Returning to Spain
There’s something familiar about Spain that draws visitors, who maybe remember a few phrases of high school Spanish or harbor a vague curiosity of bullfighting or siestas. But it’s the staggering diversity—of cultures, languages, cuisines, and landscapes—that keeps travelers coming back again and again. Every barrio and pueblo offers something unique, and the Spain you thought you knew is suddenly full of surprises.
Barcelona | Oct 3 – 5, 2024 | 2 nights
Madrid | Oct 5 – 9, 2024 | 4 nights
Granada | Oct 9 – 11, 2024 | 2 nights
Barcelona | Oct 11 – 12, 2024 | 1 nights
Overall, October is a transitional month in Spain, moving from the hot summer to cooler autumn. Coastal areas tend to remain warmer, making them a popular destination for tourists seeking to extend their summer.
U.S. passport holders do not need any special visa in order to enter Spain. Make sure your passports are valid for at least 3 months after your travel dates.
These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.
We have put together this Destination Guide for you, full of unique insights and ways to get excited before you travel, such as:
- Spotify playlists
- Movies to watch
- Books to read
- Dishes to try
- Helpful phrases
- Packing guide
- Tipping guides
Plus more!
It’s clear from the moment you step foot in Barcelona that it’s unlike any other Spanish city. The boulevards are wider, the architecture is quirkier, and, if you have an ear for languages, you may hear that the locals are speaking Catalan, not Spanish. Gaudi’s masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia, is just one of his architectural gems scattered about the city. With something to offer art enthusiasts, adventurous foodies, and beach loungers, it’s no wonder that Barcelona is one of Europe’s top destinations.
Your private English speaking driver will greet you at the arrivals hall of the airport after exiting baggage claim holding a sign with your name and transfer you to your hotel in a luxury vehicle.
Driver Contact: will be provided
Booked by Scenset
There's no shortage of great food in Barcelona, and some of the best meals are at the bar you stumble into by surprise. Here's a list of some top places to eat. Please let us know if you'd like reservations.
- Cocina Hemanos Torres: The well-known Torres brothers present their innovative gastronomic proposal located in the neighborhood of Les Corts. Enjoy a nice evening while the chef cooks for you in one of the 3 islands.
- Atempo: Atempo offers a new gastronomic format merging the waiter’s trade with the passion and creativity of the chefs. An offer based on products with soul, in an intimate and cozy environment.
- Hoffman: Hoffman is the restaurant run by the person responsible for the prestigious cookery school with the same name. With a Michelin star, their menu presents modern creations that have the Mediterranean-Catalan and French haute cuisine as a starting point. Desserts are simply spectacular. It is essential to book in advance.
- Can Ramonet: Paella is perhaps the quintessential Spanish dish, and the best place to eat it is near the coast. Head to Barceloneta neighborhood near the water and try one of their famous paellas (remember in Spain, paella is traditionally lunch food, not dinner!).
- Solomillo: Indulge all your darkest carnivorous desires at this meat-lovers’ paradise, where the name of the restaurant is the same as your order (solomillo means “sirloin steak”). This is the best steak in Barcelona and the menu is customizable to your liking.
- Berbena: Few tourists have heard of Berbena. Inside, there are daily batches of home-baked bread that smell like your grandma’s kitchen, comfort food like hearty beef with wine stew and gooey slices of Spanish omelet, platters of locally sourced cheese and charcuteries.
- Bocanariz: Visit this unassuming wine bar which has a selection of hundreds of bottles, from Cataluña, around Spain, and the world. Paired with some small bites to snack on, it's the perfect Spanish bar experience.
- La Pepita: A more casual eatery with a fun vibe and delicious menu to accompany it. It's always filled with locals, a good sign for any place to eat.
This is a recommendation only.
Why we love it for you: This 19th-century palazzo on the elegant Passeig de Gràcia has been transformed into a glitzy five-star hotel, with exceptional levels of service and an impressive four Michelin stars between its two principal restaurants. Its plant-filled rooftop is especially lovely, with a bar, light-filled breakfast room and small pool.
