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Spain

Spain

Map of trip
Avatar for Nina Bronze
Posted on February 27, 2026

I traveled to Madrid and Barcelona at the beginning of my first solo trip around the world. Madrid was my very first destination, which made the experience even more special. It marked the start of an exciting new chapter, full of independence, discovery, and personal growth

Trip Recap

  • Day 1: First day: relaxing at the hostel, exploring shops, and enjoying El Retiro Park.
  • Day 2: Delicious vegetarian paella and beautiful Royal Palace made my Madrid day unforgettable!
  • Day 3: Exploring Barcelona’s sights, sharing wine at sunset, felt incredibly special.
  • Day 4: My last day in Barcelona was sunny, relaxing, and unforgettable!

Highlights

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    Sunset at bunkers del Carmel

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    Sagrada Familia

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    Sunny day in Barceloneta

Day 1

On my first day, I took it easy since I had just arrived after a long flight. I stayed at 2060 The Newton Hostel, which had comfortable rooms and, best of all, free churros! It was a great place to start my solo adventure.

I spent the day walking around the city, visiting shops, and soaking in the atmosphere. I also wandered through El Retiro Park. The weather was beautiful and sunny, which made everything feel even more special. It was a light and relaxed first day, perfect for easing into the trip.

2060 The Newton Hostel, Calle de la Cabeza, Madrid, Espanha
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Jardins do Retiro de Madrid, Madrid, Espanha
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Day 2

On my second day, I visited Mercado de San Miguel, which was such a delicious and fun experience. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in Spanish culture through food. I tried a vegetarian paella that was absolutely delicious.

After that, I walked through the streets of Madrid and passed by the Royal Palace of Madrid, admiring its impressive architecture from the outside. Later, I returned to the hostel to pack my bags, since I had an early train to Barcelona the next morning.

Mercado de San Miguel, Plaza de San Miguel, Madrid, Espanha
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Royal Palace of Madrid, Madrid, Espanha
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Day 3

On my third day, I took the train from Madrid to Barcelona. I arrived feeling excited and full of energy. This time, I didn’t stay in a hostel or hotel, I left my bags at my friend’s apartment, which made the experience feel more local and special.

I then headed out to explore the city and visited the famous Sagrada Família. I didn’t go inside because I was traveling on a budget, but even from the outside it’s incredibly impressive and perfect for photos. I also passed by Casa Batlló and did a bit of shopping while walking around the city.

At the end of the day, I watched the sunset at Bunkers del Carmel, a very unique and special spot with one of the best views in Barcelona. I shared a bottle of wine with friends while enjoying the beautiful panoramic view of the city. It was the perfect way to end the day

Sagrada Família, Barcelona, Espanha
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Casa Batlló, Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona, Espanha
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Bunkers del Carmel, Carrer de la Gran Vista, Barcelona, Espanha
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Day 4

On my last day, the weather was beautiful and sunny, which made everything feel even more special. I walked to the city center and visited El Beso de Joan Fontcuberta, the famous photo mosaic that forms the image of a kiss. It’s such a creative and meaningful piece of art, and of course, a great photo spot.

After that, I went to Mercado de La Boqueria, a delicious place to explore and experience more of the local gastronomy. I treated myself to some churros with chocolate, which were absolutely amazing.

To end the day, I headed to Barceloneta Beach, where I spent the afternoon relaxing, enjoying the sun, and soaking in my final moments in the city. It was the perfect way to finish my time in Barcelona.

La Boqueria, La Rambla, Barcelona, Espanha
Must Do
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La Barceloneta, Barcelona, Espanha
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Anything you would add or do differently?

  • I would spend more days in Barcelona