• About
  • Blog
  • Destinations
  • Wild Junket

  • Course
  • Work with Me

Wild Junket

Spain Itinerary: A 2-Week Spain Road Trip

Spain Itinerary: A 2-Week Spain Road Trip 2025

January 2, 2024

Last Updated on February 28, 2025

Planning a Spain road trip? As an expat who lived in Spain for 7+ years, I’ve designed the ultimate Spain itinerary for those looking to experience the best of Spain in 2 weeks.

Passionate, vibrant, and traditional in every sense of the word, Spain is a country that has captivated me since the day I first stepped foot on it. My love affair with Spain continued for years, and today it still holds a special place in my heart.

I’ve traveled from the sultry Andalusian province in southern Spain to the northernmost reaches of Galicia, from the deserts of Almeria to the rugged coastline of Costa Brava, and I’ve found this country to be more diverse than I ever imagined. 

For first-time visitors, I’ve designed the ultimate 2-week Spain itinerary to help you experience the best of the country: whether you’re after historical treasures, buzzing city life, insanely good Spanish food. Buckle up and get ready for a journey into one of the most spectacular countries in the world!

spain road trip - 2 weeks in spain - spain itinerary


Table of Contents

  • 2-Week Spain Itinerary
    • Travel Insurance for Spain
    • How to Get to Spain
    • How to Get Around Spain
      • By Car
      • By Train & Bus
    • Best Time to Do A Spain Road Trip
    • How Long to Do a Spain Road Trip?
      • Summary of the Ultimate Spain Itinerary
    • Spain Itinerary Day 1: Madrid
      • Where to Stay in Madrid
    • Spain Itinerary Days 2-3: Madrid
      • Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid
      • Wander along Madrid’s Gran Via
      • Explore Palacio de Cibeles
      • See The Golden Triangle of Art
      • Hang Out at Puerta del Sol
    • Spain Itinerary Day 4: Day Trip to Toledo
      • Admire the Catedral Primada
      • See The Alcázar
      • Visit the Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes
    • Spain Itinerary Day 5: Fly to Barcelona
      • Where to Stay in Barcelona
    • Spain Itinerary Days 6-7: Barcelona
      • See La Sagrada Familia
      • Visit Parc Güell
      • Admire Gaudi’s Work at Casa Battló
      • Stroll Along La Rambla
      • Relax at Parc de la Ciutadella
    • Spain Itinerary Day 8: Valencia
      • Where to Stay in Valencia
    • Spain Itinerary Day 9: Valencia
      • Visit Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias
      • Wander around Ciutat Vella
      • Get Lost in Mercat Central
    • Spain Itinerary Day 10: Granada
      • Where to Stay in Granada
    • Spain Itinerary Day 11: Granada
      • Visit the Famous Alhambra
      • Relax in the Carmen de los Martires Gardens
      • Get Lost in Albayzin
      • See the Views at Mirador de San Nicolas
      • See a Flamenco Show in Sacromonte
      • Enjoy FREE Tapas
    • Spain Itinerary Day 12: Málaga
      • Where to Stay in Málaga
    • Spain Itinerary Day 13-14: Málaga
      • Head to the Alcazaba 
      • Hike up to the Mirador de Gibralfaro
      • Stroll along Puerto de Málaga
      • Hit the Beach at El Pedregalejo
      • Alternative: Do one of Spain’s Best Hikes
    • Spain Itinerary Day 15: Home
    • Enjoy Your Spain Road Trip!

2-Week Spain Itinerary

Travel Insurance for Spain

Regardless of how long you are traveling, I recommend getting travel insurance before your trip. You’ll be covered in case of an accident, loss of baggage, or flight delay/cancellation.

Safety Wing is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their Nomad Insurance plan, which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date. Refer to my travel insurance guide for more details.

streets of granada - spain itinerary road trip


How to Get to Spain

The two biggest airports in Spain are Madrid and Barcelona. The national airline, Iberia, serves many major airports in the US. You can find cheap flights from New York to Madrid (7.5 hours) for around $500 and flights from LA to Barcelona (15 hours) for around $600. 