Barcelona's café culture is thriving, blending the city's love for tradition with a growing appreciation for modern, third-wave coffee.
Below are some of our favorite picks:
- Nomad Coffee started as a pop-up coffee project but quickly grew into one of Barcelona’s most respected coffee roasters and shops. It’s known for its high-quality beans, expertly brewed by skilled baristas. Nomad is a must-visit for anyone serious about coffee.
- Satan's Coffee Corner, with a bold name and a no-compromise approach to quality, has established itself as a cornerstone of Barcelona's specialty coffee scene. It offers a variety of brewing methods and a selection of homemade food in a distinctly hip atmosphere.
- Onna Coffee focuses on beans from Costa Rica and emphasizes quality and traceability. The café combines the warmth of traditional Barcelona with a modern approach to coffee brewing. It's a cozy spot in the Gràcia neighborhood that feels both welcoming and innovative.
- Morrow Coffee, known for its minimalist interior and exceptional coffee, is a haven for anyone seeking a peaceful spot to enjoy a well-crafted cup.
- Federal Café is inspired by the café culture of Australia and New Zealand, offering a spacious and bright environment perfect for enjoying a leisurely coffee, brunch, or a spot of work. Their coffee is excellent, and the food menu complements it perfectly.
This is a recommendation only.
Barcelona is renowned for its diverse shopping scenset, ranging from high-end boutiques to quirky independent stores. Each neighborhood offers a distinctive shopping experience. Here are some of our top picks:
- El Born is a trendy district known for its chic boutiques and artisan shops. Stroll along the narrow, medieval streets and discover unique fashion, jewelry, and home decor items. Don't miss the charming Passeig del Born, lined with stylish stores and cafes.
- Gràcia is a bohemian neighborhood that's a haven for vintage and second-hand shops. Explore the vibrant Carrer de Verdi and its surrounding streets to find an eclectic mix of vintage clothing stores, independant bars, retro furniture pieces and second hand bookshops.
- Passeig de Gràcia is Barcelona's most luxurious shopping avenue, home to high-end fashion brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton. Even if you're not looking to splurge, the stunning modernist architecture along this street, such as Gaudí's Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, makes it worth a visit.
- La Boqueria Market is a must-visit for food lovers. This vibrant, covered market offers an array of fresh produce, fruits, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies. It's the perfect spot to sample Barcelona's culinary delights and pick up some edible souvenirs.
Take off from Barcelona's port out onto the Mediterranean for a memorable sunset cruise on a sailing boat. Enjoy the late afternoon from the water, accompanied by some local drinks and snacks to enjoy while on board.
We recommend bringing a jacket on board for after the sun sets.
Pick-Up Time: Late afternoon
Pick-Up Location: In front of a hotel
End Time: Around early evening
Includes: Roundtrip transportation to the port, seasonal fruit, local snacks, water, soft drinks, beer, wine, or cava
Booked by Scenset.
This morning, you'll bring your bags in the vehicle with you to the Sagrada Familia. After your tour, the same car will take you to the train station for your train to Madrid.
Gaudi left his mark all over Barcelona, so visit some of his most iconic works around the city. Begin with his masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia, which you'll see from inside and out. Afterward, head to Park Güell, which is like a wonderland fantasy but in real life.
Pick-Up Time: Morning
Pick-Up Location: In front of hotel
Booked by Scenset
After your Gaudi tour, your driver will drop you off at Barcelona Sants station to catch your train to Madrid.
Booked by Scenset.
Catch your high-speed train with business class tickets from Barcelona to Madrid.
- Car: 2
- Seats: will be provided
- Record Locator: will be provided
Click here for your train tickets.
Booked by Scenset.
Upon arrival at Madrid Atocha station, meet your driver for a private transfer to your hotel.
- Driver: will be provided
- Contact: will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
The appeal of Spain’s capital city is how laidback it is. Visitors don’t come for the big-name attractions, but for the local lifestyle. Wander labyrinthine streets through colorful neighborhoods, stumbling in and out of tapas bars along the way. Meals are served late in the evening and last for hours since the locals would never rush good food, wine, and company. Of course, there are some sights you can’t miss, including a glitzy royal palace and cherished art museums.
