Relaxed 11-Day Spain Road Trip from Alicante to Murcia and Valencia

Your relaxed road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Alicante, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Alicante and begin your adventure in Spain.

Make Parc Canalejas one of your first sightseeing stops in Alicante. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,593 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Alicante. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Alicante.

Have a memorable dining experience in Alicante by booking a table at Tabula Rasa, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional traditional menu. For a different culinary experience, Baeza & Rufete shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious modern cuisine in Alicante. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. Experience the culinary magic of LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR, a hidden gem nestled in Alicante. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Alicante and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

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

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain. Enjoy your first taste of Alicante as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Archaeological Museum of Alicante, a remarkable archaeological museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,768 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Santa Bárbara Castle. This castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 35,044 travelers.

Mercado Central de Alicante is another must-visit attraction. This renowned building offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 24,503 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant. This well-loved church boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,219 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Parc El Palmeral awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,211 previous visitors.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Alicante by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

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 Alicante, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Taberna del Gourmet, a top-rated dining spot in Alicante. If you're in the mood for something new, try Heladería Borgonesse, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Piripi. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Alicante.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, 26 Cocktail Room stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in 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 Elche and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the city of Cartagena and the city of Cartagena. You’ll stay in Murcia for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Elche. This drive usually takes around 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like El Palmerar. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,060 visitors.

Next, make your way to Parc Municipal. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,887 reviews.

While in Elche, we also recommend a visit to Huerto del Cura. This garden has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,389 reviews.

Set your GPS to Cartagena and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cartagena beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Roman theatre of Cartagena is a great place to start. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,504 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cartagena, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Elche to Cartagena may take around 1 hour 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cartagena, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Faro Cabo de Palos. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,578 visitors.

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

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Perro Limón, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional fusion menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Cabaña Buenavista, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Murcia is Almo, a renowned restaurant , known for its delicious modern menu.

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

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

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

Day 4 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!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Real Casino de Murcia. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,805 visitors.

When you’re finished at Real Casino de Murcia, head to Murcia's Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,947 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Plaza de las Flores. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,389 visitors.

After soaking in Murcia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: San Pedro del Pinatar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 41 min. When you arrive in San Pedro del Pinatar, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,186 visitors.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Valencia. 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Valencia by securing a reservation at El Poblet. Esteemed for its , 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.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Negrito, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Cafe de las Horas provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Spain, you’ll explore the area around la Vall d'Uixó, where you’ll be staying for another 5 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of la Vall d'Uixó will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of Spain.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Valencia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of la Vall d'Uixó. This drive usually takes around 45 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Coves de Sant Josep. This cave is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,967 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Castelló de la Plana. This car ride takes around 35 min.

Kick off the day at Ribalta Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,311 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Castelló de la Plana, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Peníscola / Peñíscola may take around 59 min. Upon your arrival in Peníscola / Peñíscola, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Bufador. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,367 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is La Casa de las Petxines. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,367 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Peniscola Castle. This monument has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 61,572 reviews.

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

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.

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

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.

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

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Valencia. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Valencia!

Make Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this opera house an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,710 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Gulliver park. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 20,520 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Quart Towers is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This fortified tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,889 visitors.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 6 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Spain. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Valencia itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Bar Vermudez, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10 offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Beer & Travels is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Valencia.

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.

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

On day 7 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!

Make Plaça de l'Ajuntament one of your first sightseeing stops in Valencia. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,316 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Mercado de Colón is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This building is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 37,146 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by L'Oceanogràfic. This public aquarium has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 76,085 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to City of Arts and Sciences. A trip to this popular tourist destination is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 125,881 previous visitors.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Valencia, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Spain.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante Canela, a top-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider A huevo Restaurante, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Tonyina. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.

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.

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

Day 8 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Valencia, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Mercat Central. Previous visitors have rated this market hall an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 79,570 reviews.

Llotja de la Seda is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This lonja is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,376 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Plaça de la Reina (València). This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 28,058 reviews.

Valencia Cathedral is another outstanding experience in Valencia. Around 22,457 travelers have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Plaça de la Mare de Déu is not far away. This square is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,170 reviews.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Spain.

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.

Dine in style at Racó del Túria, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante Genuina boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Central Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Valencia.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Valencia. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Valencia!

When you're ready to see some sights, Valencia Bioparc is a great place to start. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,210 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Parc de Capçalera. This urban park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,696 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Serrano Towers. The fortified tower has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,998 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. This park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 37,810 reviews.

Jardins del Real de València is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this urban park, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,212 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante del Este, a highly-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sagardi Valencia Centro, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Belmonte. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent 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.

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

Day 10 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 town of Benidorm. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Alicante, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Valencia, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Benidorm may take around 1 hour 36 min. Upon your arrival in Benidorm, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mundomar. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,253 visitors.

Plaça Triangular is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,047 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Benidorm and set your GPS to el Castell de Guadalest. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 31 min. Upon reaching el Castell de Guadalest, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at El Castell de Guadalest, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This municipality of spain is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,496 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, la Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa. This car ride takes around 34 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Valor Chocolate Museum, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,990 reviews.

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.

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

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

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

Day 11 of your relaxed road trip in Spain is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Alicante.

Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Alicante’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Spain, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Spain home with you through these charming souvenirs.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Alicante is the remarkable El Carrer dels Bolets. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,121 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Alicante or just grab something light to keep you going.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at El Garaje Bar Alicante, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Centro Comercial Gran Vía offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss El Portal Alicante - Krug Ambassade.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Alicante and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 11-day relaxed road trip in Spain is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.