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

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 well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, a serene, a breathtaking, an instagrammable, a heritage-rich, a culturally significant, and a symbolic. Whether you decide to explore Alicante on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Parc El Palmeral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic park before continuing your journey. Cocatedral De Sant Nicolau De Bari D'alacant is your next stop. This intriguing church is one of the best-rated sights in Alicante.

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 Mercado Central De Alicante. This instagrammable market is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Archaeological Museum Of Alicante and Santa Bárbara Castle.

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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Alicante. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Alicante by securing a reservation at Tabula Rasa. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Baeza & Rufete, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

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

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Murcia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cartagena, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Murcia allows for both.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Murcia, 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 Alicante to Murcia may take around 1 hour without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Murcia, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make your way to Murcia's Cathedral, a captivating church that draws attention for its inviting features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Real Casino De Murcia, a visually striking museum that stands out in the city. Next, visit Plaza De Las Flores, an underrated public square that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Puente De Los Peligros, a nearby monument, which is highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Floridablanca Garden, a serene park and the perfect final attraction in Murcia.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cartagena, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cartagena. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pub Frank18, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. 4 Copas is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Mostacho Café Bar Iii is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore San Pedro del Pinatar, Cartagena, and Elche, 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 Valencia. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Start by visiting Roman Theatre Of Cartagena, a prime spot to begin your journey. This culturally significant archeological site is sure to impress.

Upon your arrival in San Pedro del Pinatar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Salinas Y Arenales De San Pedro Del Pinatar, an interesting nature reserve in San Pedro del Pinatar. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Elche. This car ride takes around 1 hour 9 min.

Begin your journey at El Palmeral and explore the UNESCO world heritage-listed features. Next, make your way to Huerto Del Cura, another highlight in the town.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Valencia. 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.

Start 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.

Keep the evening going at Pub Pasos, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Clann Bar Tapas, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Café Negrito, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 5 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.

Valencia is home to plenty of attractions that offer an instagrammable, a heritage-rich, a gorgeous, a culturally significant, and a romantic! Start at Mercat Central, an extraordinary food market that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Serrano Towers, enchanting visitors with its respected appeal. Continue your exploration at Plaça De La Mare De Déu. This public square is one of the city’s most captivating spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Valencia at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Plaça De La Reina (valència).

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 Valencia's best restaurants.

Dine in style at USUAL resto-bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Casa Ripoll boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurante La Cepa Vieja (Valencia). Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Valencia.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Cosmo Valencia offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Casa Pepe is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cafe De Las Horas is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

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 - Valencia. 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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Valencia, including a market, a park, a science center, an aquarium and much more! Start your day with a visit to Mercado De Colón. This notable market is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Instal·lacions Dels Jardins Del Túria, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Valencia on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to City Of Arts And Sciences, one of the city’s most wondrous science center. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for L'oceanogràfic.

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

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Piripi, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurante Baeza & Rufete beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant L'Ereta. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Alicante tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Oculto Alicante. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Austin, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Petanca provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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