Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Family-Friendly 9-Day City Experience in Spain: Málaga, Barcelona, and Madrid

Viewed by 127 travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Málaga

Málaga, Spain

10:00AM

Arrival and Hotel Check-In

Settle into your family-friendly hotel in Málaga, ready for an adventurous week ahead.
Head to Hotel Malaga Nostrum, a short taxi ride from the airport.
EUR120, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at El Tintero

Enjoy a casual family lunch at El Tintero, renowned for its fresh seafood and unique open-air dining experience.
Take a short bus ride or a 15-minute walk from the hotel.
EUR75, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Alcazaba of Málaga

Explore the stunning Moorish fortress that offers breathtaking views of the city and the sea while helping the kids learn about history.
A 5-minute walk from El Tintero.
EUR4, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at La Malagueta Beach

Spend a few hours relaxing with the family at this popular city beach, perfect for a little fun in the sun.
A 15-minute walk from Alcazaba.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante Ptraction

This family-friendly restaurant serves a variety of Spanish dishes, ensuring there's something for everyone.
A 20-minute walk from the beach.
EUR80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Málaga

Day 2: Exploration Day in Málaga

Málaga, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Central

Start your day with a delicious breakfast of churros and hot chocolate or a hearty Spanish omelet.
Just a 10-minute walk from your hotel.
EUR40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Picasso Museum

Discover the works of Málaga's most famous son, Pablo Picasso, in this family-friendly and engaging museum.
A short 10-minute walk from the café.
EUR12, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercado de Atarazanas

Enjoy a vibrant lunch at this local market featuring fresh produce, tapas, and other culinary delights.
A 15-minute walk from the museum.
EUR50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Málaga Cathedral

Known as 'La Manquita', this impressive architectural gem offers a great opportunity to explore its magnificent interiors.
An easy 15-minute walk from the market.
EUR6, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Centre Pompidou Málaga

Enjoy interactive exhibits in this unique museum, sure to capture your family's imagination.
A pleasant 20-minute walk from the cathedral.
EUR7, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at La Taberna de Pepa

Savor traditional Andalusian dishes in a cozy spot perfect for families.
A 30-minute walk or short taxi ride.
EUR70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Málaga

Day 3: Travel to Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a buffet breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for your day of travel.
At the hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Barcelona by Train

Hop on the AVE high-speed train for a scenic ride from Málaga to Barcelona, arriving just in time for lunch.
Walk to Málaga train station, approximately 15 minutes from your hotel.
EUR90, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Arrive and Check-in at Hotel

Check into your family-friendly hotel in Barcelona, such as Hotel Grums, for a comfortable stay.
Taxi ride from the train station, 15 minutes.
EUR20, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at El Xampanyet

Delight in tapas and local delicacies in this lively restaurant, perfect for families.
20-minute walk from the hotel.
EUR65, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Stroll along La Rambla

Enjoy a leisurely walk along this iconic street, taking in the local shops and street performers.
A 10-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Gothic Quarter

Venture into the historic heart of Barcelona, where children can enjoy its mysterious alleys and unique architecture.
A 15-minute walk from La Rambla.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Sopars A La Carta

Relax over a delicious family meal with varieties of food options.
Short walk back toward La Rambla.
EUR85, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Barcelona

Day 4: Cultural Day in Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dijkstra

Start with a family-friendly breakfast, featuring fresh pastries and sandwiches.
Walking distance from the hotel.
EUR40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Park Güell

Enjoy the whimsical designs of Gaudí in this colorful park, providing ample space for kids to explore.
Take the metro from Paral.lel to Vallcarca (30 mins).
EUR10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit La Sagrada Familia

Take in the extraordinary architecture of Gaudí’s magnum opus and learn about its history.
10-minute walk from Park Güell.
EUR26, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Pizzeria dell'Arc

Enjoy a variety of pizzas and pasta dishes at this family-friendly venue.
Short taxi ride to the restaurant.
EUR60, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

Marvel at this spectacular fountain that offers beautiful light shows in the evening and is a fantastic spot for family fun.
Walk to Parc de Montjuïc (about 20 mins from the restaurant).
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Dinner at Cal Pep

Enjoy delicious Spanish tapas in a warm family atmosphere.
Metro back towards El Born district, around 30 minutes.
EUR85, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Barcelona

Day 5: Day Trip to Montserrat

Montserrat, Spain

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Refuel with a hearty breakfast at your hotel with options for all tastes.
At the hotel.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Montserrat

