Memorable 10-Day Spain Itinerary: Madrid, Granada & Coastal Escape

Day 1: Arrival & Explore Madrid

Madrid, Spain on June 30, 2025

10:00am

Breakfast at Chocolatería San Ginés

Start your day with traditional churros and hot chocolate at this iconic Madrid spot, open early and perfect for a sweet energizing breakfast.
EUR5, 1h0m

11:30am

Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid

Tour the grand Royal Palace, one of Europe's largest and most exquisite royal residences, showcasing stunning architecture and rich history.
EUR13, 2h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Enjoy a variety of tapas and fresh local food in this bustling historic market with many gourmet options under one roof.
EUR15, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol

Stroll through these famous central squares, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the vibrant city atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Visit Prado Museum

Discover one of the finest art collections in the world featuring works by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Open until 7pm on weekdays.
EUR15, 2h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Sobrino de Botín

Dine at the world’s oldest restaurant, renowned for its traditional roast suckling pig and authentic Castilian cuisine.
EUR40, 2h0m
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Day 2: Art & Parks Madrid

Madrid, Spain on July 1, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café Murillo

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast near the Prado featuring coffee and pastries to fuel your day.
EUR8, 1h0m

9:30am

Reina Sofía Museum

Explore modern and contemporary Spanish art including Picasso’s famous Guernica. Museum opens at 10am.
EUR12, 2h0m

12:00pm

Retiro Park

Wander the beautiful Retiro Park, rent a rowboat on the lake, and enjoy a peaceful escape in this urban oasis.
Free, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at El Botánico

Pause for a Mediterranean-style lunch in a charming setting near the park with seasonal and fresh dishes.
EUR20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

Complete Madrid’s art triangle with this diverse collection ranging from classical to modern art.
EUR15, 2h0m

7:30pm

Tapas dinner at La Latina district

Experience the lively tapas bars and enjoy a variety of small plates in Madrid’s popular nightlife neighborhood.
EUR30, 2h0m
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Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo

Toledo, Spain on July 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or local café

Enjoy a quick breakfast before traveling to Toledo by train (about 30 minutes).
EUR7, 0h45m

9:30am

Travel to Toledo

Take the scenic train from Madrid’s Puerta de Atocha to Toledo, known for its medieval architecture and cultural history.
EUR13, 0h30m

10:00am

Toledo Cathedral

Visit this remarkable Gothic cathedral, one of Spain’s most outstanding religious buildings.
EUR10, 1h0m

11:30am

Explore Old Town

Walk through the charming narrow streets and discover historic sites, artisan shops, and viewpoints.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Restaurante La Abadía

Taste local specialties including Manchego cheese and game meats in a traditional setting.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:30pm

Alcázar of Toledo

Explore the fortress museum that offers panoramic views of the city and house historical exhibitions.
EUR5, 1h0m

4:00pm

Return to Madrid

Travel back to Madrid by train, relaxing after a full cultural day.
EUR13, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Casa Mono

Enjoy contemporary Spanish cuisine near your Madrid accommodation with a lively atmosphere.
EUR35, 2h0m
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Day 4: Madrid to Granada

Madrid to Granada, Spain on July 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for a train or bus trip to Granada, which takes about 4 hours.
EUR8, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel to Granada

Take a high-speed train or luxury bus from Madrid to Granada for your Andalusian adventure.
EUR40, 4h0m

12:30pm

Check-in & Lunch near Albaicín

Settle into your hotel then enjoy lunch with views of the Alhambra at a café in the Albaicín neighborhood.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:00pm

Walk Albaicín neighborhood

Explore this atmospheric old Moorish quarter, featuring narrow winding streets and spectacular viewpoints of the Alhambra.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Visit Mirador de San Nicolás

Watch the sunset with breathtaking views of the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada mountains.
Free, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Restaurante Las Tomasas

Dine on Andalusian dishes on the terrace with exceptional views of the Alhambra illuminated at night.
EUR35, 2h0m
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Day 5: Alhambra & Granada Sights

Granada, Spain on July 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café 4 Gatos

Start your day with specialty coffee and pastries in the hip Realejo district nearby.
EUR7, 1h0m

9:00am

Alhambra Palace visit

Explore the stunning Moorish fortress and palace complex; booking tickets in advance is essential. Opens at 8am and best to arrive early.
EUR15, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Carmen Mirador de Aixa

