Ultimate Spain Itinerary: What to Do in One Week

7-Night Spain Itinerary for Foodies: Best Places to Visit, Hotels & Tours

Planning one week in Spain and wondering what to do? This one-week Spain itinerary takes you through the country’s most captivating destinations: Barcelona, Madrid, San Sebastián, and La Rioja. From Gaudí’s architectural wonders and Madrid’s royal heritage to the coastal charm of San Sebastián and the world-class wineries of La Rioja, this itinerary offers the perfect mix of culture, cuisine, and adventure.

In this Spain travel guide, you will find:

Adventurous Tastes’ One Week in Spain Itinerary for Food & Wine-Lovers

• 2 nights in Barcelona (Stay: Corner Hotel)
• 2 nights in San Sebastian (Stay: Legazpi Doce Rooms & Suites)
• 1 night in Logroño (Rioja) (Stay: Hotel Calle Mayor)
• 2 night in Madrid (Stay: Only You)

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One Week in Spain Map

Here’s the Adventurous Tastes Guide to Spain complete with the “Adventurous Tastes” stamp of approval on anywhere I actually ate.

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For our one-week visit to Spain, we flew into Barcelona and out of Madrid. Trains are easy in Spain, but we opted for a car for maximum flexibility and drove Barcelona – San Sebastian – La Rioja – Madrid. Rent your own car:

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Spain Itinerary Days 1-3: Barcelona – Gaudí, Tapas & Mediterranean Vibes

Barcelona is a vibrant city that blends history, culture, and amazing food. It’s a must during your one-week Spain itinerary. In just a few days, you can explore the iconic Sagrada Familia, stroll through the colorful Parc Güell, and soak up the atmosphere at La Boqueria market. Don’t miss the Gothic Quarter’s winding streets or indulging in tapas at the city’s many local bars. For an in-depth guide, including the best places to eat and hidden gems, check out my full 3-day Barcelona travel guide.

Barcelona Highlights:

• La Sagrada Familia – Gaudí’s most famous masterpiece, a breathtaking basilica still under construction for over a century. (Pre-book a guided tour)
• Park Güell – A whimsical park filled with colorful mosaics and surreal architecture offering stunning city views.
• Gothic Quarter – A labyrinth of narrow medieval streets, home to historic landmarks and charming cafés.
• La Boqueria Market – A bustling food market filled with fresh produce, tapas, and local delicacies.
• Barceloneta Beach – A lively beachfront perfect for a relaxing stroll or a dip in the Mediterranean.
• See the best of Barcelona in one day with this tour.

Recommended Hotels in Barcelona:

• Where We Stayed: Corner Hotel is a stylish 4-star hotel in the Eixample district, close to Passeig de Gràcia, offering modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and a lively atmosphere with live music;
• Yurbban Passage is a hip 4-star hotel in the city center with a rooftop pool and spa
• Mercer Hotel is a 5-star luxury boutique in the Gothic Quarter offering elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace
• The One is a 5-star luxury hotel near Passeig de Gràcia featuring a rooftop bar and plunge pool
• Best House Best Place apartment, a highly-rated one-bedroom apartment with a queen and sofa bed, is perfect for families in central Barcelona (Ciutat Vella).

Must-Do Barcelona Tours

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Spain Itinerary Days 3-4: San Sebastián – Pintxos & Coastal Beauty

San Sebastian Highlights:

• La Concha Beach – One of Europe’s most beautiful urban beaches, known for its golden sand and gentle waves.
• Old Town (Parte Vieja) – A lively district packed with historic buildings and the best pintxos (Basque tapas) bars.
• Monte Igueldo – A scenic hill offering panoramic views over the city and coastline, accessible by funicular.

Recommended Hotels in San Sebastián:

• Where we stayed: Legazpi Doce Rooms & Suites – a stylish 3.5-star boutique hotel in a 19th-century building in the heart of downtown, offering modern rooms inspired by Basque culture and just minutes from La Concha Bay and the Old Town. Hotels can be quite expensive in San Sebastian, and we appreciated the more moderate pricing here.
• Lasala Plaza (Adults-Only) – a luxurious 4-star property located in the Old Town with stunning views of the bay, featuring elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace
• Zubieta by Basque Homes – a highly-rated 3-bedroom apartment just 150 feet from the beach, offering a prime location near La Concha Promenade and Victoria Eugenia Theater.
• You might also consider these San Sebastian hotel options.

Must-Do San Sebastian Tours:

• San Sebastian Pintxo Food, Wine & Market Foodie Tour
• Basque cooking class in San Sebastian
• San Sebastian Lunch Time Pintxo Tour with Wine
• San Sebastian eBike Tour
• Rioja Wine Tour (if you decide to skip staying in the Rioja region, you can still explore the wineries!)

What Are Pintxos?

Ah, pintxos – the Basque Country’s answer to tapas. These bite-sized culinary treasures are not just food; they’re a way of life. The concept of a pintxos crawl is as adventurous as it sounds, and San Sebastian is the ultimate destination for this culinary adventure.

