5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Granada to Cartagena and Jaen and surrounding area
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Description
Explore the best of Spain on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Granada, Cartagena, Murcia, Jaen, and Cordova. This road trip itinerary in Spain seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Granada, 1 night in Cartagena, and 1 night in Jaen. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Spain. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Granada, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Spain on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Spain. Alhambra and Mirador De San Nicolas, Granada are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Granada, Cartagena, Murcia, Jaen, and Cordova, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Spain. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Spain.
Throughout your road trip in Spain, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Spain.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Spain fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Spain today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Granada - arrival day
- Granada - Arrival day
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Say hello to Granada! 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 Granada for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Granada is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Granada. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Granada. 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 Sapore an Italia, a popular restaurant in Granada. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Granada at Bar Ávila Tapas, 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 Los Manueles Reyes Católicos - Restaurante Granadino. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Granada tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Hanalei Cocktail Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. San Matias 30 Coffee & Spirits is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Aliatar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2 – Granada and Cartagena
- Granada
- Cartagena
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Drive 322 km, 3 hours 57 min
- Nasrid Palaces
- Alhambra
- S.A.I. Catedral Metropolitana de la Encarnación
- Mirador de San Nicolas, Granada
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Granada, 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 Cartagena. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Granada, including a palace, a church, and an observation deck. Start your day at Nasrid Palaces. This UNESCO world heritage-designated palace is an interesting place to see in Granada. Then, wander over to Alhambra. If romantic sites excite you, this palace will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find S. A. I. Catedral Metropolitana De La Encarnación. This historic church is a favorite among visitors.
Granada offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Mirador De San Nicolas, Granada is an impressive spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cartagena. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour 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.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cartagena by securing a table at Magoga. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional contemporary and traditional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cafetería Cervantes, another premier location with a delectable menu.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Pub Frank18, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, 4 Copas offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cartagena. Mostacho Café Bar Iii is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.
Day 3 – Cartagena, Murcia, and Jaen
- Cartagena
- Murcia
- Jaén
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Drive 394 km, 4 hours 21 min
- Naval Museum Cartagena
- Roman theatre of Cartagena
- Plaza de las Flores
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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 Cartagena and Murcia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Jaen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
A blend of an instagrammable, a historically significant, a gorgeous, and a symbolic await you in Cartagena on today’s itinerary. First up is the curiosity-inducing museum, Naval Museum Cartagena. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Roman Theatre Of Cartagena. A visit to this archeological site is an enriching experience for all.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Murcia. This car ride takes around 42 min.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Plaza De Las Flores. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the public square before you continue to your next stop.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Jaen. Jaen offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Jaen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Begin your culinary exploration in Jaen by securing a reservation at Radis. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Dama Juana, celebrated for its delectable modern and traditional menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Bagá, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 4 – Jaen, Cordova, and Granada
- Jaén
- Córdoba
- Granada
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Drive 320 km, 4 hours 5 min
- Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs
- Plaza de las Tendillas, Córdoba, Spain
- Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba
- Puente romano
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Cordova. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Granada, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cordova. This car ride takes around 1 hour 25 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Alcázar Nuevo, an interesting castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Plaza De Las Tendillas, Córdoba, Spain, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings. Next, explore Mosque-cathedral Of Cordoba, yet another well-known place to see in the area. After the mosque, make time to go to Puente Romano. This visually striking monument is well worthwhile the visit.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Granada, 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 Granada's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at El Trillo Restaurante Granada, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Provincias is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bar los diamantes. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Granada tonight.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Candela. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Soria offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Continental Café Pub Granada, another top-rated bar in the area.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 5 – Granada - departure day
- Granada - Departure day
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- Alhambra
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Day 5 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Granada 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 Granada’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Spain.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Granada.
You’ll then say farewell to Granada. 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!
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