6-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Madrid traveling east to Zaragoza, Barcelona, and Valencia
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Description
Explore the best of Spain on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Madrid, Zaragoza, Barcelona, and Valencia. 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 Madrid, 1 night in Zaragoza, 1 night in Barcelona, and 1 night in Valencia. 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 Madrid, 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 El Retiro Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Madrid, Zaragoza, Barcelona, and Valencia, 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 – Madrid - arrival day
- Madrid - Arrival day
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- El Retiro Park
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Welcome to Madrid, 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 Madrid's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Madrid 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 El Retiro Park 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 Madrid. 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 Madrid. 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurante Taberna Madrid Madriz, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Lamucca del Carmen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at El miniBAR. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Madrid tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Yambala, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Madrid. Cafe Madrid is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2 – Madrid and Zaragoza
- Madrid
- Zaragoza
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Drive 325 km, 3 hours 49 min
- Main Square
- Market of San Miguel
- Royal Palace of Madrid
- plaza de España
- Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
- El Retiro Park
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Madrid, 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 Zaragoza. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Madrid. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Main Square is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most wondrous places to visit in Madrid. Next, head to Market Of San Miguel, a timeless food market, known for its historic features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Royal Palace Of Madrid. This visually striking palace offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Plaza De España adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, an awe-inspiring stadium in Madrid.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Zaragoza, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zaragoza. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Gente Rara, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cancook is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Zaragoza. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Prensa. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for contemporary cuisine in the city.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Be A Legend Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Aragón Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Zaragoza. Bar El Circo 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 – Zaragoza and Barcelona
- Zaragoza
- Barcelona
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Drive 333 km, 4 hours 19 min
- José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park
- Plaza de Nuestra Señora del Pilar
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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 Zaragoza. In the evening, you’ll end up in Barcelona, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zaragoza, featuring a charming, a peaceful, an awe-inspiring, a picture-perfect, a culturally significant, a remarkable, a standout, and a sacred. Start at José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park, a captivating park in the city. Then, head to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect church.
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 Barcelona. Barcelona 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 explore more of Barcelona, 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.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Lasarte in Barcelona by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Lasarte offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore ABaC, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 3-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Cocina Hermanos Torres, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.
Keep the evening going at Casa Gràcia, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bloody Mary Cocktail Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Head back to your accommodation in Barcelona and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 4 – Barcelona and Valencia
- Barcelona
- Valencia
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Drive 364 km, 4 hours 36 min
- Sagrada Família
- Park Güell
- Plaça de Catalunya
- Mercado de La Boqueria
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Barcelona. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Valencia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Immerse yourself in Barcelona’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Sagrada Família. This history-steeped church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Park Güell, a must-visit park in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Plaça De Catalunya, a timeless public square. For a change of scene, check out Mercat De La Boqueria, known for its eye-catching features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Valencia. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Valencia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Valencia by booking a table at El Poblet. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Ricard Camarena, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Fierro, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
Continue your lively evening at Pub Pasos, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Clann Bar Tapas is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Café Negrito ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 5 – Valencia and Madrid
- Valencia
- Madrid
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Drive 357 km, 4 hours 26 min
- City of Arts and Sciences
- Mercat Central
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Valencia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Madrid, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Valencia, including a science center and a food market. Start your adventure at City Of Arts And Sciences. This wondrous science center is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Mercat Central located in Valencia for an enchanting atmosphere.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Madrid, 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 Madrid. 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.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at DiverXO, a 3-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, Smoked Room, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Madrid is Paco Roncero, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative menu.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Jazz Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to España Building, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, 1862 Dry Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!
Day 6 – Madrid - departure day
- Madrid - Departure day
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- Puerta de Alcalá
- El Retiro Park
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Day 6 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Madrid 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 Madrid’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Spain.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Madrid. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Puerta De Alcalá is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most top-rated places to visit in Madrid.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Madrid.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Areia, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La MaMá Restaurante? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Madrid. 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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