12-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Valencia to Cuenca, Madrid, Zaragoza, Barcelona, and Tarragona

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Valencia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cuenca, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Valencia is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a food market, an aquarium, and a science center. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the astonishing Mercat Central. Just a short distance away is L'oceanogràfic, an eye-catching aquarium that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to City Of Arts And Sciences, one of the city’s most world-famous spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cuenca by booking a table at Olea Comedor, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern and fusion menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Tu Rincón, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Café Hispano offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cuenca. Bogart is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Toledo, 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 Madrid. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Toledo. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 54 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

San Martin's Bridge is a captivating monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour to Alcázar Of Toledo, a picture-perfect castle that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada De Toledo, a picture-perfect church.

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.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Madrid by securing a reservation at DiverXO. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Smoked Room, renowned for its delicious contemporary dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Paco Roncero, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Keep the evening going at Bar Yambala, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Cafe Madrid, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Madrid, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Madrid for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Segovia and Madrid to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Immerse yourself in Madrid’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Plaza De España. This historic public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Puerta De Alcalá, a must-visit monument 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 El Retiro Park, a globally renowned park.

When you’ve had your share of Madrid, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Segovia. Your travel time is around 1 hour 16 min.

Begin your journey at Alcázar Of Segovia and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Aqueduct Of Segovia, another highlight in the city.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Madrid.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Alhambra, a top-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante Alabaster, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Jazz Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out España Building, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, 1862 Dry Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Madrid for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Madrid today. One of the most iconic attractions included on the itinerary is Royal Palace Of Madrid. This culturally significant palace will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Market Of San Miguel and learn what makes this photogenic food market unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the wondrous Main Square. After exploring the public square, head to Museo Del Prado. This wondrous museum is a highlight in Madrid.

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 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.

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

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

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 Madrid and Torija. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zaragoza, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Madrid covers several incredible sights, including a cultural center and a stadium. Start your adventure at Círculo De Bellas Artes. This captivating cultural center is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, a must-see stadium in the city.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Torija, 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 Madrid to Torija may take around 52 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Torija, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Head to Castle Of Torija, a curiosity-inducing castle in Torija. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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 Zaragoza. Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Gente Rara, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Cancook, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Zaragoza is La Prensa, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious contemporary menu.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Zaragoza and Manresa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Barcelona, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Zaragoza, including a public square, an archeological site, and a church. Start your adventure at San Felipe Square. This up-and-coming public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Ancient Roman Wall Of Zaragoza located in Zaragoza for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar. Its stunning features will captivate you.

After soaking in Zaragoza’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Manresa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 35 min. When you arrive in Manresa, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your journey at Parc De L'agulla and explore the romantic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Barcelona. 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 Barcelona. 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 Lasarte, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, ABaC is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Barcelona. This 3-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Cocina Hermanos Torres. As a top-rated establishment with 3 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Casa Gràcia, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bloody Mary Cocktail Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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

Get ready for a day filled with a charming, a gorgeous, a picture-perfect, a historically significant, a majestic, a remarkable, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and a stunning in the charming city of Barcelona. Your adventure starts at Park Güell, a wondrous local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Casa Batlló. This world-famous museum is known for its history-steeped appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Barcelona's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to La Pedrera. This picture-perfect museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Sagrada Família is also worth visiting, along with Palau De La Música Catalana. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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 Barcelona. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Gallery Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Barcelona. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Prado De Flores. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Barcelona this evening.

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

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

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

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a visually striking, a gorgeous, a standout, an inviting, and a culturally significant. Whether you decide to explore Barcelona on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Mercat De La Boqueria is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking food market before continuing your journey. Cathedral Of The Holy Cross And Saint Eulalia is your next stop. This widely recognized church is one of the best-rated sights in Barcelona.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Plaça De Catalunya. This breathtaking public square is a sight to behold.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Els 4Gats, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bar El Born? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ocaña as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Barcelona.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Manchester, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dry Martini offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Barcelona. Icebarcelona is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 1 vibrant destinations - Barcelona. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tarragona. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Barcelona promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Basílica De Santa Maria Del Mar. This history-steeped church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Parc De La Ciutadella, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Arc De Triomf, one of the city’s most astonishing attractions, known for its culturally significant features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Tarragona, 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 Tarragona. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Tarragona by reserving a table at La Xarxa. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and rice dishes menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Àncora del Serrallo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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

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 Peníscola / Peñíscola. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valencia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Tarragona includes an archeological site and an observation deck. Roman Circus Of Tárraco is must-visit archeological site and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Tarragona Amphitheatre, a popular archeological site, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Balcó Del Mediterrani, a picture-perfect observation deck, also available for your discovery today.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Tarragona, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Peníscola / Peñíscola. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 33 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Lighthouse Of Peñiscola is a beloved lighthouse we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour to Peniscola Castle, a visually striking castle that’s well-regarded in the area.

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 Valencia. Valencia 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 Valencia's best restaurants.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Valencia by securing a table at El Poblet. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ricard Camarena, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Fierro, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Valencia. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Cosmo Valencia, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Casa Pepe is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cafe De Las Horas ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!