This Spain itinerary starts and ends in Madrid, as there’s where most people fly to. However, you can also fly to Barcelona and drive to Madrid, following this itinerary the rest of the way.

For those in Europe, most major airports have direct flights to Madrid and Barcelona. Some airlines also serve smaller airports throughout Spain like Málaga, Valencia and Sevilla. Flights within Europe can cost anywhere from $20 to $200 round trip. 

Search for Flights to Spain

ronda spain - a week in spain


How to Get Around Spain

By Car

The easiest and most convenient way to travel through Spain is by car. Spain’s network of highways are in excellent condition and it’s easy to navigate even if you don’t read Spanish. Small roads in old towns can be tricky though, as they’re narrow and busy.

Car rental in Spain is extremely affordable and you can find rentals as cheap as 30 euros a day. We always use Discover Cars as they’ve consistently given the best prices and customer service. For this Spain road trip, we recommend picking up your car rental in Barcelona and dropping it in Malaga.

Search for car rentals in Spain

By Train & Bus

If you don’t drive, you can still follow this Spain itinerary on train or bus. Most people speak at least a little bit of English, but learning some Spanish can help you get around a lot easier.

Spain has an excellent train system, with high speed trains connecting the major cities. The national train operator in Spain is Renfe. Traveling by bus is the cheapest option. Some of the main bus operators in Spain are Alsa, Comes, and Conda. To check bus routes and fares in Spain, plan your bus route using BusBud. 

campervan in spain - traveling spain by car


Best Time to Do A Spain Road Trip

Many people assume Spain to be warm throughout the year, but it actually has a myriad of terrains and climates. Bilbao in the north, for example, has a rainy and cool climate for most of the year. In general, the summer months have the best weather across the country. But that’s also the time when Spain is most crowded and expensive.

In my opinion, the best time to do this Spain itinerary is between March and May or September and October. You’ll still soak up the sunshine and you’ll be able to get in most museums and sights without too much crowd.

READ NOW
Popular Spanish Food: My Detailed Guide to Spanish Cuisine
valencia beach - spain road trip in summer


How Long to Do a Spain Road Trip?

Spain is an extremely diverse country with each province offering different cultures, cuisines and landscapes — it’s no wonder Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world. In the seven years I spent living in Spain, I traveled throughout the country at every chance I had and still have not seen it all!

For your first trip to Spain, I recommend spending at least two weeks in Spain. You’ll not only get to visit the most famous parts of Spain, like Madrid and Barcelona, but you’ll also get to see the coast along Valencia, and the Andalusia region that is the most traditional part of the country. 

Summary of the Ultimate Spain Itinerary

  • Days 1-3: Madrid
  • Day 4: Day Trip to Toledo
  • Day 5-7: Barcelona
  • Day 8-9: Valencia
  • Days 10-11: Granada
  • Days 12-14: Malaga
  • Day 15: Fly home!


Spain Itinerary Day 1: Madrid

Madrid is Spain’s capital and it’s chocked full of historical treasures and cultural displays, making it the perfect place to start your trip. I lived here for about 1.5 years and absolutely loved the vivacious energy and spirit of the city. Read my 3-day Madrid itinerary for details on what to do here.

I recommend staying in the Puerta del Sol – Gran Via area, as that’s the very heart of the city within walking distance from major landmarks and famous restaurants. If you’re on a budget, then check out La Latina or Lavapies districts, which are lively local areas brimming with tapas bars and offbeat museums.

To get from the airport to the city, you can either pick up your car rental and drive there, or catch the metro. There’s a metro station at the Airport Terminal 2 and 4. A single ticket costs €3 or $3.50 and it takes 30 minutes to get to downtown Madrid. 

road trip from madrid - madrid skyline

Where to Stay in Madrid

Budget: B&B Hotel Madrid Centro Puerta del Sol

Perfect for those who want to be right in the heart of it all, this affordable and still swanky hotel has the best location of them all. Check rates here.

Mid Range: Only YOU Hotel Atocha

Set in a 19th century building, this trendy hotel is as eclectic as it is unique. Located near the Atocha train station. Check rates here.

Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Madrid

Elegant and regal, this luxury hotel is definitely the best option in town for well-heeled travelers. Excellent location right in the heart of town. Check rates here.


Spain Itinerary Days 2-3: Madrid

Once you’re well-rested, it’s time to explore Madrid properly and get a good sense of the Spanish capital. Madrid may lack iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or Sagrada Familia, but it’s hauntingly beautiful, with wide boulevards backdropped by medieval mansions and royal palaces and baroque churches. Here are some of the major sights worth seeing over the next two days.

Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid

Like Buckingham Palace in London, the Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of Spain’s royal family (but it’s really only used for special occasions now). There are more than 3,000 rooms full of art and history to explore here. It’s open to the public, and the views of the city are pretty awesome here.

roayl palace of madrid - spain itinerary 2 week

Wander along Madrid’s Gran Via

From the palace, it’s a 10-minute walk over to Plaza de España, a gloriously big square dotted with lush gardens, fountains, and monuments of historical figures. You’ll then find yourself at Gran Via, the main artery of the city. Lined with shops, restaurants and bars, Gran Via is the perfect place to stroll during the night to experience the vivacity of Madrid up close. 

madrid gran via - best spain itinerary

Explore Palacio de Cibeles

Stroll all the way to the end of Gran Via and you’ll find yourself at Palacio de Cibeles, one of the most notable landmarks in the city. Dating back to 1904, this was the original post office of the city. It has survived through the bombings during Spain’s civil war and now stands proudly along a main thoroughfare. It has an observation deck on the 8th floor (entry is €3 or $3.50), with some of the best views of the city.

cibeles palace - spain 10 days itinerary

See The Golden Triangle of Art

A real treasure-trove for culture-lovers, the city of Madrid abounds with theaters, libraries, sculptures, and nearly 40 museums. For culture vultures, you can easily spend a whole day at the Golden Triangle of Art, along the boulevard, Paseo del Prado. Three of the most famous art museums are located right here, next to each other. Museo del Prado has more classical art, the Reina Sofia Museum has modern art, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza has everything in between.

Hang Out at Puerta del Sol

By night, the best place to soak up Madrid’s energy is the Puerta del Sol, a major square and popular meeting point for the Madrileños. It’s in the exact center of Spain, also known as kilometer zero. The official symbol of Madrid is a bear with a strawberry tree, and you’ll find a statue of this at the Puerta del Sol. 

madrid puerta del sol - spain vacation itinerary


Spain Itinerary Day 4: Day Trip to Toledo

Don’t leave Madrid without taking a day trip to the outrageously beautiful city of Toledo. You can either drive or take the train. The train journey from Atocha station to Toledo takes about 35 minutes, and costs around €10 or $15 one way. Once there, it’s easy to explore everywhere by foot. You can also book a guided day tour to learn more about the town’s history. 

Admire the Catedral Primada

Toledo is a walled city that has a blend of medieval Arab, Christian, and Jewish influences. There are a lot of historic religious buildings scattered throughout the city and the Catedral Primada is one of the most famous. It was finished in the 15th century and is a beautiful example of gothic architecture. Tickets to get into the cathedral and museums are $10 to $15.

See The Alcázar

This is a former military fortress that has been around for the last 2,000 years. It’s the highest point in Toledo and the views are unbelievable. It also has a military museum if you want to learn more about its history.

Visit the Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes

One more stop you should consider making in Toledo is the Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes. It was built during the reign of one of Spain’s most powerful queens and has a completely unique style compared to other buildings in Toledo. Walking through the long and narrow corridors and side chapels is an experience you probably won’t have anywhere else. 

day trip to toledo - spain trip planner


Spain Itinerary Day 5: Fly to Barcelona

Next morning, head back to Madrid’s Baraja Airport and fly to Spain’s cultural capital, Barcelona. You can also drive – it takes around six hours. Flights from Madrid to Barcelona are only around $70 and take around 90 minutes. Search for domestic flights.

