THE ROUTE · DAYS 1–6

Barcelona & Madrid

Barcelona, days 1–3: Visit the Sagrada Família early, walk the Gothic Quarter and spend the evening in Gràcia. La Cova Fumada and El Xampanyet are useful starting points for Catalan food; check current opening hours.

Madrid, days 4–6: Choose the Prado or Reina Sofía, cross Retiro Park, then explore Malasaña or Lavapiés. Mercado de San Miguel is photogenic but tourist-oriented. Look for a local “menú del día”; Casa Dani is known for tortilla.

THE ROUTE · DAYS 7–10

Andalusia

Use Seville as a base for the Alcázar, cathedral and an evening tapas crawl. Córdoba works as a day trip; Granada deserves at least one night. Reserve Alhambra tickets well ahead through the official seller. In summer, sightsee early and again in the late afternoon.

Food tip: Order small plates and move between several bars — tapas becomes a route through the city.

THE ROUTE · DAYS 11–12

Valencia

The old town, Central Market and Turia Gardens connect history, everyday life and modern architecture. The City of Arts and Sciences is especially striking in late-afternoon light. Paella is traditionally a lunch dish; El Palmar has many specialist restaurants. Compare prices and reviews before choosing menus beside major sights.