Planning a trip to southern Spain with kids? Here’s our fast-paced 7-day Malaga road trip – perfect for getting a first impression of the region and exploring some of its best local sights as a family in just one week.

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Southern Spain with Kids: Our 7-Day Malaga Road Trip

Family Road Trip Across Southern Spain

While I have visited Andalusia many times before, this Malaga road trip was my first time exploring Southern Spain with small children. We chose Malaga as our base for this 7-day road trip mainly because we were traveling in winter, and southern Spain is known for its mild, sunny weather. That makes a huge difference when traveling with little ones – you can take comfortable walks with a baby stroller, enjoy outdoor cafes, and let the kids play at local playgrounds under warm sunshine.

Another reason for choosing Malaga was convenience. My parents were joining us and flying in from Cyprus, so Malaga’s international airport made it the easiest and most practical starting point for everyone in Southern Spain. Regular blog readers know that Malaga is not one of my favorite Spanish cities – despite its undeniable charm. It is simply one of the most touristy places in Spain, and the crowds can feel overwhelming. So for this 7-day road trip, we planned to spend only one full day in Malaga and dedicate the rest of the week to exploring more of Andalusia.

Our 7-day itinerary ended up being quite fast paced, but it worked perfectly for first-timers like my parents. They got a great overall impression of the region and even discovered a few favorite places they would like to return to on future trips.

Seville Travel tours — *Royal Alcázar of Seville (visited during my magical weekend in Seville)*

Museo de Carabelas Huelva Spain — *Muelle de las Carabelas in Huelva ( check out Best Places to Channel Your Inner Christopher Columbus in Spain)*

What is Southern Spain known for

Southern Spain is primarily represented by the Spanish autonomous community of Andalusia, which is composed of the provinces of Huelva, Cadiz, Seville, Malaga, Cordoba, Jaen, Granada, and Almeria. The total population of the region is approximately 8.5 million. Andalusia borders Portugal (on our last trip, we even combined a Southern Spain road trip with a weekend in the Algarve), Extremadura, Castile-La Mancha, Gibraltar, and Murcia.

It’s no secret that Southern Spain – known locally as Andalusia – is a favorite destination for international travelers and families, especially for those who have already explored Spain’s major cities like Barcelona or Madrid. In fact, Andalusia attracts around 30 million visitors each year.

Its global popularity comes from a unique blend of breathtaking landmarks, year-round sunshine, and a stunning coastline. Many of Southern Spain’s most iconic attractions are straight out of a storybook: the Alhambra in Granada, the Mosque–Cathedral of Cordoba, Seville’s Plaza de España, the dramatic Ronda Bridge, and the region’s charming whitewashed villages, or pueblos blancos.

Seville is often considered one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the country, famous for its grand festival Feria de Abril. Both Seville and Granada are also renowned for their flamenco shows. To enjoy the soul-stirring guitar rhythms and captivating footwork, it’s best to book tickets a few days in advance – especially during peak season.

Beyond the major cities, the smaller town of Jerez is celebrated for its sherry and brandy production and wine-tasting tours (as well as its elegant horse shows), while Cádiz is often described as one of Spain’s most underrated cities.

Huelva, the lesser-known region of Andalusia is home to one of Spain’s most protected national parks, Donana, as well as this region holds major historical significance for its connections to Christopher Columbus and his voyages.

tarifa beach getaway spain — *Tarifa beaches with kids*

Best time to visit Southern Spain

This 7-day Southern Spain road trip took place in February, making it quite off-season. Having visited Andalusia during every season, I’d say that Spring (March to May) and September/October are my favorites. However, in my opinion, winter is still much better than summer. Despite the heat, many locals take vacations in the summer, so Andalusia tends to be crowded everywhere.

Unique tours in Andalusia

Here are some popular experiences in Southern Spain that are better to book in advance:

Royal Alcázar Entry Ticket in Seville (check availability)
Flamenco Show in Seville (check availability)
Caminito del Rey Guided Tour (check availability) – for kids 7+
Granada: Alhambra & Nasrid Palaces Tour with Tickets (check availability) – We visited Granada on another trip, but if you decide to go, getting tickets via the official website is always a hassle.
Picasso Museum in Malaga (check availability)
How the Andalusian Horses Dance in Jerez de la Frontera (check availability)

Best Hotels in Southern Spain

You can check the top-rated hotels and holiday rentals in Southern Spain using this map:

7-day Southern Spain Road Trip with kids

Here’s our ultimate 7-day Malaga road trip itinerary. Along with each city, I also mention day trip options, so you can easily extend it into a 10-day or 14-day itinerary across Southern Spain by choosing to stay more than one day in each location or adding Almería to the route.

As I’ve already mentioned, since it was the first time in Southern Spain for both my parents and kids, I really wanted to show them as much of Andalusia as I could in 7 days, so the trip was quite jam-packed. However, we all enjoyed it!

Day 1 – Malaga

Spain Virtual Tours - malaga — *Southern Spain Road Trip – Day 1 Malaga*

Christmas in Malaga December Family Trip — *Malaga in December*

What to see in Malaga

One of the first places to start any Southern Spain itinerary is definitely the city of Malaga. First of all, you can easily find great flight deals, best rental car offers, and budget-friendly bus/train tickets if traveling to Malaga. So, I had it clear from the beginning that we should start our Southern Spain road trip in Malaga.

Therefore, we spent our first exploring this charming Spanish city. One of the top sights of Malaga is The Picasso Museum. The exposition houses 285 works of the famous Spanish artist, donated by members of his family. Don’t miss: the port of Malaga, El Castillo de Gibralfaro, Malaga´s Cathedral, Alcazaba and its Roman Theatre (one of the top Roman ruins in Spain), El Pedregalejo. The fans of beautiful gardens in Spain should visit La Concepcion Botanic Garden.

To see the best of Malaga in a day you can book 3-Hour Complete Walking Tour. If you are not into walking but still want to explore the city – consider the City Tour by Private Eco Tuk Tuk. Foodies might enjoy the Traditional Tapas and Wine Tour in Malaga.

Also, some of the most unique experiences in Malaga include Hammam Al Ándalus, Catamaran Sailing Trip on Sunset, Museo Automovilistico, and Flamenco Show Alegría. If you are on this Southern Spain road trip with kids do not miss Private Sightseeing Treasure Hunt.

If you have more than one day in Malaga, the most popular day trips would be: Caminito del Rey Tour, Caves of Nerja & Frigiliana, or Granada and Alhambra Tour.

malaga in winter spain — *Malaga in winter*

Where to stay in Malaga

If you like central locations in Malaga, head to ICON Malabar and Apartamento Paseo Marítimo Antonio Banderas. However, I prefer living outside of the city center to avoid the traffic and elevated parking costs – Casa Jardín apartments or Hotel Apartamentos Bajondillo.

Day 2 – Colomares & Marbella

Puerto banus marbella sunset spain — *Southern Spain Road Trip from Malaga – Day 2 Marbella*

On the road to Marbella

On the second day of our Southern Spain road trip, we were excited to hit the road toward Marbella. Honestly, I was really looking forward to revisiting, as my parents had sent me to a summer camp in Marbella years ago to learn Spanish (when I was 16). It was one of my first solo trips, and I was so impressed by the luxurious sports cars, golf courses, and villas in Marbella.

On the way from Malaga to Marbella, we made a stop at Castillo Monumento Colomares, a unique monument built to honor Christopher Columbus and the discovery of America. It is located in Benalmádena. Despite its castle-like appearance, Castillo de Colomares was constructed between 1987 and 1994 by Esteban Martín Martín. If you want a guided tour with explanations, it’s best to book in advance; otherwise, you’ll explore the monument on your own.

Once in Marbella, we explored its charming old town and later visited the famous Puerto Banús Marina, one of the most luxurious neighborhoods in Spain. I also enjoyed Marbella’s El Corte Inglés, especially its gourmet section, which offered a wide range of premium-quality foods I hadn’t seen at other locations across Spain. It was the perfect spot to shop for Spanish food souvenirs.

castillo colomares — *Castillo Monumento Colomares*

southern spain road trip — *Marbella with kids*

Where to stay in Marbella

Marbella and its surroundings are known for its luxury hotels, like Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá, Marriott’s Marbella (the most budget-friendly of all 5-star hotels in Marbella) Marbella Club Hotel, Nobu Hotel, Puente Romano Beach Resort, Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, and Kempinski Hotel Bahía Beach Resort & Spa.

Nevertheless, the are quite a few budget-friendly options in Marbella as well – NH Marbella, Aqua Apartments Vento, and Jardines del Mar Marbella.

Day 3 – Ronda and Juzcar

Southern Spain road trip ronda — *Southern Spain Road Trip – Day 3 Ronda*

Things to see in Ronda

Ronda is often called one of the most beautiful cities in Spain and is the third most visited destination in the province of Andalusia. The New Bridge in Ronda truly belongs on the list of fairytale places in Spain. It’s one of those extraordinary constructions you need to see with your own eyes to believe it exists. This 98-meter-high bridge was completed in 1793 and remains one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks.

