7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Alicante to Valencia, Cartagena, and Granada and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Spain as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Alicante, Valencia, Guardamar del Segura, Torrevieja, Murcia, Cartagena, and Granada.
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 Alicante, 2 nights in Valencia, 1 night in Cartagena, and 1 night in Granada. 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. City Of Arts And Sciences and Mercat Central are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable L'oceanogràfic, learn more about the unique Serrano Towers, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Bárbara Castle.
As you hit the open road and drive through Alicante, Valencia, Guardamar del Segura, Torrevieja, Murcia, Cartagena, and Granada, 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
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Alicante - Arrival day
- More
- Parc Canalejas
- More
Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Alicante and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Alicante for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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.
Find your way to your hotel in Alicante. 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. 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 Mish Mish, 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 Restaurant Dàrsena, 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 Cervecería Layton. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Alicante tonight.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Munich offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Levante Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Café-pub Bubyston is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Alicante
- Valencia
- More
Drive 179 km, 2 hours 27 min
- Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant
- Santa Bárbara Castle
- Archaeological Museum of Alicante
- Mercado Central de Alicante
- Parc El Palmeral
- More
On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Alicante. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valencia, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Immerse yourself in Alicante’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Cocatedral De Sant Nicolau De Bari D'alacant. This photogenic church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the majestic features of Santa Bárbara Castle, a must-visit castle 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 Archaeological Museum Of Alicante, a well-known museum. For a change of scene, check out Mercado Central De Alicante, known for its instagrammable features.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Valencia's best restaurants.
Begin your culinary exploration in Valencia by securing a reservation at El Poblet. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ricard Camarena, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Fierro, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Pub Pasos, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Clann Bar Tapas provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Café Negrito offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!
Day 3
- Valencia
- More
Drive 14 km, 53 min
- Mercat Central
- Torres dels Serrans
- City of Arts and Sciences
- L'Oceanogràfic
- More
Day 3 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Valencia. You have 1 night left in Valencia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Valencia on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Mercat Central is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching food market before continuing your journey. Serrano Towers is your next stop. This notable monument is one of the best-rated sights in Valencia.
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 City Of Arts And Sciences. This awe-inspiring science center is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit L'oceanogràfic.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at USUAL resto-bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Casa Ripoll offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurante La Cepa Vieja (Valencia) is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Valencia.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Cosmo Valencia, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Casa Pepe is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cafe De Las Horas also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Valencia
- Guardamar del Segura
- Torrevieja
- Murcia
- Cartagena
- More
Drive 351 km, 4 hours 24 min
- Reina Sofía Park
- Plaza de la Constitution
- Murcia's Cathedral
- Plaza de las Flores
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Guardamar del Segura, Torrevieja, and Murcia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cartagena, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Valencia, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Guardamar del Segura may take around 2 hours 15 min. Upon your arrival in Guardamar del Segura, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Reina Sofía Park is a locally renowned park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Torrevieja. This car ride takes around 22 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Plaza De La Constitution, a curiosity-inducing public square known for its enchanting features.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Torrevieja and set your GPS to Murcia. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 59 min. Upon reaching Murcia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Murcia's Cathedral, a notable church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Plaza De Las Flores, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cartagena's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a memorable dining experience in Cartagena by booking a table at Magoga, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional contemporary and traditional menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cafetería Cervantes, a popular restaurant in Cartagena. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Pub Frank18, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out 4 Copas, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Mostacho Café Bar Iii provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!
Day 5
- Cartagena
- Granada
- More
Drive 370 km, 4 hours 8 min
- Roman theatre of Cartagena
- Naval Museum Cartagena
- More
On day 5 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 Cartagena. In the evening, you’ll end up in Granada, where you will stay for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cartagena. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Roman Theatre Of Cartagena is the perfect place to start. This archeological site is one of the most notable places to visit in Cartagena. Next, head to Naval Museum Cartagena, an often recommended museum, known for its visually striking features.
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 Granada. Granada 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 Granada. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Sapore an Italia, a top-rated dining destination in Granada. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bar Ávila Tapas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Los Manueles Reyes Católicos - Restaurante Granadino. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Granada this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Hanalei Cocktail Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. San Matias 30 Coffee & Spirits is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Aliatar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Granada and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 6
- Granada
- Cartagena
- Alicante
- More
Drive 432 km, 4 hours 39 min
- Estatua Icue
- National Museum of Underwater Archaeology
- Interpretation Center of the Punic Wall
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Cartagena. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Alicante. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
When you’ve had your share of Granada, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cartagena. Your travel time is around 3 hours 9 min.
Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to National Museum Of Underwater Archaeology, a photogenic museum that stands out in the city. Next, visit The Punic Wall, an increasingly popular museum that offers a unique experience.
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.
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.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Tabula Rasa, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Baeza & Rufete is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Alicante. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Canibal Lounge Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Old Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Pub Carabassa is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.
Day 7
- Alicante - Departure day
- More
- El Carrer dels Bolets
- More
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.
Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Alicante’s shopping center, the lively Avenida Maisonnave. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Spain. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Alicante.
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’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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Spain
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.