6-Day Itinerary for Malaga, Marbella, Madrid, and Barcelona

  1. Day 1: Malaga
    From Malaga Airport to City Centre - 20 minutes (8.3 km)

    Begin your trip in Malaga, a vibrant city with beautiful beaches and rich history. Explore the Alcazaba Fortress, built in the 11th century. Stroll around the historic city centre, visit the Picasso Museum or take a walk along the seafront.

  2. Day 2: Marbella
    From Malaga to Marbella - 50 minutes (58.5 km)

    Head to Marbella and indulge in some luxury. Visit the 16th-century Plaza de los Naranjos, known for its orange trees, boutique shops, and restaurants. Take a stroll around Puerto Banus Marina to see luxury yachts and cars, and later have a drink at one of the trendy beach clubs.

  3. Day 3: Madrid
    From Marbella to Madrid - 5 hours (600 km)

    Take a fast train to Madrid, the capital of Spain. Visit the Royal Palace and its beautiful gardens, stroll around the charming streets of the Literary Quarter and have a taste of the famous churros at San Gines. Later, visit the Museo Nacional del Prado, home to some of the greatest European art masterpieces.

  4. Day 4: Madrid
    Explore the city centre on foot or by bike.

    Start the day at the Mercado de San Miguel, a lively market filled with fresh produce and delicious snacks. Visit the impressive Almudena Cathedral and climb to its rooftop for panoramic views of the city. End the day by wandering around the vibrant neighbourhoods of Malasana or Chueca.

  5. Day 5: Barcelona
    From Madrid to Barcelona - 2.5 hours (620 km)

    Take a train to Barcelona, the bustling city known for its incredible architecture and laid-back atmosphere. Start your visit at Park Guell, a whimsical park created by Antoni Gaudi. Later, visit the Gothic Quarter and its stunningly beautiful cathedral. Make sure to spend some time at the beach, and finish the day by experiencing the nightlife in the El Raval neighbourhood.

  6. Day 6: Barcelona
    Explore the city center on foot.

    Explore the famous La Rambla, a lively pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes and street performers. Visit the Barceloneta neighbourhood for its beautiful beach and seafood restaurants. End your day by discovering the works of Antoni Gaudi, including his unfinished masterpiece, La Sagrada Familia.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Picasso Museum (1-2 hours, $11)
  • Puerto Banus Marina (1-2 hours, free)
  • Royal Palace (2-3 hours, $14)
  • Museo Nacional del Prado (2-3 hours, $17)
  • Mercado de San Miguel (1-2 hours, $11)
  • Park Guell (1-2 hours, $12)
  • Gothic Quarter (2-3 hours, free)
  • La Sagrada Familia (1-2 hours, $22)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $88

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider exploring the surrounding areas of Malaga or Marbella, or take a day trip to nearby cities such as Granada, Ronda, or Gibraltar. If you have less time, consider skipping Marbella or visiting just one or two cities instead of all four. Keep in mind the opening and closing times of the attractions as they may vary.

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