Since we were already in Spain for the Camino, we decided to spend a week exploring more of the country. It was my first time here, and our itinerary took us through Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville, three of Spain’s most popular and iconic cities.

MADRID: A Quick Stop in the Capital

Barcelona was the plan, but we decided to include Madrid as a stop since the train from Santiago de Compostela required a transfer in the capital. We arrived early evening, checked in at Adventure Hostel, and went out for a simple welcome dinner to ease ourselves back into city life after two weeks on the Camino.

The next morning, after breakfast, we set out on a walking tour recommended by a Filipina we had just met. It began at Plaza de España, a spacious square known for its monument to Cervantes and its mix of classic and modern buildings. From there, we walked toward the Temple of Debod, an actual ancient Egyptian temple gifted to Spain in the 1960s. Set on a small hill with reflective pools and wide views of Madrid, it felt calm despite being in the middle of the city. 

We continued on foot toward the Royal Palace, the grand official residence of Spain’s monarchs, used today for state ceremonies. Across the plaza in front of it stands Almudena Cathedral, the seat of the Archdiocese of Madrid. Unlike most European cathedrals, it was completed only in 1993, which explains its bright interior and modern details. After our short but satisfying introduction to the capital, we headed to the train station for our trip to Barcelona.

BARCELONA: Gaudí, Markets, and Mountain Views

In Barcelona, we checked in at Safestay Barcelona Passeig de Gràcia, conveniently close to Casa Batlló, one of Gaudí’s iconic works. Its colorful, curved façade is unmistakable, and having it just a few steps from our hostel felt like an ideal welcome. We spent our first afternoon walking through Las Ramblas, the city’s famous pedestrian boulevard, then wandered around Plaça Catalunya and along Passeig de Gràcia, where shops, restaurants, and Modernist buildings line the avenue. There were some festivities going on, so we bought a small bag of olives and enjoyed them on a bench before having dinner outdoors.

The next day was reserved for a trip to Montserrat. The mountain range, with its striking serrated peaks, is home to Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey and the revered Black Madonna, patron saint of Catalonia. The entire place has a peaceful atmosphere, and the views from the monastery are remarkable.

Back in Barcelona that evening, we returned to Las Ramblas and visited La Boqueria, the famous public market filled with fresh produce, jamón, sweets, and ready-to-eat tapas. From there we walked to the port area, where the Mirador de Colom stands, a tall monument with a statue of Christopher Columbus pointing toward the sea. We took a short boat cruise from this area, giving us a different view of the coastline.

Our third day was dedicated to covering more ground using Hop On Hop Off tickets. We rode the cable car up Montjuïc Hill, which brought us to the Palau Nacional, a grand building now home to the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya. The terraces surrounding it offer panoramic views of the city. 

The day ended at the Sagrada Família, Barcelona’s most famous attraction. Even after seeing countless photos, walking into the basilica’s interior, filled with tall columns and colored light, was a highlight of the entire trip. The next morning, it was time for another train ride, this time heading south.

SEVILLE: Andalusian Charm, Cobblestones, and Flamenco

We arrived in Seville and checked in at For You Hostel Sevilla, tucked between narrow cobblestone streets and close to many restaurants. The city immediately felt warmer, both in temperature and atmosphere. On our first evening, we crossed the river to Triana, a lively neighborhood known for ceramics, flamenco culture, and its bustling market. The riverbank here offers a relaxed view of the city, especially at sundown.

For the next two days, we explored Seville using Hop On Hop Off passes. 

We visited the Metropol Parasol, or Setas de Sevilla, a massive wooden structure with a walkway on top that gives an unusual but memorable view of the city.

We spent time at the Real Alcázar, a royal palace famous for its Mudéjar architecture and sprawling gardens. The Seville Cathedral was another major stop, one of the largest cathedrals in the world and home to the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Nearby, the Plaza de España made an immediate impression with its semi-circular design, tiled alcoves, fountains, and a small canal where visitors can rent boats.

We ended our stay in Seville with something that feels essential when visiting Andalusia: watching live flamenco. The intensity, emotion, and rhythm made it a fitting finale to our journey. 

Three cities, each with its own character, Madrid with its regal calm, Barcelona with its creative energy, and Seville with its Andalusian soul, made this seven-day trip a memorable introduction to Spain.