11-Day Spain Road Trip from Valencia traveling south to Benidorm, Alicante, Cartagena, and Murcia

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Valencia and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Valencia for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Valencia 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 Mercado de Colón 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 Valencia. 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 Valencia. 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 taste of local culinary excellence while in Valencia by securing a table at El Poblet. Esteemed as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ricard Camarena, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Fierro, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Valencia. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Keep the evening going at Café Negrito, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Cafe de las Horas, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Valencia. You’ll stay in Valencia for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like L'Oceanogràfic. This extraordinary public aquarium has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 76,085 visitors.

Next, make your way to City of Arts and Sciences. This tourist destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 125,881 reviews.

While in Valencia, we also recommend a visit to Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia. This opera house has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,710 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Quart Towers. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,889 travelers, this fortified tower is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Valencia.

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

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.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Valencia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make Valencia Bioparc your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 43,210 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Parc de Capçalera. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,696 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this urban park every year.

Serrano 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 39,998 visitors.

When you’re finished at Serrano Towers, the perfect next stop is Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 37,810 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Jardins del Real de València. This urban park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,212 reviews.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bar Vermudez, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Beer & Travels as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Valencia.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Valencia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Benidorm, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Plaça de la Reina (València). This much-appreciated square is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 28,058 reviews.

Next up is Valencia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,457 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Plaça de la Mare de Déu. This square has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,170 reviews.

Llotja de la Seda is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This lonja has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,376 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Mercat Central. This market hall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 79,570 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Benidorm. Benidorm 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.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Spasso Benidorm | Italian Restaurant - Pizzeria, an iconic dining spot in Benidorm. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Costa Coffee - Benidorm Playa, a popular restaurant in Benidorm. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hotel RH Victoria & Spa, a hidden gem nestled in Benidorm. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Ku lounge cafe, where the evening is just getting started.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 1 vibrant destinations - Benidorm. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Alicante. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Make Plaça Triangular one of your first sightseeing stops in Benidorm. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,047 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Parc de L'Aigüera is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 2,390 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Aqualandia. This amusement park has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 16,542 visitors.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Tabula Rasa, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Baeza & Rufete is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Alicante. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. You could also check for a table at LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Alicante tonight.

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

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Alicante, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

After soaking in Alicante’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Elche. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 26 min. When you arrive in Elche, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to El Palmerar. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,060 reviews.

Next up is Parc Municipal. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,887 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Huerto del Cura. This garden has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,389 reviews.

Río Safari Elche is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This zoo has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 7,640 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Santa Pola. This car ride takes around 11 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Castillo-Fortaleza de Santa Pola. This castle is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,221 visitors.

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.

Make sure to book a table at La Taberna del Gourmet, a popular restaurant in Alicante. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Alicante at Heladería Borgonesse, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Restaurant Piripi. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Alicante tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at 26 Cocktail Room, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Alicante, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate village. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in el Castell de Guadalest, la Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa, Busot, and Alicante. You still have 1 night left in Alicante.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Parc El Palmeral. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,211 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Alicante, you’ll hit the road in the direction of el Castell de Guadalest. This drive usually takes around 1 hour. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is El Castell de Guadalest. Previous visitors have rated this municipality of spain an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,496 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. La Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa, 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 el Castell de Guadalest to la Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa may take around 34 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in la Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Valor Chocolate Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,990 visitors.

When you’re finished at Valor Chocolate Museum, head to Les Casas de Colors. This one-of-a-kind sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,460 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Busot, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Busot, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Drop by the renowned Canelobre Caves. This popular cave has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,377 visitors.

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

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

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.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Alicante and Guardamar del Segura. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cartagena, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,219 visitors.

Mercado Central de Alicante is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This building has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 24,503 travelers.

Alicante is also the home of Santa Bárbara Castle. Around 35,044 people have rated this castle an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Archaeological Museum of Alicante. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 8,768 reviews, a visit to this archaeological museum is a great idea.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Alicante, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Guardamar del Segura. This drive usually takes around 45 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Reina Sofía Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,025 reviews.

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

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cartagena by reserving a table at Magoga. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of contemporary and traditional cuisine. Looking for something different? Omkara offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante Magoga. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight 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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Cartagena 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 Murcia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Make Museo Foro Romano. Molinete. Your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,591 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Roman theatre of Cartagena. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,504 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this archaeological site every year.

Parque de Alfonso Torres is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,477 visitors.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, El Bosque Animado offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Culturas is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. BarAltea is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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 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 Murcia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valencia, where you will stay for 1 night.

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.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Puente de los Peligros. This bridge is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,754 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Jardín de Floridablanca. This famous park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,929 travelers.

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

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

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

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg 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 Valencia 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 Valencia’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.

Make Plaça de l'Ajuntament your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,316 reviews.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Racó del Túria, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurante Genuina offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Valencia. 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!