7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Alicante to Madrid and Valencia
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Description
Explore the best of Spain on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Alicante, Almansa, Albacete, Madrid, 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 3 nights in Alicante, 2 nights in Madrid, 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 Alicante, 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. El Retiro Park and Main Square are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Alicante, Almansa, Albacete, Madrid, 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 – Alicante - arrival day
- Alicante - Arrival day
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- Parc Canalejas
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Say hello to Alicante! 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 Alicante for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Alicante 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 Parc Canalejas 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 Alicante. 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 Alicante. 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 delicious meal at Mish Mish, a highly-rated dining destination in Alicante. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Dàrsena, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cervecería Layton. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Alicante this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Munich stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Levante Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Café-pub Bubyston is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2 – Alicante
- Alicante
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour 19 min
- Archaeological Museum of Alicante
- Santa Bárbara Castle
- Mercado Central de Alicante
- Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant
- Parc El Palmeral
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Alicante. You’ll stay in Alicante for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today’s route brings a visually striking, a historic, a charming, a breathtaking, a grand, a sacred, and an idyllic. The first attraction of today is Archaeological Museum Of Alicante. This popular museum is a heritage-rich place to see in Alicante. Continue your discovery at Santa Bárbara Castle, a history-steeped castle with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Alicante, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Mercado Central De Alicante. This well-known market offers a photogenic encounter with Alicante. Cocatedral De Sant Nicolau De Bari D'alacant is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Alicante.
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 Alicante's best restaurants.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Alicante by reserving a table at Tabula Rasa. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional traditional menu. For a different taste experience, head to Baeza & Rufete, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Canibal Lounge Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Old Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Pub Carabassa also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 3 – Alicante, Almansa, Albacete, and Madrid
- Alicante
- Almansa
- Albacete
- Madrid
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Drive 434 km, 4 hours 29 min
- Altozano Garden
- Passage of Lodares
- Santa Bárbara Castle
- More
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 Almansa and Albacete. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Madrid, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Almansa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Alicante behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min. Almansa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to Castle Of Almansa, a frequently visited castle that everyone visiting Almansa should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Albacete, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Almansa to Albacete may take around 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Albacete, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take your self-guided tour to Altozano Garden, an increasingly popular park that everyone visiting Albacete should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Passage Of Lodares. This enchanting street is one of the most intriguing attractions in the region.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Madrid. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Madrid, 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.
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.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Yambala, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cafe Madrid, another top-rated place in the area.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!
Day 4 – Madrid
- Madrid
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Drive 28 km, 1 hour 37 min
- Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
- Puerta de Alcalá
- El Retiro Park
- Museo del Prado
- Casa de Campo
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Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Madrid for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
A blend of an awe-inspiring, a visually striking, a standout, a charming, a culturally significant, a scenic, and a detailed await you in Madrid on today’s itinerary. First up is the timeless stadium, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Puerta De Alcalá. A visit to this monument is an enriching experience for all.
As you explore Madrid’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to El Retiro Park. This globally renowned park is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Museo Del Prado, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Casa De Campo and learn why this park is renowned as one of the city's most astonishing attractions.
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.
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.
Make sure to book a table at Alhambra, a popular restaurant in Madrid. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Madrid at Restaurante Alabaster, 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 Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Madrid tonight.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Jazz Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of España Building, a bar catering to every mood and preference. 1862 Dry Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Head back to your accommodation in Madrid and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 5 – Madrid and Valencia
- Madrid
- Valencia
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Drive 363 km, 3 hours 57 min
- Main Square
- Market of San Miguel
- Royal Palace of Madrid
- plaza de España
- El Retiro Park
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Madrid. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valencia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a romantic, a mesmerizing, a picture-perfect, a historic, a culturally significant, and a noteworthy. Whether you decide to explore Madrid on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Main Square is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this awe-inspiring public square before continuing your journey. Market Of San Miguel is your next stop. This globally renowned food market is one of the best-rated sights in Madrid.
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 Royal Palace Of Madrid. This history-steeped palace is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Plaza De España.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Valencia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Valencia by reserving a table at El Poblet. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Ricard Camarena, recognized for its delicious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Fierro, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Valencia. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pub Pasos offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Clann Bar Tapas is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Café Negrito is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!
Day 6 – Valencia and Alicante
- Valencia
- Alicante
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Drive 174 km, 2 hours 28 min
- Mercat Central
- Torres dels Serrans
- L'Oceanogràfic
- City of Arts and Sciences
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Valencia, 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 Alicante. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Valencia includes a food market, a monument, an aquarium, a science center and much more! Mercat Central is must-visit food market and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Serrano Towers, a locally renowned monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to L'oceanogràfic, a historic aquarium, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Valencia. If you’re looking for more, City Of Arts And Sciences is also a world-famous attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Alicante, 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 Alicante's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Piripi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante Baeza & Rufete is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant L'Ereta. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Alicante tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Oculto Alicante is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Austin, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Petanca. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7 – Alicante - departure day
- Alicante - Departure day
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- El Carrer dels Bolets
- Santa Bárbara Castle
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Day 7 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Alicante before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Start at El Carrer Dels Bolets, a curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination 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 Alicante.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Alicante. 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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