Spain in 12 Days: 4 Recommended 12-day Itineraries to Spain

Ready to spend 12 days in Spain? Check out our handpicked 12-day Spain itinerary suggestions below.

This 12-day Spain itinerary plan starts in the trendy capital of Madrid. From here, experience a complete contrast from the modern metropolis by exploring the stone-lined streets of medieval Burgos before visiting Pamplona and walking past colorful houses down streets famous for the running of the bulls. Take in the rich heritage of the Basque region in culture hub Bilbao and beachy San Sebastian. Make your way to Catalan Barcelona next, and marvel at the unique architecture of the Sagrada Familia and Gaudi’s creations in Park Güell. Experience stunning coves and beaches in the daytime, and then party until the sun comes up again in Ibiza. Visit the port town of Valencia and try making paella, the country’s national dish. See Spanish and Arabic culture combine in a beautiful tapestry of buildings and monuments in Granada, such as the stunning Alhambra Palace. Venture high above the Spanish countryside in Toledo before making your way back to where it all began. See all 12-day Spain tours.

If you want to discover this destination in all its historical and cultural glory, spending 12 days in Spain undertaking the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage is one of the top ways to do it. Starting in Leon, you’ll make your way North past stunning Spanish scenery, including the heady ascent up to Cruz de Ferro. The journey downward follows the Valcarce River to the idyllic mountain town of O Cebreiro. Reach the halfway point of the journey near Portomarin, and walk past pieces of history like Casa Carneiro, the rest point for some of history’s greatest figures, including King Philipp II and emperor Charles V. Carry on through rolling hills lined with Eucalyptus trees and replenish yourself for the final leg of your journey by trying the local food of Melida, including pulpo a la Gallega octopus and the local Galician wine. Upon finally reaching Santiago, pick up your Compostela certificate as proof of this once-in-a-lifetime trip. See all hiking tours in Spain.

Start this 12-day Spain tour in the capital of Madrid. From the bustling Puerta Del Sol, make your way to one of the country's old capitals in the form of hilly Toledo, which has medieval streets and a walled old city. Next, see Seville from two angles: on a walking tour past landmarks like Santa Cruz with its signature orange trees and whitewashed buildings, or view it from the waters of the Guadalquivir River on a boat trip. Arabic and Spanish cultures meet in Granada, where you can take in the breathtaking Alhambra before heading to Valencia and Albufera to enjoy the Mediterranean sun and some authentic paella. End your time in Spain by exploring the Catalonian capital of Barcelona. From the towering Sagrada Familia to the seashell-adorned buildings and grottoes, the fantastical architecture of Gaudi shines through the city. See all Spain holiday packages.

Start your tour in Madrid before heading to León and Oviedo to marvel at their gothic cathedrals. Travel back in time in Santillana’s medieval quarter and venture into the rugged beauty of Altamira caves. Try traditional Basque pintxos in Bilbao and sample some of the finest vintages in La Rioja. Visit the stunning Poblet Monastery, whose surroundings are just as spectacular, before visiting some more iconic pieces of architecture in Barcelona, including the towering Sagrada Familia — Gaudi’s masterpiece. Enjoy the coastal charms of Peniscola, Valencia, and Alicante. Enter Andalusia, where you’ll be able to gaze upon and explore the Alhambra, considered to be the 8th wonder of the world. Finally, end your 12-day Spain tour on the Mediterranean coastline in the very south of the country in Malaga, known for its beaches and historic quarter, before making your way through the mountains to Seville.

Spend 12 perfect days in Spain in your own way, whether you delve deep into its history and culture, explore bustling cities, or simply sit back and relax on the beach. You can jump on a 12-day Spain tour or create your customized tour of Spain with our trusted travel experts. It is also possible to travel for 10 days in Spain or extend it to 14 days. If you want to consider more durations, check out our guide on how many days to spend in Spain. 

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