From Sevilla: The Best of Madrid & Barcelona in 3 days

Traveling through Spain in just three days might sound ambitious, but with a well-planned itinerary like this one, it’s entirely doable—and incredibly rewarding. This tour promises a whirlwind adventure that takes you from the historic streets of Seville to the bustling hubs of Madrid and Barcelona, all via high-speed trains that make city-hopping a breeze.

What really catches our eye are the thoughtful touches—like a top-rated tapas tour in Madrid, a skip-the-line visit to the Sagrada Familia, and centrally located boutique hotels that keep you close to the action. The convenience of traveling comfortably between cities means more time for exploring, tasting, and soaking in the sights, which is exactly what makes this experience stand out.

However, it’s worth noting that packing three cities into such a short span can be intense. If you prefer slow-paced sightseeing or want to linger longer at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed. That said, if you’re craving a quick yet authentic taste of Spain’s vibrant culture and iconic sights, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy organized experiences and want to maximize their time without sacrificing comfort.

Good To Know

• Efficient High-Speed Travel: Fast, comfortable train connections save time and energy for sightseeing.
• Authentic Culinary Experience: The tapas and markets tour in Madrid offers gourmet tastings with rooftop views.
• Skip-the-Line Access: Priority entry to the Sagrada Familia makes sure you spend less time waiting and more time marveling.
• Comfortable Accommodations: Stylish 4-star hotels in prime locations in both Madrid and Barcelona.
• Flexibility & Free Time: You get to explore at your own pace, whether it’s relaxing on the beach or wandering historic neighborhoods.
• Small Group Tours: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Day 1: Seville to Madrid with a Culinary Kickoff

The adventure kicks off with a high-speed AVE train from Seville to Madrid. These trains are a favorite for their speed and comfort, making the journey from Andalusia to Spain’s capital in just a few hours. Once in Madrid, you’ll check into a centrally located boutique hotel—the H10 Tribeca—where comfort and style blend seamlessly, and breakfast is included to fuel your day.

After settling in, the city’s lively energy beckons. You might spend your afternoon wandering through Plaza Mayor, a bustling square packed with cafes and street performers, or visit the Royal Palace, offering a glimpse into Spanish regal grandeur. Art lovers will appreciate the nearby Prado and Reina Sofía museums, both filled with masterpieces that define Madrid’s artistic soul.

By 6:00 p.m., you’ll join a top-rated Tapas & Markets Tour. Led by an expert guide, this 4.5-hour walk winds through neighborhoods like La Latina and Barrio de las Letras, revealing Madrid’s culinary secrets. Expect tastings of Iberian ham, garlic shrimp, and slow-cooked carrilleras, paired with fine wines. The highlight? Ending the night on a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views—perfect for soaking up Madrid’s enchanting evening vibe.

Day 2: Madrid to Barcelona with City Highlights

Morning options are plentiful—whether visiting the Royal Palace, exploring art museums, or strolling through El Retiro Park. For sports fans, a tour of Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is a must, and foodies might head straight to San Ginés for churros and chocolate, a Madrid tradition since 1894.

Midday, it’s time for the high-speed AVE train to Barcelona. The ride offers scenic views and a comfortable transition between two of Spain’s most exciting cities. Upon arrival, your hotel, H10 Urquinaona, is ideally located in the heart of the city, making it easy to explore.

Your first afternoon in Barcelona might include a leisurely walk along Passeig de Gràcia, admiring iconic buildings like Casa Batlló and La Pedrera. Alternatively, a trip to the Gothic Quarter or relaxing at Barceloneta Beach gives a taste of the city’s seaside charm. As evening approaches, consider drinks at a rooftop bar or a flavorful Mediterranean dinner in the trendy Born district.

Day 3: Discovering Barcelona’s Iconic Sights

The highlight of your final day is a guided visit to the Sagrada Familia, Gaudí’s masterpiece. With skip-the-line tickets and a licensed guide, you’ll bypass the crowds and hear the fascinating stories behind this extraordinary basilica. Reviewers mention the guides are knowledgeable, bringing Gaudí’s symbolism and architecture to life.

After the tour, the day is yours. You might explore Park Güell for more Gaudí marvels, walk along Las Ramblas, or visit art hubs like the Picasso Museum. For a true local experience, wandering through La Boqueria Market offers a sensory overload of fresh produce, seafood, and vibrant stalls.

If your schedule allows, climbing to the Bunkers del Carmel offers sweeping views of the city, perfect for capturing memorable photos. Later, you can return to Seville by high-speed train or extend your stay to soak up more of Barcelona’s sights.

The price covers round-trip high-speed train tickets, two nights in boutique 4-star hotels with breakfast, the Madrid Tapas & Markets Tour, and a skip-the-line guided tour of Sagrada Familia with an expert guide. These inclusions strike a good balance between convenience and value, especially considering the prime hotel locations.

It’s important to note that meals and drinks outside the scheduled tours aren’t included, giving you flexibility to explore local cafes and restaurants. Also, transportation to and from train stations and meeting points is not provided, so plan accordingly.

The small group size—limited to 10—means a more intimate experience, and the guided tours tend to be very informative. Reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable guides, who managed to keep the tour engaging while sharing intriguing insights.

Transport & Timing

Traveling by high-speed AVE trains is the key to fitting so much in without feeling rushed. These trains are praised for their speed, reliability, and comfort, which is essential when covering three major cities in just three days. The itinerary allows for some free time in each city, so you can tailor your experience—whether it’s relaxing at a café, shopping, or wandering historic districts.

This experience offers a well-balanced blend of guided activities and free exploration, making it ideal for travelers who want to see Spain’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail. The focus on comfort, culture, and authentic experiences makes it a solid choice for first-time visitors or those short on time.

If you love gourmet food tours, iconic landmarks, and city hopping via fast trains, this tour packs in a lot of value. The hotels’ locations in the heart of Madrid and Barcelona mean less time commuting and more time enjoying your surroundings. The guided visits ensure you won’t miss the stories behind the sights, and the optional free time lets you explore your way.

However, if a more leisurely pace is your preference or you wish to explore each city in depth, you might find this schedule a little brisk. Still, for those eager to experience the essentials of Spain’s vibrant capitals in a short span, this is a smart, enjoyable option.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
This tour involves train travel and walking tours, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues. However, the hotels are centrally located, and some stops may be accessible.

Are train tickets included in the price?
Yes, the tour price covers all high-speed train tickets between Seville, Madrid, and Barcelona, including the return or open return options.

Do I need to book the hotels separately?
No, the hotels in Madrid (H10 Tribeca) and Barcelona (H10 Urquinaona) are included in the package, with breakfast served each morning.

Can I customize my free time in each city?
Absolutely. The itinerary provides landmarks and activities, but you have flexibility during free periods to explore based on your interests.

What is the group size?
The experience is limited to small groups of up to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal and engaging tour experience.

Are there options to extend my stay in Barcelona after the tour?
Yes, the tour ends back at the meeting point, and you’re free to stay longer in Barcelona if you wish—many travelers take advantage of this to explore more.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and a passport or ID are recommended. The tour involves walking and outdoor sightseeing, so dress accordingly.

This three-day tour from Seville to Madrid and Barcelona offers a balanced mix of guided highlights and free time, making it perfect for those eager to experience Spain’s vibrant cities without feeling overwhelmed. With comfortable trains, thoughtful accommodations, and enriching activities, it promises a memorable taste of Spain’s diverse culture and stunning sights.

You can check if your dates are available here: