14-Day Spain Road Trip from Alicante to Cartagena, Murcia, 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 2 nights 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mish Mish, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Dàrsena offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Alicante.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Café-Pub Bubyston offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Canibal Lounge Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. AUSTIN is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise a toast to the start of your 14-day road trip in Spain!

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Alicante. You’ll stay in Alicante for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Archaeological Museum of Alicante. This archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,768 reviews.

Continue your journey at Santa Bárbara Castle. This castle is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 35,044 travelers from near and far.

Alicante is also the home of Mercado Central de Alicante. This building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,503 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,219 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Parc El Palmeral. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,211 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

Your discoveries in Alicante do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Alicante on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. 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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, 26 Cocktail Room stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Elche and Guardamar del Segura. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cartagena, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Alicante, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Elche. This drive usually takes around 25 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Parc Municipal. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,887 visitors.

El Palmerar is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,060 travelers.

Elche is also the home of Huerto del Cura. Around 7,389 people have rated this garden an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Río Safari Elche. With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from a total of 7,640 reviews, a visit to this zoo is a great idea.

When you’ve had your share of Elche, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Guardamar del Segura. Your travel time is around 23 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Reina Sofía Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,025 visitors.

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

Savor the flavors at La Cartela, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Omkara beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante Magoga. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cartagena tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Mostacho Café Bar III offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, El escondite is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Sol is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Cartagena. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Murcia, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cartagena and set your GPS to Murcia. 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 1 hour 19 min. Upon reaching Murcia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

Next, make your way to Parque de Alfonso Torres. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,477 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Batería de Castillitos. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,055 travelers.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante El Churra, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? El Pasaje de Belluga offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante Hispano. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Murcia.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at El Bosque Animado, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Culturas, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, BarAltea provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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 Murcia has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Murcia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to El Valle Golf. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,089 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Paseo del Malecón. This allée has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,089 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Plaza de las Flores. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,389 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Real Casino de Murcia. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,805 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Murcia's Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,947 visitors.

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 Murcia has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Spain by scrolling down and selecting 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 Murcia. 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.

Make sure to book a table at Kokoro gastro sushi, a popular restaurant in Murcia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Murcia at Cosa Fina GastroBar de Manolo Castro, 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 La Tapeoteca. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Murcia tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Parliament Bar Murcia after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Day 6 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Murcia. You have 1 night left in Murcia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Fuensanta. This extraordinary church building has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,552 visitors.

Next, make your way to Museum of the University of Murcia. This museum is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 178 reviews.

While in Murcia, we also recommend a visit to Jardín de Floridablanca. This park has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,929 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Puente de los Peligros. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,754 travelers, this bridge is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Murcia.

Make your way to Castillo de la Asomada, perhaps the most famous castle in Murcia. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 588 reviews.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at SteakBurger, a top-rated dining destination in Murcia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Las Flores Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cervecería Tira la caña. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Murcia this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 7 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 Murcia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valencia, where you will stay for 6 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Valencia. This car ride takes around 2 hours 21 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Museo de Santa Clara. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,161 visitors.

Museo Arqueológico de Murcia (MAM) is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,458 visitors.

Jardín del Salitre is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,116 visitors.

Museo Salzillo is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,860 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 you explore more of Valencia, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

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

Keep the evening going at Café Negrito, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Cafe de las Horas, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Valencia for 5 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make Valencia Bioparc your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 43,210 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Parc de Capçalera. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,696 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this urban park every year.

Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This opera house has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,710 visitors.

When you’re finished at Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia, the perfect next stop is City of Arts and Sciences. This tourist destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 125,881 reviews.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Casa Montaña, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at El Lleón bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Valencia.

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 9 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Valencia. You’ll stay in Valencia for 4 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mercat Central. This market hall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 79,570 visitors.

Llotja de la Seda is another popular attraction you could visit today. This lonja has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,376 visitors.

Plaça de la Reina (València) is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 28,058 visitors.

Valencia Cathedral is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,457 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Plaça de la Mare de Déu. This square has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,170 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.

Dine in style at Bar Vermudez, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10 boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Beer & Travels. 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!

Day 10 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Valencia has to offer. Cherish the 3 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 Quart Towers. This fortified tower is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Valencia, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,889 visitors.

Plaça de l'Ajuntament is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,316 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Mercado de Colón. Visitors have rated this building an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 37,146 reviews.

L'Oceanogràfic is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a public aquarium rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 76,085 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Parc Central, perhaps the most famous park in Valencia. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,326 travelers.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Restaurante Canela, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, A huevo Restaurante beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar Tonyina. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Valencia tonight.

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

Day 11 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Valencia. You have 2 nights left in Valencia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is CCCC (Centre del Carme Cultura Contemporània). Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,611 reviews.

Serrano Towers is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This fortified tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,998 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 37,810 reviews.

Jardín de Monforte is another outstanding experience in Valencia. Around 5,880 travelers have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Jardins del Real de València is not far away. This urban park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,212 reviews.

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.

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

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

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

On day 12 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Valencia, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Castelló de la Plana, Onda, Navajas, and la Vall d'Uixó. You still have 1 night left in Valencia.

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

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

Next, make your way to Ribalta Park. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,311 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Onda, 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 Castelló de la Plana to Onda may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Onda, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Castle of Onda. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,898 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to la Vall d'Uixó, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Navajas. This drive usually takes around 37 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Salto de la Novia. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,037 visitors.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurante del Este, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sagardi Valencia Centro offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurante Belmonte is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Valencia.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 13 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Benidorm, la Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa, and el Castell de Guadalest. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Alicante. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Benidorm, 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 Benidorm may take around 1 hour 36 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Benidorm, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Mundomar. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,253 reviews.

Next up is Plaça Triangular. This park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,047 visitors.

La Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of el Castell de Guadalest behind. This drive usually takes around 34 min. La Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Valor Chocolate Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,990 reviews.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant L'Ereta, a highly-rated dining destination in Alicante. If you're eager to try something different, consider Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Steki Restaurante. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Alicante this evening.

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.

Day 14 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.

Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Alicante’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Spain, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Spain home with you through these charming souvenirs.

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

Savor the flavors at El Garaje Bar Alicante, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Centro Comercial Gran Vía beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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!