11-Day Spain road trip from Almeria to Cartagena, Valencia, Cuenca, and Madrid

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach the incredible city of Almeria. You’ll stay in Almeria for 2 nights, experiencing all the best things to do and see in the city.

Almeria has many popular destinations you can explore. You could visit attractions like the incredible Belén provincial de Diputación. This attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination and has an average rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars by 3 visitors.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Your stay promises to be a delightful continuation of your exploration, providing comfort and tranquility to recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.

When you’re ready for dinner, we recommend you try one of the best restaurants in the city of Almeria, Casa Puga. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,567 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Almeria is Taberna Nuestra Tierra. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,853 customers.

Locals recommend De Tal Palo - Taberna Gastronómica as one of the best restaurants in the city of Almeria. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,600 customers.

Almeria also has several great bars that will fit all travel budgets. One of the best bars in the city of Almeria is Jovellanos 16. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,101 customers.

Another of the best bars in the city of Almeria is Milestone Restaurant & Bar. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 695 customers.

Locals also enjoy La Consentida. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,010 customers.

Enjoy toasting the start of your 11-day vacation in Spain!

As you rise to greet the dawn on day 2 of your epic road trip in Spain, you'll awaken to the bustling city of Almeria. Today, you'll hit the road once again, setting off on a journey towards the stunning city of Cartagena. You’ll stay in Cartagena for 1 night. But before you begin your drive, we recommend taking the time to explore some of Almeria’s must-see attractions and local hotspots.

If you’re curious to see more of Almeria, start your day with a visit to the amazing Edificio de viviendas Casa de las Mariposas. This much-appreciated multiple dwellings and attraction is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 334 visitors.

You could also stop at another of the best local travel destinations in the area, the fascinating Refugios de la Guerra Civil Española de Almería. This top-tier point of interest and spectacular attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,835 visitors.

We also recommend you spend some time at the popular Almeria Cathedral to make the most of your road trip across Spain. The spectacular Almeria Cathedral is a church that has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,277 visitors.

The lovely El Zapillo is yet another attraction you could pay a visit. Around 2,251 visitors have left this olive sand beach average ratings of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

If you feel like visiting another type of sight or don’t want to jump into the car quite yet, spend some time at the spectacular Parque de las Familias. This attraction is a jardín público rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,042 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights and sounds that Almeria has to offer, you'll be ready to hit the open road and continue your unforgettable road trip towards the city of Cartagena. Cartagena offers plenty of options for top-rated hotels and other places to stay that fit all travel budgets.

After you’ve settled into your accommodation, we recommend a dinner at the popular La Marquesita. This popular restaurant is one of the locals’ most recommended restaurants in the city, with ratings of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,795 reviews.

The remarkable Tasca Tío Andrés (Cartagena) is another top restaurant in Cartagena we recommend. This restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,440 customers.

If you would rather go somewhere else, the famous Restaurante Magoga is also an excellent choice. This well-loved restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,046 customers.

After your meal, we recommend you drink at one of the best bars in Cartagena, the fantastic Mr. Witt Café. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,184 customers.

To end your night the best way possible, we recommend going to the wonderful El Purgatorio. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,863 customers.

Another bar with a great atmosphere is ALBEDRÍO. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 995 customers, so don’t forget to check this one out as well!

Celebrate another amazing vacation day filled with adventure in Spain!

Rise and shine on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you'll wake up in Cartagena and embark on a scenic drive to Valencia, where you'll stay at one of the best hotels for 1 night. Seize the opportunity to explore spectacular attractions in Cartagena before you reach your end destination for the day.

It’s hard not to feel excited about visiting attractions in a destination as lovely as Cartagena. When you’re eager to explore the city and nearby areas, we recommend visiting some local favorites, such as the wonderful Roman theatre of Cartagena. This attraction is an archaeological site that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,504 visitors.

One of the most popular attractions you can visit is the remarkable Mercado Central de Alicante. This attraction is a building that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,503 visitors.

If you want to explore more, visit the incredible Santa Bárbara Castle. This castle and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 35,044 reviews.

Another site you could visit today is the top-rated Archaeological Museum of Alicante. This archaeological museum and travel destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,768 visitors.

