Spain

🏨 Where to Stay

• Madrid: Gran Vía or Salamanca district (central, stylish, and well-connected).
  
  

• Seville: Santa Cruz neighborhood (historic charm near main attractions).
  
  

• Granada: Albaicín or near Alhambra (authentic and scenic).
  
  

• Valencia: Ciutat Vella (historic old town) or near the beach.
  
  

• Barcelona: Eixample or Gothic Quarter (convenient and lively).
  
  

• San Sebastián: Old Town (Parte Vieja) for food and culture.
  
  

• Bilbao: Near Guggenheim Museum or Casco Viejo (old town).
  
  

🚄 Transportation

• Spain Rail Pass (Renfe Spain Pass): Great for intercity travel on high-speed trains (AVE).
  
  

• Metro & Buses: Efficient public transport in Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia.
  
  

• Local Apps: Download "Moovit" or "Renfe Cercanías" for local transit schedules.
  
  

• Car Rental: Optional for exploring Andalusia’s white villages or Basque Country.
  
  

📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1-3: Madrid

• Day 1: Prado Museum, Retiro Park, Puerta del Sol, and Plaza Mayor.
  
  

• Day 2: Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral, and tapas crawl in La Latina.
  
  

• Day 3: Day trip to Toledo (UNESCO city of three cultures).
  
  

Day 4-5: Seville

• Day 4: Seville Cathedral, Giralda Tower, and Real Alcázar.
  
  

• Day 5: Explore Barrio Santa Cruz, Metropol Parasol, and evening flamenco show.
  
  

Day 6-7: Granada

• Day 6: Visit the iconic Alhambra and Generalife Gardens.
  
  

• Day 7: Walk through Albaicín & Sacromonte, enjoy Arab baths (Hammam).
  
  

Day 8-9: Valencia

• Day 8: City of Arts and Sciences, Oceanogràfic, and Turia Gardens.
  
  

• Day 9: Explore Valencia Old Town, Central Market, and enjoy a paella by the beach.
  
  

Day 10-12: Barcelona

• Day 10: Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and Passeig de Gràcia.
  
  

• Day 11: Gothic Quarter, La Rambla, Boqueria Market, and Barceloneta beach.
  
  

• Day 12: Park Güell, Montjuïc Hill, Magic Fountain show.
  
  

Day 13: San Sebastián

• Walk La Concha beach, explore Parte Vieja, and indulge in pintxos (Basque tapas).
  
  

Day 14: Bilbao

• Visit Guggenheim Museum, stroll along the Nervión River, and explore Casco Viejo.
  
  

Day 15: Return to Madrid

• Morning train back to Madrid. Last-minute shopping at Gran Vía and farewell dinner.
  
  

💡 Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather.
  
  

• Dining Hours: Lunch after 2 PM, dinner after 8 PM. Adjust your schedule to local timings.
  
  

• Local Etiquette: Greetings with two kisses (dos besos) are common; always greet shopkeepers.
  
  

• Language: English is spoken in tourist areas, but basic Spanish phrases will be very helpful.
  
  

• Safety & Scams: Watch out for pickpockets in crowded tourist spots.
  
  

• Cultural Musts: Don't miss a flamenco show, try churros with chocolate, and enjoy local markets.