11-Day Spain Road Trip from Alicante traveling south to Cartagena, Motril, Almeria, and Murcia

Say hello to Alicante! 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 Alicante for 3 nights before you continue your adventure!

Alicante 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 El Carrer dels Bolets or 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 Alicante. 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 in Alicante. 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Alicante by securing a reservation at Tabula Rasa. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of traditional cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Baeza & Rufete, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Also, consider LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Alicante tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Café-Pub Bubyston, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Canibal Lounge Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. AUSTIN likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Spain!

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Alicante has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Alicante by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Drop by the renowned Archaeological Museum of Alicante. This popular archaeological museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,768 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Santa Bárbara Castle. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 35,044 visitors, this castle deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Mercado Central de Alicante. This building has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 24,503 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant. This church and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,219 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Parc El Palmeral. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,211 travelers, this park is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Alicante.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

As you explore more of Alicante, 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.

Dine in style at La Taberna del Gourmet, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Heladería Borgonesse boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Piripi. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Alicante.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to 26 Cocktail Room, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Spain. With 1 night left in Alicante, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set your GPS to Benidorm and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 44 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Benidorm beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Aqualandia. This popular amusement park has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 16,542 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Parc de L'Aigüera. Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 2,390 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Plaça Triangular. This park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,047 reviews.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Alicante's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant L'Ereta, a top-rated dining destination in Alicante. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Steki Restaurante. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Alicante this evening.

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.

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Urbanización Altozano 1, Playa Flamenca I, Guardamar del Segura, Cabo Roig, and San Pedro del Pinatar, 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 Cartagena. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Alicante’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Urbanización Altozano 1. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 43 min. When you arrive in Urbanización Altozano 1, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Parc Natural de Las Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,677 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Playa Flamenca I. This drive usually takes around 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Punta Prima Beach. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 867 visitors.

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

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cartagena by securing a table at Magoga. Esteemed as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional contemporary and traditional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Omkara, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurante Magoga. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cartagena.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Mostacho Café Bar III, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. El escondite is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Sol is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Cartagena and Roquetas de Mar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Motril. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Drop by the renowned Roman theatre of Cartagena. This popular archaeological site has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,504 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Naval Museum Cartagena. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,771 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Roquetas de Mar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cartagena behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 20 min. Roquetas de Mar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Castillo de Santa Ana. This castle is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,347 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Motril, 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 Motril.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cervecería Casa Luis Vallejo, a highly-rated dining destination in Motril. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mesón Cartuja, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Como en Casa. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Motril this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to DPADELIN, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Motril, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Motril, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Málaga may take around 1 hour 17 min. Upon your arrival in Málaga, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Iglesia Catedral de la Encarnación. This much-appreciated catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,609 reviews.

Next up is Alcazaba. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,648 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Málaga Park. This park has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,404 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Arroyo de la Miel. This car ride takes around 27 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Parque de la Paloma. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,357 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Benalmadena, 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 Arroyo de la Miel to Benalmadena may take around 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Benalmadena, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Colomares Monument. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,696 reviews.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Motril.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Sunahra Beach Club, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, padthaiwok. Motril is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Supermercados Dia. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Motril tonight.

Head back to your accommodation in Motril and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!

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

Set your GPS to Granada and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 55 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Granada beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Alhambra. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 127,431 visitors.

Nasrid Palaces is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 20,263 travelers.

Granada is also the home of S. A. I. Catedral Metropolitana de la Encarnación. Around 25,036 people have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Mirador de San Nicolas, Granada. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 63,173 reviews, a visit to this scenic viewpoint is a great idea.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at El Quinto Toro, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tony Garcia Espacio Gastronómico offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Casa Puga. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Almeria.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Almeria. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Murcia, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Refugios de la Guerra Civil Española de Almería. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,835 reviews.

Almeria Cathedral is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This church is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 5,277 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Parque de las Familias. This jardín público is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,042 reviews.

Make Playa de San José one of your first sightseeing stops in Almeria. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,778 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Perro Limón in Murcia by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Perro Limón offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious fusion menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Cabaña Buenavista, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Almo, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at El Bosque Animado, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Culturas offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out BarAltea. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!

On day 9 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Murcia. You’ll stay in Murcia for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Paseo del Malecón. This much-appreciated allée is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,089 reviews.

Next up is Puente de los Peligros. This bridge has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,754 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Plaza de las Flores. This square has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,389 reviews.

Real Casino de Murcia is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,805 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Murcia's Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,947 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Murcia, 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 Murcia below.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Kokoro gastro sushi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cosa Fina GastroBar de Manolo Castro offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Tapeoteca is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Murcia.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Parliament Bar Murcia after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

On day 10 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 Elche. In the evening, you’ll end up in Alicante, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Murcia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Elche. This drive usually takes around 53 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Río Safari Elche. This extraordinary zoo is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 7,640 visitors.

Next, make your way to El Palmerar. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,060 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Parc Municipal. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,887 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Plaça de la Glorieta. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,275 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Huerto del Cura. This garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,389 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Alicante, 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 Alicante. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at El Garaje Bar Alicante, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Centro Comercial Gran Vía? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at El Portal Alicante - Krug Ambassade as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Alicante.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

Day 11 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Alicante before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Alicante’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain. Take home a piece of Spain with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Parc Canalejas. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,593 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Alicante.

You’ll then say farewell to Alicante. 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!