We recommend you end the day with a dinner at a popular restaurant near your accommodation, like Asador El Porteño. This restaurant offers various delicious and comforting meals and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,693 customers.

Locals also recommend Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10, another of the best restaurants in Valencia. Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10 is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,075 customers.

If you feel like having something else, check out the menu at Navarro. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,045 customers and is a great place to enjoy a lovely meal.

After dinner, visit Fox Congo to enjoy a couple of drinks and relax. This bar is one of the best in Valencia, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,530 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Bar Mistela. This bar is a great spot to meet new friends and celebrate your vacation. Bar Mistela has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,177 customers.

Puerta del Mar is another bar locals often recommend. This bar offers a great variety of snacks and drinks and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,372 customers.

End your day by raising your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure in Spain, and look forward to more great days to come!

Day 4 of your road trip through Spain gives you the opportunity to experience two places in one day. You'll start your day with some exploring in the city of Valencia and end it at a top-rated hotel in the city of Cuenca. You will stay in Cuenca for 1 night. Have a hearty breakfast and get excited for a wonderful day ahead!

One of the best places to visit today in Valencia is the amazing Mercat Central. This attraction is a market hall that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 79,570 visitors.

You could also stop at the incredible park, Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 37,810 visitors, this attraction is one of the top sights in the area.

You can make the most of your new day in Valencia by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else the city has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your road trip in Spain. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before it's too late.

At the end of the day, you will drive to the city of Cuenca, where you will access the best hotels and places to stay.

After a long day of driving and exploring, we recommend you try Restaurante Recreo Peral, one of the best restaurants in the city of Cuenca. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,722 customers.

Locals also recommend Raff San Pedro as one of the best restaurants in the city of Cuenca. Raff San Pedro is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,142 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Cuenca is CASA MARLO. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 863 customers.

After dinner, visit Las Brasas, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Cuenca. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,335 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like La Ronería De La Habana. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,072 customers.

Alternatively, Taberna Jovi is one of the best bars that locals recommend in the city of Cuenca. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 672 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Spain!

You’ll stay in Madrid for 3 nights.

One of the best places to explore in the town of Cuenca today is Torre de Mangana. This excellent attraction is a tower that has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,667 visitors.

We also recommend you visit the amazing San Pablo Bridge, an outstanding bridge, in the town of Cuenca. Around 2,784 travelers rated this attraction with 4.6 out of 5 stars.

To experience the local culture, see more of Spain, and meet new people at the same time, we highly recommend you go on a tour. You’ll find many top-rated and popular tours in the town, offering unique experiences that will inspire you. On this tour, you can go on an epic adventure to some of the best places to visit in Spain. You also get to admire popular places of interest.

You’ll have your choice of the best hotels and places to stay in the city of Madrid.

After a long day of traveling and sightseeing, we recommend you try one of the best restaurants in the city of Madrid, Coque. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,191 customers.

Locals recommend El Social as one of the best restaurants in the city of Madrid. El Social is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 944 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Madrid is Sobrino de Botín. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,311 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the top bars in the city of Madrid, Salmon Guru. This popular bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,802 customers.

You could also relax with a drink at a popular bar like El miniBAR. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,297 customers.

Areia is a popular bar that locals recommend in the city of Madrid. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,973 customers.

Be sure to celebrate another day of your incredible road trip adventure through Spain with a toast!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Madrid, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

One of the best travel destinations in the city of Madrid is Puerta de Alcalá. This amazing attraction is a triumphal arch and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 43,833 visitors.

You can also make your new day in Spain more epic with one of the most popular tours you can take part in today. The tour allows travelers to experience the enjoyment of exploring some of Spain’s most popular attractions and hidden treasures. Make sure to check out all options below to find the perfect adventure for you.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation near the city of Madrid.

When you arrive, we recommend eating at a restaurant that locals enjoy, like La Mi Venta. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,658 customers.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the city of Madrid, James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,124 customers.

If you’d prefer one of the top bar experiences that locals enjoy in the city of Madrid, we recommend the cocktails at Lambuzo. This bar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,622 customers.

Another of the best bars in the city of Madrid is Sambhad cocktail bar terraza. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,029 customers.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day in the city of Madrid!

