11-Day Spain Road Trip from Girona traveling south to Tarragona, Valencia, and Barcelona

Say hello to Girona! 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 Girona for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Girona 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 Parc de la Devesa or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Girona. 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Girona. 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at El Celler de Can Roca in Girona by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, El Celler de Can Roca delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Massana, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Consider reserving a table at Bar/Restaurant RUTA 66 as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Girona.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at La Pedra, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sunset Jazz Club offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Girona. McKiernans is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Girona, 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 Tarragona. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Basílica de Sant Feliu. This church is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Girona, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,189 visitors.

Girona Cathedral is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,744 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Muralles de Girona. Visitors have rated this city walls an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,195 reviews.

Ribes del Ter Park is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a park rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 303 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Castell de Sant Miquel (Gironès), perhaps the most famous castle in Girona. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,099 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Tarragona, 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 Tarragona. 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 an extraordinary dining experience at La Xarxa, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern and rice dishes menu. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, CReeA is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hotel Tarraco Park. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Tarragona tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Cube Night, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cafeteria Florida offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Tarragona. Bar Tolo is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Peníscola / Peñíscola. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Valencia. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Peníscola / Peñíscola. This car ride takes around 1 hour 29 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Bufador. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,367 visitors.

Next, make your way to El parc d'artilleria. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,485 reviews.

While in Peníscola / Peñíscola, 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.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Lighthouse of Peñiscola. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,438 travelers, this sightseeing destination is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Peníscola / Peñíscola.

Make your way to La Casa de las Petxines, perhaps the most famous sightseeing destination in Peníscola / Peñíscola. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,367 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Valencia, 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Valencia's best restaurants.

Start your culinary exploration in Valencia by securing a reservation at El Poblet. This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ricard Camarena, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Fierro, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Negrito, known for its lively atmosphere. Cafe de las Horas is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Valencia. You have 2 nights left in Valencia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

When you're ready to see some sights, City of Arts and Sciences is a great place to start. This tourist destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 125,881 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is L'Oceanogràfic. This public aquarium has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 76,085 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Mercado de Colón. The building has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 37,146 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.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Casa Montaña, a top-rated dining spot in Valencia. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at El Lleón bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Valencia.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Valencia. You’ll stay in Valencia for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Take the opportunity to see Plaça de la Mare de Déu. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,170 visitors.

Plaça de la Reina (València) is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 28,058 travelers.

Valencia is also the home of Mercat Central. Around 79,570 people have rated this market hall an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Llotja de la Seda. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 22,376 reviews, a visit to this lonja is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Valencia is also your chance to admire Valencia Cathedral. This must-visit catholic cathedral enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,457 reviews.

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 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Bar Vermudez, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10 is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Beer & Travels. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in 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 6 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 Valencia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Barcelona, where you will stay for 4 nights.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Valencia Bioparc. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,210 visitors.

Next, make your way to Quart Towers. This fortified tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,889 reviews.

While in Valencia, we also recommend a visit to Serrano Towers. This fortified tower has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,998 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Jardins del Real de València. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,212 travelers, this urban park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Valencia.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Barcelona. Barcelona 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 Barcelona, 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 Lasarte in Barcelona by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Lasarte offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore ABaC, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 3-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Cocina Hermanos Torres, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bobby's Free, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Torre Rosa also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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.

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Barcelona for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Park Güell. This sculpture garden is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 181,403 visitors.

Museu de la Ciència CosmoCaixa is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 37,537 visitors.

La Pedrera is also highly recommended by travelers. This monument has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 85,188 visitors.

Casa Batlló is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This tourist attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 125,060 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya. This art museum has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 28,394 travelers. This local favorite gets around 718,000 visitors each year.

You can learn more about Barcelona today by going on a tour. Barcelona offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Savor the flavors at ARTiSA Barcelona, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant El Foro beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Braseria La Selva Barcelona. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Barcelona tonight.

Keep the evening going at Dr Stravinsky, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to El Xampanyet, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Barcelona has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Barcelona by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Plaça de Catalunya. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 175,036 reviews.

Next up is Palau de la Música Catalana. This concert hall has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 40,217 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar. This church has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,464 reviews.

Parc de la Ciutadella is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This urban park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 68,100 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Museu Picasso. This art museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 28,171 reviews. Approximately 1,045,837 people come to see this attraction every year.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Barcelona has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Barcelona offers and add your favorites to your Spain travel package below.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at CocoVail Beer Hall - Craft Beer Barcelona, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try El Nacional? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ciutat Comtal as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Barcelona.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

Day 9 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Barcelona. You have 1 night left in Barcelona. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Make Mercado de La Boqueria one of your first sightseeing stops in Barcelona. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 160,835 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This fountain is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 85,986 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Poble Espanyol. This museum has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 32,691 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Palau Sant Jordi. A trip to this popular sightseeing destination is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 25,638 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Montjuïc Castle. This castle enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 50,433 local and international travelers.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Spain that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Barcelona has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Spain by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Elsa y Fred, a highly-rated dining destination in Barcelona. If you're eager to try something different, consider Antigua, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Viana Barcelona. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Barcelona this evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Barcelona. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Girona, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 62,263 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Aquàrium Barcelona. This aquarium has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 56,175 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Arc de Triomf. This triumphal arch has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,887 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Sagrada Família. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 226,955 visitors. Visiting Sagrada Família means you'll be one of 4,527,427 people who do so every year.

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

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Mimolet, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Saratoga Café beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant El Cul del Món. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Girona tonight.

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

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

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Girona’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Spain. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Spain forever.

Kick off the day at Pont Palanques Vermelles, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This bridge is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,071 reviews.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at TOFU Girona - Restaurant Fusió, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bagels & Beers is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Girona. 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!