3-Day Spain Road Trip Starting in Barcelona

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

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

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Bobby's Free is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Torre Rosa offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 3-day road trip in Spain!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Barcelona, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

After soaking in Barcelona’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Tarragona. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 12 min. When you arrive in Tarragona, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Monument als castellers (Tarragona). Previous visitors have rated this sculpture an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,474 reviews.

Camp de Mart is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 1,706 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Roman circus of Tárraco. This chogang elementary school is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,761 reviews.

Balcó del Mediterrani is another outstanding experience in Tarragona. Around 16,291 travelers have rated this scenic viewpoint an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Tarragona Amphitheatre is not far away. This roman amphitheatre is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,655 reviews.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at ARTiSA Barcelona, a highly-rated dining destination in Barcelona. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant El Foro, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Braseria La Selva Barcelona. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Barcelona this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Dr Stravinsky after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to El Xampanyet, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

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

Day 3 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Barcelona before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Plaça de Catalunya. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 175,036 reviews.

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

Dine in style at CocoVail Beer Hall - Craft Beer Barcelona, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, El Nacional boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Barcelona. 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!