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Madrid has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Madrid by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

There are plenty of attractions, markets, and restaurants for you to experience today in the city of Madrid. Your accommodation will be conveniently located close to several of the best attractions you won't want to miss.

You'll be able to visit more of the best travel destinations in the city of Madrid, like the extraordinary Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This attraction is an association football venue and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 120,158 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations in Madrid is the spectacular El Retiro Park. This attraction is an urban park and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 162,386 visitors.

You could then travel to the amazing Museo del Prado. This art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 98,929 visitors. Up to 3,497,345 people visit this popular attraction every year.

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is another stop you might want to add to your itinerary. This art museum is a popular destination among visitors in Madrid. Rated at an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 46,855 visitors, it’s one many travelers find worthy a visit.

Your discovery of Madrid does not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Madrid on this day of your trip.

After a long day of exploring some of the most popular attractions in Spain, be sure to eat at Arrabal Madrid, which is considered one of the best restaurants in the city of Madrid. This restaurant is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,924 customers.

Alternatively, another of the top restaurants in the city of Madrid is the popular Asador Real. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,789 customers.

Another great restaurant we recommend in the city of Madrid is Restaurante Alabaster. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,156 customers.

When you’ve finished your meal, Del Diego Cocktail Bar is one of the best bars in the city of Madrid for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,245 customers.

Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is another of the most popular bars in the city of Madrid. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 966 customers.

Alternatively, a great bar that locals enjoy in the city of Madrid is Harvey's Cocktail Bar. Harvey's Cocktail Bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,137 customers.

Stopping at one of these popular bars is the perfect way to celebrate another incredible day in the magical city of Madrid!

As you rise to greet the dawn on day 8 of your epic road trip in Spain, you'll awaken to the bustling city of Madrid. Today, you'll hit the road once again, setting off on a journey towards the stunning city of Toledo. You’ll stay in Toledo for 1 night. But before you begin your drive, we recommend taking the time to explore some of Madrid’s must-see attractions and local hotspots.

If you’re curious to see more of Madrid, start your day with a visit to the amazing Main Square. This much-appreciated square and attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 152,388 visitors.

You could also stop at another of the best local travel destinations in the area, the fascinating Market of San Miguel. This building and spectacular attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 visitors.

We also recommend you spend some time at the popular Royal Palace of Madrid to make the most of your road trip across Spain. The spectacular Royal Palace of Madrid is a royal palace that has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 77,471 visitors.

The lovely plaza de España is yet another attraction you could pay a visit. Around 98,199 visitors have left this square average ratings of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

If you feel like visiting another type of sight or don’t want to jump into the car quite yet, spend some time at the spectacular Temple of Debod. This attraction is an egyptian temple rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,446 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights and sounds that Madrid has to offer, you'll be ready to hit the open road and continue your unforgettable road trip towards the city of Toledo. Toledo offers plenty of options for top-rated hotels and other places to stay that fit all travel budgets.

After you’ve settled into your accommodation, we recommend a dinner at the popular Restaurante Alfileritos 24. This popular restaurant is one of the locals’ most recommended restaurants in the city, with ratings of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 3,860 reviews.

The remarkable Restaurante Hierbabuena is another top restaurant in Toledo we recommend. This restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,791 customers.

If you would rather go somewhere else, the famous La Orza is also an excellent choice. This well-loved restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,366 customers.

After your meal, we recommend you drink at one of the best bars in Toledo, the fantastic La Clandestina. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,595 customers.

To end your night the best way possible, we recommend going to the wonderful La Cave. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,714 customers.

Another bar with a great atmosphere is Taberna el Botero. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,350 customers, so don’t forget to check this one out as well!

Celebrate another amazing vacation day filled with adventure in Spain!

Get ready to experience some of the most famous attractions in the area!

One of the best places to visit in the town of Toledo is the amazing Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo. This attraction is a church and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,938 visitors.

You could also go sightseeing at the incredible Zocodover. This must-see tourist destination and travel destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,930 visitors.

Alcázar of Toledo is another popular attraction you can explore in the town of Toledo. This well-known attraction, a spectacular alcázar, has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 30,193 reviews.

