7-Day Spain Road Trip from Alicante traveling south to Cartagena, Almeria, and Guadix

Welcome to Alicante, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Alicante's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 El Carrer dels Bolets 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 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Alicante by booking a table at Tabula Rasa, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional traditional menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Baeza & Rufete, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. You might also want to secure a reservation at LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Alicante this evening.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Spain!

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Alicante for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Take the opportunity to see Archaeological Museum of Alicante. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,768 visitors.

Santa Bárbara Castle is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This castle has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 35,044 travelers.

Alicante is also the home of Mercado Central de Alicante. Around 24,503 people have rated this building an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 3,219 reviews, a visit to this church is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Alicante is also your chance to admire Parc El Palmeral. This must-visit park enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,211 reviews.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Alicante has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Alicante offers and add your favorites to your Spain travel package below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Alicante.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Taberna del Gourmet, an iconic dining spot in Alicante. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Heladería Borgonesse, a popular restaurant in Alicante. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Piripi, a hidden gem nestled in Alicante. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, 26 Cocktail Room stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Benidorm and San Pedro del Pinatar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cartagena, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Alicante, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Benidorm. Your travel time is around 40 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Plaça Triangular. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,047 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Parc de L'Aigüera. This park has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 2,390 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Mundomar. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,253 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Benidorm, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to San Pedro del Pinatar may take around 1 hour 33 min. Upon your arrival in San Pedro del Pinatar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mud baths in San Pedro del Pinatar. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in San Pedro del Pinatar, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,174 visitors.

Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,186 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cartagena, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cartagena by reserving a table at Magoga. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of contemporary and traditional cuisine. Looking for something different? Omkara offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante Magoga. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cartagena.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Mostacho Café Bar III. Alternatively, go to El escondite, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Sol provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 4 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 Almeria. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Roman theatre of Cartagena, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable archaeological site has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,504 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Naval Museum Cartagena is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,771 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Cartagena is National Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,845 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Cartagena offers an experience you will remember.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Almeria. Almeria offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Almeria.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at El Quinto Toro, an iconic dining spot in Almeria. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tony Garcia Espacio Gastronómico, a popular restaurant in Almeria. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Casa Puga, a hidden gem nestled in Almeria. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kiosco Amalia, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

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 Granada. In the evening, you’ll end up in Guadix, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Almeria’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Granada. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 48 min. When you arrive in Granada, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is S. A. I. Catedral Metropolitana de la Encarnación. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,036 reviews.

Continue your journey at Nasrid Palaces. This point of interest is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 20,263 travelers from near and far.

Granada is also the home of Alhambra. This architectural ensemble has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 127,431 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Mirador de San Nicolas, Granada. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 63,173 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Guadix, 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 Guadix's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Murcia and Elche. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Alicante, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Guadix, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Murcia may take around 2 hours 21 min. Upon your arrival in Murcia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Murcia's Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,947 visitors.

Plaza de las Flores is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,389 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Murcia, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Elche. Your travel time is around 45 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like El Palmerar. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,060 visitors.

Next, make your way to Huerto del Cura. This garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,389 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Alicante, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant L'Ereta, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Steki Restaurante is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Alicante.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Spain, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Spain home with you through these charming souvenirs.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Parc Canalejas. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,593 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Alicante.

Savor the flavors at El Garaje Bar Alicante, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Centro Comercial Gran Vía beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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!