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

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Alicante, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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 Alicante, and meet locals along the way!

Alicante is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a market, a church, a park, a castle, a museum and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the captivating Mercado Central De Alicante and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Cocatedral De Sant Nicolau De Bari D'alacant, a culturally significant church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Parc De L'ereta, one of the city’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Santa Bárbara Castle. When you're finished at the castle, Archaeological Museum Of Alicante awaits your visit. This museum is a respected highlight on today's itinerary.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Alicante offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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 Alicante.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Alicante by booking a table at Tabula Rasa, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional traditional menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Baeza & Rufete, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Canibal Lounge Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. The Old Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Pub Carabassa offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Spain.

Day 3 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 Benidorm and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of la Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa and the village of el Castell de Guadalest. You’ll stay in Valencia for 5 nights.

Immerse yourself in Alicante’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Mundomar. This gorgeous aquarium is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the instagrammable features of Plaça Triangular, a must-visit public square in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Valor Chocolate Museum, an intriguing museum. For a change of scene, check out El Castell De Guadalest, known for its enchanting features.

In the city of Valencia, 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.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Valencia, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Discover the culinary delights of Valencia by securing a reservation at El Poblet. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ricard Camarena, renowned for its delicious creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Fierro, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Pub Pasos. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Clann Bar Tapas, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Café Negrito provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed 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.

Today’s agenda in Valencia includes a castle, a historical landmark, a rock formation, a park, a market and much more! Peniscola Castle is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to La Casa De Les Petxines, an underrated historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Bufador, an eye-catching rock formation, 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 notable Gulliver Park. If you’re looking for more, Mercado De Colón is also a well-known attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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

Savor the flavors at USUAL resto-bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Casa Ripoll beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante La Cepa Vieja (Valencia). With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Valencia tonight.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Cosmo Valencia, known for its inviting atmosphere. Casa Pepe is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cafe De Las Horas provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Valencia, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

El Carmen is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Valencia. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Valencia. Your adventure starts at L'oceanogràfic, a top-rated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is City Of Arts And Sciences. This globally renowned science center is known for its picture-perfect appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Valencia's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Quart Towers. This historic monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

Dine in style at Restaurant Helen Berger València, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Éter Valencia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Casa Montaña. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Valencia.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Valencia.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Madrid Valencia. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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

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!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Valencia on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Mercat Central is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped food market before continuing your journey. Llotja De La Seda is your next stop. This interesting historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Valencia.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Valencia Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Plaça De La Reina (valència) and Plaça De La Mare De Déu.

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.

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 lovely dining experience at La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo, a popular restaurant in Valencia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Valencia at El Lleón bar, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated La Vitti. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Valencia tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Valencia. The bars in Valencia make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Valencia can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day 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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Valencia on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Valencia Bioparc is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching zoo before continuing your journey. Serrano Towers is your next stop. This popular monument is one of the best-rated sights in Valencia.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Jardín Del Turia. This romantic park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Instal·lacions Dels Jardins Del Túria and Jardins Del Real De València.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at El Forcat, a top-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fierro, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Espinosa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Valencia.

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

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Spain gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Valencia. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Cartagena, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Valencia is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Plaça De L'ajuntament, a notable public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Parc Central, enchanting visitors with its idyllic appeal. Continue your exploration at Murcia's Cathedral. This church is one of the city’s most notable spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Valencia at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Plaza De Las Flores.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Magoga, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional contemporary and traditional menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cartagena at Cafetería Cervantes, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pub Frank18 offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, 4 Copas is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Mostacho Café Bar Iii is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip across Spain promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Cartagena and drive in the direction of the town of San Pedro del Pinatar for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Alicante, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cartagena, including an archeological site, a nature reserve, a park, a botanical garden and much more! Start your day at Roman Theatre Of Cartagena. This historic archeological site is a locally renowned place to see in Cartagena. Then, wander over to Salinas Y Arenales De San Pedro Del Pinatar. If mesmerizing sites excite you, this nature reserve will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Parc Municipal. This romantic park is a favorite among visitors.

Cartagena offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, El Palmeral is an interesting spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the botanical garden, don’t forget to check out the romantic Huerto Del Cura. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved botanical garden.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Alicante. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Spain by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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 Alicante, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Piripi, a top-rated dining destination in Alicante. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante Baeza & Rufete, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant L'Ereta. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Alicante this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars 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.

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