Here are some great spots for getting a bite in Madrid, from casual tapas bars to finer diner restaurants. If you'd like a reservation at any of them, just send a message in the chat.
- Bodegas La Ardosa: This classic Madrileño tavern dates back to 1892, and it’s the ideal place for sitting, chatting, and drinking while getting a dose of Spanish history. Definitely try the tortilla de patatas and the artichokes!
- Casa Dani: One of the most famous stalls at Madrid’s Mercado de la Paz is Casa Dani, a spot that serves up generous portions of croquetas, oxtail, and their famous tortilla de patata.
- Saddle: The dishes, like the garlic-topped Mediterranean red prawns, Caspian pearl caviar with blinis and crème fraîche, spider crab marinated in sherry, and aged beef shank always deliver, and you’ll probably be talking about every course on this tasting menu back home.
- Charrua: The speciality here is the parrilla, meaning grilled pieces of meat. Enjoy some of the best steak filets you can find in the Spanish capital at this elegant restaurant.
Enjoy exclusive access to gourmet catering before the Real Madrid match. The hospitality event is included with your tickets and begins two hours before the match starts. The location is just an 8-minute walk from the stadium.
Start Time: Early evening
Location: Hotel NH Madrid Eurobuilding
Click here for walking directions to the stadium.
Enjoy a fútbol match between Real Madrid and Villareal at Santiago Bernabeu stadium with exclusive seats right along the edge of the pitch.
Start Time: Evening
- Section: 129
- Row: 22
- Seats: will be provided
Booked by Scenset
Enjoy a special perk for using Scenset! A credit will be provided at any of the bars or restaurants at your hotel.
Why we love it for you: The nondescript cement facade of the Madrid Edition offers no clues as to what’s inside, and as you’re ushered through the front door all you see is a white spiral staircase. You’re always left eagerly awaiting what’s to come, and the results never disappoint. It has mastered the niche of urban luxury, where classy decor of white tones and mahogany mesh with the tropical colors of the awarded Peruvian restaurant. The real treat is the rooftop infinity pool, which is unparalleled in Madrid’s center.
- Loft 2 Queens and Superior 1-Bedroom Suite with three beds
- Breakfast included
On your first full day in Madrid, we invite you to explore the city on an independent basis.
For your one day in Madrid, here are some recommendations of what to see and eat!
- Plaza Mayor is the historic center of Madrid with over four centuries of history.
- Right next to Plaza Mayor is Mercado San Miguel. It's Madrid's most iconic market and a great place to grab a snack (it's a little touristy, but still worth seeing while you're there!).
- Walk over to Parque de Retiro, Madrid's "Central Park," for a lovely stroll through the gardens.
- For a more authentic market experience, try Mercado de la Paz. There are many great stalls to eat in there, but seek out Casa Dani for one of the most famous tortilla españolas in the capital!
- If you want to check out museums, the Prado and Reina Sofia are within walking distance of each other. The Prado is known for its classic Spanish artists, and the Reina Sofia for more contemporary artists.
Madrid is a fantastic city for shopping, especially for a stylish and trendy teen! You'll want to explore the Salamanca neighborhood, particularly along the famous shopping street, Calle de Serrano. Here, you'll find luxury boutiques and high-end fashion brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci. The ABC Serrano shopping center is also worth a visit, offering a curated selection of designer stores. Additionally, the El Corte Inglés department store on Calle de Goya is a shopping haven, featuring a wide range of upscale brands across fashion, cosmetics, and accessories. Enjoy the chic atmosphere and indulge in the latest fashion trends in these elegant and sophisticated shopping districts.
During this tour, make stops at three traditional taverns where you'll taste several different local tapas. The tapas are all typical of the Spanish gastronomy such as Iberian ham, Manchego cheese, ham croquettes or tortilla de patatas.