I recommend staying in Barrio Gotico (the Gothic Quarter). This is the historical and geographical heart of the city, where all  the important landmarks, attractions and tapas bars are found.  If you cannot wait to go to the beach, then stay at Barceloneta, the city’s coastline with six kilometers of beaches.

READ NOW
Where to Find the Best Wine & Tapas in Barcelona
barcelona skyline - spain itinerary

Where to Stay in Barcelona

Budget: Generator Barcelona

One of the best hostel chains in Europe, Generator Hostels are definitely making budget travel much more swanky than it used to be. The design makes it feel upscale and it’s a great place to meet new friends at the bar or lounge. Check rates here.

Mid Range: El Avenida Palace

El Avenida Palace is an excellent mid-range hotel located along gran Via, the main artery of the city. We love this place because of its value for money and 360-degree views from the rooftop bar. Check rates here.

Luxury: W Barcelona

Located on Barceloneta beach, W Barcelona is undoubtedly the best luxury hotel in the city. It’s probably the only hotel in Barcelona that is an icon in its own right, and you can’t beat the cool factor and beach location! Check the rates.


Spain Itinerary Days 6-7: Barcelona

Barcelona is very different from Madrid: the coastal city has younger vibes, with an electric energy and colorful personality. The  city is overflowing with eclectic architecture, contemporary museums, city beaches and gourmet restaurants. If you’re a foodie, check out my article on where to get the best tapas in Barcelona. It’s impossible to see all of Barcelona in 3 days, but these are the Barcelona attractions you can’t miss. 

See La Sagrada Familia

La Sagrada Familia is definitely one of Spain’s most famous attractions and for good reason. The cathedral was designed by world-famous Spanish architect Gaudí and it truly captures the culture and architectural style of Catalonia, the region where Barcelona is. It has been under construction for over 100 years and is set to be completed in 2026. Skip the line with this fast track tour, which also allows you to combine your visit of Sagrada Familia with the colorful and lush Parc Güell.

sagrada familia barcelona - planning a trip to spain

Visit Parc Güell

My favorite spot in Barcelona, Parc Güell is a whimsical park with colorful sculptures and tile work designed by Gaudí. It’s a playground for the mind: visual jokes, columns that simulate palm-tree trunks, rubble-surfaced arches that grow out of the ground, and quilts of ceramic tiles. There’s a graceful gazebo made of twisted angle iron shaped like softly curved climbing vines.

parc guell barcelona - spain itinerary 2 weeks

Admire Gaudi’s Work at Casa Battló

This is another awe-inspiring creation of Gaudí that needs to be seen to be believed. It’s a townhouse from the 19th century that has a one-of-a-kind structure. Because of its curves, locals call it the House of the Dragon. Tickets to Casa Battlo are expensive, at € 25 or $ 29.40, but they’re well worth the price. 

road trip to spain - barcelona casa battlo

Stroll Along La Rambla

Similar to the Gran Via in Madrid, La Rambla is Barcelona’s most famous pedestrianized street. Popping in the little shops and restaurants along La Rambla will show you what it’s like to be a local in Barcelona. At the end of La Rambla, you’ll find La Boqueria market, bursting with fresh produce stalls, tapas stands and bars. I did a food tour and cooking class, and our instructor brought us here to taste some of the best jamon I’ve ever had!

barcelona market - spain itinerary 10 days

Relax at Parc de la Ciutadella

This is one of the biggest public parks in Barcelona and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a day outside. Families traveling in Spain with kids will love the huge playgrounds, lush gardens and fountains here. It’s also home to the Catalan Parliament and the Barcelona Zoo. It’s centrally located in the city, so it’s accessible no matter where you’re staying in Barcelona. Check this list of other free things to do in Barcelona.

parc de la ciutadella barcelona - best places to visit in spain in 2 weeks


Spain Itinerary Day 8: Valencia

After a few days in Barcelona, it’s time to head down the coast to Valencia. A mid-sized city with the perfect balance of old and new, Valencia is an excellent spot to experience contemporary Spain.

