One-Week Spain Road Trip from Zaragoza to Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona and surrounding area

Welcome to Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Zaragoza 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 Puerta del Carmen 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 Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza. 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Zaragoza by reserving a table at Gente Rara. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to Cancook, recognized for its delicious creative dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit La Prensa, a local favorite known for its delightful contemporary cuisine in Zaragoza. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Be A Legend Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar El Circo provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Rock & Blues Cafe offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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

Drop by the renowned José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,535 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Puente de Piedra. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,689 visitors, this bridge deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. This co-cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,215 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Parque del Agua Zaragoza (Water Park). This park and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,110 local and international travelers.

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.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Madrid by securing a reservation at DiverXO. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Smoked Room, renowned for its delicious contemporary dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Paco Roncero, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Cafe Madrid is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, 1862 Dry Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Madrid. You’ll stay in Madrid for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Take the opportunity to see Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 120,158 visitors.

Puerta de Alcalá is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This triumphal arch has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 43,833 travelers.

Madrid is also the home of Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. This art museum gets more than 1 visitor on an annual basis. Around 46,855 people have rated this art museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Royal Palace of Madrid. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 77,471 reviews, a visit to this royal palace is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Madrid is also your chance to admire plaza de España. This must-visit square enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 98,199 reviews.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Madrid's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at La Mi Venta, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Mas Al Sur beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Prada a Tope Madrid. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Madrid tonight.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 Madrid. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Valencia, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Make Main Square one of your first sightseeing stops in Madrid. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 152,388 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Market of San Miguel is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This building is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Museo del Prado. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 98,929 visitors. Up to 3,497,345 people travel to this site annually.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to El Retiro Park. A trip to this popular urban park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.8 out of 5-star rating as given by 162,386 previous 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Valencia. 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 Valencia by booking a table at El Poblet, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience, Ricard Camarena shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious creative cuisine in Valencia. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Fierro is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Valencia. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Barcelona, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Take the opportunity to see Mercat Central. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 79,570 visitors.

Serrano Towers is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This fortified tower has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,998 travelers.

Valencia is also the home of City of Arts and Sciences. Around 125,881 people have rated this tourist destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Barcelona, 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 you explore more of Barcelona, 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 Lasarte in Barcelona by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Lasarte offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore ABaC, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 3-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Cocina Hermanos Torres, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar. Alternatively, go to Bobby's Free, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Torre Rosa provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 6 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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Park Güell. This extraordinary sculpture garden has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 181,403 visitors.

Next, make your way to Sagrada Família. This minor basilica welcomes around 4,527,427 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 226,955 reviews.

While in Barcelona, we also recommend a visit to La Pedrera. This monument has been 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. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 125,060 travelers, this tourist attraction is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Barcelona.

Make your way to Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, perhaps the most famous catholic cathedral in Barcelona. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 62,263 reviews.

You can learn more about Barcelona today by going on a tour. Barcelona 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 Barcelona.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at ARTiSA Barcelona, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant El Foro is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Braseria La Selva Barcelona. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Barcelona tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Dr Stravinsky after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to El Xampanyet for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

Say good night to Barcelona and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 Barcelona. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zaragoza, where you will stay for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Parc de la Ciutadella. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 68,100 reviews.

Continue your journey at Arc de Triomf. This triumphal arch is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 77,887 travelers from near and far.

Barcelona is also the home of Plaça de Catalunya. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 175,036 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Mercado de La Boqueria. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 160,835 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 85,986 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this fountain.

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.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante Palomeque, an iconic dining spot in Zaragoza. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mesón Martín, a popular restaurant in Zaragoza. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Parrilla Albarracin, a hidden gem nestled in Zaragoza. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Canterbury Salamero, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, La Bendita offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out El Tubo de Zaragoza. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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 Zaragoza before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Spain, take a moment for some retail therapy in Zaragoza’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Spain, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Spain with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

Make Plaza de los Sitios your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,205 reviews.

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

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

You’ll then say farewell to Zaragoza. 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!