Popular experiences in Ronda include a Sightseeing Walking Tour, an Organic Olive Oil Tour with Tasting, a Spanish Guitar Concert Ticket, and a Reservatauro Ronda Tour.

Typically, visitors combine a trip to Ronda with Setenil de las Bodegas, one of Andalusia’s top “white villages.” However, since we were on a Southern Spain road trip with kids, we chose a different option – Júzcar. You can read more about it in this post.

*Juzcar, a Smurfs village in Southern Spain*

Where to stay in Ronda

Cool places to stay in Ronda are Catalonia Ronda and Hotel La Fuente de la Higuera. The budget-friendly options: Apartamentos La Bola Suite, Lewis&Peter Apartments Los Remedios.

Day 4 – Tarifa Beach Getaway

tarifa day trip spain — *Malaga Road Trip – Day 4 Tarifa*

On the fourth day of our Malaga road trip, we headed to Tarifa and Cadiz.

Initially, I had planned to stay in Tarifa for two days and take day trips to Tangier and Gibraltar. Since it wasn’t my first time in Southern Spain, I wanted to add an international twist to the trip. Unfortunately, one of my kids caught the flu, so we decided to stay closer to a doctor, just in case, and not leave the country. So, back in Malaga (on our first day), we booked a hotel in Cadiz instead and from there drove to Tarifa for a while.

Some of you may know that Tarifa is one of my favorite places in Spain, especially when it comes to beach getaways. It’s famous for its endless white-sand beaches, laid-back surfer vibes, hipster cafes and shops, boat tours for spotting dolphins and whales, Natural Park of Los Alcornocales, kite-surfing lessons, and delicious tuna dishes.

You can read more details about my day in Tarifa in this post.

Day 5 – Cadiz

What to see in Cadiz

Our second day in Cádiz was dedicated to exploring the city. You can check this post to learn more about the landmarks in Cádiz, or follow this one-day Cádiz itinerary. Unlike many other cities in Andalusia that have become quite international in recent years, Cádiz still feels very Spanish. It is one of the most underrated cities in Spain that I’ve ever visited.

Some unique experiences in Cádiz include the City Walking Tour, Medieval Tour, Beach and Photo Tour by Segway, and Cadiz Tapas Tour. For kids, you might like the Mysteries and Crimes Walking Tour or Pirate Route Guided Tour.

Also, if you have more than a day in Cádiz, consider visiting Jerez de la Frontera. This Spanish town is world-famous for two unique experiences: the Andalusian horse show and Sherry wine-tasting experiences.

Cadiz underrated cities in Spain — *Day 5 in Southern Spain – Cadiz*

one day in cadiz spain history — *Cadiz is one of the most underrated cities in Spain*

locals guide cadiz spain — *Cadiz is a must-stop on any Southern Spain Itinerary*

Where to stay in Cadiz

Cadiz will surprise you with better hotel prices compared to other cities in Southern Spain. Check Parador de Cádiz, Plaza de la Luz Cádiz, and Plazuela del Carbón Suites.

Day 6 – Seville

seville Southern Spain road trip — *Southern Spain Road Trip – Day 6 Seville*

One day in Seville

We planned to end this Southern Spain road trip in Seville. Let me clarify – one day in Seville is not enough to explore this charming city. However, since it wasn’t my first time in Seville and my recent getaway there still felt fresh, I didn’t mind the shorter visit.

While Seville is one of the most vibrant and romantic places in Spain, Plaza de España is definitely the heart of the city. It was built for the 1929 Ibero-American Expo, which took place in 1929. The atmosphere is especially magical during the blue hour or when you’re catching a glimpse of the setting sun. Plaza de España has also served as a filming location in Lawrence of Arabia (1962) and Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002).

To make the most of your day in Seville, you can book Guadalquivir River Sightseeing Eco Cruise or River Boat Tour with Tapas. The most popular experiences in Seville are the Flamenco Show and Royal Alcázar Tour.

