12-Day Spain Road Trip from Alicante traveling east to Valencia, Barcelona, Tarragona, and Teruel

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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Alicante. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Alicante by securing a reservation at Tabula Rasa. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Baeza & Rufete, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Experience the culinary magic of LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR, a hidden gem nestled in Alicante. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Café-Pub Bubyston, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Canibal Lounge Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, AUSTIN ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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 Valencia. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Mercado Central de Alicante. This extraordinary building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,503 visitors.

Next, make your way to Santa Bárbara Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 35,044 reviews.

While in Alicante, we also recommend a visit to Archaeological Museum of Alicante. This archaeological museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,768 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Les Cigarreres. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,054 travelers, this sightseeing destination is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Alicante.

Make your way to Parc El Palmeral, perhaps the most famous park in Alicante. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,211 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Valencia by securing a reservation at El Poblet. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ricard Camarena, renowned for its delicious creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Fierro, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café Negrito, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cafe de las Horas offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Valencia.

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

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Valencia has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Valencia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Journey into the unknown at Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 37,810 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Mercado de Colón is a recommended place to visit. This building is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 37,146 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Valencia is L'Oceanogràfic. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 76,085 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Valencia offers an experience you will remember.

City of Arts and Sciences is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Valencia. This tourist destination promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 125,881 reviews.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Valencia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Barcelona, where you’ll be staying for 5 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Mercat Central. This market hall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 79,570 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Plaça de la Reina (València). This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 28,058 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Plaça de la Mare de Déu. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,170 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Serrano Towers. This fortified tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,998 visitors.

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

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Lasarte, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 3-star Michelin-awardee, ABaC, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Barcelona is Cocina Hermanos Torres, a renowned restaurant , known for its delicious creative menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bobby's Free provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Torre Rosa offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Figueres, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Barcelona for 4 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Figueres and Besalú to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Figueres. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Dalí Theatre and Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,341 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Toy museum of Catalonia is a recommended place to visit. This toy museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,323 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Figueres, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Besalú. This drive usually takes around 25 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Besalú Bridge. This bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,969 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at ARTiSA Barcelona, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant El Foro offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Braseria La Selva Barcelona. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Barcelona.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Dr Stravinsky, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out El Xampanyet, a bar that offers unique local touches.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Barcelona for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Take the opportunity to see Poble Espanyol. This attraction has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 32,691 visitors.

Mercado de La Boqueria is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 160,835 travelers.

Barcelona is also the home of Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia. Around 62,263 people have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Palau de la Música Catalana. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 40,217 reviews, a visit to this concert hall is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Barcelona is also your chance to admire Arc de Triomf. This must-visit triumphal arch enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,887 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at CocoVail Beer Hall - Craft Beer Barcelona, a popular restaurant in Barcelona. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Barcelona at El Nacional, 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 Ciutat Comtal. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Barcelona tonight.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Barcelona. You’ll stay in Barcelona for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Montjuïc Castle. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 50,433 reviews.

Next up is Aquàrium Barcelona. This aquarium has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 56,175 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.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Elsa y Fred, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Antigua beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Viana Barcelona. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Barcelona tonight.

Say good night to Barcelona and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!

Day 8 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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Museu de la Ciència CosmoCaixa. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 37,537 visitors.

Next, make your way to Park Güell. This sculpture garden is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 181,403 reviews.

While in Barcelona, we also recommend a visit to Sagrada Família. Hosting around 4,527,427 visitors every year, Sagrada Família is one of the best places to visit. This minor basilica has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 226,955 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to La Pedrera. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 85,188 travelers, this monument is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Barcelona.

Make your way to Casa Batlló, perhaps the most famous tourist attraction in Barcelona. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 125,060 reviews.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Barcelona on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at BORO Bar, an iconic dining spot in Barcelona. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of El Bosc de Les Fades, a popular restaurant in Barcelona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Disfrutar, a hidden gem nestled in Barcelona. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

On day 9 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 Barcelona and Monistrol de Montserrat. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tarragona, where you will stay for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Plaça de Catalunya. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 175,036 visitors.

Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This fountain has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 85,986 travelers.

Barcelona is also the home of Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya. This art museum gets more than 718,000 visitors on an annual basis. Around 28,394 people have rated this art museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Palau Sant Jordi. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 25,638 reviews, a visit to this sightseeing destination is a great idea.

Set your GPS to Monistrol de Montserrat and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Monistrol de Montserrat beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Santa Maria de Montserrat. This much-appreciated church building is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 43,881 reviews.

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

Continue your lively evening at The Cube Night, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cafeteria Florida is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Tolo ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Tarragona and Peníscola / Peñíscola, 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 Teruel. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Make Tarragona Amphitheatre one of your first sightseeing stops in Tarragona. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,655 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Balcó del Mediterrani is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This scenic viewpoint is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,291 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Peníscola / Peñíscola. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Bufador. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,367 visitors.

Next, make your way to Peniscola Castle. This top attraction is a monument with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 61,572 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Teruel, 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Teruel.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Benidorm, el Castell de Guadalest, and la Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Alicante, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Teruel and set your GPS to Benidorm. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 56 min. Upon reaching Benidorm, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready to see some sights, Plaça Triangular is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,047 visitors.

After soaking in Benidorm’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: el Castell de Guadalest. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 31 min. When you arrive in el Castell de Guadalest, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like El Castell de Guadalest. This extraordinary municipality of spain has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,496 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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Taberna del Gourmet, a highly-rated dining destination in Alicante. If you're eager to try something different, consider Heladería Borgonesse, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Piripi. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Alicante this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, 26 Cocktail Room stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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

Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Alicante’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Spain, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Spain home with you through these charming souvenirs.

Drop by the renowned El Carrer dels Bolets. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,121 visitors.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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!