Ultimate 6-Day Madrid and Spanish Coastal Escape from London

Day 1: Arrival and Madrid Discovery

Madrid, Spain on August 1, 2025

9:00am

Arrival in Madrid

Fly from London to Madrid and check into a boutique hotel like Only YOU Boutique Hotel Madrid for a stylish stay in central Madrid.
EUR150, 1h0m

10:30am

Breakfast at Chocolatería San Ginés

Enjoy traditional churros with thick hot chocolate, a beloved Madrid breakfast spot opening at 6am.
EUR10, 0h45m

11:30am

Explore Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol

Take a leisurely walk around Madrid's historic city centre, soaking in the architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Savour a variety of Spanish tapas and fresh seafood in this iconic market open until midnight.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit the Prado Museum

Enjoy world-class art collections from artists like Velázquez and Goya; open 10am-8pm on Fridays.
EUR15, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Retiro Park

Stroll or boat on the lake in this large green space, perfect for unwinding after a busy afternoon.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Sobrino de Botín

Dine at the oldest restaurant in the world, known for its succulent roast suckling pig and traditional cuisine; reserve ahead.
EUR50, 1h30m
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Day 2: Art, Food and Culture

Madrid, Spain on August 2, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café de Oriente

Enjoy a breakfast with views of the Royal Palace in an elegant setting; opens at 8am.
EUR15, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit the Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral

Tour the majestic palace and nearby cathedral, both open 10am-8pm in summer.
EUR14, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at El Sur

Choose this popular spot for authentic, affordable Spanish home-style cooking, open until late afternoon.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Reina Sofía Museum

Explore modern art including Picasso’s 'Guernica'; opens 10am-9pm on Tuesdays.
EUR12, 2h0m

5:00pm

Tapas tour in La Latina district

Experience some of the best tapas bars on a walking evening tour from around 6pm; pre-booking recommended.
EUR45, 3h0m
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Day 3: Travel to Valencia and Beach Time

Madrid to Valencia, Spain on August 3, 2025

8:00am

Early train to Valencia

Take the high-speed AVE train from Madrid to Valencia (approx. 1h40m), departing early to maximise beach time.
EUR50, 1h40m

10:00am

Check into Hotel Neptuno

Stay near the beach in Valencia at a comfortable hotel with great amenities and sea views.
EUR130, 0h30m

11:00am

Brunch at Dulce de Leche Boutique

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee in this charming café open from 9am, ideal for a light brunch.
EUR15, 1h0m

12:30pm

Afternoon on Malvarrosa Beach

Relax, swim, and soak up the sun on one of Valencia’s most popular sandy beaches.
Free, 4h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at La Pepica

Dine on classic Valencian paella right on the beachfront at this iconic, historic restaurant; open until 11pm.
EUR45, 1h30m
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Day 4: Valencia Exploration and Culinary Delights

Valencia, Spain on August 4, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Mercado Central

Sample fresh fruit, pastries and coffee at this grand market, open 7am-3pm daily.
EUR12, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit the City of Arts and Sciences

Explore the futuristic complex including the Oceanographic Aquarium and interactive museums; open 10am-8pm.
EUR38, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Central Bar by Ricard Camarena

Enjoy creative tapas from a Michelin-starred chef inside Mercado Central, open 12pm-4pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Siesta and beach walk

Rest at hotel followed by a peaceful late afternoon walk along Playa de la Malvarrosa.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Riff Restaurant

Savour innovative Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on local ingredients; open 7pm-11pm, booking essential.
EUR55, 1h30m
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Day 5: Travel to Alicante and Beach Relaxation

Valencia to Alicante, Spain on August 5, 2025

9:00am

Train to Alicante

Travel by train from Valencia to Alicante, journey takes approximately 2 hours.
EUR25, 2h0m

11:30am

Check into Maya Alicante Hotel

Stay at a well-rated hotel located centrally and close to the beach with modern amenities.
EUR110, 0h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Nou Manolin

Experience excellent seafood and tapas in a local favourite open daily from noon until midnight.
EUR40, 1h30m

2:00pm

Relax on Postiguet Beach

Enjoy Alicante’s golden sand beach near the city centre, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Visit Santa Bárbara Castle

Explore this historic hilltop fortress with stunning views over Alicante; open until 9pm in summer.
Free, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at El Portal Taberna & Wines

Taste creative Spanish dishes and enjoy a great wine selection in a vibrant, stylish setting.
EUR50, 1h30m
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Day 6: Beachside Leisure and Departure Planning

Alicante, Spain on August 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café de Ficciones

Start your day with quality coffee and breakfast options in this cosy café, open from 8am.
EUR12, 1h0m

10:00am

Morning swim and relaxation at San Juan Beach

Take a short trip to this extensive sandy beach just north of Alicante for a peaceful morning swim.
Free, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Nou Racó

Feast on paella and fresh seafood in a lovely garden setting close to the beach, open until 4pm.
EUR40, 1h0m

3:00pm

Pack and relax

Return to hotel to pack and relax after your enjoyable beach stay.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Prepare for onward travel or return to London

Depending on your plans, prepare for flights or travel back to Barcelona or Madrid for your return flight.
Varies, Varies
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