Relaxed 10-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Alicante to Valencia and Cartagena

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Alicante, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and budget-friendly activities in the charming city of Alicante. Your adventure starts at Mercado Central De Alicante, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cocatedral De Sant Nicolau De Bari D'alacant. This worthwhile church is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Alicante's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Parc De L'ereta. This enchanting park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Santa Bárbara Castle is also worth visiting, along with Archaeological Museum Of Alicante. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

Spain makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Spain also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in Alicante offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Tabula Rasa, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Baeza & Rufete is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Alicante. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.

Continue your lively evening at Canibal Lounge Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Old Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Pub Carabassa ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Spain!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Spain will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Spain, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Alicante allows for both. Start by heading to Mundomar. This curiosity-inducing aquarium provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Plaça Triangular, an eye-catching public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Valor Chocolate Museum, an increasingly popular museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the notable El Castell De Guadalest.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Spain at Valencia. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Valencia.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Valencia by reserving a table at El Poblet. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ricard Camarena, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Fierro, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Valencia.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Valencia and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

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

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Valencia and visit amazing attractions in Peníscola / Peñíscola and Valencia destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 4 nights left in Valencia. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Valencia today. One of the most spectacular attractions included on the itinerary is Peniscola Castle. This symbolic castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to La Casa De Les Petxines and learn what makes this picture-perfect historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Bufador. After exploring the rock formation, head to Gulliver Park. This notable park is a highlight in Valencia. As your day continues, stop by Mercado De Colón, known for its picture-perfect features.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at USUAL resto-bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Casa Ripoll, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante La Cepa Vieja (Valencia). With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Cosmo Valencia, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Casa Pepe offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Cafe De Las Horas provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Spain!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Valencia, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Valencia, and meet locals along the way!

El Carmen is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Valencia, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Today’s agenda in Valencia includes an aquarium, a science center, and a monument. L'oceanogràfic is must-visit aquarium and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to City Of Arts And Sciences, an iconic science center, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Quart Towers, a breathtaking monument, also available for your discovery today.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Spain. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Valencia, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Helen Berger València, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Éter Valencia? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Casa Montaña as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Valencia.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Valencia and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Madrid Valencia, a top-rated bar in the area.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Valencia!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Valencia. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Valencia. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Valencia!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Valencia today. One of the most famous attractions included on the itinerary is Mercat Central. This photogenic food market will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Llotja De La Seda and learn what makes this symbolic historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Valencia Cathedral. After exploring the church, head to Plaça De La Reina (valència). This locally renowned public square is a highlight in Valencia. As your day continues, stop by Plaça De La Mare De Déu, known for its culturally significant features.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Spain by joining a traveler-approved tour in Valencia. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Valencia that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Spain more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Valencia to find the best options for you!

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Valencia.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? El Lleón bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Vitti. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Valencia.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Valencia. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Spain, you’ll explore the area around Valencia, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Valencia will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Spain.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at the spectacular Valencia Bioparc, a stunning zoo in Valencia. Next, go to Serrano Towers.

After visiting Valencia Bioparc and Serrano Towers, have a stroll along Valencia's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Jardín Del Turia. This romantic park offers a unique experience. Instal·lacions Dels Jardins Del Túria is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Jardins Del Real De València, one of the most eye-catching places to visit in Valencia.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Valencia.

Exploring the food culture in Valencia offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at El Forcat, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Fierro offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante Espinosa. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Valencia.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Valencia and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Spain is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Valencia and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the city of Murcia and the city of Cartagena. You’ll stay in Cartagena for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the notable Plaça De L'ajuntament, a history-steeped public square in Valencia. Next, go to Parc Central.

After visiting Plaça De L'ajuntament and Parc Central, have a stroll along Valencia's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Murcia's Cathedral. This history-steeped church offers a unique experience. Plaza De Las Flores is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Cartagena. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Start your culinary exploration in Cartagena by securing a reservation at Magoga. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary and traditional cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cafetería Cervantes, a popular restaurant in Cartagena. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Cartagena’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Pub Frank18, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of 4 Copas, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Mostacho Café Bar Iii likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 9 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Spain. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Spain.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Cartagena. Your adventure starts at Roman Theatre Of Cartagena, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Salinas Y Arenales De San Pedro Del Pinatar. This popular nature reserve is known for its picture-perfect appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cartagena's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Parc Municipal. This mesmerizing park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. El Palmeral is also worth visiting, along with Huerto Del Cura. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

In the city of Alicante, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Spain.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Alicante has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Piripi, 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 Restaurante Baeza & Rufete, 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 Restaurant L'Ereta, a hidden gem nestled in Alicante. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Oculto Alicante, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Austin provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Petanca offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Spain.