Travel

10-Day Spain Itinerary From Madrid to Zaragoza

Winding cobbled alleys in Toledo, the rich aroma of saffron-laced paella in Valencia, the golden glow of Aljafería Palace at sunset—Spain offers far more than flamenco clichés. But planning a 10-day journey across its diverse cities can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? What’s worth skipping? What’s the best way to travel? That’s where TripPilot steps in—an AI-powered trip planner that customizes your journey, so you focus on the memories, not the logistics.

Key Takeaways

Visit Madrid, Toledo, Valencia, Tarragona, Barcelona, and Zaragoza in a well-paced 10-day route.
Get cultural insights and food tips in each city, including local festivals and hidden gems.
Discover transport hacks—trains, buses, or rental cars—to save time and money.
Stay safe and smart with local travel tips and seasonal insights.
Use TripPilot to customize, book, and optimize your Spain itinerary—free and AI-driven.

10-Day Spain Itinerary: From Madrid to Zaragoza.

Day 1: Arrival in Madrid – Capital Vibes Begin.
Day 2: Madrid's Art, Royals & Rooftops.
Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo – Medieval Majesty.
Day 4: Valencia – Beach Meets Culture.
Day 5: Valencia’s Old Town + Bike Tour
Day 6: Tarragona – Roman Ruins & Coastal Charm.
Day 7: Barcelona – Gaudí and Gothic Glory.
Day 8: Hidden Corners of Barcelona.
Day 9: Zaragoza – The Historic Finale.
Day 10: Departure or Extension.

10-Day Spain Itinerary: From Madrid to Zaragoza

This day-by-day itinerary is crafted for travelers seeking a mix of cultural richness, coastal relaxation, and architectural marvels, all while efficiently navigating Spain’s transportation network. It balances must-see highlights with under-the-radar local gems, enhanced by TripPilot’s smart suggestions and route optimizations.

Day 1: Arrival in Madrid – Capital Vibes Begin

Start your adventure in Spain’s vibrant capital. Land at Madrid-Barajas Airport and take a taxi or the Metro to your hotel.

Highlights:

Explore Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor
Grab tapas at Mercado de San Miguel
Evening stroll at Retiro Park or a flamenco show

Day 2: Madrid's Art, Royals & Rooftops

Dive into Madrid’s rich art and royal legacy.

Don’t Miss:

Prado Museum and Reina Sofía
Royal Palace of Madrid
Rooftop drinks at Círculo de Bellas Artes

Local Tip:
Buy a museum pass to skip long queues. Sundays are free entry days in many museums.

Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo – Medieval Majesty

Just a 30-minute train ride from Madrid, Toledo is a stunning day trip.

Must-See:

Toledo Cathedral and Alcázar
Sword-making shops and damascene jewelry
Sunset views from Mirador del Valle

Day 4: Valencia – Beach Meets Culture

Take a morning AVE train to Valencia (approx. 1hr 40min). Check into a hotel near the old town or beach.

Things to Do:

City of Arts and Sciences
Taste authentic paella in Albufera
Relax at Malvarrosa Beach

TripPilot Bonus:
Stay updated with real-time alerts on seasonal festivals and cultural events.

Day 5: Valencia’s Old Town + Bike Tour

Explore Barrio del Carmen on foot or by rental bike.

Explore:

Valencia Cathedral and Holy Grail Chapel
Turia Gardens and Central Market

Day 6: Tarragona – Roman Ruins & Coastal Charm

Take a 2-hour train ride up the coast to Tarragona, a city filled with Roman history and Mediterranean vibes.

Don’t Miss:

Amphitheatre and Roman Circus
Walking the ancient city walls
Tapas by the sea at Plaça de la Font

TripPilot Guide:
Recommends the best historical walking route based on your arrival time.

Day 7: Barcelona – Gaudí and Gothic Glory

Catch a morning train to Barcelona (~1 hr). Drop your bags at your hotel and dive in.

Top Attractions:

La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Batlló
Gothic Quarter and El Born
Pintxos and vermouth at local bodegas

Day 8: Hidden Corners of Barcelona

Explore lesser-known gems and local neighborhoods.

Suggestions:

Bunkers del Carmel for panoramic views
Day trip to Montserrat Monastery
Shop at Gràcia boutiques

Travel Hack:
TripPilot’s travel planner suggests off-the-beaten-path places that align with your interests and pace.

Day 9: Zaragoza – The Historic Finale

Take a morning train to Zaragoza (1.5–2 hrs). It's a city often overlooked but rich in Moorish and Christian heritage.

Highlights:

Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar
Aljafería Palace
Tapas crawl in El Tubo

TripPilot Edge:
Saves your favorite spots and builds a local walking loop for the evening.

Day 10: Departure or Extension

Depending on your flight or plans, either return to Madrid (1.5 hrs by train) or extend your stay in Zaragoza. If you choose to stay longer, take time to explore more of Zaragoza’s hidden gems—visit the Aljafería Palace at night when it's beautifully lit, stroll through the vibrant El Tubo district for local tapas, or enjoy a peaceful walk along the Ebro River. This extra day allows you to soak in the city's unique blend of Roman, Moorish, and Baroque influences at a more relaxed pace.

TripPilot Flex:
Adjusts transport and accommodation based on real-time availability and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this Spain itinerary family-friendly?
Yes! TripPilot can adapt the itinerary for families with kids, including stroller-friendly routes and museum suggestions with child-friendly exhibits.

What’s the best time of year for this 10-day Spain trip?
Spring (April–June) and Fall (September–October) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant festivals.

Is it better to rent a car or use trains?
Trains are faster and more convenient for this route. TripPilot syncs Renfe schedules with your trip plan, but it also suggests car rentals for day trips when needed.

Are there local SIM cards or Wi-Fi options for travelers?
Yes. Spain has excellent SIM card packages. TripPilot provides an updated list of the best SIM providers at arrival points.

How much does this itinerary cost?
With mid-range hotels, local eateries, and train travel, expect around €80–€120 per day. TripPilot helps you track expenses in real-time.

Conclusion

From Madrid’s royal elegance to Zaragoza’s ancient palaces, the 10-day Spain journey is a whirlwind of culture, coastlines, and culinary delights. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning traveler, Spain always finds a way to surprise you. Let TripPilot turn your travel dreams into smart, seamless plans—leaving you more time to explore and less time to Google.

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