It takes about 4 hours to drive there, but the views along the way are worth it. If you’re not driving, you can catch a high speed train from Barcelona-Sants station and you’ll get there around the same time.

I recommend staying in Ciutat Vella, literally Old Town, the historic district of Valencia. If you prefer oceanside views, the port area of El Cabanyal is a good alternative It’s near the beaches and still within walking distance of the city centre.

valencia from above - itinerary of spain

Where to Stay in Valencia

Budget: Valencia Town Center New Apartments 

Next to the Estació del Nord train station, this apartment hotel is cheap, spacious and well located. It’s great for families who want extra space and cooking facilities. Check rates here.

Mid Range: Hotel Plaza Mercado & Spa 

Located in Ciutat Vella, this well-priced hotel is right next to the central market and within walking distance from all the city’s attractions. The bar and restaurant is excellent. Check rates here.

Luxury: Barceló Valencia

Barceló Valencia has one of the best rooftop bars in Valencia. The views of the Arts and Sciences complex are unbeatable, and there’s a nice, albeit small, spa in the hotel if you need to sneak away to relax a little. Check rates here.


Spain Itinerary Day 9: Valencia

Valencia may not be as big as Madrid and Barcelona, but it’s a wonderfully liveable city with thriving cultural, eating and nightlife scenes. The city has a fistful of fabulous Modernista buildings, great museums, a long stretch of beach and a large, characterful old quarter. Valencia is also famous as the home of traditional Spanish dishes like paella, and its lively restaurants are excellent spots to try them.

Visit Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias

This complex is usually the first result that comes up in Google when you search for Valencia. It’s the most famous building in the city and it actually has 5 different parts, including an IMAX theater, a restaurant, and museums. It’s surrounded by water and it’s the perfect place to explore or relax during your stay.

Part of the Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias, Oceanográfico is the largest aquarium in Europe and has animals from all different parts of the world. It also has live shows with dolphins.

ciudad de las ciencias valencia - spain road trip itinerary

Wander around Ciutat Vella

Ciutat Vella (“old town” in Valencian) is a charming old Medieval quarter, with winding streets and plenty of sights to see. See the Cathedral, admire the gothic architecture in the UNESCO site of La Lonja, and browse the artwork at the Museo de Patriaca.  Whether you’re interested in the city’s religious heritage, fine art, street art, or Aguas de Valencia, you’ll be able to explore it all on foot here.

valencia old town - spain in 2 weeks

Get Lost in Mercat Central

Fresh oranges, seafood, olives and a whole myriad of spices are on offer in this impressive historical market. Locals and tourists alike browse and shop at this vibrant, colorful market. It’s also a beautiful building and worth strolling through just to take in the sights.

valencia market - how to plan a trip to spain


Spain Itinerary Day 10: Granada

I’ve saved the best for the last! Granada is my second home, where I lived for over 7 years and it’s where my husband is from. This is the Spain that most people dream of: white-washed hilltop villages, flamenco dancing, and bullfighting rings.

It’s a 5.5-hour drive from Valencia to Granada, so it’s best to get up early and head out. If you have time, stop off to see the Costa Blanca on the way as the beaches around Alicante are some of the best in Spain.

I recommend staying in the Albayzin area, the oldest and most iconic neighborhood in Granada. It’s built on a hilltop, with whitewashed houses and cobblestoned alleys revealing dramatic views of the Alhambra at every turn. For a unique experience, I suggest staying in a cave in Sacromonte in the hills above Albayzin, where Romani gypsies live and perform flamenco.

READ NOW
Best Things to Do in Granada, Spain
Spain Itinerary: A 2-Week Spain Road Trip

Where to Stay in Granada

Mid Range: Hotel Casa Morisca

A tastefully restored riad in the Albayzin , this charming hotel has a central location , nice views of the Alhambra and great prices.Check prices here.

Mid Range: Hotel Casa 1800 Granada

With astounding views of the Alhambra, this charismatic historical hotel has a romantic ambiance and gorgeous decor. We stayed here on our wedding night! Check the rates here.