Imagine hopping from one charming bar to another, each offering a unique and delectable selection of pintxos. The playful and exploratory mood of this experience is intoxicating. It had a vibe akin to a more sophisticated spring break for adults. Convivial crowds hop from one restaurant to another, sampling whatever specialties they see lining the bars. Put simply, you walk in, point to something that looks yummy, and eat it standing up. Then, you move on to the next restaurant.

Best Pintxos in San Sebastian

Pintxos in San Sebastian are a must when spending one week in Spain! Consider a pinxtos tour to get the insider scoop on the best bites in town. Let’s dive into the can’t-miss spots and what to savor at each:

La Cepa Bar Restaurant: This spot is known for its sublime Iberian ham and manchego sandwich. Traditional pintxos like croquettes and calamari also beckon.

Gandarias: Be sure to try their Ibérico ham, grilled squid, and Idiazábel cheese served with sweet quince.

La Cuchara de San Telmo: Unlike most places, pintxos aren’t displayed on the bar. Instead, ask for their menu and enjoy delicacies like foie gras and veal cheeks.

Atari Gastroteka: Don’t miss wine-braised beef cheeks and torrija, a sublime blend of bread pudding and tres leches cake. Complement your feast with a top-notch gin & tonic for the ultimate tasting experience.

Bar Angel: Specializing exclusively in mushrooms, Bar Angel is a culinary haven. Don’t miss their towering stack of mushrooms on a toothpick, crowned with a tiny shrimp ($1.50).

Bar Lorenzo “Agus Tio”: Bar Lorenzo “Agus Tio” beckons with its exquisite grilled chistorra, chorizo infused with sweet paprika and garlic, and succulent lamb kebabs.

Bar Soriano: Satisfy your cravings with Bar Soriano’s setas. First, they cook wild mushrooms in garlicky butter. Then, they skewer them with a succulent shrimp. It’s a decadent treat that transports your taste buds to new heights.

Borda Berri: Here, “pikaña,” tender beef served with mashed grilled aubergine, takes center stage. It’s a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Bar Sport: Bar Sport entices with its incredible Txipis a la plancha, grilled baby squid that are tender and packed with flavor.

Before you leave San Sebastian, make sure to visit La Viña. Its iconic “burnt” Basque cheesecake is a dessert that will leave you craving more.

And what better companion for these delightful pintxos than Txakoli white wine? Its crisp and refreshing taste perfectly complements the rich flavors of San Sebastian’s cuisine. You’ll find yourself raising your glass with newfound friends, toasting to the joy of discovery.

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Spain Itinerary Days 4-5: La Rioja – Spanish Wine Country

La Rioja is easily accessible as a day trip from San Sebastián or Bilbao, but for a deeper experience, consider staying in the region. A great base is Logroño, known for its vibrant tapas scene and central location for exploring the wineries.

La Rioja Highlights:

• Wine tasting at historic bodegas – Sample some of Spain’s finest red wines in centuries-old wineries. Wine tasting typically requires an appointment so I highly recommend a tour.
• Visit the medieval town of Laguardia – A picturesque hilltop village with cobblestone streets and underground wine cellars.
• Enjoy a vineyard lunch – Savor a meal with breathtaking views of rolling vineyards.

Recommended Hotel in Rioja:

• Where we stayed: Hotel Calle Mayor, a charming 4-star boutique in Logroño. It is set in a 16th-century palace and has stylish rooms in a prime location near Calle Laurel.
• Hotel Marqués de Riscal, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Elciego – a 5-star luxury hotel in Elciego, designed by Frank Gehry, featuring luxurious rooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and vineyard views.
• Hotel Palacio Tondón – a 4-star hotel in Briñas, housed in a 16th-century palace with elegant rooms and panoramic views of vineyards and the Ebro River.

Must-Do Rioja Wine Tours:

• Wine Tour: 2 Wineries From Logroño
• Full-Day Private Cultural and Gastronomic Adventure in Rioja
• Guided Tour and Wine Tasting in Haro, Capital of Rioja
• Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa Wine Tour

Wine Tasting in Rioja

Your one-week in Spain itinerary won’t be complete without enjoying some of Spain’s incredible wines! Prepare your palate for a wine adventure like no other. Logroño, nestled in the Rioja wine region, boasts a rich history of winemaking and is the perfect place to savor Rioja’s finest. To make the most of limited time, I highly recommend a wine tour. Here are a couple of highlights from my visit:

La Cata del Barrio de la Estación: Here, history and wine intertwine along the cobbled streets of Haro, home to an array of venerable wineries. On our tour, we discovered Gomez Cruzado, a winery founded in 1886, nestled in the Barrio de la Estacion. It’s a small, intimate space brimming with personality, where a friendly staff welcomes you. No reservations are needed for a tasting flight, making it an accessible and delightful stop on your wine adventure.

Bodegas Finca La Emperatriz: With an idyllic outdoor seating area and a curated selection of remarkable wines, this winery beckons. It’s a place where you can bask in the warmth of the sun while sipping excellent Rioja wines.

