12-Day Spain Road Trip from Alicante to Murcia, Benidorm, and Valencia and surrounding area

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 1 night 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 Parc Canalejas 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.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mish Mish, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Dàrsena offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Alicante.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Café-Pub Bubyston, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Canibal Lounge Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, AUSTIN is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Alicante. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Murcia. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Alicante’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Murcia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 55 min. When you arrive in Murcia, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable church has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,219 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Mercado Central de Alicante is a recommended place to visit. This building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 24,503 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Alicante is Santa Bárbara Castle. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 35,044 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Alicante offers an experience you will remember.

Archaeological Museum of Alicante is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Alicante. This archaeological museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,768 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Parc El Palmeral. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,211 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Murcia, 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 Murcia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make sure to book a table at Restaurante El Churra, a popular restaurant in Murcia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Murcia at El Pasaje de Belluga, 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 Restaurante Hispano. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Murcia tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting El Bosque Animado after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Culturas, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, BarAltea also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Murcia. You have 2 nights left in Murcia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Drop by the renowned El Valle Golf. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,089 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Paseo del Malecón. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,089 visitors, this allée deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Plaza de las Flores. This square has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,389 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Real Casino de Murcia. This museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,805 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Murcia's Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,947 travelers, this catholic cathedral is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Murcia.

Your discoveries in Murcia do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Murcia on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at Kokoro gastro sushi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cosa Fina GastroBar de Manolo Castro boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Tapeoteca. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Murcia.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Parliament Bar Murcia, a prime location for a drink.

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

On day 4 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Puente de los Peligros. This bridge is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,754 visitors.

Museo Hidráulico Los Molinos del Río Segura is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 281 visitors.

Jardín de Floridablanca is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,929 visitors.

Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Fuensanta is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,552 reviews.

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

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.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at SteakBurger, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Las Flores Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Cervecería Tira la caña. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Murcia tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Cartagena, 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 Benidorm. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Cartagena’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Murcia behind. This drive usually takes around 42 min. Cartagena welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Estatua Icue. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,302 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Roman theatre of Cartagena. This archaeological site has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,504 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Naval Museum Cartagena. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,771 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit National Museum of Underwater Archaeology. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,845 visitors.

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.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Spasso Benidorm | Italian Restaurant - Pizzeria, a top-rated dining spot in Benidorm. If you're in the mood for something new, try Costa Coffee - Benidorm Playa, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hotel RH Victoria & Spa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Benidorm.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Ku lounge cafe.

Say good night to Benidorm and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 Benidorm. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valencia, where you will stay for 5 nights.

Set your GPS to Valencia and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Valencia beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Plaça Triangular. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,047 reviews.

Continue your journey at Parc de L'Aigüera. This park is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 2,390 travelers from near and far.

Benidorm is also the home of Aqualandia. This amusement park has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 16,542 visitors.

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.

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.

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Ubik Cafè Cafeteria Llibreria, a highly-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're eager to try something different, consider USUAL resto-bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Éter Valencia. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Café Negrito is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cafe de las Horas, offering a different kind of charm.

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 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Valencia has to offer. Cherish the 4 nights you have left in Valencia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Journey into the unknown at L'Oceanogràfic, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable public aquarium has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 76,085 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, City of Arts and Sciences is a recommended place to visit. This tourist destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 125,881 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Valencia is Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,710 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Valencia offers an experience you will remember.

Parc Central is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Valencia. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,326 reviews.

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 Valencia 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.

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

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. This awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal. Make sure to reserve a table at Casa Montaña, an iconic dining spot in Valencia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo, a popular restaurant in Valencia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of El Lleón bar, a hidden gem nestled in Valencia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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.

Next up, make a stop at Mercat Central. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 79,570 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this market hall every year.

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

When you’re finished at Quart Towers, the perfect next stop is CCCC (Centre del Carme Cultura Contemporània). This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,611 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Serrano Towers. This fortified tower is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,998 reviews.

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

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.

Make sure to book a table at Bar Vermudez, a popular restaurant in Valencia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Valencia at Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10, 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 Beer & Travels. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Valencia tonight.

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

Day 9 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Mercado de Colón. This building is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 37,146 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Museu Nacional de Ceràmica i de les Arts Sumptuàries Gonzàlez Martí. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,381 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Plaça de la Reina (València). This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 28,058 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Valencia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 22,457 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Plaça de la Mare de Déu. This square is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,170 visitors.

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.

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

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous 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.

On day 10 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.

Make Valencia Bioparc one of your first sightseeing stops in Valencia. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,210 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Parc de Capçalera is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This urban park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,696 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Jardín de Monforte. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,880 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 37,810 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Jardins del Real de València. This urban park enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,212 local and international travelers.

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.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at Racó del Túria, an iconic dining spot in Valencia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurante Genuina, a popular restaurant in Valencia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Central Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Valencia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Elche. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Alicante, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Valencia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Elche. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 55 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Huerto del Cura. Previous visitors have rated this garden an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,389 reviews.

Plaça de la Glorieta is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,275 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is El Palmerar. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,060 reviews.

Parc Municipal is another outstanding experience in Elche. Around 3,887 travelers have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Basílica de Santa Maria is not far away. This church is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,510 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Alicante, 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 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.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at La Taberna del Gourmet, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Heladería Borgonesse is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Piripi. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Alicante tonight.

Continue your lively evening at 26 Cocktail Room, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

Day 12 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.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Alicante’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Spain. Keep the spirit of your trip to Spain alive with these special souvenirs.

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!