 9: Modernisme and City Life
Continue your architectural exploration and experience Barcelona's elegant urban design. Spend time on one of the city's grandest avenues, known for its luxury and modernist buildings.
Highlights
- Stroll along Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona’s grand modernist avenue, showcasing luxury facades and elegant design.
- Visit Casa Batlló again, or explore other modernist buildings in the Eixample district.
- Enjoy shopping and dining in the sophisticated surroundings of Passeig de Gràcia.
Day 10: Art and Lively Boulevards
Balance art appreciation with the bustling energy of Barcelona's most famous street. Discover a significant art collection before soaking in the city's vibrant street life.
Highlights
- Visit the Museu Picasso, one of the world’s leading Picasso collections, strong on his formative years.
- Experience La Rambla, Barcelona’s famous boulevard connecting Plaça de Catalunya to the waterfront.
- Explore the Mercat de La Boqueria, a historic market off La Rambla, for local flavours.
Day 11: Travel to Seville
Embark on a high-speed train journey from Barcelona Sants to Sevilla-Santa Justa, a trip taking approximately 7 hours and 46 minutes, with tickets starting from €47. Upon arrival, enjoy an evening stroll in Seville's traditional Triana district.
Highlights
- Travel with train companies like iryo, AVE, or Renfe AVLO for your journey to Seville.
- Explore Triana, a traditional riverside district famous for ceramics and flamenco heritage.
- Enjoy the lively streets and local identity of this charming neighbourhood.
Day 12: Seville's Royal and Religious Heritage
Delve into Seville's magnificent past by visiting its most iconic royal palace and grand cathedral. Spend your day admiring stunning architecture and rich history.
Highlights
- Tour the Royal Alcázar of Seville, a vast Mudéjar royal palace with ornate courtyards and gardens.
- Visit Seville Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece housing major artworks and Columbus’s tomb.
- Climb La Giralda, the cathedral's former minaret, for sweeping city views.
Day 13: Charming Alleys and Green Spaces
Spend your penultimate day exploring Seville's most picturesque historic quarter and relaxing in a beautiful park. Discover hidden patios and enjoy the city's serene green spaces.
Highlights
- Wander through the Barrio de Santa Cruz, Seville’s former Jewish quarter, known for narrow lanes and intimate squares.
- Relax in the Parque de María Luisa, a large historic park with fountains and shaded walks.
- Discover the Museo de Bellas Artes de Sevilla, renowned for Murillo and Sevillian Baroque painting.
Day 14: Depart from Seville
Conclude your Spanish adventure in Seville. Enjoy some last-minute souvenir shopping or a final Spanish breakfast before heading to Seville Airport (SVQ) for your departure.
Highlights
- Alternatively, consider Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), a larger airport connected by a 2-hour AVE train journey.
- Jerez Airport (XRY) is another option, about 90 km south, connected by train and bus.
