One-Week Spain Road Trip from Alicante traveling south to Murcia, Guadix, and Almeria

Say hello to Alicante! Your exciting road trip through Spain is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Alicante for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Alicante. 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 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Alicante by booking a table at Tabula Rasa, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional traditional menu. For a different culinary experience, Baeza & Rufete shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious modern cuisine in Alicante. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. Experience the culinary magic of LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR, a hidden gem nestled in Alicante. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café-Pub Bubyston. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Canibal Lounge Pub offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook AUSTIN, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 2 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Alicante. You have 1 night left in Alicante. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Archaeological Museum of Alicante. This archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,768 visitors.

Santa Bárbara Castle is another popular attraction you could visit today. This castle has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 35,044 visitors.

Mercado Central de Alicante is also highly recommended by travelers. This building has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,503 visitors.

Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,219 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Parc El Palmeral. This park has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,211 travelers.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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. 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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at 26 Cocktail Room after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

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 2 vibrant destinations - Benidorm and Elche. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Murcia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Benidorm and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 44 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Benidorm beckons with new experiences!

Make Mundomar one of your first sightseeing stops in Benidorm. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,253 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Plaça Triangular is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,047 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Benidorm, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Elche. This drive usually takes around 49 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Parc Municipal your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,887 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at El Palmerar. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,060 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Huerto del Cura is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This garden has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,389 visitors.

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.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Perro Limón in Murcia by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Perro Limón offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious fusion menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Cabaña Buenavista, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Almo, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into El Bosque Animado. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Culturas offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook BarAltea, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Murcia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Guadix, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

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 Guadix. Your travel time is around 2 hours 26 min.

Kick off the day at Real Casino de Murcia, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,805 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Murcia's Cathedral. Murcia's Cathedral is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,947 reviews.

Plaza de las Flores is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,389 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Fuensanta. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,552 visitors.

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

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

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.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Granada, 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 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Guadix and set your GPS to Granada. 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 56 min. Upon reaching Granada, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Alhambra. This architectural ensemble is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Granada, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 127,431 visitors.

Nasrid Palaces is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 20,263 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to S. A. I. Catedral Metropolitana de la Encarnación. Visitors have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,036 reviews.

Mirador de San Nicolas, Granada is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a scenic viewpoint rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 63,173 reviews.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at El Quinto Toro, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tony Garcia Espacio Gastronómico offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Casa Puga. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Almeria.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kiosco Amalia, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Almeria, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Playa de San José. This extraordinary beach is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,778 visitors.

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

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Oasys MiniHollywood. This theme park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,912 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Isleta del Moro. This car ride takes around 44 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Viewpoint of La Amatista. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,621 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Almeria and your accommodation.

As you explore more of Almeria, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Buono, a highly-rated dining destination in Almeria. If you're eager to try something different, consider Croqueteria La Mala, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Stanley & de Marco. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Almeria this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Cartagena. In the evening, you’ll end up in Alicante, where you will stay for 1 night.

Cartagena’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Almeria behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 59 min. Cartagena welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Naval Museum Cartagena. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,771 reviews.

Continue your journey at Roman theatre of Cartagena. This archaeological site is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,504 travelers from near and far.

Cartagena is also the home of National Museum of Underwater Archaeology. This museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,845 visitors.

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 a delightful dinner at Restaurant L'Ereta, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Steki Restaurante as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Alicante.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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.

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Alicante’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Spain. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Spain forever.

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider Centro Comercial Gran Vía, another top spot with a tantalizing 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!