5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Granada traveling south to Málaga
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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, Nerja, Benalmadena, and Málaga. 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 3 nights in Granada and 1 night in Málaga. 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, Nerja, Benalmadena, and Málaga, 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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- Fountain of the Battles
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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 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Granada 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 Fountain Of The Battles or taking a stroll in the city center. 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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Sapore an Italia, a top-rated dining spot in Granada. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bar Ávila Tapas, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Los Manueles Reyes Católicos - Restaurante Granadino. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Granada.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Hanalei Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, San Matias 30 Coffee & Spirits offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Aliatar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2 – Granada
- Granada
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Drive 10 km, 1 hour 41 min
- Alhambra
- Nasrid Palaces
- Plaza Isabel La Católica
- S.A.I. Catedral Metropolitana de la Encarnación
- Mirador de San Nicolas, Granada
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Granada for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Start by visiting Alhambra, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic palace is sure to impress. Next on your list is Nasrid Palaces, another must-visit landmark and notable palace renowned for its history-steeped features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Granada by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Plaza Isabel La Católica. This instagrammable public square is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. S. A. I. Catedral Metropolitana De La Encarnación also adds charm to your journey, and Mirador De San Nicolas, Granada wraps up your day with its enchanting appeal.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Granada's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at El Trillo Restaurante Granada, a highly-rated dining destination in Granada. If you're eager to try something different, consider Provincias, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar los diamantes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Granada this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Candela, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Soria offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Granada. Continental Café Pub Granada is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 3 – Granada, Nerja, Benalmadena, and Málaga
- Granada
- Nerja
- Málaga
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Drive 214 km, 3 hours 22 min
- Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo
- Cueva de Nerja
- Parque de la Paloma
- Alhambra
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On day 3 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 Nerja and Benalmadena. In the evening, you’ll end up in Málaga, where you will stay for 1 night.
Nerja’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Granada behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min. Nerja welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Cliffs Of Maro-cerro Gordo, an underrated cliff that draws visitors from near and far.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Granada, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nerja may take around 1 hour 2 min. Upon your arrival in Nerja, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Spend your afternoon discovering Cueva De Nerja, a notable cave known for its history-steeped features.
Your self-guided tour starts at Parque De La Paloma, a captivating park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Málaga, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Málaga's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Discover the culinary delights of Málaga by securing a reservation at La Cosmo. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of andalusian cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try José Carlos García, renowned for its delicious creative and andalusian dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Blossom, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering fusion menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Speakeasy “the Pharmacy” offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Road House is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Moonlight - Bar De Copas is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
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 4 – Málaga and Granada
- Málaga
- Granada
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Drive 134 km, 2 hours 21 min
- Iglesia Catedral de la Encarnación
- Picasso Museum Málaga
- Alcazaba
- Castle of Gibralpharo
- Jardín Botánico Histórico - La Concepción
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Málaga. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Granada, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a gorgeous, an eye-catching, a historically significant, a sacred, a grand, a romantic, and a picturesque. Whether you decide to explore Málaga on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Iglesia Catedral De La Encarnación is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking church before continuing your journey. Museo Picasso Málaga is your next stop. This notable museum is one of the best-rated sights in Málaga.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Alcazaba. This symbolic castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Castle Of Gibralpharo and Jardín Botánico - Histórico La Concepción.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Granada. 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 Granada. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to book a table at Daly's (formerly Paddy's Pub), 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 Restaurante Oliver, 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 El Higo. 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 La Gintonería Centro, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!
Day 5 – Granada - departure day
- Granada - Departure day
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- Federico García Lorca
- 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.
On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Granada’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Start your day with a visit to Federico García Lorca Park. This underrated museum is a must-visit in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Granada.
Enjoy a lovely meal at RESTAURANTE TINTA FINA, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Nuevo Restaurante Hermanos Urquiza is another top choice with a popular menu.
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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