7-Day Spain Tour: Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Valencia, Barcelona and Zaragoza from Madrid

Introduction

Thinking about a week-long trip through Spain’s most famous cities? This 7-day tour from Madrid promises to cover all the major highlights, from the stunning architecture of Granada’s Alhambra to Barcelona’s lively streets. We’ve looked into the details to see if it’s a good fit for travelers craving a taste of Spain without the hassle of planning every detail.

What really stands out about this tour are two things: First, the guided visits to top landmarks like the Alhambra, Córdoba’s Great Mosque, and Gaudí’s masterpieces in Barcelona — which means you get expert insights without the stress of navigating alone. Second, the balance of guided tours and free time allows you to soak up each city at your own pace, making it more than just a rushed sightseeing marathon.

That said, one potential downside to consider is the amount of time spent on the bus. As some reviews suggest, it can feel a little like a long ride at times, which might not suit everyone. Still, if you’re comfortable with a fair bit of travel and eager to see multiple cities, this tour offers solid value.

This experience seems well-suited for travelers who want an efficient, guided introduction to Spain’s most iconic spots — especially if you prefer organized travel with some free time to wander on your own.

Key Points

• Multi-city itinerary: Covers six major Spanish cities in just one week, ideal for a quick overview.
• Guided and free exploration: Offers expert-guided tours plus free time, balancing structure with flexibility.
• Landmark visits included: Tour highlights include the Alhambra, Córdoba’s Great Mosque, Seville’s cathedral, and Gaudí’s works in Barcelona.
• Comfortable transport: Travel is by air-conditioned deluxe coach, making long days more manageable.
• Variety and value: Six nights in 3- or 4-star hotels with breakfasts and some dinners included provide good comfort for the price.
• Mixed reviews: Some mention the long bus rides and hotel choices, but guides and landmarks generally receive praise.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Madrid to Córdoba and Seville

You’ll start bright and early from Madrid, heading south through La Mancha — yes, Don Quixote’s land. A brief stop at Puerto Lapice lets you soak in the classic countryside. Once in Córdoba, you’ll explore the Mezquita Cathedral, a marvel of Islamic and Christian architecture, with a guided tour included. The intricate arches and peaceful courtyards are unforgettable. Afterward, you’ll head to Seville, where you’ll spend two nights.

Day 2: Seville’s Highlights

Seville’s a lively city, and the tour covers its most famous sights: the Catedral de Sevilla, the largest Gothic church in the world, and the Barrio Santa Cruz, with its narrow alleys and orange trees. You’ll also visit Maria Luisa Park and the iconic Plaza de España, perfect spots for photos and just soaking in the local vibe. The guided visits are generally well-received, and reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who make history come alive.

Day 3: Granada and the Alhambra

A highlight of this tour is the Alhambra’s visit, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its Moorish architecture and stunning gardens. The guided tour here is considered a real plus, giving you insight into its history and beauty. The nearby Generalife Gardens are equally enchanting. Some travelers mentioned that the tour of Granada could be more in-depth, but overall, the Alhambra is a crowd favorite.

Day 4: From Granada to Valencia

After breakfast, you’ll travel east along the Mediterranean coast, passing by Murcia and Alicante. Arriving in Valencia, you’ll see the City of Arts and Sciences, a modern architectural marvel that’s both impressive and photogenic. You’ll have some free time to explore and maybe indulge in the famous local paella, perfect after a day on the coach.

Day 5: Valencia and the Coast

Morning sightseeing includes a drive through the old city, and you’ll enjoy views of the exterior of the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. The afternoon is yours for further exploration or relaxing at your pace — some reviews suggest that the free time is appreciated, even if the included tours are somewhat brief.

Day 6: Barcelona’s Sights

Barcelona needs no introduction. The tour covers the main avenues, Gaudí’s architectural wonders like La Pedrera and Casa Milà, and Montjuïc Park for panoramic views. Some travelers wished for a longer or more detailed city tour, but the guides do their best to show the city’s highlights. The evening is free, so you can continue exploring or enjoy some tapas.

Day 7: Zaragoza and Departure

On the final day, you’ll visit Zaragoza, capital of Aragón, with a quick stop at the impressive Basilica del Pilar. There’s some free time here to wander, shop, or just soak in the atmosphere before returning to Madrid. It’s a nice way to end the trip on a more relaxed note after the busy days.

