12-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Granada traveling east to Ubeda, Albacete, Valencia, Cuenca, Madrid, and Ciudad Real

On day 2 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 Granada. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ubeda, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the popular S. A. I. Catedral Metropolitana De La Encarnación, a picture-perfect church in Granada. Next, go to Mirador De San Nicolas, Granada.

After visiting S. A. I. Catedral Metropolitana De La Encarnación and Mirador De San Nicolas, Granada, take time to explore Granada's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Nasrid Palaces. This grand palace offers a unique experience. Palace Of Charles V is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Alhambra, one of the most UNESCO world heritage-listed places to visit in Granada.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Ubeda, 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 Ubeda's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Ubeda by securing a table at Cantina La Estación. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu.

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

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

When you’ve had your share of Ubeda, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Albacete. Your travel time is around 2 hours 31 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Museo Municipal De La Cuchillería De Albacete, a worthwhile museum known for its standout features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Passage Of Lodares, a frequently visited street that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Parque De Los Jardinillos and uncover the details of this visually striking park. Make sure to also explore Cathedral Of San Juan De Albacete, a curiosity-inducing church that offers a unique experience.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Albacete. Albacete offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Albacete by securing a reservation at Ababol. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, El Callejón de los Gatos boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar History. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Liverpool Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Torito provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Albacete, Alcalá del Júcar, and Almansa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Valencia, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Parque Félix Rodríguez De La Fuente. This frequently visited park is an enchanting place to see in Albacete.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Albacete, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Alcalá del Júcar may take around 48 min. Upon your arrival in Alcalá del Júcar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your journey at Castillo De Alcalá Del Júcar and explore the romantic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Alcalá del Júcar and set your GPS to Almansa. 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 54 min. Upon reaching Almansa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Castle Of Almansa is a curiosity-inducing castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Valencia. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Valencia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at El Poblet in Valencia by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, El Poblet delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ricard Camarena, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Fierro, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Pub Pasos, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Clann Bar Tapas provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Café Negrito offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Valencia for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Valencia, including a monument, a park, and an aquarium. Start your adventure at Quart Towers. This notable monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Serrano Towers located in Valencia for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Instal·lacions Dels Jardins Del Túria. Its noteworthy features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Jardins Del Real De València. This park has a mesmerizing appeal. For a change of pace, head to L'oceanogràfic. As one of the most widely recognized attractions in Valencia, this aquarium is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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

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 lovely dining experience at USUAL resto-bar, a popular restaurant in Valencia. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Valencia at Casa Ripoll, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restaurante La Cepa Vieja (Valencia). It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Valencia tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Cosmo Valencia, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Casa Pepe offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Cafe De Las Horas provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Start by visiting Parc De Capçalera, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Mercado De Colón, another must-visit landmark and notable market renowned for its history-steeped features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Valencia by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to City Of Arts And Sciences. This breathtaking science center is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 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 delightful dinner at Restaurant Helen Berger València, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Éter Valencia? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Casa Montaña as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Valencia.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Café Madrid Valencia, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Valencia, 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 Cuenca. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Valencia, including a food market, a historical landmark, a public square, a church and much more! Start your adventure at Mercat Central. This impressive food market is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Llotja De La Seda located in Valencia for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Plaça De La Mare De Déu. Its history-steeped features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Valencia Cathedral. This church has a historic appeal. For a change of pace, head to Plaça De La Reina (valència). As one of the most well-known attractions in Valencia, this public square is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cuenca, 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 Cuenca, 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 Olea Comedor, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern and fusion menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cuenca at Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

Keep the evening going at Bar Tu Rincón, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Café Hispano, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bogart, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 9 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Madrid. You’ll stay in Madrid for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Immerse yourself in Madrid’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Temple Of Debod. This enchanting monument is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the historic features of Plaza De España, a must-visit public square in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía, a top-rated museum. For a change of scene, check out Museo Del Prado, known for its photogenic features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Madrid. 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Alhambra, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante Alabaster is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Madrid tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Jazz Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, España Building offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out 1862 Dry Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 Madrid. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ciudad Real, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Madrid, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Main Square, an iconic public square in the city. Then, head to Market Of San Miguel and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable food market.

There are many interesting places to see in Madrid and when you are ready for more, go to Royal Palace Of Madrid. This is one of the city’s most globally renowned spots. After exploring the palace, visit the widely recognized Puerta De Alcalá. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the world-famous El Retiro Park, a world-famous park in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ciudad Real. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Mesón Octavio in Ciudad Real by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Mesón Octavio offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious traditional menu.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Jaen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Granada. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Jaen. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await.

Jaen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ciudad Real behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 4 min. Jaen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Centro Cultural Palacio De Villardompardo. Spend some time admiring the heritage-rich features of the cultural center before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Castillo De Santa Catalina. This curiosity-inducing castle is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Andrés De Vandelvira Park. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park. Next, continue your journey to Jaén Cathedral, a locally appreciated church.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Granada, 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 Granada's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely meal at El Trillo Restaurante Granada, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Provincias is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bar los diamantes. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Granada tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Candela, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Soria is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Continental Café Pub Granada also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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