One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Alicante traveling north to Valencia, Cuenca, and Madrid

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Alicante. You’ll stay in Alicante for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Alicante, featuring family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and budget-friendly activities. Start at Mercado Central De Alicante, a captivating market in the city. Then, head to Santa Bárbara Castle and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking castle.

There are many interesting places to see in Alicante, and when you are ready for more, go to Patio De Armas. This is one of the city’s most underrated visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the popular Archaeological Museum Of Alicante. Not far away, you'll also find Parc El Palmeral. This park is a majestic highlight in Alicante.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Bring home unique finds from Alicante's bustling shopping hub, Avenida Maisonnave. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Avenida Maisonnave offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Alicante. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR, an iconic dining spot in Alicante. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Taberna del Gourmet, a popular restaurant in Alicante. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Heladería Borgonesse, a hidden gem nestled in Alicante. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Canibal Lounge Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Old Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Pub Carabassa is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Valencia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Valencia, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Alicante, including a food market, a church, a monument, a science center, a park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Mercat Central. This astonishing food market is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Valencia Cathedral, which may be one of the most grand places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Alicante on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Serrano Towers, a notable monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for City Of Arts And Sciences and Jardín Del Turia.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Valencia, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Valencia, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Dine in style at Restaurante RiFF, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, El Poblet boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ubik Cafè Cafeteria Llibreria. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Valencia.

Keep the evening going at Pub Pasos, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Clann Bar Tapas, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Café Negrito, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Cuenca. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cuenca. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

San Pablo Bridge is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Spanish Abstract Art Museum. Juan March Foundation, an often recommended museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Castillo De Cuenca, a visually striking castle, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Valencia. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the beloved Muralla Y Arco De Bezudo. If you’re looking for more, Castilla-la Mancha Paleontological Museum is also a frequently visited attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cuenca. Cuenca offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cuenca. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante Sidrería La Figal, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Marisqueria Joni. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cuenca.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Tu Rincón, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Café Hispano, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bogart likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Madrid. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Madrid, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Cuenca on today’s itinerary. First up is the globally renowned palace, Royal Palace Of Madrid. Afterward, continue to Museo Del Prado, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Cuenca’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to El Retiro Park. This wondrous park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Puerta De Alcalá, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Madrid. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Madrid. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante Taberna Madrid Madriz, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Lamucca del Carmen? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at El miniBAR as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Madrid.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Yambala, known for its inviting atmosphere. Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cafe Madrid provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Madrid, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Toledo. You still have 1 night left in Madrid.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Madrid. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Mirador Del Valle is the perfect place to start. This observation deck is one of the most popular places to visit in Madrid. Next, head to Alcázar Of Toledo, a well-known castle, known for its breathtaking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada De Toledo. This picture-perfect church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Iglesia De Santo Tomé and Sinagoga Del Tránsito. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Monasterio De San Juan De Los Reyes, Toledo, a respected monastery in Madrid.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Madrid and your accommodation.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Madrid. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Alhambra, an iconic dining spot in Madrid. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurante Alabaster, a popular restaurant in Madrid. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix, a hidden gem nestled in Madrid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Jazz Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to España Building, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is 1862 Dry Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Say good night to Madrid and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!

On day 7 of your road trip in Spain, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Albacete. In the evening, you’ll end up in Alicante, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Madrid, including a museum, a street, a church, a park and much more! Start your day at Albacete Museum. This heritage-rich museum is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Madrid. Then, wander over to Passage Of Lodares. If romantic sites excite you, this street will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cathedral Of San Juan De Albacete. This culturally significant church is a favorite among visitors.

Madrid offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Parque De Los Jardinillos is a frequently visited spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Alicante, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Alicante. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Piripi, a top-rated dining spot in Alicante. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurante Baeza & Rufete, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant L'Ereta. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Alicante.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Oculto Alicante is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Austin, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Petanca. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!