The context is simple: you have a week off and want to make the most of it. What’s the inspiration? A 7-day route from Cádiz to Málaga, with plans, places, and accommodations that seem tailor-made for you. The first step is to choose hotels in Cádiz that fit your style. The second, drive from the Atlantic coast to the Mediterranean to check in at your kind of hotels in Málaga.
The more personal, the more meaningful.
This Andalusian journey includes beaches, culture, nature, gastronomy, and the southern sun lighting up your road trip as a constant companion.
Day 1: Arrival in Cádiz and First Contact with the Atlantic
Initial Walk Through the Old Town
Start your journey with a walk through the historic center of Cádiz, which will introduce you to the city’s unique character. Visit the Cathedral of Santa Cruz – more commonly known as Cádiz Cathedral – the medieval arches, the Roman theater, the food market, the Cádiz Museum, or the viewpoint at the Tavira Tower. Then, sit down to recharge and raise a glass on a terrace to toast to the adventures ahead.
Staying at hotels on Cádiz Beach, such as Iberostar Selection Andalucía Playa, excellently connected by road to the main points of interest, will allow you to move comfortably along the entire coast. Specifically, this five-star resort with a sustainable philosophy is located in Chiclana de la Frontera, right on La Barrosa Beach.
Sunset at La Caleta
Top travel guides agree: La Caleta is one of the best beaches in Andalusia and also in Spain. Furthermore, it ranks number 1 in Tripadvisor’s 2026 ranking of Cádiz beaches. With about 500 meters in length and between 45 and 50 meters in width, it’s an urban and picturesque beach, with golden sand and clear, clean water—ideal for unwinding. Frequently visited by locals, it stands out for its beauty, authenticity, and central location. Say goodbye to the first day by watching the sunset between the little fishing boats anchored on the shore.
Day 2: Cádiz Between History, Streets, and Viewpoints
Neighborhoods with Their Own Identity
The history of ancient Gadir is written in its streets. The Pópulo neighborhood is the oldest, the heart of the town, and also the one that attracts the most tourists. The La Viña neighborhood, on the other hand, has a maritime soul. It’s the epicenter of the carnival, with leisure offerings that align with the time of year and all kinds of getaways, including family vacations in family-friendly hotels in Cádiz. In the Santa María neighborhood, flamenco sets the pace. Other districts with their own identity, where you’ll want to get lost? Mentidero, El Balón, or La Laguna.
Viewpoints and Historic Squares
The Tavira Tower, built in the 18th century, 45 meters above sea level, isn’t alone at the heights. The city is home to over 100 towers, built over the centuries for defensive purposes. Spend part of your second day climbing the cathedral clock tower or the rooftop of the Casa de las Cadenas, now the seat of the Provincial Historical Archive. Then, take a stroll through its most beautiful squares, like San Antonio, San Francisco, Mina, Mentidero, or the historic Plaza de España. This activity is suitable for all ages!
Day 3: Beaches and Gastronomy of Cádiz
Morning at the Atlantic Beaches
On the third day, alternate between fresh and salty water, cocktail in hand. Treat yourself to a sunrise at La Barrosa, an Atlantic beach with a permanent Blue Flag and multiple awards for its ecological quality and biodiversity. Its 8 kilometers of coastline hosts water sports, full services, and beach bars where conversations stretch on indefinitely. On the other side, a paradise for kids and adults awaits you: Iberostar Waves Royal Andalus, a hotel with water slides in Cádiz, where fun is guaranteed. This all-inclusive beachfront resort features 7 restaurants and bars, a spectacular spa, and even a golf course designed by Severiano Ballesteros.
Flavors of the South
Staying at hotels in Cádiz means, above all, eating well. The gastronomy of Cádiz, recognized as one of the best in the world by outlets like The Guardian and The New York Times, blends characteristic flavors from both land and sea. Arab, Judeo-Christian, and Phoenician influences can be found in typical dishes like berza jerezana, papas con choco, and pan de Cádiz, a festive, shareable dessert. The star here is product-focused cuisine: savor pescaíto frito, Almadraba red tuna, aliñao pink tomatoes, and retinto beef before heading to the Mediterranean.
Day 4: From Cádiz to Málaga, A Change of Rhythm and Scenery
Route to the Mediterranean
This 7-day route continues along roads that run parallel to the sea, with a changing landscape that gradually fills with the color and scents of Mediterranean plants. There’s a 230-kilometer distance between Cádiz and Málaga city. Enjoy this 2.5-hour journey without rush, turning up the music while you prepare to check into some of the best hotels in Málaga, those that will also become your home away from home. Just 45 minutes from the capital, other iconic locations like Marbella and Torrox-Costa await.
