One-Week Spain Road Trip from Alicante to Cartagena, Murcia, and Valencia and surrounding area

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Alicante and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Alicante for 2 nights 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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Alicante. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Renowned as a restaurant, it offers an exceptional menu. This restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Nestled in the heart of the city, is an ideal choice for discerning foodies seeking culinary excellence. Enjoy a delicious meal at Mish Mish, a top-rated dining destination in Alicante. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Dàrsena, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Alicante this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Café-Pub Bubyston, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Canibal Lounge Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, AUSTIN ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Spain!

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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Santa Bárbara Castle, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 35,044 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Archaeological Museum of Alicante. This archaeological museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,768 travelers.

Mercado Central de Alicante is another must-visit attraction. This renowned building offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 24,503 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant. This well-loved church boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,219 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Parc El Palmeral awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,211 previous visitors.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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.

Make sure to book a table at La Taberna del Gourmet, a popular restaurant in Alicante. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Alicante at Heladería Borgonesse, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Restaurant Piripi. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Alicante tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting 26 Cocktail Room after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Elche. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cartagena. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Elche. This car ride takes around 23 min.

Make Río Safari Elche one of your first sightseeing stops in Elche. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 7,640 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Plaça de la Glorieta is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,275 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Huerto del Cura. This garden has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,389 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to El Palmerar. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 11,060 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Parc Municipal. This park enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,887 local and international travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Cartagena. Cartagena 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.

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

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at La Cartela, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Omkara is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurante Magoga. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice 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 Mostacho Café Bar III, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to El escondite. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Sol, another top-rated place in the area.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

Day 4 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.

Take the opportunity to see Roman theatre of Cartagena. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,504 visitors.

Parque de Alfonso Torres is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,477 travelers.

Cartagena is also the home of Interpretation Center of the Punic Wall. Around 1,139 people have rated this museum an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Batería de Castillitos. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 5,055 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Cartagena on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurante La Taranta, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, El Trovador is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurante la sella cartagena. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cartagena tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Cervecería "Gas", a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Camden Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Mr. Witt Café offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

Dive into day 5 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 Murcia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at House of Fortune, a remarkable domus where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,104 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Museo Foro Romano. Molinete. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,591 travelers.

Experiencia 43 is another must-visit attraction. This renowned point of interest offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,012 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

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

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

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. This awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal. Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante El Churra, an iconic dining spot in Murcia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of El Pasaje de Belluga, a popular restaurant in Murcia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurante Hispano, a hidden gem nestled in Murcia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting El Bosque Animado after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Culturas, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, BarAltea also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

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

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cartagena. This drive usually takes around 42 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Estatua Icue. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cartagena, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,302 visitors.

Naval Museum Cartagena is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,771 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Barco Turístico. Visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 957 reviews.

National Museum of Underwater Archaeology is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a museum rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,845 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Valencia, 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 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at Ubik Cafè Cafeteria Llibreria, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, USUAL resto-bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Éter Valencia. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Valencia.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Negrito. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Cafe de las Horas offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

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

On day 7 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 Valencia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Alicante, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Valencia and set your GPS to Alicante. 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 51 min. Upon reaching Alicante, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Mercat Central. Previous visitors have rated this market hall an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 79,570 reviews.

Serrano Towers is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This fortified tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,998 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is City of Arts and Sciences. This tourist destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 125,881 reviews.

L'Oceanogràfic is another outstanding experience in Valencia. Around 76,085 travelers have rated this public aquarium an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Alicante. Alicante 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.

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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant L'Ereta, 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 Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar, 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 Steki Restaurante, a hidden gem nestled in Alicante. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Day 8 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.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Alicante’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Spain. Keep the spirit of your trip to Spain alive with these special souvenirs.

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

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Centro Comercial Gran Vía, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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!