One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Alicante traveling west to Cuenca, Madrid, and Albacete

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Explore the best of Spain on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Alicante, Albacete, Cuenca, Madrid, and Elche. This road trip itinerary in Spain seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Alicante, 1 night in Cuenca, 2 nights in Madrid, and 1 night in Albacete. 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 Alicante, 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. El Retiro Park and Main Square are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, learn more about the unique Market Of San Miguel, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Museo Del Prado.

As you hit the open road and drive through Alicante, Albacete, Cuenca, Madrid, and Elche, 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
El Carrer dels Bolets
Archaeological Museum of AlicanteSanta Bárbara CastleMercado Central de AlicanteCocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'AlacantParc El Palmeral
Altozano GardenCathedral of San Juan de AlbaceteMuseo Municipal de la Cuchillería de Albacete
Castilla-La Mancha Paleontological MuseumSan Pablo BridgeScience Museum of Castilla La ManchaCiudad Encantada
Market of San MiguelMain SquareMuseo del PradoEl Retiro ParkGran Vía
Royal Palace of Madridplaza de EspañaSantiago Bernabéu Stadium
Parc MunicipalEl PalmerarPlaça de la GlorietaHuerto del CuraRío Safari Elche
Parc Canalejas

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Alicante - Arrival day
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  • El Carrer dels Bolets
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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 just 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Alicante, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mish Mish, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Dàrsena offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Cervecería Layton is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Alicante.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Munich stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Levante Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Café-pub Bubyston is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Alicante
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour 19 min

  • Archaeological Museum of Alicante
  • Santa Bárbara Castle
  • Mercado Central de Alicante
  • Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant
  • Parc El Palmeral
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Alicante has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Alicante by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Archaeological Museum Of Alicante. This well-known museum is a photogenic place to see in Alicante. Continue your discovery at Santa Bárbara Castle, a visually striking castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Alicante, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Mercado Central De Alicante. This captivating market offers an instagrammable encounter with Alicante. Next, make your way to Cocatedral De Sant Nicolau De Bari D'alacant to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Parc El Palmeral, an up-and-coming park that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Alicante.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Alicante by securing a table at Tabula Rasa. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Baeza & Rufete, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Canibal Lounge Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Old Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Pub Carabassa likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Alicante
  • Cuenca
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Drive 327 km, 3 hours 35 min

  • Altozano Garden
  • Cathedral of San Juan de Albacete
  • Museo Municipal de la Cuchillería de Albacete
  • More

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

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. 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. Altozano Garden is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning park before continuing your journey. Cathedral Of San Juan De Albacete is your next stop. This increasingly popular 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 Museo Municipal De La Cuchillería De Albacete. This instagrammable museum is a sight to behold.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cuenca. Cuenca offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Olea Comedor in Cuenca by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Olea Comedor delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and fusion cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Tu Rincón offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Café Hispano is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bogart is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cuenca
  • Madrid
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Drive 223 km, 3 hours 14 min

  • Castilla-La Mancha Paleontological Museum
  • San Pablo Bridge
  • Science Museum of Castilla La Mancha
  • Ciudad Encantada
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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 Cuenca. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Madrid, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Cuenca promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Castilla-la Mancha Paleontological Museum. This heritage-rich museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy San Pablo Bridge, another history-steeped attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Ciudad Encantada. This visually striking rock formation is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Madrid, 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 Madrid. 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Madrid by reserving a table at DiverXO. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Smoked Room, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Paco Roncero, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Madrid.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Yambala, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cafe Madrid also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Madrid
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Drive 6 km, 57 min

  • Market of San Miguel
  • Main Square
  • Museo del Prado
  • El Retiro Park
  • Gran Vía
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Day 5 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Madrid. You have 1 night left in Madrid. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

A top thing to do today is to explore Gran Vía, a must-see street in Madrid. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Today’s itinerary in Madrid covers several incredible sights, including a food market, a public square, a museum, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Market Of San Miguel. This wondrous food market is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Main Square, a must-see public square in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Museo Del Prado. This world-famous museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to El Retiro Park, where you can take in detailed features.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Alhambra, a highly-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante Alabaster, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Jazz Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. España Building is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, 1862 Dry Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Madrid
  • Albacete
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Drive 268 km, 3 hours 14 min

  • Royal Palace of Madrid
  • plaza de España
  • Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
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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 Madrid. In the evening, you’ll end up in Albacete, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Madrid’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Royal Palace Of Madrid. This visually striking palace is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Plaza De España, a must-visit public square in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, an iconic stadium.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Albacete. 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 Albacete. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Albacete by securing a table at Ababol. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional contemporary menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try El Callejón de los Gatos, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar History, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Liverpool Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Torito likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Albacete
  • Alicante
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Drive 192 km, 2 hours 35 min

  • Parc Municipal
  • El Palmerar
  • Plaça de la Glorieta
  • Huerto del Cura
  • Río Safari Elche
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore 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 Alicante. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Albacete, including a park, a botanical garden, a public square, a safari park and much more! Start your adventure at Parc Municipal. This underrated park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to El Palmeral located in Albacete for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Plaça De La Glorieta. Its history-steeped features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Huerto Del Cura. This botanical garden has a romantic appeal. For a change of pace, head to Río Safari Elche. As one of the most frequently visited attractions in Albacete, this safari park is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Alicante. Alicante offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Piripi, a popular restaurant in Alicante. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Alicante at Restaurante Baeza & Rufete, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restaurant L'Ereta. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Alicante tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Oculto Alicante, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Austin provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Petanca offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Alicante - Departure day
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  • Parc Canalejas
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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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Parc Canalejas. This up-and-coming park is a popular place to see in the city.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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 in the mood to try something new, consider Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar, 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!

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