What We Think About the Experience

Landmarks and Guided Tours

What really makes this tour stand out are the guided visits to iconic sites. The guides are often praised for their knowledge, making history and architecture much more engaging. We loved how the Alhambra, Córdoba’s Mosque, and Gaudí’s works are included, giving you the chance to see some of Spain’s most spectacular sights without the hassle of planning individual tickets.

Accommodation and Transportation

Staying in 6 different cities is convenient, with most hotels rated 3 or 4 stars. Some reviews mention that the differences between standard and superior hotels aren’t always noticeable, so if you’re budget-conscious, the standard options might be just fine. The coach transport is air-conditioned and comfortable, but the long hours on the bus are a common complaint. Expect some days where you’ll be on the road for several hours.

Food and Meals

Breakfasts are included daily, which is nice after busy mornings. Three dinners are also part of the package, although the reviews don’t specify the quality, so you might want to explore local eateries for authentic tapas and paella. Travelers often appreciate the opportunity to sample regional cuisine — especially in Valencia and Barcelona.

Value for Money

At around $1,376 per person, the tour isn’t a bargain, but it offers a lot: guided tours, entrance fees, six nights in hotels, transport, and some meals. Many reviews note that guides and landmarks are highlights, making it a good value for those who prefer organized travel rather than piecing together a trip independently.

The Downsides

Some travelers point out the long bus rides and the fact that the tour involves changing hotels twice in some cities, which can eat into your sightseeing time. Others mention that the offered free time could be more generous, and that the optional tours might be limited or at an extra cost. The food options at some of the included restaurants have also been criticized for being expensive and not always fresh.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Spain’s most famous cities in a short time, with the comfort of guided experiences. It’s especially good for first-timers who prefer to have landmarks explained to them rather than figuring things out on their own. If you’re okay with spending a good chunk of time on a coach and enjoy structured days, you’ll likely find this trip satisfying.

It’s also a solid option if you want to see key sights like the Alhambra and Gaudí’s works but don’t want the hassle of booking tickets or navigating the cities alone. Keep in mind, if you’re looking for a super relaxed pace or detailed exploration of each city, this might be a bit rushed.

FAQ

How much flexibility is there during the free time?
Most days include some free time to explore independently, whether it’s wandering a park, trying local cuisine, or shopping. The amount varies, but travelers generally appreciate having a few hours on their own.

Are the hotel options comfortable?
Yes, most hotels are 3- or 4-star and rated as good quality. Some reviews mention that the difference between standard and superior rooms isn’t noticeable, so consider your budget when choosing.

Is transport comfortable during the tour?
Traveling is in an air-conditioned deluxe coach, which helps make long days on the road more manageable. However, expect multiple hours on the bus, especially when moving between cities.

Are the guided tours of major landmarks included?
Absolutely. Guided visits are planned for Córdoba’s Mosque, Seville’s cathedral, Granada’s Alhambra, Valencia’s arts and sciences complex, and Barcelona’s architectural highlights. Guides are generally praised for their knowledge.

What about meals?
Breakfast is included every day. Three dinners are part of the package, but you’ll need to budget for lunch and possibly explore local eateries for authentic dishes.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days before the trip for a full refund. Less notice means partial or no refunds, so plan accordingly if your plans are flexible.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day Spain tour offers a well-rounded, organized way to see some of the country’s most appealing cities and landmarks. The guided visits and included entrance fees make it a convenient option for those wanting to maximize sightseeing with less planning. While the long bus rides and hotel changes are points to consider, many find the overall experience to be worth it — especially with guides who bring the sights to life.

It’s best suited for travelers eager for a structured, immersive introduction to Spain’s vibrant cities who don’t mind a busy schedule. If you’re comfortable with some travel time on the coach and are keen to hit the highlights without much hassle, this tour can be a solid choice.

Whether you’re a first-timer or looking to tick off Spain’s major sights quickly, this tour serves as a good starting point. Just be prepared for some long days and a fair amount of time on the bus. With thoughtful planning and a sense of adventure, you’ll come away with memorable images and a taste of what makes Spain so special.