Enjoy fresh Andalusian cuisine with panoramic views inside the Alhambra vicinity.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:00pm

Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel

Visit the impressive Renaissance cathedral and the royal mausoleum of the Catholic Monarchs.
EUR7, 1h0m

3:30pm

Free afternoon to explore or relax

Wander Granada’s plazas, shop local crafts or enjoy a café break.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Flamenco show at Sacromonte

Experience the passionate flamenco dance and music in traditional cave venues of the Sacromonte neighborhood.
EUR25, 1h30m

9:30pm

Dinner at Taberna La Tana

Close your night with authentic local tapas and wine in an intimate setting.
EUR30, 2h0m
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Day 6: Granada to Costa del Sol

Granada to Costa del Sol, Spain on July 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast before checking out and traveling to the coastal area.
EUR8, 1h0m

9:00am

Travel to Costa del Sol (e.g. Málaga or Nerja)

Take a bus or rental car from Granada to the beach towns of Costa del Sol, approximately 1.5-2 hours away.
EUR15, 2h0m

11:30am

Check into beach accommodation

Unpack and relax by the Mediterranean Sea.
Varies, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at beachfront chiringuito

Taste fresh seafood and paella at a casual beachside restaurant open daily for lunch.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:00pm

Beach relaxation and swimming

Spend the afternoon enjoying sunbathing, swimming, and watersports at the beach.
Free, 4h0m

7:00pm

Sunset walk along the promenade

Experience the lovely evening atmosphere along the coastal promenade, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Free, 1h0m

8:30pm

Dinner at El Tintero, Málaga

Enjoy a unique seafood dining experience where dishes are auctioned by the waiters, a famous and lively local tradition.
EUR30, 2h0m
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Day 7: Beach & Coastal Towns

Costa del Sol, Spain on July 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at local café

Start your day with fresh pastries and coffee at a café near the beach.
EUR7, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Nerja Caves

Tour spectacular prehistoric caves with impressive stalactites, open 9am to 8pm in summer.
EUR10, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch in Nerja town center

Enjoy Mediterranean lunch in a charming square full of life and local shops.
EUR20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Relax at Burriana Beach

Spend your afternoon at one of Nerja’s popular beaches with options for water sports and sunbathing.
Free, 3h0m

5:00pm

Return to Málaga or chosen base

Head back to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner.
EUR5, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurante Vino Mío, Málaga

Savor innovative Mediterranean cuisine and live flamenco performances in the historic center.
EUR40, 2h0m
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Day 8: Coastal Leisure Day

Costa del Sol, Spain on July 7, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Relax with a late breakfast savoring local coffee and pastries.
EUR7, 1h0m

10:00am

Water sports or boat tour

Engage in activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, or take a boat cruise along the coast (check availability).
EUR40, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at beachfront restaurant

Enjoy a seafood paella and cold drinks while seated on the terrace overlooking the Mediterranean.
EUR30, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Málaga historic center

Explore landmarks like the Alcazaba fortress, Picasso Museum, and Málaga Cathedral (10am-6pm).
EUR12, 2h0m

6:00pm

Coffee and pastries at Plaza de la Merced

Relax at an outdoor café in a lively square and enjoy people watching.
EUR10, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at El Pimpi

Dine in a historic bodega with local wines and Andalusian specialties in a vibrant ambiance.
EUR35, 2h0m
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Day 9: Return to Madrid & Farewell

Costa del Sol to Madrid, Spain on July 8, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at beachfront café

Enjoy a peaceful seaside breakfast before departing.
EUR7, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel back to Madrid

Take morning train or flight to Madrid for final evening in the capital city.
EUR50, 3h0m

12:00pm

Check into Madrid hotel

Rest or freshen up for your last afternoon in the city.
Varies, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Lhardy

Taste classic Madrid dishes including cocido Madrid at this historic restaurant founded in 1839.
EUR30, 1h30m

3:00pm

Chill at Temple of Debod park

Enjoy scenic views and the ancient Egyptian temple at sunset, perfect for a last leisurely stroll.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Farewell dinner at Restaurante Ramón Freixa

Celebrate your trip with upscale modern Spanish cuisine in a two Michelin-starred setting.
EUR80, 2h0m
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Day 10: Departure

Madrid, Spain on July 9, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Madrid and prepare for airport transfer.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Transfer to Madrid Airport

Head to the airport for your departure flight home.
EUR30, 1h0m
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