12-Day Spain Road Trip from Valencia to Tarragona, Girona, Barcelona, and Vilanova i la Geltru

Welcome to Valencia, 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 Valencia's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Valencia 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 Mercado de Colón 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 Valencia. 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 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at El Poblet in Valencia by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, El Poblet offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ricard Camarena, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Fierro, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Café Negrito, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cafe de las Horas is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

Day 2 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.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Valencia Bioparc. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,210 visitors.

When you’re finished at Valencia Bioparc, head to L'Oceanogràfic. This one-of-a-kind public aquarium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 76,085 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit City of Arts and Sciences. This tourist destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 125,881 visitors.

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

As 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Casa Montaña, a top-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at El Lleón bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect 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 3 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.

Make Plaça de la Mare de Déu your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,170 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Valencia Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 22,457 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this catholic cathedral every year.

Plaça de la Reina (València) is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 28,058 visitors.

When you’re finished at Plaça de la Reina (València), the perfect next stop is Llotja de la Seda. This lonja is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,376 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Mercat Central. This market hall is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 79,570 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.

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 delicious dinner at Bar Vermudez, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10 offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Beer & Travels. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Valencia.

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

On day 4 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 Valencia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tarragona, where you will stay for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Quart Towers. This fortified tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,889 reviews.

Continue your journey at Serrano Towers. This fortified tower is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,998 travelers from near and far.

Valencia is also the home of Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 37,810 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Jardín de Monforte. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,880 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Jardins del Real de València. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,212 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this urban park.

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.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Tarragona by securing a reservation at La Xarxa. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of modern and rice dishes cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of CReeA, a popular restaurant in Tarragona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hotel Tarraco Park, a hidden gem nestled in Tarragona. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Cube Night stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Cafeteria Florida offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Tolo is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Tarragona, Santa Pau, and Besalú, 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 Girona. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Roman circus of Tárraco is a great place to start. This chogang elementary school is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,761 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Balcó del Mediterrani. This scenic viewpoint has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,291 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Tarragona Amphitheatre. The roman amphitheatre has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,655 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Tarragona, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Santa Pau. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 26 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Parc Natural de la Zona Volcànica de la Garrotxa. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,685 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Girona. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Girona by securing a reservation at El Celler de Can Roca. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Massana, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Also, consider Bar/Restaurant RUTA 66. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Girona tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La Pedra, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sunset Jazz Club is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, McKiernans provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Girona and Figueres. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Barcelona, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Pont Palanques Vermelles. This bridge is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,071 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.

Parc de la Devesa is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,109 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Girona, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Figueres. Your travel time is around 35 min.

Kick off the day at Dalí Theatre and Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,341 reviews.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Lasarte in Barcelona by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Lasarte delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at ABaC, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 3-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Cocina Hermanos Torres, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.

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.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Barcelona. You’ll stay in Barcelona for 3 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 Poble Espanyol. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars in 32,691 reviews.

Next up is Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 28,394 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya welcomes 718,000 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. This fountain has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 85,986 reviews.

Aquàrium Barcelona is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This aquarium has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 56,175 reviews.

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

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

Dine in style at ARTiSA Barcelona, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant El Foro boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Braseria La Selva Barcelona. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Barcelona.

Continue your lively evening at Dr Stravinsky, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. El Xampanyet is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Barcelona for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make Museu de la Ciència CosmoCaixa one of your first sightseeing stops in Barcelona. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,537 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Park Güell is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This sculpture garden is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 181,403 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Sagrada Família. This minor basilica has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 226,955 visitors. Up to 4,527,427 people travel to this site annually.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to La Pedrera. A trip to this popular monument is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 85,188 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Casa Batlló. This tourist attraction enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 125,060 local and international travelers.

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 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at CocoVail Beer Hall - Craft Beer Barcelona, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, El Nacional is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ciutat Comtal. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Barcelona 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 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Barcelona has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Barcelona by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Palau Sant Jordi. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 25,638 visitors.

Next, make your way to Montjuïc Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 50,433 reviews.

While in Barcelona, we also recommend a visit to Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar. This church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,464 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Mercado de La Boqueria. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 160,835 travelers, this point of interest is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Barcelona.

Make your way to Plaça de Catalunya, perhaps the most famous square in Barcelona. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 175,036 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 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.

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.

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.

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 - Barcelona and Monistrol de Montserrat. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Vilanova i la Geltru. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia. This much-appreciated catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 62,263 reviews.

Next up is Palau de la Música Catalana. This concert hall has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 40,217 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Arc de Triomf. This triumphal arch has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 77,887 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.

Monistrol de Montserrat welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Santa Maria de Montserrat. This church building is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Monistrol de Montserrat, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 43,881 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Vilanova i la Geltru, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Vilanova i la Geltru.

Dine in style at Pizzería Xic 86, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bar Restaurant Izan boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Bien Pagá. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Vilanova i la Geltru.

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 11 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Peníscola / Peñíscola. 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 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Vilanova i la Geltru and set your GPS to Peníscola / Peñíscola. 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 1 min. Upon reaching Peníscola / Peñíscola, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Església de l'Ermitana. This popular church has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 152 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Peniscola Castle. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 61,572 visitors, this monument deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Lighthouse of Peñiscola. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,438 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is La Casa de las Petxines. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,367 local and international travelers.

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

As 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 fantastic dining experience at Restaurante Canela, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, A huevo Restaurante offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bar Tonyina is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Valencia.

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

As you approach the end of your journey in Spain, take a moment for some retail therapy in Valencia’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Spain, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Spain with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

Take the opportunity to see Plaça de l'Ajuntament. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,316 visitors.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante Genuina, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Valencia. 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!