One-Week Spain Road Trip from Málaga traveling east to Almeria, Alicante, Valencia, Murcia, and Guadix

Welcome to Málaga, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Málaga's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Málaga 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 Hammam Al Ándalus Baños Árabes 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 Málaga. 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 Málaga. 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 an extraordinary dining experience at La Cosmo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible andalusian menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, José Carlos García is one of the best restaurants for creative and andalusian cuisine in Málaga. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Blossom. As a top-rated Bib Gourmand-establishment, it is an ideal choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Speakeasy “The Pharmacy”, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Chester & Punk, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, La Terraza De Valeria provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Málaga. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Almeria, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Iglesia Catedral de la Encarnación. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,609 visitors.

Picasso Museum Málaga is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 24,075 travelers.

Málaga is also the home of Alcazaba. Around 30,648 people have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Málaga Park. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 9,404 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Málaga is also your chance to admire Castle of Gibralpharo. This must-visit museum enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,046 reviews.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at El Quinto Toro, a top-rated dining spot in Almeria. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tony Garcia Espacio Gastronómico, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Casa Puga. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Almeria.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Kiosco Amalia, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Cartagena and 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.

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 1 hour 59 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Naval Museum Cartagena. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,771 visitors.

Roman theatre of Cartagena is another popular attraction you could visit today. This archaeological site has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,504 visitors.

Set your GPS to Elche and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Elche beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at El Palmerar, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,060 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Huerto del Cura is a recommended place to visit. This garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,389 reviews.

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.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Tabula Rasa in Alicante by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Tabula Rasa delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Baeza & Rufete, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Consider reserving a table at LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Alicante.

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.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Alicante and el Castell de Guadalest. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Valencia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Parc Canalejas. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,593 reviews.

Next up is Mercado Central de Alicante. This building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,503 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Santa Bárbara Castle. This castle has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 35,044 reviews.

Archaeological Museum of Alicante is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This archaeological museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,768 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Alicante, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to el Castell de Guadalest may take around 55 min. Upon your arrival in el Castell de Guadalest, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to El Castell de Guadalest. This municipality of spain is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in el Castell de Guadalest, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,496 visitors.

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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Valencia by reserving a table at El Poblet. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ricard Camarena, renowned for its delectable creative 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 Fierro, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-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 Valencia.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Café Negrito, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cafe de las Horas, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 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 Murcia, which will be your home away from home 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 Serrano Towers. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,998 visitors, this fortified tower deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to L'Oceanogràfic. This public aquarium has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 76,085 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is City of Arts and Sciences. This tourist destination and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 125,881 local and international travelers.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Murcia by booking a table at Perro Limón. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of fusion cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Cabaña Buenavista, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Almo, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting El Bosque Animado, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Culturas is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, BarAltea also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

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 Murcia and Caravaca de la Cruz. In the evening, you’ll end up in Guadix, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Plaza de las Flores. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Murcia, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,389 visitors.

Murcia's Cathedral is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,947 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Jardín de Floridablanca. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,929 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Caravaca de la Cruz. This drive usually takes around 52 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Fuentes del Marqués. This monument is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,403 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Guadix, 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.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Granada. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Málaga, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Guadix, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Granada. This drive usually takes around 44 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, Mirador de San Nicolas, Granada is a great place to start. This scenic viewpoint is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 63,173 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is S. A. I. Catedral Metropolitana de la Encarnación. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,036 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Plaza Isabel La Católica. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,894 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Nasrid Palaces. This point of interest is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 20,263 reviews.

Alhambra is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this architectural ensemble, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 127,431 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Málaga. Málaga 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Málaga. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at El Pimpi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Morrissey's Irish Pub offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bar Málaga is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Málaga.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Nusa Malaga offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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 Málaga 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 Málaga’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.

Make Fuente de las Tres Gracias your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this fountain an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 356 reviews.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at El Gastronauta, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Picasso Bar Tapas offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Málaga. 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!