11-Day Spain Road Trip from Alicante to Valencia, Cartagena, Granada, and Murcia and surrounding area

On day 2 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 Alicante. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valencia, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Cocatedral De Sant Nicolau De Bari D'alacant. This extraordinary church has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,219 visitors.

Next, make your way to Santa Bárbara Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 35,044 reviews.

While in Alicante, we also recommend a visit to Archaeological Museum Of Alicante. This archaeological museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,768 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Mercado Central De Alicante. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 24,503 travelers, this building is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Alicante.

Make your way to Parc El Palmeral, perhaps the most famous park in Alicante. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,211 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Valencia. Valencia offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café Negrito is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cafe De Las Horas, offering a different kind of charm.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Valencia. You have 1 night left in Valencia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Make Mercat Central your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this market hall an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 79,570 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Serrano Towers. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,998 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this fortified tower every year.

City Of Arts And Sciences is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This tourist destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 125,881 visitors.

When you’re finished at City Of Arts And Sciences, the perfect next stop is L'oceanogràfic. This public aquarium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 76,085 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Valencia, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Valencia below.

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

Make sure to book a table at Bar Vermudez, a popular restaurant in Valencia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Valencia at Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Beer & Travels. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Valencia tonight.

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.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Cartagena. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Granada, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Roman Theatre Of Cartagena. This extraordinary archaeological site is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,504 visitors.

Next, make your way to Castle Of La Concepción. This top attraction is a monument with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 944 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Parque De Alfonso Torres. This park is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,477 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Interpretation Center Of The Punic Wall. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,139 travelers.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Granada. 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 Bar Ávila Tapas, an iconic dining spot in Granada. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Los Manueles Reyes Católicos - Restaurante Granadino, a popular restaurant in Granada. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of El Trillo Restaurante Granada, a hidden gem nestled in Granada. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Aliatar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Continental Café Pub Granada. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Cartagena, 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 Murcia. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cartagena. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Estatua Icue. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,302 reviews.

Continue your journey at Plaza De España. This point of interest is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 537 travelers from near and far.

Cartagena is also the home of Molinete. This archaeological park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 563 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Museo Foro Romano. Molinete. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,591 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Murcia. Murcia offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Murcia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Murcia by booking a table at Perro Limón. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of fusion cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Cabaña Buenavista, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Almo, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Keep the evening going at El Bosque Animado, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Culturas, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Baraltea, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Murcia, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Cartagena. You still have 1 night left in Murcia.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Murcia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cartagena. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Batería De Castillitos, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,055 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Naval Museum Cartagena is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,771 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Cartagena is National Museum Of Underwater Archaeology. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,845 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Cartagena offers an experience you will remember.

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

As you explore more of Murcia, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Kokoro gastro sushi, a top-rated dining destination in Murcia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cosa Fina GastroBar de Manolo Castro, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Tapeoteca. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Murcia this evening.

Keep the evening going at Parliament Bar Murcia, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Murcia. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Alicante. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Murcia's Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,947 reviews.

Continue your journey at Plaza De Las Flores. This square is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,389 travelers from near and far.

Murcia is also the home of Puente De Los Peligros. This bridge has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,754 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Jardín De Floridablanca. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,929 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of The Fuensanta. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,552 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this church building.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Alicante, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Alicante by reserving a table at Tabula Rasa. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of traditional cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Baeza & Rufete, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Alicante.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at 26 Cocktail Room, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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