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

Say hello to Madrid! Your exciting road trip through Spain is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Madrid for 3 nights before you continue your adventure!

Madrid is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Western Park or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Madrid. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Madrid. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at DiverXO, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Smoked Room, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Madrid is Paco Roncero, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative menu.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cafe Madrid, a bar catering to every mood and preference. 1862 Dry Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in Spain!

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

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This association football venue is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 120,158 reviews.

Continue your journey at Crystal Palace. This building is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,270 travelers from near and far.

Madrid is also the home of El Retiro Park. This urban park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 162,386 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Great Pond of El Retiro. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 22,242 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Puerta de Alcalá. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 43,833 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this triumphal arch.

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 you explore more of Madrid, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Mi Venta, a highly-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mas Al Sur, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Prada a Tope Madrid. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

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

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Madrid has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Madrid by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Casa de Campo, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 50,826 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Temple of Debod. This egyptian temple has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 44,446 travelers.

Royal Palace of Madrid is another must-visit attraction. This renowned royal palace offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 77,471 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 Almudena Cathedral. This well-loved catholic cathedral boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 19,842 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing an art museum, this is a top pick rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 46,855 previous visitors. Each year, approximately 1 person travel to Madrid to experience it.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at BiBo Dani García, a top-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Malacatín, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pum Pum Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Madrid. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cuenca, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Market of San Miguel. This building is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 visitors.

Main Square is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 152,388 visitors.

Círculo de Bellas Artes is also highly recommended by travelers. This movie theater has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,540 visitors.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is an attraction you won’t want to miss. Around 671,078 people visit this place every year. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 32,846 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Museo del Prado. This art museum has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 98,929 travelers. This local favorite gets around 3,497,345 visitors each year.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cuenca, 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 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Olea Comedor in Cuenca by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Olea Comedor delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern, and fusion cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Marisqueria Joni as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cuenca.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

On day 5 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 Cuenca. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valencia, where you will stay for 5 nights.

Make Castilla-La Mancha Paleontological Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Cuenca. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,372 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

San Pablo Bridge is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This bridge is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,784 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Spanish Abstract Art Museum. Juan March Foundation. This museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,187 visitors.

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

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

Discover the culinary delights of Valencia by securing a reservation at El Poblet. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ricard Camarena, renowned for its delicious creative 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 Fierro, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Café Negrito offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Cafe de las Horas is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Day 6 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia. This opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,710 visitors.

Gulliver park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,520 visitors.

Parc Central is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,326 visitors.

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.

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

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 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Valencia. You’ll stay in Valencia for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 37,810 visitors.

Next, make your way to Jardins del Real de València. This top attraction is an urban park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,212 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to City of Arts and Sciences. This tourist destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 125,881 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit L'Oceanogràfic. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 76,085 travelers.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Spain that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Valencia has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

As 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 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.

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

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

Make Mercado de Colón one of your first sightseeing stops in Valencia. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 37,146 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Plaça de la Reina (València) is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This square is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 28,058 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Valencia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 22,457 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Plaça de la Mare de Déu. A trip to this popular square is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 32,170 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Serrano Towers. This fortified tower enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,998 local and international travelers.

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

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

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Valencia has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Valencia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Journey into the unknown at Valencia Bioparc, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,210 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Parc de Capçalera is a recommended place to visit. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,696 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Valencia is Quart Towers. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,889 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Valencia offers an experience you will remember.

Mercat Central is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Valencia. This market hall promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 79,570 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Plaça de l'Ajuntament. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,316 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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.

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

Dine in style at Racó del Túria, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante Genuina boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Central Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Valencia.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Alicante, and Elche, 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 Murcia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Alicante and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 54 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Alicante beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Mercado Central de Alicante is a great place to start. This building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 24,503 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Santa Bárbara Castle. This castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 35,044 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Archaeological Museum of Alicante. The archaeological museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,768 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Alicante, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Elche. Your travel time is around 31 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Huerto del Cura. This garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,389 reviews.

Next up, make your way to El Palmerar. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,060 reviews.

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

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

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to El Bosque Animado, known for its inviting atmosphere. Culturas is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, BarAltea provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Murcia, and Cartagena. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Albacete, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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

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

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Murcia and set your GPS to Cartagena. 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 42 min. Upon reaching Cartagena, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Roman theatre of Cartagena. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,504 visitors.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Albacete by securing a reservation at Ababol. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante Sublime boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Don Gil Restaurante. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Albacete.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar History, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Liverpool Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Torito likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Toledo. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Madrid. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Toledo, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Albacete to Toledo may take around 2 hours 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Toledo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Zocodover. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,930 reviews.

Continue your journey at Alcázar of Toledo. This alcázar is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,193 travelers from near and far.

Toledo is also the home of Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo. This church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,938 visitors.

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

As 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Sagaretxe, a top-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Arrabal Madrid, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Taberna El Sur. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

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

Day 13 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Madrid before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Madrid's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Spain.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at plaza de España, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 98,199 reviews.

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

Savor the flavors at James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurante El Espigón Madrid beckons with its unique menu offerings.

You’ll then say farewell to Madrid. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Spain!