10 Days: Barcelona, Costa Brava and Mallorca

Trip Snapshot
This 10 day Mediterranean mix works beautifully from May to September when the sea stays warm and the weather feels perfect for beach days. Budget level sits at mid-range $ giving you comfortable hotels and good meals in both the city and on the island. Ideal for couples who want variety, solo travelers seeking sun and culture, or small families who enjoy both lively streets and relaxed island time.

Day-by-Day Plan

Day 1. Arrive in Barcelona and settle into your hotel. Take it easy after the flight and stroll along La Rambla to feel the energy of the city. Grab some tapas for dinner and just watch the people go by.

Day 2. Start early at the Sagrada Familia with tickets booked in advance. In the afternoon visit Park Güell for Gaudí’s colorful designs and great views over the city.

Day 3. Explore the Gothic Quarter and La Boqueria market. Enjoy fresh seafood or paella for lunch and spend the evening wandering the beach area near Barceloneta.

Day 4. Take a day trip to the Costa Brava. Visit the pretty coastal towns like Tossa de Mar or Lloret de Mar for clear water and rocky coves. Swim if the weather allows and enjoy a relaxed lunch by the sea.

Day 5. More time on the Costa Brava or a boat trip along the coast to see the cliffs and hidden beaches. Return to Barcelona in the late afternoon.

Day 6. Take the ferry or short flight from Barcelona to Mallorca. The ferry ride gives nice sea views while the flight is quicker. When you arrive check into your hotel and enjoy your first island evening.

Day 7. Explore Palma de Mallorca with its beautiful cathedral and old town streets. Walk along the waterfront and have lunch at a seaside cafe.

Day 8. Spend the day at one of Mallorca’s famous beaches like Es Trenc or Cala Major. Relax with clear water and white sand, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Day 9. Take a drive or boat trip to the northern part of the island for dramatic cliffs and smaller villages. Try local Mallorcan food like ensaimada or sobrasada in the evening.

Day 10. Depending on your departure time enjoy one last relaxed morning on the beach or in Palma before heading to the airport.

Must-see & Nice-to-have
Must-see spots include the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell in Barcelona plus the cathedral in Palma and at least one beautiful beach day on Mallorca. These give you the perfect balance of vibrant city life and relaxed island vibes.

Nice-to-have if time allows cover La Boqueria market, a Costa Brava boat trip, swimming in the Mediterranean, exploring small Mallorcan villages, and waterfront walks in Palma.

Where to Stay
In Barcelona stay in the Eixample or Gothic Quarter areas, both safe and central with good connections. On Mallorca choose the area around Palma or a quieter beach town like Cala Major. Look for hotels or apartments close to the sea when possible so you can easily enjoy the beach atmosphere.

How to Get Around
Inside Barcelona use the metro and walking for most sights. To reach the Costa Brava take buses or join day tours. From Barcelona to Mallorca the ferry offers a scenic ride while the short flight saves time. On Mallorca rent a car for flexibility or use buses and taxis to reach different beaches and villages.

Comfort Tips
Bring the right power adapter for Spanish sockets because European plugs differ from American ones. Credit cards work fine almost everywhere but keep some cash for beach vendors and small cafes. Spanish portion sizes for tapas and meals stay reasonable so you can try many different things without feeling too full. People tend to speak with energy in restaurants but stay quieter in public transport. Many shops close on Sunday, especially on the island, and hotels keep quiet hours after 10 pm. These small details help your trip feel much smoother and more enjoyable. For more practical advice check our full Comfort Tips page.