5 days in Madrid & Barcelona Itinerary

Madrid is known for its cultural and artistic heritage, lively nightlife, and a dynamic culinary scene.

On the 14th (Thu), see the interesting displays at Museo Nacional del Prado, contemplate the waterfront views at Retiro Park (Parque del Retiro), and then admire the landmark architecture of Plaza Mayor. Keep things going the next day: see the interesting displays at Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, then explore the world behind art at Royal Palace of Madrid, and then don't miss a visit to Puerta del Sol.

To see photos, ratings, traveler tips, and tourist information, go to the Madrid itinerary planner.

New York City, USA to Madrid is an approximately 12-hour combination of bus and flight. Due to the time zone difference, you'll lose 6 hours traveling from New York City to Madrid. Traveling from New York City in September, you can expect nighttime temperatures to be a bit cooler in Madrid, with lows of 59°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 16th (Sat) to allow time to take a train to Barcelona.

Barcelona, the country’s second-largest city, is a cosmopolitan urban center known for its throbbing youthful energy and stellar architecture.

Kick off your visit on the 16th (Sat): contemplate the long history of Casa Batlló, then pause for some photo ops at El Cafè de la Pedrera, and then admire the striking features of La Sagrada Familia. On your second day here, take a stroll through El Barri Gòtic, then take in the spiritual surroundings of Sant Pau del Camp, then don't miss a visit to Park Güell, and finally take in the architecture and atmosphere at Barcelona Cathedral.

To see more things to do, other places to visit, ratings, and other tourist information, refer to the Barcelona holiday planner.

Traveling by train from Madrid to Barcelona takes 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly; or drive. Traveling from Madrid in September, Barcelona is a bit warmer at night with lows of 66°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 17th (Sun) so you can travel back home.