One-Week Spain Road Trip from Barcelona traveling west to Vilanova i la Geltru, Valencia, Xàtiva, and Tarragona

Say hello to Barcelona! 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 Barcelona for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Barcelona 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 de la Ciutadella 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 Barcelona. 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 Barcelona. 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Barcelona by booking a table at Lasarte. This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to ABaC, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Cocina Hermanos Torres, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 3-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue your lively evening at Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bobby's Free is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Torre Rosa ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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 Barcelona. You have 1 night left in Barcelona. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Make Museu de la Ciència CosmoCaixa your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 37,537 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Park Güell. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 181,403 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sculpture garden every year.

Sagrada Família is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This minor basilica has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 226,955 visitors. Up to 4,527,427 travelers come to Barcelona every year to see Sagrada Família with their own eyes.

When you’re finished at Sagrada Família, the perfect next stop is La Pedrera. This monument is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 85,188 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Casa Batlló. This tourist attraction is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 125,060 reviews.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Barcelona has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Barcelona 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 Barcelona.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at ARTiSA Barcelona, a top-rated dining spot in Barcelona. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant El Foro, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Braseria La Selva Barcelona. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Barcelona.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Dr Stravinsky. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, El Xampanyet offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

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

On day 3 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 Barcelona. In the evening, you’ll end up in Vilanova i la Geltru, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mercado de La Boqueria. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Barcelona, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 160,835 visitors.

Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 62,263 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Palau de la Música Catalana. Visitors have rated this concert hall an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 40,217 reviews.

Arc de Triomf is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a triumphal arch rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 77,887 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, perhaps the most famous fountain in Barcelona. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 85,986 travelers.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pizzería Xic 86, a top-rated dining destination in Vilanova i la Geltru. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bar Restaurant Izan, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Bien Pagá. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Vilanova i la Geltru this evening.

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 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Peníscola / Peñíscola, 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 Valencia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Vilanova i la Geltru’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Peníscola / Peñíscola. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 58 min. When you arrive in Peníscola / Peñíscola, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Bufador. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,367 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is La Casa de las Petxines. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,367 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Peniscola Castle. This monument has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 61,572 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is El parc d'artilleria. This park and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,485 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 Valencia. Valencia 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 Valencia, 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at El Poblet in Valencia by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, El Poblet offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ricard Camarena, 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 Fierro, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Negrito, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Cafe de las Horas provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Valencia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Xàtiva, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Mercat Central. This popular market hall has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 79,570 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Plaça de la Mare de Déu. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,170 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Serrano Towers. This fortified tower has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,998 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. This park and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 37,810 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Valencia Bioparc. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,210 travelers, this zoo is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Valencia.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Xàtiva, 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 Xàtiva. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Valencia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Tarragona, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Xàtiva and set your GPS to Valencia. 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 46 min. Upon reaching Valencia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at L'Oceanogràfic, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This public aquarium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 76,085 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit City of Arts and Sciences. City of Arts and Sciences is a tourist destination with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 125,881 reviews.

Mercado de Colón is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This building is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 37,146 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Tarragona, 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 Tarragona's best restaurants.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Xarxa, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern and rice dishes menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Tarragona at CReeA, 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 Hotel Tarraco Park. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Tarragona tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Cube Night, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cafeteria Florida is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Tolo also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Tarragona, Salou, and Cambrils. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Barcelona. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you're ready to see some sights, Roman circus of Tárraco is a great place to start. This chogang elementary school is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,761 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Tarragona Amphitheatre. This roman amphitheatre has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,655 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Balcó del Mediterrani. The scenic viewpoint has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,291 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Tarragona, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Salou. Your travel time is around 19 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Tutuki Splash is a great place to start. This amusement ride is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,942 visitors.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at CocoVail Beer Hall - Craft Beer Barcelona, a top-rated dining destination in Barcelona. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Nacional, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ciutat Comtal. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Barcelona this evening.

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

Day 8 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Barcelona 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 Barcelona’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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Plaça de Catalunya. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Barcelona, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 175,036 visitors.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Elsa y Fred, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Antigua is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Barcelona. 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!