Joining a top-rated tour in Toledo is another excellent way to spend your new day in Spain. The best tours in this travel destination will take you on an exploration to some of Spain’s most well-known attractions and best-kept secrets.

With this tour, you’ll set out on a journey to Spain’s most interesting sights. As you go along this remarkable tour, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to catch a glimpse of Spain’s scenic spots.

You could then travel to the amazing Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo for some sightseeing. This popular attraction is a church and has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,938 visitors.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Zocodover. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,930 visitors, this must-see tourist destination deserves a spot on travelers' bucket lists.

We also recommend a visit to the popular Alcázar of Toledo. This attraction, a stunning alcázar, has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,193 travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to the fantastic Castle of la Muela. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,494 travelers, this is one attraction many highly recommend.

You’ll also have your choice of the best hotels and places to stay in the city of Jaen.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Spain!

Rise and shine on day 10 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you'll wake up in Jaén and embark on a scenic drive to Almeria, where you'll stay at one of the best hotels for 1 night. Seize the opportunity to explore spectacular attractions in Jaén and Granada before you reach your end destination for the day.

It’s hard not to feel excited about visiting attractions in a destination as lovely as Jaén. When you’re eager to explore the city and nearby areas, we recommend visiting some local favorites, such as the wonderful Jaén Cathedral. This attraction is a catholic cathedral that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,392 visitors.

You could also stop at the incredible Centro Cultural Palacio de Villardompardo. This attraction, a beloved cultural center, has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,420 visitors.

If you have time, another site you could explore in Jaén is the stunning Castillo de Santa Catalina. This castle and travel destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,060 visitors.

Wave goodbye to Granada and continue your journey by car. If you want to break up today’s drive into two, take the opportunity to stop and discover what the city of Granada has to offer.

One of the most popular attractions you can visit is the remarkable Alhambra. This attraction is an architectural ensemble that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 127,431 visitors.

If you want to explore more, visit the incredible Nasrid Palaces. This must-see tourist destination and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 20,263 reviews.

Another site you could visit today is the top-rated S. A. I. Catedral Metropolitana de la Encarnación. This catholic cathedral and travel destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,036 visitors.

The lovely Mirador de San Nicolas, Granada is yet another attraction you could pay a visit. Around 63,173 visitors have left this scenic viewpoint an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

When you're done with your sightseeing in Granada, it's time to continue your drive to the city of Almeria. When you arrive in Almeria you’ll check in at one of the best hotels in the area.

We recommend you end the day with a dinner at a popular restaurant near your accommodation, like El Quinto Toro. This restaurant offers various delicious and comforting meals and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,392 customers.

Locals also recommend Scondite Bar, another of the best restaurants in Almeria. Scondite Bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,358 customers.

If you feel like having something else, check out the menu at Buono. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,229 customers and is a great place to enjoy a lovely meal.

After dinner, visit Casa Puga to enjoy a couple of drinks and relax. This bar is one of the best in Almeria, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,567 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Taberna Nuestra Tierra. This bar is a great spot to meet new friends and celebrate your vacation. Taberna Nuestra Tierra has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,853 customers.

De Tal Palo - Taberna Gastronómica is another bar locals often recommend. This bar offers a great variety of snacks and drinks and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,600 customers.

End your day by raising your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure in Spain, and look forward to more great days to come!

Day 11 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch one last glimpse of Almeria before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. When you have time to explore the area before you make your way home, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Almeria Walk of Fame is an extraordinary attraction you could visit to enjoy your last day in Almeria. This best-rated sightseeing destination and popular site of interest has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 585 visitors.

Take a stroll along the main shopping streets of Almeria and find some souvenirs to remind you of your road trip in Spain.

You could then enjoy your last meal in the city of Almeria at Bar Bonillo before you travel home. This popular restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 941 customers.

Alternatively, we also recommend Café Bar Florida for your last chance at a meal in the city of Almeria. The Café Bar Florida restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 795 customers.

If you'd prefer a popular restaurant that locals enjoy, try Bar El Tirso. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 627 customers.

You’ll then say farewell to Almeria. We wish you a pleasant journey home, with many wonderful memories of your unforgettable vacation in Spain!