One-Week Spain Road Trip from Madrid traveling east to Valencia, Barcelona, and Zaragoza

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

Madrid is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. 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 Madrid. 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 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.

Indulge in an exquisite Bib Gourmand dining experience at DiverXO. Renowned for its prestigious 3 Michelin-star rating and an array of mouthwatering dishes, DiverXO consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional creative cuisine.

El miniBAR is one of the best bars in Madrid and the perfect place for a celebratory drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,297 customers.

You may also want to check out Areia, offering great drinks and a fantastic atmosphere. Areia is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,973 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,124 customers.

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

You can learn more about Madrid today by going on a tour. Madrid offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Don't forget to book a table at El Jardín Secreto Madrid, a well-known eatery in Madrid. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 4,058 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Pum Pum Café while exploring Madrid. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 3,614 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Corral de la Morería, a popular restaurant in Madrid. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,011 discerning diners.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the city. 1862 Dry Bar is a popular option with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,987 customers.

Another top option is Taberna del Alabardero de Madrid. This bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,525 customers.

Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is also a great place to continue your evening. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 966 customers.

Head back to your accommodation in Madrid and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 Madrid and Valencia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valencia, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Main Square. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Madrid, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 152,388 visitors.

Market of San Miguel is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to plaza de España. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 98,199 reviews.

Crystal Palace is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a building rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,270 reviews.

Valencia’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Madrid behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 30 min. Valencia welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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.

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

Discover an unparalleled culinary experience at El Poblet, a Bib Gourmand restaurant perfect to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 2-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature creative meals.

Indulge in the exquisite flavors at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Valencia, Ricard Camarena. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature creative dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Valencia you shouldn’t miss is Fierro. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s modern menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

When you’ve finished your meal, Cafe de las Horas is one of the best bars in Valencia for an after-dinner drink. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,922 customers.

Puerta del Mar is another of the most popular bars in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,372 customers.

Alternatively, check out Bar Tonyina. This popular place has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, as rated by 1,516 customers.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Valencia and Barcelona. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Barcelona, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Mercat Central. This market hall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 79,570 reviews.

Continue your journey at Serrano Towers. This fortified tower is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,998 travelers from near and far.

Valencia is also the home of City of Arts and Sciences. This tourist destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 125,881 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Valencia, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Barcelona may take around 3 hours 42 min. Upon your arrival in Barcelona, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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.

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.

Do not miss out on an incredible dining experience at Lasarte, one of the finest Bib Gourmand restaurants in Barcelona, boasting 3 Michelin stars. Featuring delightful food options and creative offerings, Lasarte has garnered acclaim from numerous satisfied diners.

For local recommendations, look no further than ABaC. This food haven in Barcelona has been awarded 3 Michelin stars. Featuring creative cuisine, this well-loved Bib Gourmand restaurant stands out as a favorite among local and international customers.

In the mood for something different? Consider reserving a table at Cocina Hermanos Torres. This celebrated dining spot in Barcelona is renowned for its sumptuous meals and creative menu. Countless patrons sing this Bib Gourmand restaurant's praises, adding to its 3 Michelin-star prestige.

Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar is one of the best bars in Barcelona and the perfect place to go for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 893 customers.

You may also want to check out La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 743 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Cerveseria Catalana. Cerveseria Catalana has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 14,751 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Barcelona has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Barcelona by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Barcelona, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Barcelona below.

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.

Reserve your spot at El Nacional, a popular local restaurant in Barcelona. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 23,496 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience El Bosc de Les Fades during your stay in Barcelona. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 14,606 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Ciutat Comtal, a popular local gem in Barcelona. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 12,951 satisfied guests.

To get a drink at one of the best bars in the city, go to Ocaña. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,052 customers.

If you’d like to continue your evening somewhere else, we recommend heading to Elsa y Fred. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,884 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is El Xampanyet. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,394 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Barcelona and Zaragoza. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zaragoza. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Parc de la Ciutadella. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 68,100 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Arc de Triomf. This triumphal arch has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,887 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Plaça de Catalunya. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 175,036 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Mercado de La Boqueria. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 160,835 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. This fountain is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 85,986 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Barcelona and set your GPS to Zaragoza. 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 3 hours 7 min. Upon reaching Zaragoza, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

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

Take your Zaragoza getaway to new heights by dining at Gente Rara, a restaurant. Renowned for its world-famous 1 Michelin-star rating and a variety of creative and refined dishes, Gente Rara consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional creative and contemporary cuisine.

A renowned dining spot in Zaragoza is Cancook, which holds a rating of 1 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s inviting ambiance and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its creative menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Cancook’s culinary mastery.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Zaragoza and reserve a table at the 1-star Michelin restaurant, La Prensa. Its delectable contemporary menu has contributed to impressive reviews from many previous guests.

If you’re up for getting a drink, consider going to Meli Del Tubo. Around 2,986 customers have given this incredible bar an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Locals of Barcelona also enjoy the drinks at Rock & Blues Cafe. This place is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,922 customers and is one of the best you can experience in the city.

Another top-rated alternative for a celebratory drink is La Flor de Lis. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,460 customers.

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 7 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Zaragoza and Madrid, 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 Madrid. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Plaza de los Sitios, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,205 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,535 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Zaragoza is Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,215 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Zaragoza offers an experience you will remember.

Puente de Piedra is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Zaragoza. This bridge promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,689 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Madrid, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Zaragoza to Madrid may take around 3 hours 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Madrid, 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Madrid.

Reserve a table at La Mi Venta, a renowned restaurant in Madrid. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,658 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Malacatín while in Madrid. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 3,017 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Madrid at JUNGLEKING - International Food & XL Brunch in Madrid, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,533 customers.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, a popular bar you can go to is Harvey's Cocktail Bar. This place has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,137 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Cafe Madrid. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 662 customers.

Inclán Brutal Bar is another great place where you can celebrate after a long, fun day in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,713 customers.

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

Day 8 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Madrid 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 Madrid’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, 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.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Madrid. 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!