Madrid & Barcelona: The Best of Spain

You arrive in Madrid, Spain's capital. Transfer from Barajas is quick via metro (L8 + L10, about 40 min) or Airport Express bus (24h).

Walk through Retiro Park: the Crystal Palace, the rowboat lake and Cecilio Rodriguez gardens are must-sees. As evening falls, head to La Latina for your first tapas: croquetas, patatas bravas and vermouth.

Tip: Madrid has the latest dinner time in Europe; restaurants fill up from 9:30 PM onwards.

Morning at Mercado de San Miguel: oysters, Iberian ham, croquettes and a glass of Ribera del Duero. It's pricey but the experience is worth it. Then explore Malasana, Madrid's hippest neighborhood.

In the afternoon, catch the AVE to Barcelona (2h30, from 25 EUR). The high-speed train is comfortable and punctual; you'll arrive in central Barcelona directly.

Tip: Book the AVE on renfe.com in advance; mesa tickets (4 seats with table) are great for groups.

Today is Gaudi day. Start with the Sagrada Familia (booking required); the light streaming through the colored stained glass is breathtaking. Climb one of the towers for views over Barcelona.

Continue to Park Guell (paid monumental zone): the wavy bench, mosaic dragon and sea views are iconic. Dinner in the Eixample, the modernist neighborhood par excellence.

Tip: Book Sagrada Familia and Park Guell tickets at least 2 weeks in advance; they sell out especially in high season.

A day of sea and mountain. Barceloneta is Europe's most famous urban beach: chiringuitos, volleyball and a lively promenade. Don't expect fine sand, but the atmosphere is unmatched.

In the afternoon, take the cable car to Montjuic: Fundacio Miro, the gardens and the sunset harbor views are spectacular. Dinner at one of the Olympic port restaurants.

Tip: Avoid leaving valuables on your towel; Barceloneta has pickpockets especially in summer.