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Spain is one of those timeless destinations that captivates the soul with its vibrant culture, historic cities, breathtaking coastlines, and irresistible cuisine. Whether you’re sipping sangria in a sunlit plaza, wandering through Moorish palaces, or dancing the night away in a flamenco bar, a trip to Spain is nothing short of magical.
This Spain 10 day itinerary is designed for travelers who want to check off the top highlights in a short yet enriching vacation. From bustling cities and gorgeous landscapes, you’ll uncover the very best Spain has to offer with this perfect combination of energy, elegance, and unforgettable moments.
Whether you’re planning a Spain road trip or prefer the comfort of scenic train travel, this trip to Spain travel guide gives you all the essentials for a seamless and spectacular Europe summer escape.
Is this your first time visiting Andalucia? Get all the information you need in our Spain Travel Guide, including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical Andalusia travel tips to help you have the best trip!
Spain Itinerary Overview & Map
This 10 day trip to Spain covers the must-see cities and regions that define the heart and soul of the country. Starting in Madrid and Barcelona before winding through Andalusia, you’ll explore ancient architecture, flamenco culture, Mediterranean charm, and world-class food. The itinerary includes:
Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Spain. We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.
Barcelona
Barcelona is a feast for the senses and a jewel of any Spain 10 day itinerary. From Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces to bustling beaches and the gothic charm of the old town, this is where creativity meets coastal bliss. Wander through the Sagrada Familia, explore the whimsical Park Güell, and enjoy tapas along the bustling La Rambla.
The city offers the ultimate Barcelona Spain aesthetic with its sunny terraces, mosaic art, and Mediterranean views. Foodies will love the seafood paella and pintxos bars scattered across neighborhoods like El Born and Gràcia. As day turns to night, join locals for vermouth hour and rooftop cocktails.
Two nights in Barcelona gives you enough time to revel in the city and relax before you hit the road again!
Where to Stay in Barcelona
Upmarket: Hotel El Palace Barcelona is set in a central location, close to Las Ramblas, with classic style, supremely comfortable rooms, and its own spa, this is the perfect stop for a celebration or special occasion holiday.
Mid-Range: Casa Bonay is an independent hotel in the center of Barcelona, with restaurants, cafeterias, and bars in a restored building dating from 1856. The decor is 19th century grandeur with modern and elegant design, which helped to make this our favorite Barca hotel.
Budget: Musik Boutique Hotel is in the heart of Eixample and close to the Gothic Quarter. This uber-modern hotel enjoys a crisp and clean decor and a delicious breakfast!
Madrid
Start your trip to Spain in the dazzling capital city of Madrid. A modern metropolis steeped in culture, Madrid is a hub of lively plazas, grand boulevards, and prestigious museums like the Prado and Reina Sofia. Stroll through Retiro Park, browse the shops along Gran Via, and dive into tapas heaven at Mercado de San Miguel.
The city’s nightlife buzzes with energy, from rooftop bars with sweeping views to local flamenco shows that ignite the senses. Don’t miss the Royal Palace, a Spain must see place that stuns with its opulence and grandeur. Madrid effortlessly blends history and vibrance, offering the perfect launch point for your Spain bucket list adventure.
Spend two nights here to soak up the sights, sample chocolat y churros and enjoy the unique Spain vibes before heading to Barcelona.
Where to Stay in Madrid
Upmarket: CoolRooms Palacio de Atocha is s simply gorgeous hotel in a building full of character and history. In the pretty Barrio de las Letras district and with a pool for cooling off and plenty of outdoor space where you can relax, eat breakfast, or enjoy the summer weather, this makes a perfect spot for your stay in Madrid.
Mid-Range: Pestana Plaza Mayor is superby positioned on Plaza Mayor, and our favorite hotel in Madrid. Elegantly decorated and with a rooftop pool, and spa and wellness centre, this is an ideal spot for a touch of pampering as you visit the city.
Budget: 7 Islas Boutique Hotel is close to the Royal Palace and with good metro access. This stylish and quirky hotel serves a delicious breakfast and is known for its very comfortable beds!
Cordoba
Cordoba is our favorite place in Spain. A historic treasure often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, but it’s a must for your Spain bucket list. The city’s crown jewel is the Mezquita, a stunning mosque-cathedral that showcases Spain’s layered past. Wander through the flower-filled patios of the old Jewish Quarter and cross the ancient Roman Bridge for postcard-worthy views.
Cordoba is compact and easily walkable, making it a perfect one-night stop on your Spain trip. Despite its size, it offers a wealth of things to do in Spain, from ancient synagogues to contemporary art galleries. Its mix of Roman, Moorish, and Christian heritage makes it a fascinating stop on your route through South Spain.
Where to Stay in Cordoba
Upmarket: Stay at Las Casas de la Judería for its authentic location in the historic Jewish Quarter, charming Andalusian courtyards, and easy walking distance to the iconic Mezquita.
Mid-Range: Stay at Balcón de Córdoba for its breathtaking rooftop terrace with panoramic city views, intimate boutique charm, and prime location just steps from the Mezquita.
Budget: Stay at La Boutique Puerta Osario for its contemporary design, cosy ambience, and a prime location within walking distance of Córdoba’s historic attractions.
Loving the sound of Andalusia? Our 7 to 10 day Andalucia road trip itinerary hits all the top spots plus lots of hidden gems, fantastic driving roads and pretty towns, that will blow you away!
