Most travelers will find that nine to 11 days is perfect for a well-paced Spain trip with stops in Barcelona, Madrid, and Costa Brava. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in six to eight days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Seville, Valencia, or Mallorca. Get inspired with our Barcelona, Madrid, and Costa Brava trip ideas below.

How many days do you need in Barcelona, Madrid & Costa Brava?

  • Most travelers spend 9-11 days in Barcelona, Madrid, and Costa Brava combined
  • Visiting Barcelona, Madrid, and Costa Brava in 6 to 8 days is possible, but it will feel rushed
  • With 12 or more days, most travelers choose to add more stops to their trip
  • The most common extensions are Seville, Valencia, and Mallorca

How Many Days to Spend in Barcelona
How Many Days to Spend in Madrid
How Many Days to Spend in the Costa Brava

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Recommended Itineraries for Barcelona, Madrid & Costa Brava

Recommended Itinerary for 10 Days

Drive to charming villages in the Costa Brava, like Calella de Palafrugell
Drive to charming villages in the Costa Brava, like Calella de Palafrugell
Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Madrid, Flamenco & Tapas Night Madrid
Day 2 Private Electric Tuk-Tuk Tour, Explore Madrid's Local Markets Madrid
Day 3 Self-Guided Walking Tour, Jamón Ibérico Workshop Madrid
Day 4 Train to Barcelona, Dark History Night Walk Barcelona
Day 5 Local Market Visit & Cooking Class, Private Gaudí Architecture Walk Barcelona
Day 6 Self-Guided Gothic Quarter Walk, Ancient Bath Experience Barcelona
Day 7 Drive to the Costa Brava, Self-Guided Begur Walk Costa Brava
Day 8 Tossa de Mar Active Adventure Costa Brava
Day 9 Day Trip to Cadaqués, Figueres & Palafrugell Costa Brava
Day 10 Drive to Barcelona, Depart  


Immerse yourself in the rich culture, history, and flavors of Spain with this exciting 10-day journey. Start by savoring tapas and flamenco in the elegant capital of Madrid before taking a high-speed train to Barcelona to experience Gaudí's architectural wonders and get lost in the Gothic Quarter. Then rent a car and journey north to the Costa Brava, where lesser-known coastal villages—and fun adventures in the Mediterranean Sea—await your discovery. Read more

How to travel between Barcelona, Madrid & Costa Brava

How to get from Madrid to Barcelona
Madrid and Barcelona are 386 miles (620 km) apart, and the quickest way to make the trip is by plane, which will take just over an hour. There are other options to consider, including by train, car, and bus, depending on your preference. Read more

How to get to the Costa Brava
Costa Brava is Spain's stretch of coastline that starts north of Barcelona and ends on the border with France. It’s known for impeccable scenery and picturesque coastal villages, as well as wild, rocky cliffsides. Traveling to Costa Brava is best started in Barcelona, which makes for an excellent base for enjoying the rest of the area or connecting to other cities. Read more

Map

Map of Barcelona, Madrid & Costa Brava: Best Itinerary Ideas
Map of Barcelona, Madrid & Costa Brava: Best Itinerary Ideas