7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Valencia traveling south to Cartagena and Alicante
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Spain. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Valencia, 1 night in Cartagena, and 1 night in Alicante. 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 Valencia, 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 Valencia Bioparc, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Serrano Towers.
As you hit the open road and drive through Valencia, Benidorm, Cartagena, Elche, Alicante, and el Castell de Guadalest, 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
- Valencia - Arrival day
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- Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria
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Welcome to Valencia, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Valencia's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Valencia 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 Instal·lacions Dels Jardins Del Túria or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Valencia. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 Valencia, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante RiFF, a highly-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're eager to try something different, consider El Poblet, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ubik Cafè Cafeteria Llibreria. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Pub Pasos after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Clann Bar Tapas for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Café Negrito is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Valencia
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Drive 11 km, 1 hour 3 min
- L'Oceanogràfic
- City of Arts and Sciences
- Jardins del Real / Vivers
- Torres dels Serrans
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Valencia for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Valencia, including an aquarium, a science center, a park, a monument and much more! Start your day with a visit to L'oceanogràfic. This impressive aquarium is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to City Of Arts And Sciences, which may be one of the most visually striking 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 Jardins Del Real De València, one of the city’s most well-known park. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Serrano Towers.
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 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.
Experience a symphony of flavors at El Poblet in Valencia by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, El Poblet delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ricard Camarena, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Fierro, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Cosmo Valencia after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Casa Pepe, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cafe De Las Horas also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.
Day 3
- Valencia
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Drive 10 km, 48 min
- Mercat Central
- La Lonja de la Seda de Valencia
- Plaça de la Reina (València)
- Plaça de la Mare de Déu
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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.
Get ready for an exciting day in Valencia. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a food market, a historical landmark, and a public square. Begin your adventure at Mercat Central. This is an astonishing food market you should not miss. Another must-see is Llotja De La Seda, a captivating historical landmark in Valencia.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Plaça De La Reina (valència). From there, take a leisurely stroll to Plaça De La Mare De Déu, another of the city’s captivating 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.
Experience shopping bliss at Valencia as you explore Calle Colón. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Calle Colón offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Valencia's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Helen Berger València, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Éter Valencia is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Casa Montaña. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Valencia tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Madrid Valencia, known for its lively atmosphere.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 4
- Valencia
- Benidorm
- Cartagena
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Drive 316 km, 3 hours 42 min
- Mundomar
- Plaça Triangular
- Parc de L'Aigüera
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Benidorm. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cartagena, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Benidorm’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Valencia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Benidorm. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 36 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Your self-guided tour starts at Mundomar, an up-and-coming aquarium that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Plaça Triangular and admire its picture-perfect features. When you’re ready, continue to Parc De L'aigüera, an up-and-coming park beloved by locals and tourists alike.
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 Cartagena. Cartagena 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 Cartagena. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cartagena by booking a table at Magoga, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary and traditional menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cafetería Cervantes, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Pub Frank18. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to 4 Copas, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Mostacho Café Bar Iii provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 5
- Cartagena
- Elx / Elche
- Alicante
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Drive 174 km, 2 hours 38 min
- Roman theatre of Cartagena
- Parc Municipal
- El Palmerar
- Huerto del Cura
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Cartagena and Elche. 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’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Cartagena on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Roman Theatre Of Cartagena is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant archeological site before continuing your journey.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cartagena and set your GPS to Elche. 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 1 hour 19 min. Upon reaching Elche, 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 Parc Municipal, a frequently visited park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to El Palmeral, where you can soak in the UNESCO world heritage-designated surroundings. Next, explore Huerto Del Cura, yet another often recommended place to see in the area.
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 you explore more of Alicante, 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.
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.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Munich, known for its lively atmosphere. Levante Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Café-pub Bubyston offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!
Day 6
- Alicante
- el Castell de Guadalest
- Valencia
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Drive 230 km, 3 hours 46 min
- Mercado Central de Alicante
- Parc El Palmeral
- Archaeological Museum of Alicante
- Santa Bárbara Castle
- El Castell de Guadalest
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On day 6 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 and el Castell de Guadalest. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valencia, where you will stay for 1 night.
Alicante is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and budget-friendly activities! Start at Mercado Central De Alicante, a captivating market that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Parc El Palmeral, enchanting visitors with its serene appeal. Continue your exploration at Archaeological Museum Of Alicante. This museum is one of the city’s most notable spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Alicante at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Santa Bárbara Castle.
El Castell de Guadalest’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Alicante behind. This drive usually takes around 55 min. El Castell de Guadalest welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to El Castell De Guadalest, an interesting castle that everyone visiting el Castell de Guadalest should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Valencia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo, a top-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Lleón bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Vitti. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 7
- Valencia - Departure day
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- Mercado de Colón
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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 Valencia before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Valencia’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Mercado Central. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain.
Mercado De Colón is must-visit market and a great starting point for the day.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Valencia.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Fierro, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Valencia. 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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