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

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Girona and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Girona for 1 night 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.

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.

Find your way to your hotel in Girona. 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 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 harmony of flavors at El Celler de Can Roca in Girona by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, El Celler de Can Roca offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Massana, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Additionally, Bar/Restaurant RUTA 66 is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Girona.

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

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 - Girona. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Barcelona. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Museo de Historia de Girona. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 239 visitors.

Girona Cathedral is another popular attraction you could visit today. This church has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,744 visitors.

Arab Baths of Girona is also highly recommended by travelers. This hammam has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,574 visitors.

Basílica de Sant Feliu is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,189 reviews.

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.

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

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bobby's Free, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Torre Rosa. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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

Drop by the renowned Museu de la Ciència CosmoCaixa. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,537 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Park Güell. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 181,403 visitors, this sculpture garden deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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

Another favorite attraction in the area is La Pedrera. This monument and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 85,188 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Casa Batlló. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 125,060 travelers, this tourist attraction is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Barcelona.

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.

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

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

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.

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 4 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.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Montjuïc Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 50,433 reviews.

Continue your journey at Plaça Sant Jaume. This square is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 16,451 travelers from near and far.

Barcelona is also the home of Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 62,263 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Mercado de La Boqueria. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 160,835 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Plaça de Catalunya. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 175,036 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this square.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at CocoVail Beer Hall - Craft Beer Barcelona, 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 Nacional, 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 Ciutat Comtal, a hidden gem nestled in Barcelona. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Day 5 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 Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar one of your first sightseeing stops in Barcelona. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 33,464 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Museu Picasso is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This art museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 28,171 reviews. Up to 1,045,837 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Barcelona special.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Palau de la Música Catalana. This concert hall has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 40,217 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Arc de Triomf. A trip to this popular triumphal arch is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 77,887 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Parc de la Ciutadella. This urban park enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 68,100 local and international travelers.

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

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

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 Barcelona and Peníscola / Peñíscola. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valencia, where you will stay for 4 nights.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Aquàrium Barcelona. Previous visitors have rated this aquarium an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 56,175 reviews.

Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This fountain is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 85,986 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Peníscola / Peñíscola, 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 Barcelona to Peníscola / Peñíscola may take around 2 hours 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Peníscola / Peñíscola, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Peniscola Castle. This much-appreciated monument is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 61,572 reviews.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Valencia by booking a table at El Poblet, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience, Ricard Camarena shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious creative cuisine in Valencia. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Fierro is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Valencia. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Valencia, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Set your GPS to Alicante and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 57 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Alicante beckons with new experiences!

Make Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant one of your first sightseeing stops in Alicante. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,219 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Mercado Central de Alicante is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This building is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,503 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Santa Bárbara Castle. This castle has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 35,044 visitors.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Casa Montaña, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss El Lleón bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Valencia.

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

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

Make Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 37,810 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Mercado de Colón. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 37,146 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this building every year.

L'Oceanogràfic is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This public aquarium has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 76,085 visitors.

When you’re finished at L'Oceanogràfic, the perfect next stop is City of Arts and Sciences. This tourist destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 125,881 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.

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.

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

Day 9 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Valencia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Valencia Bioparc, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 43,210 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Parc de Capçalera. This urban park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,696 travelers.

Quart Towers is another must-visit attraction. This renowned fortified tower offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,889 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Serrano Towers. This well-loved fortified tower boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 39,998 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Jardins del Real de València awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing an urban park, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,212 previous visitors.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Restaurante Canela, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, A huevo Restaurante beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar Tonyina. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Valencia tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Valencia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Tarragona, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

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

Next, make your way to Llotja de la Seda. This top attraction is a lonja with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 22,376 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Plaça de la Mare de Déu. This square is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,170 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Valencia Cathedral. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,457 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Plaça de la Reina (València). This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 28,058 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Tarragona, 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Tarragona. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Tarragona by securing a reservation at La Xarxa. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and rice dishes cuisine. Alternatively, CReeA beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hotel Tarraco Park. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining 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.

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 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Tarragona and Monistrol de Montserrat. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Girona, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Roman circus of Tárraco. This popular chogang elementary school has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,761 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Balcó del Mediterrani. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,291 visitors, this scenic viewpoint deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Tarragona Amphitheatre. This roman amphitheatre has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,655 reviews.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Monistrol de Montserrat.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Santa Maria de Montserrat. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 43,881 visitors.

When you’re finished at Santa Maria de Montserrat, head to Montserrat. This one-of-a-kind natural feature is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,560 reviews.

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.

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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Mimolet, a top-rated dining spot in Girona. If you're in the mood for something new, try Saratoga Café, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant El Cul del Món. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Girona.

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 Girona before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Girona’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain. Take home a piece of Spain with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Pont Palanques Vermelles. This extraordinary bridge has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,071 visitors.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bagels & Beers, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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!