13-Day Spain Road Trip from Alicante to Murcia, Cartagena, and Valencia and surrounding area

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

Alicante 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 Canalejas 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 Alicante. 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 Alicante. 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 Tabula Rasa in Alicante by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Tabula Rasa offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Baeza & Rufete, 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, LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Alicante.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café-Pub Bubyston after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Canibal Lounge Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, AUSTIN is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-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 - Alicante. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Murcia. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant. This extraordinary church has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,219 visitors.

Next, make your way to Mercado Central de Alicante. This building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 24,503 reviews.

While in Alicante, we also recommend a visit to Santa Bárbara Castle. This castle has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 35,044 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Archaeological Museum of Alicante. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,768 travelers, this archaeological museum is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Alicante.

Make your way to Parc El Palmeral, perhaps the most famous park in Alicante. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,211 reviews.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Murcia by reserving a table at Perro Limón. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of fusion cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Cabaña Buenavista, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Almo, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Murcia.

Continue your lively evening at El Bosque Animado, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Culturas is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, BarAltea ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Murcia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Murcia's Cathedral. This extraordinary catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,947 visitors.

Next, make your way to Real Casino de Murcia. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,805 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Plaza de las Flores. This square is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,389 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Puente de los Peligros. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,754 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Jardín de Floridablanca. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,929 travelers.

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.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Kokoro gastro sushi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cosa Fina GastroBar de Manolo Castro is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Tapeoteca. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Murcia tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Parliament Bar Murcia, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, San Pedro del Pinatar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cartagena, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Murcia, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of San Pedro del Pinatar. Your travel time is around 40 min.

Make Mud baths in San Pedro del Pinatar one of your first sightseeing stops in San Pedro del Pinatar. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,174 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Las charcas is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,180 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,186 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cartagena, 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 Cartagena. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Cartagena by securing a reservation at Magoga. This renowned restaurant offers an exceptional menu of contemporary and traditional cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Omkara boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurante Magoga. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cartagena.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Mostacho Café Bar III after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to El escondite, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Sol also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cartagena has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Cartagena by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to National Museum of Underwater Archaeology. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,845 reviews.

Next up is Roman theatre of Cartagena. This archaeological site has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,504 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Barco Turístico. This point of interest has been rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 957 reviews.

Batería de Castillitos is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,055 reviews.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Cartagena on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

As you explore more of Cartagena, 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 Restaurante La Taranta, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, El Trovador beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante la sella cartagena. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cartagena tonight.

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

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Guardamar del Segura and Elche. 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 6 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cartagena, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Guardamar del Segura. This drive usually takes around 56 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Reina Sofía Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,025 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Guardamar del Segura and set your GPS to Elche. 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 31 min. Upon reaching Elche, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Huerto del Cura. This garden is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Elche, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,389 visitors.

Plaça de la Glorieta is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,275 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to El Palmerar. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,060 reviews.

Parc Municipal is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a park rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,887 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 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 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 , it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Café Negrito, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cafe de las Horas, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Valencia. You’ll stay in Valencia for 5 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Drop by the renowned L'Oceanogràfic. This popular public aquarium has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 76,085 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is City of Arts and Sciences. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 125,881 visitors, this tourist destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia. This opera house has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,710 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Mercado de Colón. This building and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 37,146 local and international travelers.

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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Casa Montaña, 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 La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo, 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 El Lleón bar, a hidden gem nestled in Valencia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Valencia. You have 4 nights left in Valencia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Serrano Towers, a remarkable fortified tower where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,998 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Mercat Central. This market hall has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 79,570 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 Parc de Capçalera. This well-loved urban park boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 9,696 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Valencia Bioparc awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a zoo, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,210 previous 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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Bar Vermudez, a top-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Beer & Travels. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.

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

Day 9 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Valencia for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Plaça de la Mare de Déu. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,170 visitors.

When you’re finished at Plaça de la Mare de Déu, head to Valencia Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,457 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Plaça de la Reina (València). This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 28,058 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Museu Nacional de Ceràmica i de les Arts Sumptuàries Gonzàlez Martí. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,381 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Plaça de l'Ajuntament. This famous square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,316 travelers.

You can learn more about Valencia today by going on a tour. Valencia offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Make sure to book a table at Restaurante Canela, a popular restaurant in Valencia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Valencia at A huevo Restaurante, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Bar Tonyina. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Valencia tonight.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!

Day 10 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Gulliver park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Valencia, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 20,520 visitors.

Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 37,810 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Jardins del Real de València. Visitors have rated this urban park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,212 reviews.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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 delicious meal at Racó del Túria, a highly-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante Genuina, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Central Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Greet day 11 of your road trip in Spain with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Valencia for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in la Vall d'Uixó, Castelló de la Plana, and Peníscola / Peñíscola.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in la Vall d'Uixó. This drive usually takes around 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Coves de Sant Josep. This cave is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,967 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of la Vall d'Uixó, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Castelló de la Plana. Your travel time is around 35 min.

Make Ribalta Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,311 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Peníscola / Peñíscola. This car ride takes around 59 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Bufador. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,367 reviews.

Next up is La Casa de las Petxines. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,367 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Peniscola Castle. This monument has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 61,572 reviews.

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

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.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 12 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 Benidorm, el Castell de Guadalest, and la Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Alicante, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Valencia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Benidorm. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 36 min. When you arrive in Benidorm, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Mundomar. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,253 visitors.

Next, make your way to Plaça Triangular. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,047 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in el Castell de Guadalest. This drive usually takes around 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to El Castell de Guadalest. This extraordinary municipality of spain is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,496 visitors.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at La Taberna del Gourmet, an iconic dining spot in Alicante. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Heladería Borgonesse, a popular restaurant in Alicante. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Piripi, a hidden gem nestled in Alicante. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at 26 Cocktail Room, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

Day 13 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Alicante 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, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Alicante’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Spain. Keep the spirit of your trip to Spain alive with these special souvenirs.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to El Carrer dels Bolets. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,121 reviews.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Alicante. 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!