World Of Wanderlust

Spain, nestled in the Mediterranean, is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes and a rich historical backdrop, making it an ideal destination for an extended holiday. With so many must-see spots, figuring out where to start can be overwhelming. Don’t worry, though – this Spain travel guide is here to help streamline your trip. Let’s dive in!

What to Include in Your Spain Travel Guide

1. Basic travel information about Spain
2. Tips and tricks for a smooth journey
3. A detailed itinerary

Basic Information for Traveling to Spain

Before you embark on your trip, here are some essential details:

– Currency: Euro (approximately USD 0.97)
– Official Languages: Spanish and Catalan (particularly in Barcelona)
– Plug Types: Type C and F

Visa and Entry Requirements:

Check if your citizenship allows you to enter Spain without a visa. If not, arrange for a Schengen Visa. Also, be aware of any border restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic before you travel.

Tips and Tricks for Traveling to Spain

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, keep these tips in mind.

Accommodation

Spain offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from low-cost hostels to more upscale hotels. Generally, accommodation here is cheaper than in many other European countries. For instance, dorm beds in hostels cost around EUR 15 per night, while private rooms range from EUR 45 to EUR 60 per night. Hotels start at about EUR 55 for a twin or double room per night. Airbnb is another economical option, starting at about EUR 30 per night. Prices are often lower outside major cities.

Transportation

City Zones:

In large cities like Madrid and Barcelona, public transportation is comprehensive and user-friendly. A daily pass, costing between EUR 8 and EUR 15, covers buses and metro systems. Valencia and Seville also have metro and light rail systems, although they are less extensive. Tickets can be purchased from machines at the stations.

Long-Distance Travel:

Bus:

Buses are typically the cheapest means of long-distance travel. For example, a 9-hour journey from Madrid to Barcelona starts at EUR 30, and a 4-hour trip from Seville to Granada costs around EUR 20. Companies like FlixBus offer competitive prices starting from EUR 5.

Train:

Trains, especially high-speed ones operated by RENFE, are faster than buses but also more expensive. A high-speed train from Madrid to Barcelona takes about 2.5 hours and costs around EUR 58. A similar journey to Seville costs about EUR 30, while traveling to Valencia costs around EUR 25.

Flight:

For the quickest travel, budget airlines like Ryanair offer flights within Spain. A round-trip flight from Madrid to Barcelona costs around EUR 65. Be aware of additional charges for checked baggage.

Food

Spain is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and you won’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy it. Popular dishes include gazpacho, paella, jamón ibérico, churros, patatas bravas, and tortilla. Tapas and sandwiches generally cost between EUR 5 and EUR 10. A decent meal at a restaurant, including a drink, will set you back around EUR 20. For a heartier meal, expect to spend about EUR 30. Alternatively, buying groceries and cooking yourself can cost between EUR 35 and EUR 55 per week for staple items like rice, pasta, vegetables, meat, and seafood.

Itinerary and Where to Go

Here’s a suggested two-week itinerary to help you explore Spain’s highlights:

Day 1-2: Barcelona

Spend two days soaking up the Roman, medieval, and Catalan architecture. Relax on Bogatell Beach or explore La Rambla with its plethora of boutiques, stores, and restaurants.

Must-See Attractions:
– Basílica de la Sagrada Família
– Barri Gòtic
– Casa Milà
– La Rambla
– Bogatell Beach
– Palau de la Música Catalana
– Catedral de la Santa Cruz y Santa Eulalia
– Parc Güell
– Casa Batlló
– Museu Picasso de Barcelona
– Plaça del Rei
– Camp Nou

Day 3-4: Valencia

Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, boasts medieval architecture and the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. Spend two days here to fully appreciate its beauty.

Must-See Attractions:
– City Of Arts and Sciences
– Cathedral
– Miguelete
– Holy Grail
– La Lonja
– El Carmen
– Central Market
– Albufera Natural Park
– Valencia’s beaches
– Valencia Aquarium Oceanografic
– Marina of Valencia
– Museo de Bellas Artes
– Turia Garden
– Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari y San Pedro Mártir

Day 5-6: Toledo

Explore the ancient city of Toledo on foot, marveling at its 13th-century Gothic architecture. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating this hilly city.

Must-See Attractions:
– Catedral Primada Santa María
– Alcázar
– Plaza de Zocodover
– Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz
– Puerta de Bisagra
– El Greco Museum
– El Tránsito Synagogue & Museum
– Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca
– Casco Histórico de Toledo
– Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes
– Mirador del Valle

Day 7-8: Granada

Granada, famous for its Alhambra castle, is steeped in history and Islamic architecture. Spend two days exploring this captivating city.

Must-See Attractions:
– The Alhambra
– Generalife
– Albayzin
– Mirador de San Nicolas
– Nasrid Palaces
– Basílica de San Juan de Dios
– Sacromonte
– Royal Chapel of Granada
– Parque de las Ciencias
– Monasterio Cartuja
– Carrera del Darro
– Paseo de los Tristes

Day 9: Cordoba

Visit Cordoba, a city with a rich blend of Roman, Muslim, and Christian history. The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba is a must-see landmark.

Must-See Attractions:
– Calahorra Tower
– Calleja de las Flores
– Medina Azahara
– Palacio de Viana
– Juderia de Cordoba
– Cordoba Synagogue
– Puente Romano
– Festival de Patios
– Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos
– Mezquita of Cordoba

Day 10-11: Seville

Spend two days in Seville, the only riverport city in Spain and the birthplace of tapas, flamenco, and sangria. Its architecture and cultural significance are awe-inspiring.

Must-See Attractions:
– Catedral de Sevilla
– Real Alcázar
– Parque de María Luisa
– Plaza de España
– Barrio de Santa Cruz
– Museo de Bellas Artes
– Iglesia Colegial del Divino Salvador
– Santa Semana
– Museo del Baile Flamenco
– Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla
– Barrio de Triana
– Casa de Pilatos
– Museo Arqueológico de Sevilla

Day 12-14: Madrid

Conclude your trip with two to three days in Madrid, Spain’s vibrant capital. Enjoy shopping, museums, and delectable street food.

Must-See Attractions:
– Museo Nacional del Prado
– Buen Retiro Park
– The Crystal Palace
– Royal Palace
– The Plaza Mayor
– Puerta del Sol
– Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
– Fuente de Cibeles
– Gran Via
– Temple of Debod
– Goya Frescoes at Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida
– Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza

This guide should help you navigate Spain with ease, ensuring you don’t miss any of its must-see destinations. Now, pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of Spain!