One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Barcelona traveling north to Figueres, Girona, and Tarragona
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Explore the best of Spain on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Barcelona, Santa Pau, Besalú, Empuriabrava, Figueres, Girona, Blanes, and Tarragona. This road trip itinerary in Spain seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Barcelona, 1 night in Figueres, 1 night in Girona, and 1 night in Tarragona. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Spain. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Barcelona, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Spain on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Spain. Sagrada Família and Park Güell are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Plaça De Catalunya, learn more about the unique Mercat De La Boqueria, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Casa Batlló.
As you hit the open road and drive through Barcelona, Santa Pau, Besalú, Empuriabrava, Figueres, Girona, Blanes, and Tarragona, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Spain. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Spain.
Throughout your road trip in Spain, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Spain.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Spain fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Spain today!
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Day 1
- Barcelona - Arrival day
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- Parc de la Ciutadella
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Say hello to Barcelona! Your exciting road trip through Spain is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Barcelona for 3 nights before you continue your adventure!
Barcelona is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Parc De La Ciutadella, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Barcelona. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Spain. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Barcelona, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at 2254 Barcelona Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Porteño Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Cerveseria Catalana. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Barcelona.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Casa Gràcia after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bloody Mary Cocktail Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Barcelona
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Drive 18 km, 1 hour 20 min
- Park Güell
- Sagrada Família
- La Pedrera - Casa Milà
- Casa Batlló
- Magic Fountain of Montjuïc
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Barcelona for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Today's adventure in Barcelona promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Park Güell. This UNESCO world heritage-designated park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Sagrada Família, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to La Pedrera, one of the city’s most astonishing attractions, known for its culturally significant features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Casa Batlló. This UNESCO world heritage-listed museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Magic Fountain Of Montjuïc, an extraordinary fountain, and take a stroll around the area.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Barcelona. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Barcelona by reserving a table at Lasarte. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to ABaC, recognized for its delicious creative dishes. This 3-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Cocina Hermanos Torres, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Barcelona. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 3 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Les Gens Que J'aime, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bobby's Free offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Old Fashioned Gin Tonic & Cocktail Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!
Day 3
- Barcelona
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Drive 12 km, 1 hour 7 min
- Montjuïc Castle
- Mercado de La Boqueria
- Cathedral of Barcelona
- Palau de la Música Catalana
- Arc de Triomf
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On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Barcelona. You’ll stay in Barcelona for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Get ready for an exciting day in Barcelona. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a food market, a church, a concert hall, a monument and much more! Begin your adventure at Montjuïc Castle. This is an impressive castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Mercat De La Boqueria, a globally renowned food market in Barcelona.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Cathedral Of The Holy Cross And Saint Eulalia. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Palau De La Música Catalana, another of the city’s locally renowned attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Arc De Triomf, a picture-perfect place of interest in the city.
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 Barcelona's bustling shopping hub, Passeig de Gràcia. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique high-end stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Passeig de Gràcia offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Barcelona's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at Els 4Gats, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bar El Born beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ocaña. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Barcelona tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Manchester, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dry Martini is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Icebarcelona is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Say good night to Barcelona and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 4
- Barcelona
- Figueres
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Fageda d'en Jordà
- Plaça Major de Santa Pau
- Parc Natural de la Zona Volcànica de la Garrotxa
- Besalú Bridge
- Aiguamolls de l'Empordà
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Santa Pau, Besalú, and Empuriabrava. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Figueres, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Barcelona includes a nature reserve, a public square, and a historical landmark. Fageda D'en Jordà is must-visit nature reserve and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Plaça Major De Santa Pau, a locally appreciated public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Parc Natural De La Zona Volcànica De La Garrotxa, an idyllic nature reserve, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Barcelona. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the interesting Besalú Bridge. If you’re looking for more, Aiguamolls De L'empordà is also an often recommended attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Figueres, 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 Figueres. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Head back to your accommodation in Figueres and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 5
- Figueres
- Girona
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Drive 78 km, 1 hour 30 min
- Dalí Theatre-Museum
- Gala - Salvador Dalí Foundation
- Parc-bosc Municipal
- Museu d'Arqueologia de Catalunya - Empúries
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Figueres and Sant Martí d'Empúries, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Girona. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Figueres promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Dalí Theatre And Museum. This instagrammable museum is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Gala - Salvador Dalí Foundation, another detailed attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Parc-bosc Municipal, one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its eye-catching features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Ruïnes D'empúries - Museu Arqueològic. This standout archeological site is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Girona. Girona 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 Girona. 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.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Girona by reserving a table at El Celler de Can Roca. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Massana, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting La Pedra after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Sunset Jazz Club, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Mckiernans also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!
Day 6
- Girona
- Tarragona
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Drive 223 km, 3 hours 27 min
- Pont Palanques Vermelles
- Arab Baths of Girona
- Cathedral of Girona
- Parc de la Devesa
- Jardín Botánico Marimurtra
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Girona and Blanes. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Tarragona, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Girona allows for both. Start by heading to Pont Palanques Vermelles. This increasingly popular monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Arab Baths Of Girona, a photogenic historical landmark, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Girona Cathedral, a captivating church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the increasingly popular Parc De La Devesa. Round off your day at Jardín Botánico Marimurtra, another gem in Girona with romantic features to discover.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Tarragona. 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 Tarragona. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Tarragona by reserving a table at La Xarxa. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and rice dishes cuisine. Looking for something different? L'Àncora del Serrallo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tarragona.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Cube Night, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Cafeteria Florida, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Tolo provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!
Day 7
- Tarragona
- Barcelona
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Drive 129 km, 2 hours
- Circ Romà
- Tarragona Amphitheatre
- Balcó del Mediterrani
- Monument als castellers (Tarragona)
- The Ferreres Aqueduct
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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 Tarragona. In the evening, you’ll end up in Barcelona, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Roman Circus Of Tárraco. This up-and-coming archeological site is a respected place to see in Tarragona. Continue your discovery at Tarragona Amphitheatre, an UNESCO world heritage-designated archeological site with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Tarragona, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Balcó Del Mediterrani. This popular observation deck offers an enchanting encounter with Tarragona. Next, make your way to Monument Als Castellers (tarragona) to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit The Ferreres Aqueduct, a worthwhile archeological site that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Tarragona.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Barcelona, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Barcelona's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at ÁNDELE Santa Fe, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try ARTiSA Barcelona? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Sant Martí as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Barcelona.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Torre Rosa, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bobby Gin is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Generator Barcelona provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.
Day 8
- Barcelona - Departure day
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- Plaça de Catalunya
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Day 8 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Barcelona before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Plaça De Catalunya. This wondrous public square is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Barcelona.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hotel Claris, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant El Foro offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Bouchon.
You’ll then say farewell to Barcelona. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Spain!
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