How many days do you need in Madrid and Barcelona?

This itinerary covers 6 days in Madrid and Barcelona, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Madrid and Barcelona?

Plan your perfect 6 days trip to Madrid and Barcelona. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Family Fun in Madrid and Barcelona: 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Madrid

Madrid, Spain

9:00AM

Breakfast at Chocolatería San Ginés

Start your adventure with a taste of Madrid's famous churros and hot chocolate at this iconic café.

EUR10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit to Plaza Mayor

Stroll around this beautiful square, enjoying street performers and local shops; it's a perfect spot for photos.

EUR0, 1 hour

11:45AM

Royal Palace of Madrid

Explore the opulent rooms of Spain's royal palace and learn about its rich history.

EUR12, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Casa Lucio

Savour Madrid's famous dish, huevos rotos, in a rustic setting loved by locals.

EUR60, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax at Retiro Park

Enjoy some downtime as your family explores the park, and rent a rowboat on the lake.

EUR8 for boat rental, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit to Prado Museum

Discover masterpieces of Spanish art, including works by Goya and Velázquez.

EUR15, 2 hours

7:45PM

Dinner at Sobrino de Botín

Experience dining at one of the oldest restaurants in the world, famous for its roast suckling pig.

EUR100, 2 hours

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Day 2: Cultural Day in Madrid

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Rollerie

Enjoy a selection of fresh pastries and coffee to fuel your exciting day ahead.

EUR30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Explore a vast collection of European masterpieces from the 13th to the 20th century.

EUR12, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Indulge in a variety of gourmet tapas from various stalls in this bustling market.

EUR50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore El Retiro Park

Take part in fun family activities, like renting bicycles or enjoying a puppet show.

EUR10, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit to the Reina Sofia Museum

Discover 20th-century artworks, particularly Picasso’s famous Guernica.

EUR10, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ouh Babbo

Enjoy family-friendly Italian dishes, offering pizza and pasta favourites for the kids.

EUR70, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Flamenco Show

End your day with an unforgettable flamenco performance, a true taste of Spanish culture.

EUR40, 2 hours

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Day 3: Family Adventures in Madrid

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Oriente

Start the day with stunning views of the Royal Palace while enjoying a hearty meal.

EUR40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Zoo Aquarium de Madrid

Spend the morning exploring diverse animals and marine life; it's fun for all ages!

EUR24, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at VIPS

Choose from a variety of dishes including burgers and salads, ideal for families.

EUR50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit to Parque de Atracciones

Experience thrilling rides and family shows at one of the top amusement parks in Madrid.

EUR50, 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Taberna de Elia

Savour traditional Spanish dishes in a warm and welcoming setting for the whole family.

EUR80, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Journey to Barcelona

Traveling to Barcelona, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Luar

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before your journey to Barcelona at this charming café.

EUR25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Barcelona

Board the high-speed train for a comfortable two-and-a-half-hour ride to Barcelona.

EUR100, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Arrive in Barcelona and Lunch at Cervecería Catalana

Savour tapas for lunch at one of the most popular eateries in the city, known for its extensive menu.

EUR60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Park Güell

Explore Gaudí's colourful park and enjoy the unique architectural designs and beautiful gardens.

EUR10, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Gràcia District

Wander the charming streets and visit local shops in this artsy neighbourhood.

EUR0, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Cal Pep

Experience a lively tapas bar atmosphere with fresh seafood and traditional Catalan dishes.

EUR90, 2 hours

8:00PM

Evening at Barceloneta Beach

Relax at the beach, letting the kids play in the sand while you enjoy the sunset over the Mediterranean.

EUR0, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Discovering Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Brunch & Cake

Dig into delicious brunch options in a vibrant setting, perfect for a family gathering.

EUR40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit to La Sagrada Familia

Marvel at Gaudí's breathtaking basilica, still under construction but full of intricate details.

EUR26, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at El Nacional

Enjoy a variety of dining options in this trendy multi-space venue ideal for families.

EUR80, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Stroll down Las Ramblas

Experience Barcelona's vibrant street life while shopping for souvenirs and enjoying street performances.

EUR0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit to the Gothic Quarter

Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Barcelona, including the Barcelona Cathedral.

EUR0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant 7 Portes

Savour traditional paella in a family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for a lovely dinner.

EUR80, 2 hours

8:30PM

Magic Fountain Show

Enjoy the enchanting light and water show, which captivates audiences of all ages.

EUR0, 1 hour

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Day 6: Final Day in Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Granja Viader

Indulge in a traditional Catalan breakfast featuring local pastries and dairy products.

EUR30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit to Montjuïc Castle

Climb to this historic castle for stunning views of the city and a glimpse into Barcelona’s past.

EUR12, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Fonda

A local favourite featuring delicious yet affordable Catalan dishes for a satisfying meal.

EUR60, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Barcelona Aquarium

Fascinate your family with marine life exhibits and an underwater tunnel that’s a hit with kids.

EUR21, 2 hours

4:00PM

Free Time at the Beach

Relax and soak up the sun as the kids enjoy the beach before your departure.

EUR0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Can Majó

Conclude your trip with a seafood feast featuring traditional dishes with a view of the ocean.

EUR100, 1.5 hours

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

Family Fun in Madrid and Barcelona: 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Madrid

9:00AM

10:30AM

11:45AM

2:00PM

3:30PM

5:00PM

7:45PM

Day 2: Cultural Day in Madrid

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

8:30PM

Day 3: Family Adventures in Madrid

8:00AM

9:30AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Journey to Barcelona

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

4:00PM

5:30PM

8:00PM

Day 5: Discovering Barcelona

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:30PM

6:00PM

8:30PM

Day 6: Final Day in Barcelona

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

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