7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Alicante to Valencia, Cuenca, and Madrid

Wake up to day 2 of your road trip in Spain. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Santa Pola and Alicante. With 1 night to stay in Alicante, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Enjoy all that El Carrer Dels Bolets has to offer. This is an often recommended point of interest you should not miss. Another must-see is Cocatedral De Sant Nicolau De Bari D'alacant, an often recommended church in Alicante.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Mercado Central De Alicante. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Santa Bárbara Castle, another of the town’s popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Archaeological Museum Of Alicante, a heritage-rich place of interest in the town.

Set your GPS to Santa Pola and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Santa Pola beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Castillo-fortaleza De Santa Pola, a locally appreciated castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Alicante and your accommodation.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Alicante. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR, a top-rated dining spot in Alicante. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Taberna del Gourmet, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Heladería Borgonesse. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Alicante.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Canibal Lounge Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Old Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Pub Carabassa offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!

On day 3 of your road trip in Spain, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Valencia are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valencia, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you explore Valencia’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Valencia. This car ride takes around 1 hour 56 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Mercat Central, a widely recognized food market that everyone visiting Valencia should see. Next, head to Museu De Belles Arts De València. This heritage-rich museum is one of the most up-and-coming attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on City Of Arts And Sciences, a gorgeous science center popular among locals as well as travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Valencia. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Valencia is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Valencia.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante RiFF, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? El Poblet offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ubik Cafè Cafeteria Llibreria. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Valencia.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Pub Pasos. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Clann Bar Tapas offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Café Negrito, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Cuenca. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Cuenca, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Cuenca’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Valencia behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 15 min. Cuenca welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Castilla-la Mancha Paleontological Museum, an increasingly popular museum known for its eye-catching features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Torre De Mangana, an often recommended monument.

Make sure to also explore Antonio Pérez Foundation Museum, a locally appreciated museum. For your last stop, consider Castillo De Cuenca, a romantic castle that many travelers find worth the detour.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Cuenca. Cuenca offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cuenca's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurante Sidrería La Figal, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Marisqueria Joni is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cuenca.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Tu Rincón is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Café Hispano, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bogart. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Madrid. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Madrid, where will spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Madrid may take around 1 hour 44 min. Upon your arrival in Madrid, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to El Retiro Park, an iconic park in Madrid. Explore its remarkable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Puerta De Alcalá. This widely recognized monument is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Museo Del Prado is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most heritage-rich museum in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the wondrous Royal Palace Of Madrid and discover what makes this palace unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Main Square, a history-steeped public square many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Madrid's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante Taberna Madrid Madriz, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Lamucca del Carmen? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at El miniBAR as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Madrid.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Yambala after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cafe Madrid is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Spain includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Toledo. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Alicante, where you'll spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Toledo. This drive usually takes around 57 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Puerta De Bisagra and explore the respected features. Next, make your way to Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada De Toledo, another highlight in Toledo. When you’re done exploring the church, continue to Alcázar Of Toledo, a picture-perfect castle.

Nearby, you will also find Mirador Del Valle. This captivating observation deck is a top place to see in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Alicante. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Alicante, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Piripi, a popular restaurant in Alicante. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Alicante at Restaurante Baeza & Rufete, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restaurant L'Ereta. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Alicante tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Oculto Alicante, known for its lively atmosphere. Austin is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Petanca offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Alicante and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Spain.