7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Alicante to Valencia and Cartagena and surrounding area

On day 2 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 Alicante. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valencia, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Alicante, including a church, a castle, a museum, a market, a park and much more! Start your day at Cocatedral De Sant Nicolau De Bari D'alacant. This culturally significant church is an often recommended place to see in Alicante. Then, wander over to Santa Bárbara Castle. If majestic sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Archaeological Museum Of Alicante. This eye-catching museum is a favorite among visitors.

Alicante offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Mercado Central De Alicante is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the market, don’t forget to check out the instagrammable Parc El Palmeral. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this worthwhile park.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Valencia, 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 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.

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

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Valencia. You’ll stay in Valencia for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A blend of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites await you in Valencia on today’s itinerary. First up is the widely recognized food market, Mercat Central. Afterward, continue to Serrano Towers, a monument every traveler should visit.

As you explore Valencia’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to City Of Arts And Sciences. This wondrous science center is an essential stop. Following that, head to L'oceanogràfic, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Valencia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at USUAL resto-bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Casa Ripoll offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante La Cepa Vieja (Valencia). With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Valencia.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Cosmo Valencia, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Casa Pepe offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Cafe De Las Horas provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Say good night to Valencia and look forward to another great 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 2 destinations, Benidorm and Murcia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cartagena, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Valencia, including a public square, a church, and a park. Start your adventure at Plaça Triangular. This increasingly popular public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Murcia's Cathedral located in Valencia for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Plaza De Las Flores. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Floridablanca Garden. Visitors usually appreciate the noteworthy features of this park.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cartagena. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Cartagena, 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 Magoga in Cartagena by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Magoga offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious contemporary and traditional menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Cafetería Cervantes offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Pub Frank18, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to 4 Copas. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Mostacho Café Bar Iii, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cartagena has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Cartagena by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Batería De Castillitos. This often recommended historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Naval Museum Cartagena, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out National Museum Of Underwater Archaeology, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Cartagena. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Experiencia 43. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this distillery offers. Then, head to Faro Cabo De Palos, a top-rated lighthouse that adds another dimension to your day.

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 you explore more of Cartagena, 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.

Savor the flavors at The Curry Corner, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Omkara beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante Magoga. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cartagena tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at El Escondite, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Sol. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cervecería "gas", another top-rated place in the area.

Head back to your accommodation in Cartagena and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Cartagena, 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 route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Roman Theatre Of Cartagena. This notable archeological site is a culturally significant place to see in Cartagena. Continue your discovery at House Of Fortune, a standout archeological site with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cartagena, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Parque De Alfonso Torres. This often recommended park offers a visually striking encounter with Cartagena. Next, make your way to Estatua Icue to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Molinete Roman Forum Museum, a worthwhile archeological site that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cartagena.

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

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Alicante by securing a table at Tabula Rasa. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Baeza & Rufete, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Canibal Lounge Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Old Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Pub Carabassa also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Say good night to Alicante and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!