Luxury: Parador de Granada

Set within the grounds of Alhambra, the Parador lets you experience how it’s like to live in a palace and world heritage site. Undoubtedly the best hotel in Granada. Check rates here.


Spain Itinerary Day 11: Granada

I might be biased, but I think Granada is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. The bohemian city, sprawled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada, was the last stronghold of the Spanish Moors and their legacy lies all around: in the historic Arab quarters, the landscaped gardens, and aromatic spice market.

There’s also an energy to Granada’s streets, packed as they are with tapas bars, teterías (teahouses), and intimate flamenco clubs. It’s not very big though, so 2 days are enough to get a good sense of the city. Check out my list of best things to do in Granada.

Visit the Famous Alhambra

This is one of the most iconic sites in Spain. Set against the Sierra Nevada peaks, this fortified palace started life as a walled citadel before becoming the opulent seat of Granada’s Nasrid emirs. The 14th-century Palacios Nazaríes here are among the finest Islamic buildings in Europe. You can explore the sprawling complex on your own, but book the tickets early as they sell out especially in summer. Alternatively, get a fast track guided tour to go under the surface.

alhambra granada - spain travel itinerary

 

Relax in the Carmen de los Martires Gardens

The nature in Granada is stunning, and the Carmen de los Martires Gardens are the perfect way to experience it. Close to the Alhambra, this lush garden is not a very busy spot and it’s a great way to sit back, relax, and breathe some of the fresh mountain air in Granada. There’s also a tower in the gardens that you can go up and see a beautiful view of the city.

best spain itinerary - granada

Get Lost in Albayzin

Albayzin is a hodgepodge of white washed houses, pine tree gardens and cobblestone alleys all stacked up on one hill overlooking Granada. Be warned though, there are plenty of steps and slippery cobblestoned paths. Wear sturdy shoes and prepare to spend hours wandering all over the neighborhood. The best time to visit is in the morning (before 12pm) and evening (around 5pm) if you’re visiting Granada in summer.

albayzin granada - spain travel blog

See the Views at Mirador de San Nicolas

The Mirador de San Nicolas is a viewpoint perched on the highest point of Albayzin, offering unobstructed views of the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada. Hundreds of tourists sit by the ledge and drink in the view, while gypsy street artists strum their Spanish guitars and hippies sell their handicraft. One of my favorite bars in Granada is located right below the Mirador: Huerto de Juan Ranas has a spectacular view and atmospheric open roof bar.

mirador de san nicolas - spain 14 days itinerary

See a Flamenco Show in Sacromonte

Sacromonte is Granada’s gypsy quarter, on the hills above Albayzin. This is the birthplace of the zambra, an intense form of flamenco. Most caves in the area have nightly flamenco shows, though you might see street performances if you’re lucky (though the real artists would sneer at them). I usually bring friends from out of town to Cuevas los Tarantos, where a dimly-lit atmosphere and authentic beats set the scene for an unforgettable evening.

flamenco in granada - spain road trip itinerary

Enjoy FREE Tapas

Spanish tapas are renown around the world for good reason. These bite-size appetizers pack in all the goodness of fresh Spanish ingredients. Granada has always had this tradition of serving free tapas with drinks. Beer or wine usually cost 2.50 to 3 euros each, and that comes with a small platter of tortilla de patata, berenjena con miel or carne con salsa. some of my favorite tapas bars in Granada include La Botilleria, Taberna La Tana, Bar Los Diamantes (best seafood in town).

spanish tapas in granada - spain itinerary 14 days


Spain Itinerary Day 12: Málaga

Prepare for the last leg of your Spain road trip! Continue your Spain itinerary with a 1.5-hour drive to one of Spain’s major cities, Málaga. Most people prefer Seville, but I definitely am a loyal fan of Malaga. There are so many things to do in Málaga: from chilling on its beaches to getting lost in Moorish forts to hiking one of the most famous trails in Spain, the Caminito del Rey.