First Afternoon in Málaga
Two days in Málaga offer plenty to explore. Take the first afternoon of your stay to relax after the journey. At Iberostar Selection Marbella Coral Beach, you won’t have to worry about anything other than living in the moment. This 4-star resort, specially designed for couples, is just one kilometer from Puerto Banús and 5 kilometers from Marbella’s center. Indulge in its beach views and exquisite dining options—the Chambao by The Sea restaurant is famous for its rice dishes and seafood. Afterward, sleep to the sound of the sea breeze.
Day 5: Cultural Málaga, Between History and Art
Historical Málaga
On the fifth day, dive into Málaga’s history to learn about its legacy. You can follow in Audrey Hepburn’s footsteps in Marbella and then head to the old town of Málaga, strolling through its pedestrian streets. The historic center is recognized as a Cultural Heritage Site. Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Christians all left their mark here. Some must-see spots to explore its past? The Alcazaba, Málaga Cathedral, Calle Larios, the Roman theater, Plaza de la Merced, or the Gibralfaro Castle.
Art and Contemporary City
Málaga is a destination that always surprises, with a modern and cosmopolitan side made up of art galleries, cutting-edge culture, and exciting plans for both adults and children. Visiting the Picasso Museum, the Pompidou Center, or the Carmen Thyssen Museum will connect you with its creative pulse. The indie spirit of the Brisa Festival and the Selvatic Málaga Fest concert series diversifies the city’s music scene, along with other iconic events in the capital, such as the Reggaeton Beach Festival.
If you're traveling with family, Iberostar Waves Málaga Playa is one of the most highly rated family hotels in Málaga for its value for money. It offers adapted rooms and even apartments with kitchens. The kids will have a blast at the water park while you relax by the pool, surrounded by gardens, with the Mediterranean in the background.
Day 6: Málaga by the Sea
Urban Beaches and Fishing Neighborhoods
Málaga by the sea is about enjoying without checking the clock, visiting urban beaches, and exploring fishing neighborhoods. Watch the sunset at Puerto Banús or from the Monte de San Antón, located on the high point of the city. However, any worthy route must include a stop at La Malagueta Beach, with its 1.2 kilometers of soft, golden sand that enlivens the center. This coast holds the top spot in the 2026 Tripadvisor ranking of the best beaches in Málaga. Right after it comes Playa del Palo, which pulses with vibrancy and joy in the eponymous fishing neighborhood. A bit quieter, Playa Guadalmar is equally accessible and central.
Chiringuitos and Local Cuisine
Málaga's restaurants are enjoying a golden age. And the local beachside chiringuitos speak volumes about their culinary tradition. This is how the language of Málaga’s flavor is built, based on simple recipes where fresh, high-quality ingredients elevate the concept of local, sustainable produce. Try the sardine skewers (espetos), the Málaga-style fried fish, ajoblanco (garlic-based cold soup), or the porra antequerana (thicker gazpacho), all washed down with sweet, red, and white wines made in the region. Málaga salad, eggplants with cane honey, and the dessert known as "tortas locas" are other classics of the local gastronomy.
Day 7: Excursions from Málaga and Farewell to the South
Nearby Getaways
Day 7: The trip is coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay still. Nearby getaways are key. There are plenty of short excursions from Málaga you can take to make the most of the last 24 hours of your vacation. That’s one of the benefits of choosing hotels by Málaga’s beach. Explore the white villages of the Costa del Sol like Mijas or Benalmádena, or drive to the Sierra de las Nieves National Park, a true natural wonder with mountainous ecosystems that are home to animals like wildcats and river otters. This protected area is home to the largest pinsapar forest in Spain, with 2,000 specimens of the pinsapo, a native tree from the pine family.
Final Hours Under the Andalusian Sun
Make the most of your final hours under the Andalusian sun in 4-star hotels in Málaga with meditative and relaxing activities to help you reconnect with yourself and your surroundings. This way, you’ll return to your routine full of energy. Some ideas? A yoga session by the sea, a cycling route with stops along the way to spot birds in their natural habitat, or a sustainable picnic on the beach. That farewell, or “see you later”, will live up to the rest of your trip.
Or, if you prefer, simply let yourself go. Embrace relaxation in a hammock while mentally planning your next getaway to Andalusia. Because if there’s one thing hotels in Cádiz and Málaga offer, it’s that they’ll always leave you wanting more.
