12-Day Spain Road Trip from Madrid traveling east to Cuenca, Valencia, Murcia, and Albacete

Welcome to Madrid, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Madrid's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Madrid 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 plaza de España 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 Madrid. 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 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at El miniBAR, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Areia. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Madrid.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cafe Madrid, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is 1862 Dry Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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

Take the opportunity to see Casa de Campo. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 50,826 visitors.

Zoo Aquarium de Madrid is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 33,779 travelers.

Madrid is also the home of Royal Palace of Madrid. Around 77,471 people have rated this royal palace an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Market of San Miguel. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from a total of 106,296 reviews, a visit to this building is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Madrid is also your chance to admire Main Square. This must-visit square enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 152,388 reviews.

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.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Madrid by reserving a table at DiverXO. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Smoked Room, recognized for its delicious contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Paco Roncero, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Madrid. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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 3 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.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This much-appreciated association football venue is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 120,158 reviews.

Next up is Círculo de Bellas Artes. This movie theater has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,540 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Museo del Prado. This art museum has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 98,929 reviews. Every year, 3,497,345 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 46,855 reviews. This popular attraction gets 1 visit every year.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Temple of Debod. This egyptian temple is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,446 reviews.

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

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

Dine in style at BiBo Dani García, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Malacatín boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Pum Pum Café. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Madrid.

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

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. This art museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Madrid, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 32,846 visitors. Around 671,078 people visit this attraction every year.

Puerta de Alcalá is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 43,833 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Great Pond of El Retiro. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 22,242 reviews.

El Retiro Park is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an urban park rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 162,386 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Crystal Palace, perhaps the most famous building in Madrid. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,270 travelers.

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 Cuenca. Cuenca 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.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Cuenca by reserving a table at Olea Comedor. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern, and fusion menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Café Hispano, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bogart is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, CAFE BAR PRINCESA is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Cuenca, and Chelva, 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 Valencia. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.

Kick off the day at Castilla-La Mancha Paleontological Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This fossil museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,372 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Science Museum of Castilla La Mancha. Science Museum of Castilla La Mancha is a museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,072 reviews.

San Pablo Bridge is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,784 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cuenca, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Chelva. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Ruta de l'Aigua, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,911 reviews.

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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at El Poblet, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ricard Camarena, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Valencia is Fierro, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café Negrito stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Cafe de las Horas offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Valencia. You have 3 nights left in Valencia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

When you're ready to see some sights, Plaça de l'Ajuntament is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,316 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Mercado de Colón. This building has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 37,146 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at L'Oceanogràfic. The public aquarium has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 76,085 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting City of Arts and Sciences. This tourist destination is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 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. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Casa Montaña, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at El Lleón bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Valencia tonight.

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

Day 7 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Valencia Bioparc. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 43,210 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Quart Towers. This fortified tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,889 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Serrano Towers. This fortified tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,998 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 37,810 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Jardins del Real de València. This urban park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,212 visitors.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bar Vermudez, a highly-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Beer & Travels. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Valencia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Plaça de la Mare de Déu. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,170 visitors.

Next, make your way to Valencia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,457 reviews.

While in Valencia, we also recommend a visit to Plaça de la Reina (València). This square has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 28,058 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Llotja de la Seda. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 22,376 travelers, this lonja is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Valencia.

Make your way to Mercat Central, perhaps the most famous market hall in Valencia. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 79,570 reviews.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Valencia 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 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 reserve a table at Restaurante Canela, 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 A huevo Restaurante, 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 Bar Tonyina, a hidden gem nestled in Valencia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of el Castell de Guadalest, and Alicante. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Murcia, which will be your home away from home 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 el Castell de Guadalest. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 53 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make El Castell de Guadalest your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this municipality of spain an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,496 reviews.

Set your GPS to Alicante and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 56 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Alicante beckons with new experiences!

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.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Perro Limón, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible fusion menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cabaña Buenavista is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Murcia. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Almo. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Keep the evening going at El Bosque Animado, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Culturas, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is BarAltea, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Murcia, and Cartagena. 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Real Casino de Murcia, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,805 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Murcia's Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,947 travelers.

Plaza de las Flores is another must-visit attraction. This renowned square offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,389 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cartagena. This car ride takes around 42 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Roman theatre of Cartagena. This archaeological site is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cartagena, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,504 visitors.

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.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Albacete by booking a table at Ababol, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante Sublime, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

On day 11 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 Toledo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Madrid, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Toledo, 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 Albacete to Toledo may take around 2 hours 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Toledo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Zocodover. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,930 visitors.

Next, make your way to Alcázar of Toledo. This top attraction is an alcázar with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,193 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo. This church is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,938 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Madrid, 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 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.

Savor the flavors at Sagaretxe, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Arrabal Madrid beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Taberna El Sur. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Madrid tonight.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg 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 Madrid 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, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Madrid's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Spain.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Western Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 28,992 visitors.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Madrid. 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!