Loaded with history and brimming with trendy vibes, the city that gave the world Picasso has transformed itself in spectacular fashion, with a radically refreshed port area and a nascent art district called Soho. I recommend staying in El Centro, as it is known to locals, downtown Malaga. This is where most of the city attractions are located, including the Picasso Museum and Plaza de la Merced. Soho is another great area to stay, if you’re into trendy bars and artsy galleries.

2 week itinerary spain - malaga old town

Where to Stay in Málaga

Budget: Anahita Boutique Hotel

This charming boutique hotel has beautiful lofty-style rooms with patterned floors and antique furnishing. Excellent location in the old town! Check rates here.

Mid Range: Room Mate Larios

Part of a trendy Spanish chain, this stylish Art Deco hotel stands along the pedestrian street, Larios, in the heart of Malaga. Awesome views of the city from here. Check rates here.

Luxury: Gran Hotel Miramar

It doesn’t get more extravagant than this. The luxurious Gran Hotel Miramar GL is set in a listed XX century building overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Regal rooms with opulent furnishing and ocean views. Check rates here.


Spain Itinerary Day 13-14: Málaga

You’ve had a busy couple weeks, and Málaga is the perfect place to end your Spain road trip. It has a relaxed atmosphere and miles of beach to sit on while you soak up the sun. For more ideas on what to do here, check out my weekend in Malaga itinerary.

Head to the Alcazaba 

The Alcazaba fortress, a smaller version of Granada’s famous Alhambra, is the city’s most iconic landmark. Perched atop the historic centre, the Moorish fortress palace is a well-preserved complex set amidst a maze of gardens and fountains, with beautiful views of the casco antiguo (old town). To get up there, climb up the steep slopes from the back of the Roman theater or take an elevator from the back of the Ayuntamiento de Malaga.

alcazaba malaga - best road trips in spain

Hike up to the Mirador de Gibralfaro

Above the Alcazaba stands the Castillo de Gibralfaro, a 10th-century castle that overlooks the coast. The castle has been mostly restored and also features a military museum, but the panoramic views alone make it worth a visit. It can be reached by bus or foot, but it is well-worth making the climb to enjoy the scenic view over the city. Additionally you can get to Gibralfaro via the scenic walkway of Paseo Don Juan de Temboury, located to the south of the Alcazaba.

view from gibralfaro - spain road trip

Stroll along Puerto de Málaga

Malaga’s new waterfront, Muelle Uno (Pier One) is a slick and stylish area conveniently located near the city centre, within easy walking distance to all of Malaga’s cultural and historical highlights. It’s just across the road from one of the city’s biggest parks and within a ten-minute stroll from the Alcazaba.

Opened only in 2011, the port is home to Malaga’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, but there are also numerous other cafés and bars that cater to different budgets. At night, the pier is backdropped by the glittering lights of the city and is the perfect spot for a romantic night out with loved ones.

2 weeks in spain - malaga port

Hit the Beach at El Pedregalejo

It’s not hard to find a beach in Málaga. Just a few minutes’ walk from the old town are miles and miles of beaches. If you’re looking for a more out-of-the-ordinary beach experience though, head to El Pedregalejo. It’s outside of the city center and not as busy as the other nearby beaches. After you’ve soaked up enough sun, you can also visit one of the chiringuitos (little food huts) to indulge in some local seafood.

road trip to spain - beach in malaga

Alternative: Do one of Spain’s Best Hikes

If you’re looking for an adventure, I suggest doing a day trip to hike the Caminito del Rey. Once known as the world’s most dangerous pathway, Caminito del Rey is a 100-year-old hike that stands at a staggering 105 meters (nearly 350 ft) above the river below. For a period of time, the crumbling, narrow walking path had fallen into a shocking state of disrepair.

After four years of restoration, the new walkway has reopened to the public and it’s now an easy yet exciting and scenic hiking trail. Read more about Caminito del Rey and how to get there.

2 week spain itinerary - caminito del rey

2 week spain itinerary - caminito del rey

 


Spain Itinerary Day 15: Home

After exploring and relaxing in Málaga for a few days, it’s time to say adios to Spain. Catch a domestic flight from Málaga to Madrid  if you’re flying home from Madrid. Flights between the two cities are pretty frequent and if you book in advance, you can usually find them for pretty cheap (around $50). Search for flights here.