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Bonus Stop: Zaragoza’s Culinary Gem: La Jamoneria Restaurante y Terraza

During your scenic drive from Barcelona to San Sebastian, we urge you to make a pit stop in Zaragoza at La Jamoneria. It’s a hidden treasure where culinary virtuoso Felix, known for his artful jamon carving, plays the role of a gracious and friendly host. You will be treated to a plate of the finest ham you’ve ever tasted and an incredibly charming atmosphere. While parking might pose a minor challenge, the extraordinary flavors that await you will more than compensate for any inconvenience.

Want to extend your stay in Zaragoza? Consider one of these hotels.

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Spain Itinerary Days 5-7: Madrid – Royalty, Art & Flamenco

Madrid is a dream for foodies and art enthusiasts alike. The stylish Only You was well located to make the most of our time in the city. Start by visiting Mercado de San Miguel, a bustling market full of local delicacies like jamón ibérico and fresh seafood. Nearby, tuck into the renowned tortilla española at Bar Cerveriza. Then, explore the La Latina neighborhood for authentic tapas and a cool vibe. On Sunday, peruse the El Rastro flea market. Afterward, sample the garlicky snails at the nearby Casa Amadeo Los Caracoles.

If a restaurant is crowded with Madrileños, take it as a good sign! Near Plaza Mayor, Casa Revuelta specializes in cod fritters. If you’re looking to mix it up, try SteetXO for casual Asian cuisine using Spanish ingredients from an award-winning chef. Or visit Botin, the oldest restaurant in the world, for suckling pig.

Madrid Highlights:

• Royal Palace of Madrid – The largest functioning royal palace in Europe, showcasing opulent rooms and historic artifacts.
• Prado Museum – One of the world’s premier art museums, home to works by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. My personal favorites are the stunning royal portraits.
• Retiro Park – A stunning green oasis in the heart of Madrid, perfect for a leisurely boat ride or a scenic walk.
• Mercado de San Miguel – A vibrant food market offering gourmet Spanish delicacies, from jamón ibérico to seafood tapas. Get more out of your visit with a market and tasting tour.
• Flamenco show– Experience the passion and intensity of traditional Spanish flamenco dance.

Recommended Hotels in Madrid:

• Where we stayed: Only YOU Boutique Hotel is a stylish 4-star boutique in the Salesas neighborhood. It offers modern decor, a cocktail bar, and excellent service, and it is in a prime location near Chueca.
• Hotel Regina – a 3-star hotel in a central location on Calle Alcalá, known for its historic charm, comfortable rooms, and excellent staff, making it a great value for its amenities and location
• Gran Hotel Inglés – a luxurious 5-star hotel in Barrio de las Letras, featuring iconic Art Deco design, a sophisticated ambiance, and made-to-order artisanal breakfasts, though it can be pricey
• ARTIEM Madrid – a 4-star urban wellness hotel near Ciudad Lineal, offering a peaceful retreat with modern facilities, a gym, and a multifunctional space for relaxation and work

Must-Do Madrid Tours:

• Welcome Tour to Madrid in Private Eco Tuk Tuk
• Flamenco Show with Dinner
• Madrid Royal Palace, Historic Center, Prado Museum Tour Combo
• Madrid paella class
• Madrid tapas tour

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One Week in Spain Itinerary FAQ

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Best Food & Wine Tours for Your One-Week in Spain Itinerary

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How to Extend or Modify Your Spain Itinerary

If you have more than one week in Spain, consider adding extra destinations:

Seville & Andalusia

• Seville – Visit the stunning Alcázar Palace, watch an authentic flamenco show, and marvel at the Giralda Tower.
• Córdoba – Stop by the Mezquita, a breathtaking mosque-cathedral with unique architectural styles.
• Granada – Explore the legendary Alhambra, a UNESCO-listed palace with Moorish designs.

Costa del Sol

• Málaga – A vibrant coastal city with historic charm, Picasso museums, and fantastic seafood.
• Marbella – Relax on pristine beaches or enjoy luxury resorts and golf courses.
• Nerja – Discover the stunning Balcony of Europe and hidden coves along the Mediterranean.

Valencia & the Mediterranean Coast

• Valencia – Home to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, beautiful beaches, and the birthplace of paella.
• Alicante – A sunny destination with a mix of history, beaches, and a lively nightlife scene.

Portugal

• If you have time, consider extending your foodie vacation in Portugal. I round up options for families, foodies, and culture vultures with these 7-day Portugal itineraries.

These extensions can be easily reached by train or short flights from Madrid or Barcelona, offering a deeper dive into Spain’s rich heritage and landscapes.

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Looking for More European Foodie Destinations?

• The Ultimate Guide to Paris with Kids
• Craft an Epic Journey to Tuscany with Kids
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• 2-week Croatia Itinerary
• 10 amazing European destinations for families

Adventurous Tastes is reader-supported. This article includes affiliate links, and I may receive a commission for purchases made through them.

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Updated March 2025 Originally posted 2023.