Pick-Up Time: In the afternoon
Pick-Up Location: In front of hotel
End Time: In the evening
Guide: A guide will be provided
Contact: A contact number will be provided
The tour ends in the city center. From there, you can continue exploring or head back to your hotel independently.
Booked by Scenset
- Loft 2 Queens and Superior 1-Bedroom Suite with three beds
- Breakfast included
Get a taste of Madrid's Golden Triangle with a half-day guided tour of the Reina Sofia Museum with your art historian guide.
The Reina Sofía Museum is dedicated to contemporary and modern art, with a focus on Spanish artists. One of its most famous works is Pablo Picasso's "Guernica," an iconic anti-war painting that has become a symbol of protest and a masterpiece of 20th-century art. The museum also features works by Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró, as well as a comprehensive collection of contemporary Spanish art.
Pick-Up Time: Morning
Pick-Up Location: In front of hotel
End Time: Early afternoon
Guide: will be provided
Contact: will be provided
Booked by Scenset
You'll create a menu with your chef in this private class based on what's in season. Every dish is traditional Spanish, and every dish is delicious. Your menu includes pisto manchego, chicken in pepitoria, and marmitako.
Once you've created your meal, enjoy the incredible dinner you've prepared.
Pick-Up Time: Evening
Pick-Up Location: In front of hotel
End Time: Late night
Guide: will be provided
Contact: will be provided
Booked by Scenset
- Loft 2 Queens and Superior 1-Bedroom Suite with three beds
- Breakfast included
Head out to Toledo where Christians, Muslims, and Jews lived in great harmony for centuries. The city preserves two synagogues, a mosque and a cathedral that is often listed as one of the most impressive buildings in Europe. Your expert guide will take you through Toledo's long history in Spain.
Be sure to pick up some marzipan, a local specialty!
Pick-Up Time: Morning
Pick-Up Location: In front of hotel
End Time: Afternoon
Guide: will be provided
Contact: will be provided
Booked by Scenset
- Loft 2 Queens and Superior 1-Bedroom Suite with three beds
- Breakfast included
Head south to the folkloric heart of Spain, where the influence of its Moorish past can not only be seen across the architectural landscape but also felt within the reverberating sound of the Spanish guitar or the stomping of a fervent flamenco dancer. Cities like Granada and Cordoba come alive in the evenings once the midday sun has set, oftentimes with boisterous outdoor festivals. The bars in Andalucia are known for their generous tapas, and a couple of drinks can easily turn into dinner.
You'll be picked up this morning in a private transfer for the ride to Madrid Atocha train station.
- Driver: will be provided
- Contact: will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
Catch your high-speed train with business class seats from Madrid to Cordoba.
- Car: 1
- Seats: 6A, 6B, 6D, 7A, 7B
- Record Locator: 0FEE0Q
Click here for your train tickets.
Booked by Scenset.
Upon arrival in Cordoba, meet your driver and guide for an introduction to this Andalucian city.
Local Contact: will be provided
Phone: will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
We recommend having lunch upon arrival before your tour of the Mezquita. We can either make a reservation for a sit-down lunch at a recommended restaurant such as La Regadera, or if you prefer to explore then your host can make a recommendation for a casual tapas bar to grab a bite.
One cannot visit Andalucia without paying tribute to the most beautiful architectural wonder of southern Spain. The style hints at a refined age when Muslims, Jews and Christians lived side by side and enriched their city with vibrant cultures. Visit this cultural and architectural treasure with your expert guide to learn about its fascinating history.
Start Time: In the afternoon
Meeting Place: will be provided after lunch
End Time: Around 5 p.m.
Local Contact: will be provided
Phone: will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
After touring and enjoying lunch in Cordoba, continue on with your driver for a private transfer to Granada.
Journey: about 2.5 hours
Local Contact: will be provided
Phone: will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
Why we love it for you: Fall in love with the art of living at Seda Club Hotel, a timeless combination of old-world glamour and contemporary luxury. Located in Granada’s elegant Plaza de la Trinidad, the hotel’s historical and cultural roots run deep. From the moment you enter, you’re surrounded by rich woods, marble and bronze, offset with opulent textiles inspired by the 15th century silk trade in Granada.