Make sure to book a morning flight so you’ll arrive in Madrid with time to spare. Madrid airport is big and it can take hours to go through customs, so give yourself at least 3 hours to catch your flight home.


Enjoy Your Spain Road Trip!

In all those years of living in Spain, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing many of the country’s most well-known sights, as well as the less-visited areas. With that in mind, I’ve handpicked my favorite experiences and places for this 2-week Spain itinerary.

2 weeks in Spain will give you the bare minimum amount of time to experience this outstanding country. If you have more time, I suggest spending some a few days in Salamanca after Madrid, taking a detour to Costa Brava while you’re in Barcelona, or even flying over to Mallorca for some island time. I hope this Spain itinerary will get you to fall in love with the country, the way I did.

Here are more of my articles on Spain to help you with your trip planning:

  • My Detailed Guide to Spanish Cuisine
  • Where to Find the Best Tapas in Barcelona
  • Weekend in Madrid
  • Weekend in Malaga
  • 20 Things to Do in Málaga
  • Best Things to Do in Granada
  • Things to Do in Mallorca Beyond the Resorts
  • My Guide to Hiking the Camino de Santiago
  • Portugal with Kids

Did we miss out anything on this 2-week Spain itinerary? Let us know in the comments field below if you have any questions and we’ll be happy to help you out!

Disclaimer: This post was brought to you as a result of the #SpainOnMyMind campaign, created and managed by iambassador in partnership with the Spain Tourist Office. As always, I maintain full editorial control of the content published on this site.


Inspired? Pin it!

spain road trip itinerary - 2 weeks in spain

spain road trip - 2 week spain itinerary

2 Comments
Share
Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. As an accomplished travel writer, she has written for BBC Travel, CNN and Rough Guides. She is also the author of five travel books, including the latest Lonely Planet's Mexico guidebook. Read more about her here and follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

The Comments

  • Josh
    September 22, 2021

    Very nice article. I wanted to plan my next holiday trip to Spain in 2022 and you article will surely help me out.

    Reply
  • Amara Paul
    February 12, 2025

    This Spain road trip itinerary is fantastic! I love how it covers a mix of vibrant cities, coastal gems, and cultural highlights—perfect for an immersive experience. The route is well-paced, making it easy to soak in the history, food, and landscapes along the way. Definitely adding this to my future travel plans!

    Reply

You May Also Like

April 23, 2024

Weekend in Madrid: The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary from an ex-Expat

September 26, 2018

Northern Lights in Iceland: A Guide on Where and How to Find them

April 10, 2024

Weekend in Porto: The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary

Hi, I’m Nellie

A published book author, professional travel writer and adventurous mum on a quest to visit every country in the world!

Current Location

Current Location

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Shop My Favorites

Eagle Creek

Osprey Backpacks

Columbia

KEEN Shoes

Teva Sandals

My Books

product_title_1

Lonely Planet Mexico

product_title_2

Lonely Planet Singapore

product_title_3

Explorers

product_title_4

Amsterdam Like a Local

product_title_5

The Adventure Traveler's Handbook

My Latest Video

My Latest Video My Latest Video
Follow Me for Updates

Recent Posts

  • Singapore with Kids: How to Plan a Singapore Family Trip 2022

    Singapore with Kids: How to Plan a Singapore Family Trip 2025

    April 8, 2025
  • Best Croatian Islands to Visit

    8 Best Croatian Islands to Visit in 2025

    March 26, 2025
  • Pakistan with Kids: Our Tips & Guide

    Pakistan with Kids: Our Tips & Guide

    March 25, 2025
  • Spain with Kids: Tips from an Expat

    Spain with Kids: Tips from an Expat

    March 24, 2025
  • Portugal with Kids: My Portugal Family Travel Guide

    Portugal with Kids: My Portugal Family Travel Guide

    March 23, 2025

COPYRIGHT © 2024 WILD JUNKET. PRIVACY POLICY Site Powered by Pix & Hue.