Where to stay in Seville

Last time in Seville we stayed in Hotel NH Collection Sevilla. But I also like Eurostars Torre Sevilla, Casa Sevilla 1920 Suites, and Apartamentos “El Escondite de María”.

seville spain destinations — *River Cruises in Seville*

seville in one day things to see — *Seville is one of the most vibrant and romantic places in Spain*

Day 7 – Return to Malaga

On the last day of our Southern Spain road trip, we returned to Malaga and still had some time to enjoy the port area before my parents headed to the airport. By the way, on your way back from Seville to Malaga, you can stop at the Dolmens of Antequera or hike Caminito del Rey (which needs to be booked in advance).

We decided to visit the Museo de Belenes along the way – a small but unique museum dedicated to traditional Spanish nativity scenes, which are typically displayed across the country during the Christmas season. The craftsmanship of the scenes was so remarkable, and the kids had so much fun exploring the tiny figures, that we found it impossible to leave the museum.

Navity museum mollina spain — *My kids loved Museo de Belenes near Malaga*

Is Southern Spain worth visiting?

Southern Spain is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe and absolutely deserves its international fame. The region is one of the most fascinating areas on the Iberian Peninsula due to its iconic landmarks, rich traditions, vibrant festivities, great weather, and beautiful coastline.

Movies filmed in Southern Spain

Almería, a lesser-known region in Southern Spain, was the filming location for some of Hollywood’s most iconic Westerns. You can still embrace the cowboy spirit by visiting local Wild West theme parks. Although Almería is not part of this Southern Spain road trip, you can read more about my trip to Almería in this post. Additionally, Game of Thrones has several filming locations scattered throughout Southern Spain.

Almeria wild west spain with kids — *You can read more about my trip to Almería in this post.*

one day in cadiz spain travel tips — *Cadiz in winter*

Nature in Southern Spain

If you’re traveling to Southern Spain in winter, keep in mind that Sierra Nevada is a popular destination for skiing. Nature lovers won’t be disappointed in Southern Spain either, although, in my opinion, it can’t quite compete with the Pyrenees in terms of natural wonders. However, Andalusia offers plenty of adventurous activities and some stunning hikes, such as El Caminito del Rey and Torcal de Antequera.

Famous People from Southern Spain

Andalusia was the birthplace of these famous Spaniards: the painters Diego Velázquez and Pablo Picasso; the writers Federico García Lorca, Elvira Lindo, and Juan Ramón Jiménez; the musicians Joaquín Sabina and Paco de Lucía; and the actors Antonio Banderas and Paz Vega. Additionally, Javier Castillo is a popular contemporary Spanish writer, known for his novel La chica de nieve (or The Snow Girl in English), which became one of the most-read books during the 2020 lockdown in Spain. The Snow Girl (2023) is also a trending Spanish TV show on Netflix.

Books & Movies about Southern Spain

If you are looking for guidebooks to bring with you on the road do not miss – Rick Steves Snapshot Sevilla, Granada & Andalucia, Rick Steves Spain, Wild Guide Andalucia: Hidden Places & Great Adventures of Southern Spain, The ultimate local’s guide to Seville, and DK Eyewitness Seville and Andalucia.

From Coffee Table Books I like Sevilla. Acuarelas de viaje, The Houses & Palaces of Andalusia, No Singing Allowed: Flamenco & Photography, The Spanish Style House: From Enchanted Andalusia to the California Dream. Also, set your eyes on the novels Court of Lions, Shadows Over the Spanish Sun, and The Return.

Want to learn more about local cuisine? – Check out Andalusia: Recipes from Seville and Beyond. Also, set your eyes on the novels Court of Lions, Shadows Over the Spanish Sun, and The Return.

For more visual inspiration, don’t miss Spain’s virtual tours and cool Spanish TV shows to binge-watch, particularly La Otra Mirada (filming location: Seville), Money Heist (La Casa de Papel, filming location: Cabo de Gata, Almería), and Isabel (filming location: Granada).

As for international hits, Game of Thrones had several filming locations in Andalusia; Killing Eve was filmed in Cádiz during its final season; Star Wars: Attack of the Clones features a few epic locations in Seville, and Kingdom of Heaven was shot in Córdoba. Moreover, as previously mentioned, many iconic Hollywood westerns were filmed in the Tabernas Desert of Almería.

Malaga & Southern Spain with Kids

Southern Spain is a fantastic destination for family travel. It offers the perfect combination of great weather, fascinating landmarks, a wide range of hotels, and plenty of entertainment.

This Southern Spain road trip was my fourth time in the region, so I knew it would be a great adventure. We even invited my parents to join us, making the trip even more special. As I was eager to show everyone the best places in Southern Spain, the itinerary ended up being a bit fast-paced, but it was worth it!

Click here to check the Itinerary on Google Maps

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