- 2x Grand Deluxe Room with two twin beds and one extra bed
- Breakfast included
Granada is the folkloric heart of Andalucia, where the influence of its Moorish past still thrives over five centuries later. You can feel it in the dizzying streets of the Albaicín neighborhood, guided by the sounds of Spanish guitar and the stomping of a flamenco dancer. You can see it as well, in the omnipresent Alhambra palace guarding over the city. You can even taste it in the neverending tapas plates that Granada is known for.
Enjoy your afternoon at leisure in Granada. Here are some of our recommendations:
- Albayzín Mirador de San Nicolás: Instead of the more famous Mirador de San Nicolás, head to one of the lesser-known viewpoints in the Albayzín neighborhood. These viewpoints offer breathtaking views of the Alhambra against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. It's a perfect spot for a tranquil and less crowded experience of this iconic vista.
- Alcaicería Market: Located in the heart of the city, the Alcaicería Market is a bustling, narrow labyrinth of winding streets reminiscent of the old Moorish bazaars. Originally a silk market during the Nasrid dynasty, today you'll find souvenirs, textiles, ceramics, spices, and traditional Andalusian goods. The market is a feast for the senses with its vibrant colors, fragrant spices, and intricate handicrafts.
- San Agustín Market: This market is a paradise for food enthusiasts. It features a wide array of fresh produce, meats, seafood, cheeses, olives, and regional specialties. The atmosphere is lively, and you can find both locals and tourists exploring the stalls, sampling tapas, and picking up ingredients for a delicious meal.
- Plaza Bib-Rambla Market: This central square often hosts various street markets and events, from artisanal craft fairs to flower markets. The plaza is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, making it a pleasant spot to explore and relax.
These are recommendations only - no bookings have been made.
Enjoy a guided tour of the Alhambra complex with an expert guide. This one-time palace and fortress is one of the greatest living examples of Islamic architecture in the world, and its sheer beauty is enough to bring visitors to tears.
Bring your passport with you!
Pick-Up Time: Afternoon
Pick-Up Location: In front of hotel
Return Time: Around evening
Local Contact: will be provided
Phone: will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
Experience authentic Andalusian culture by attending a private flamenco show in a cave in the Sacromonte neighborhood. This intimate setting provides an up-close and personal encounter with the passionate art of flamenco, accompanied by snacks and drinks.
Pick-Up Time: Early evening
Pick-Up Location: Alhambra
Show Time: Evening
Round-trip transportation is included.
For any issues locating your driver, please contact your local host will be provided for immediate assistance.
Booked By Scenset
- 2x Grand Deluxe Room with two twin beds and one extra bed
- Breakfast included
After breakfast, you'll be picked up in private transport and taken to the Granada Airport.
Pick-Up Time: Morning
Local Contact: will be provided
Phone: will be provided
Booked by Scenset.
You're checked in for your flight to Barcelona. You can drop off your checked bags and use the boarding passes.
Click here for your boarding passes.
- Reference Code: WILZRZ
- Airline: Vueling
- Flight Number: will be provided
Meet your driver upon arrival in Barcelona for a private transfer and a final evening in Spain.
Booked by Scenset.
After booking, we'll make suggestions and a reservation for a final special dinner in Barcelona before your flight home.
Why we love it for you: This 19th-century palazzo on the elegant Passeig de Gràcia has been transformed into a glitzy five-star hotel, with exceptional levels of service and an impressive four Michelin stars between its two principal restaurants. Its plant-filled rooftop is especially lovely, with a bar, light-filled breakfast room and small pool.
- 2x Junior Suite Barcelona
- Breakfast included
It's time to head home but, thankfully, in Spain we don't say goodbye, but rather hasta luego, or until next time!
You'll be picked up early this morning and taken to the airport to catch your international flight home.
Pick-Up Time: Early morning
Pick-Up Location: In front of hotel
Driver: Driver contact will be provided 24 hours before your pick-up
Booked by Scenset
