Relaxed 13-Day Spain Road Trip from Alicante to Benidorm and Valencia

Your relaxed road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Alicante, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Alicante and begin your adventure in Spain.

Make Parc Canalejas your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,593 reviews.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Alicante. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Alicante.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Tabula Rasa in Alicante by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Tabula Rasa delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Baeza & Rufete, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Consider reserving a table at LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Alicante.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Alicante’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Café-Pub Bubyston, known for its inviting atmosphere. Canibal Lounge Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, AUSTIN provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain. Enjoy your first taste of Alicante as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Alicante, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Kick off the day at Archaeological Museum of Alicante, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,768 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Santa Bárbara Castle. Santa Bárbara Castle is a castle with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 35,044 reviews.

Mercado Central de Alicante is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 24,503 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant. This church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,219 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Parc El Palmeral, a famous park in Alicante. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,211 travelers.

Spain makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Spain also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Alicante.

Dine in style at La Taberna del Gourmet, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Heladería Borgonesse boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Piripi. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Alicante.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to 26 Cocktail Room, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 3 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Spain. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Spain.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Murcia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cartagena. This drive usually takes around 39 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Roman theatre of Cartagena. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,504 visitors.

Set your GPS to Murcia and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 3 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Murcia beckons with new experiences!

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

Next up, make your way to Plaza de las Flores. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,389 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Jardín de Floridablanca. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,929 visitors.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Spain at Benidorm. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the town to recharge and rejuvenate.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Benidorm.

Savor the flavors at Spasso Benidorm | Italian Restaurant - Pizzeria, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Costa Coffee - Benidorm Playa beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hotel RH Victoria & Spa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Benidorm tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Benidorm.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Ku lounge cafe after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Spain is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Valencia for 8 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Benidorm, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Valencia may take around 1 hour 36 min. Upon your arrival in Valencia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Plaça Triangular. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,047 visitors.

Next, make your way to Parc de L'Aigüera. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 2,390 reviews.

While in Benidorm, we also recommend a visit to Aqualandia. This amusement park has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 16,542 reviews.

In the city of Valencia, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Spain.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Valencia has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Begin your culinary exploration in Valencia by securing a reservation at El Poblet. This renowned restaurant offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ricard Camarena, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Fierro, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Valencia and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Café Negrito after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Cafe de las Horas, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Valencia, where you'll stay for 7 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Valencia, and meet locals along the way!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Valencia Bioparc. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 43,210 reviews.

Next up is Parc de Capçalera. This urban park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,696 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Plaça de l'Ajuntament. This square has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,316 reviews.

Mercado de Colón is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This building has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 37,146 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Parc Central. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,326 reviews.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Spain.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Valencia, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Valencia and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Valencia. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Valencia!

Make L'Oceanogràfic your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this public aquarium an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 76,085 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at City of Arts and Sciences. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 125,881 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this tourist destination every year.

Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 37,810 visitors.

When you’re finished at Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria, the perfect next stop is Jardín de Monforte. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,880 reviews.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Spain. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Valencia, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Valencia and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Spain!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Valencia, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Journey into the unknown at Mercat Central, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable market hall has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 79,570 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Llotja de la Seda is a recommended place to visit. This lonja is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,376 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Valencia is Plaça de la Reina (València). Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 28,058 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Valencia offers an experience you will remember.

Valencia Cathedral is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Valencia. This catholic cathedral promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,457 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Plaça de la Mare de Déu. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,170 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Valencia by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Valencia. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

On day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Valencia, where you'll stay for 4 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Valencia, and meet locals along the way!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Quart Towers. This fortified tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,889 visitors.

CCCC (Centre del Carme Cultura Contemporània) is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,611 visitors.

Serrano Towers is also highly recommended by travelers. This fortified tower has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,998 visitors.

Museu de Belles Arts de València is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,377 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Jardins del Real de València. This urban park has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,212 travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 8 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Spain. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Valencia itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Valencia has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Valencia.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Valencia can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Spain!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Peníscola / Peñíscola. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the village of Peníscola / Peñíscola!

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Peníscola / Peñíscola, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the village, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Spain.

Exploring the food culture in Valencia offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante del Este, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sagardi Valencia Centro offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante Belmonte. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Valencia.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

On day 10 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of Valencia and visit amazing attractions in Spain that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in Spain.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Castelló de la Plana, 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 Valencia to Castelló de la Plana may take around 1 hour 1 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Castelló de la Plana, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Mercat Central de Castelló de la Plana. This marketplace is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,951 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Ribalta Park. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,311 reviews.

Nules welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like L'Estany de Nules. This extraordinary paratge natural municipal has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,143 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 Navajas. Your travel time is around 37 min.

Journey into the unknown at Salto de la Novia, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable waterfall has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,037 reviews.

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

Exploring the food culture in Valencia offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Make sure to book a table at Puerta del Mar, 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 Mulligan's, 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 Cuatro Monos. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Valencia tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Valencia’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 11, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Spain and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Onda and beyond. With 1 night left in Valencia, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

When you’ve had your share of Valencia, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Onda. Your travel time is around 57 min.

Make Castle of Onda your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,898 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Onda and set your GPS to Benicàssim / Benicasim. 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 29 min. Upon reaching Benicàssim / Benicasim, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Aquarama. This water park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 10,271 reviews.

Continue your journey at El Biarritz valencià. This point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,890 travelers from near and far.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Valencia.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Bar Mistela, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Navarro is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Apotheke. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Valencia tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Valencia and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Onda can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Spain!

Day 12 of your relaxed road trip across Spain promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Elche and drive in the direction of the village of el Castell de Guadalest for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Alicante, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Elche and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Elche beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Huerto del Cura. This popular garden has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,389 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Plaça de la Glorieta. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,275 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to El Palmerar. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,060 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Parc Municipal. This park and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,887 local and international travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, el Castell de Guadalest. This car ride takes around 1 hour 53 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, El Castell de Guadalest is a great place to start. This municipality of spain is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,496 visitors.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Alicante. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Spain by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Alicante, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant L'Ereta, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Steki Restaurante. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Alicante.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Alicante. The bars in Alicante make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Spain. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Spain tomorrow with new energy.

Day 13 of your relaxed road trip in Spain is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Alicante.

As you approach the end of your journey in Spain, take a moment for some retail therapy in Alicante’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.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

Unwind and look back at the past 13 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Alicante or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Alicante and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 13-day relaxed road trip in Spain is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.