5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Valencia traveling east to Barcelona and Tarragona
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Spain as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Valencia, Barcelona, Tarragona, and Peníscola / Peñíscola.
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 Valencia, 1 night in Barcelona, and 1 night in Tarragona. 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 Valencia, 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. Sagrada Família and Park Güell are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Valencia, Barcelona, Tarragona, and Peníscola / Peñíscola, 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 – Valencia - arrival day
- Valencia - Arrival day
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- Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria
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Welcome to Valencia, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Valencia's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Valencia 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 Instal·lacions Dels Jardins Del Túria 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 Valencia. 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 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurante RiFF, a top-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Poblet, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ubik Cafè Cafeteria Llibreria. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pub Pasos stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Clann Bar Tapas offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Café Negrito 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 – Valencia and Barcelona
- Valencia
- Barcelona
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Drive 366 km, 4 hours 30 min
- Mercat Central
- City of Arts and Sciences
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Valencia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Barcelona, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
A blend of a visually striking, a heritage-rich, and an enchanting await you in Valencia on today’s itinerary. First up is the extraordinary food market, Mercat Central. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to City Of Arts And Sciences. A visit to this science center is an enriching experience for all.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Barcelona, 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 Barcelona's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Barcelona by securing a table at Lasarte. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit ABaC, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 3-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Cocina Hermanos Torres, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Barcelona. Located in the heart of the city, this 3-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Casa Gràcia, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bloody Mary Cocktail Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!
Day 3 – Barcelona and Tarragona
- Barcelona
- Tarragona
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Drive 112 km, 2 hours 14 min
- Sagrada Família
- Park Güell
- Casa Batlló
- Plaça de Catalunya
- Mercado de La Boqueria
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Barcelona. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Tarragona, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Barcelona, including a church, a park, a museum, a public square, a food market and much more! Start your day at Sagrada Família. This detailed church is a timeless place to see in Barcelona. Then, wander over to Park Güell. If romantic sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Casa Batlló. This romantic museum is a favorite among visitors.
Barcelona offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Plaça De Catalunya is an iconic spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the public square, don’t forget to check out the photogenic Mercat De La Boqueria. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this world-famous food market in Barcelona.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Tarragona. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Tarragona. 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.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Tarragona by reserving a table at La Xarxa. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and rice dishes cuisine. Looking for something different? L'Àncora del Serrallo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tarragona.
Round off your dining experience by visiting The Cube Night, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cafeteria Florida, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Tolo likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Say good night to Tarragona and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 4 – Tarragona, Peníscola / Peñíscola, and Valencia
- Tarragona
- Peníscola / Peñíscola
- Valencia
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Drive 279 km, 3 hours 24 min
- Bufador
- Peniscola Castle
- Lighthouse of Peñiscola
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On day 4 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 Peníscola / Peñíscola. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valencia, where you will stay for 1 night.
After soaking in Tarragona’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Peníscola / Peñíscola. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 29 min. When you arrive in Peníscola / Peñíscola, it's time to take a break from the road.
Begin your journey at Bufador and explore the instagrammable features. Next, make your way to El Parc D'artilleria, another highlight in the village. When you’re done exploring the castle, continue to Peniscola Castle, a visually striking castle. Nearby, you will also find La Casa De Les Petxines. This worthwhile historical landmark is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Lighthouse Of Peñiscola, a standout lighthouse that is perfect for some final exploring in the village.
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 Valencia. Valencia 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.
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.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at El Poblet, a 2-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, Ricard Camarena, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Valencia is Fierro, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Cosmo Valencia stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Casa Pepe offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cafe De Las Horas is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!
Day 5 – Valencia - departure day
- Valencia - Departure day
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- Plaça de la Mare de Déu
- Mercat Central
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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 Valencia before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Valencia’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain.
Set out on a day brimming with a charming, a gorgeous, an instagrammable, a heritage-rich, and a culturally significant. Start at the well-known Plaça De La Mare De Déu, a romantic public square in Valencia.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Valencia.
Dine in style at Restaurant Helen Berger València, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Éter Valencia boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
You’ll then say farewell to Valencia. 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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