Spain itineary help

Posted by vanshkicar on 08/22/25 06:47 PM

Hi all,
We’re a family of four (two parents + two adult sons, early 20s) visiting Spain for the first time. We arrive in Madrid on Friday, Sept 26 and fly out of Barcelona on Friday, Oct 3 (4 pm).

A few details about us:

We’re vegetarian.
Not too focused on churches or museums — more interested in soaking up the vibe, culture, neighborhoods, and local life.
Thinking of 3 nights in Madrid, 4 nights in Barcelona, but open to suggestions.
We haven’t booked hotels or trains yet, so we’re still flexible.

Would love advice on an optimum itinerary for this timeframe — where to stay, must-do activities, and tips that fit our style of travel. We welcome advice on budget-friendly areas to stay in Madrid and Barcelona

Thanks so much in advance!

Posted by geovagriffith

08/22/25 09:22 PM

9163 posts

Be sure to visit Toledo and Segovia from Madrid.

In Barcelona, enjoy an evening dining on Tapas.

Posted by ChristineH

Gettysburg PA

08/22/25 10:52 PM

8351 posts

Start with a good guide book
Or start here:
https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/spain/madrid
https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/spain/barcelona

Posted by Plectrude

08/22/25 11:18 PM

183 posts

I really like the Lavapies neighborhood in Madrid for being quirky, artsy, and eclectic with immigrants from all over the world. It's also has some good vegetarian focused restaurants and Indian restaurants which are always a good bet for vegetarian options.

But, that kind of neighborhood in Spain often doesn't have the type of real estate for a large, modern hotel. What kind of hotel are you looking for? Slightly outside Lavapies, you have the SLEEP'N Atocha which is a good budget option. I've heard good things about the Radisson Red.

Other good areas that have a cool vibe include Malasana, Chamberi, and Chueca.

Posted by Paul

Eastern Iowa, USA

08/23/25 12:18 AM

8770 posts

Having a wife who does not eat meat, I guess my first question is if eggs and fish/seafood is in your diet? That will make a big difference.

Other than that, you will find more options in larger cities, though you may need to include other cuisines than traditional Spanish. In ordering for my wife, I find the biggest challenge figuring out what they may add meat to, bits of ham (Jamon) tend to make it into so many dishes. Salmorejo, a wonderful vegetarian option...until they top it with boiled egg and ham. The same with many vegetables, sautéed wonderfully, but often with ham for flavor. The good thing is, most places are sensitive to dietary needs, and if you ask, they may be able to leave out the meat. Another plus, Olive Oil is often used as the cooking oil, so fewer worries about use of lard or animal fats.

Splitting between Madrid and Barcelona sounds like a good plan, resist calls to add a stop, or change it up completely.

Posted by jaimeelsabio

Mid-Atlantic area

08/23/25 12:21 AM

7909 posts

Must do is whatever is of interest to you. My must do will be different than yours. Research both cities and see what attractions interest you. That may help determine the number of days in each city. Local life and vibe area very vague terms. Even though you’ll be on vacation, the locals will be going about their daily routines. There are plenty of nice neighborhoods to wander through in each city, but you won’t want to spend your entire trip walking through neighborhoods.

If you could slide your trip a few days, the La Mercè festival in Barcelona is September 20-24 and would be a great time to visit for a very culturally interesting and rewarding experience. Events that take place during it would not be allowed in the U.S.