Take a guided tour to Montserrat, renowned for its stunning mountain scenery and monastery.
Take the train from Plaça Espanya station (1 hour).
EUR40, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Montserrat Monastery

Explore the beautiful monastery, known for the Black Madonna and stunning views.
Short walk from the station.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch with a View

Pack a picnic lunch or enjoy a local eatery while soaking in breathtaking views of the mountains.
Picnic at Montserrat park.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Hiking or Funicular Ride

Enjoy either a family-friendly hike or take the funicular ride for panoramic views.
At the mountain, access depends on the chosen activity.
EUR10, 2 hours

3:30PM

Return to Barcelona

Head back to the city to relax and prepare for dinner.
Train will take about 1 hour.
Included in the earlier train fare, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at La Fonda

Enjoy traditional Catalan dishes in a cozy atmosphere, ideal for families.
Taxi back from the station, around 15 mins.
EUR70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Montserrat

Day 6: Travel to Madrid

Madrid, Spain

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before departing.
At the hotel.
Included with your stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Madrid by Train

Board the AVE high-speed train to Madrid, another enjoyable journey!
Walk to the train station, about 15 minutes from your hotel.
EUR50, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Arrive and Hotel Check-In

Settle into your Madrid hotel, such as Hotel Urban, ideally located for exploring the city.
Taxi ride from the station (15 mins).
EUR20, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Delight in an array of tapas from various vendors that is perfect for family sharing.
Short 10-minute walk from the hotel.
EUR70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Plaza Mayor

Discover Madrid's main square, a great place for photos and to soak up the local culture.
A short 5-minute walk from Mercado de San Miguel.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Retiro Park

Take a leisurely stroll or rent a boat in this expansive city park, ideal for families to relax.
A 15-minute walk from Plaza Mayor.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Sobrino de Botín

Enjoy a historic meal at the oldest restaurant in the world, famous for its roast suckling pig.
A 20-minute walk from the park.
EUR90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Madrid

Day 7: Art and Culture in Madrid

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a breakfast buffet full of choices at your hotel to kick off the day.
At the hotel.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Prado Museum

Explore one of the world's premier art museums with collections appealing to all ages.
A short 10-minute walk from your hotel.
EUR15, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Reina Sofia Museum

Enjoy modern and contemporary art, including Picasso's Guernica, in a family-friendly setting.
A 15-minute walk from the Prado.
EUR10, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Taberna El Sur

Classic Spanish dishes await you at this beloved restaurant known for its welcoming vibe.
Short walk to the restaurant.
EUR60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid

Explore the magnificent rooms and gardens of the royal residence, captivating for both adults and kids.
A quick 10-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit Temple of Debod

Discover this ancient Egyptian temple and enjoy beautiful sunset views, providing an exceptional experience for families.
A 20-minute walk from the royal palace.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Casa Lucio

Savor traditional dishes in a well-known eatery, famous for its delicious huevos rotos.
A 15-minute walk from the temple.
EUR80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Madrid

Day 8: Leisure Day in Madrid

Madrid, Spain

8:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast to fuel up for a fun-filled day ahead.
At the hotel.
Included with stay, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Madrid Zoo Aquarium

A visit to this extensive zoo provides interactive fun and learning opportunities for children.
Take the metro to Casa de Campo (30 mins).
EUR20, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Casa de Campo's Restaurant

Enjoy a quaint lunch experience at the park's restaurant while soaking in the natural beauty.
On-site dining available.
EUR50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the CaixaForum Madrid

Explore innovative exhibitions and participate in a family-friendly workshop at this cultural center.
Metro to Atocha (15 mins).
EUR10, 2 hours

4:30PM

Stroll around the Royal Botanical Garden

Take a peaceful walk through the beautiful gardens, perfect for relaxation and family photos.
5-minute walk from CaixaForum.
EUR4, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante La Catedral

Enjoy a delightful family meal filled with traditional fare in a warm atmosphere.
Short taxi ride back to the restaurant.
EUR75, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Madrid

Day 9: Departure Day

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy the last breakfast at your hotel before departure.
At the hotel.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Last-minute Shopping

Take a short shopping trip in Gran Via, a perfect place for souvenirs and gifts.
A 10-minute taxi ride.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Check out and Head to Airport

Check out from your hotel and make your way to the airport for your departure.
Approximately a 30-minute taxi ride.
EUR40, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Madrid
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About Spain Malaga Barcelona Madrid

Best Barcelona Travel Deals
Travel Deals
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your Spain Malaga Barcelona Madrid Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go