Seville
Welcome to Seville, the soul of Andalusia and a Spain must see place. Famous for flamenco, orange-scented plazas, and rich Moorish history, Seville’s charm is undeniable. Marvel at the Real Alcázar, climb the Giralda tower, or the modern Sevlle Parasol, and take a sunset stroll around the Plaza de Espana.
The city’s old quarter, Santa Cruz, is a labyrinth of whitewashed walls, hidden patios, tapas bars and pretty squares. At night, the city pulses with guitar music and the scent of grilled Iberian pork. Whether you’re a history lover or a romantic, Seville is a highlight of any Spain itinerary 10 days.
Stay two nights—although you’ll never want to leave!—and soak in the rhythm of Southern Spain life.
Where to Stay in Seville
Upmarket: Stay at Hotel Casa Del Poeta in Seville for its atmospheric setting in the heart of the Santa Cruz neighbourhood, romantic Moorish courtyards, and intimate boutique ambience.
Mid-Range: Stay at Hotel Rey Alfonso X for its central location in Seville’s historic quarter, contemporary Andalusian style, and a rooftop pool offering captivating city views.
Budget: Stay at Zenit Sevilla for its riverside Triana location, stylish contemporary rooms, and a rooftop pool boasting sweeping city views.
Granada
Next, travel to Granada, a jewel of Moorish architecture and one of the top places to see in Spain. The Alhambra, a sprawling palace and fortress complex, is a masterpiece of Islamic art and an essential stop on any trip to Spain. Book tickets in advance and allow time to explore its intricate halls and fragrant gardens.
Wander through the Albaicín neighborhood with its narrow lanes, whitewashed homes, and sweeping views of the Alhambra. After dark, head to a cave bar in the Sacromonte district to experience flamenco in its most raw and authentic form. Granada blends drama, beauty, and mystery.
One night here is enough to soak in its unique Spain travel aesthetic and see the wonderful Alhambra.
Where to Stay in Granada
Upmarket: Stay at Hospes Palacio de los Patos for its artful blend of 19th-century palace grandeur and sleek modern design, indulgent spa facilities, and a prime location near Granada’s historic attractions.
Mid-Range: Stay at Hotel Santa Isabel La Real for its historic Albayzín setting, authentic Andalusian charm, and breathtaking views overlooking the heart of Granada.
Budget: Stay at BiBo Suites San Agustín for its stylish modern apartments, central location, and convenient access to Granada’s main historical sites.
Malaga
Malaga is a sun-drenched port city that’s both a cultural hub and a beach lover’s dream. As the birthplace of Picasso, it’s home to several impressive museums, alongside historic sites like the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle. Stroll along the palm-lined waterfront, visit the Soho arts district, and enjoy fresh seafood at a beachside chiringuito.
Malaga’s old town mixes Moorish architecture with lively plazas, while modern spaces like Muelle Uno bring a contemporary Spain holiday vibe. Malaga is also a gateway to Costa del Sol, making it a perfect mix of culture and coast for your Spain road trip.
Spend one night here to enjoy the beachy finale to your 10 day trip to Spain.
Where to Stay in Malaga
Upmarket: Stay at Vincci Selección Posada del Patio for its five-star location in central Málaga, historic decor, and rooftop pool.
Mid-Range: Stay at Molina Lario for its four-star location in central Málaga, stylish modern design, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views.
Budget: Stay at Debambú Atarazanas for its prime location beside Málaga’s vibrant market, chic modern apartments, and easy access to the city’s top attractions.
Spain Travel Practicalities
Getting to Spain
Fly into Barcelona El Prat Airport and out of Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, the perfect places to start and finish your Spanish trip. With direct flights from America, Europe, and the UK, we recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.
Getting Around Spain
This Spain 10 day itinerary can be done either by car or train, depending on your preferred travel style.
Self Drive in Spain
For the self-drive option, you’ll enjoy the freedom to explore rural towns and scenic routes at your own pace. Car rental is affordable and roads are well-maintained, but driving and parking in city centers can be a challenge.
We recommend Rentalcars.com because as one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best car rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning an Spanish road trip.
For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Spain. We recommend Motorhome Republic, an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.
Take the Train
For those favoring train travel, Spain’s high-speed AVE trains are fast, clean, and efficient, connecting all major cities. You’ll avoid parking headaches and enjoy the scenic Spain travel aesthetic from your seat. For a relaxed, eco-friendly Spain holiday, the train option is a fantastic choice. Plan your journey and book tickets with Omio – do this in advance to get the best prices.
Do I need a visa to visit Spain?
If you’re traveling from the US, Canada, UK, or most of Europe, you can visit Spain visa-free for up to 90 days. Always check the latest travel regulations based on your nationality before booking your trip to Spain.
When is the best time to visit Spain?
The spring months of April and May and fall months from September to October are ideal for a Spain trip, offering mild weather and fewer crowds.
Summer is lively and great for beach towns but July and August will be hot and humid in South Spain, where the Cordoba region is known as the “frying pan of Europe”!
Winter is also a great time to visit Spain, which enjoys a balmy year round climate. Madrid could be chilly and there might be snow on the mountains around Granada, but that just adds to the experience.
Is it easy to drive in Spain?
Driving in Spain is generally easy, with well-maintained roads and clear signage. Cities can be tricky with one-way streets and parking restrictions. Consider using public transportation within cities and renting a car for your Spain road trip between regions.
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