9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Spain and France With Itinerary from Barcelona to Valencia, Tarragona, and Carcassonne

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Spain and France has in store for you! You will be staying in Barcelona for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Barcelona is the fantastic Park Güell. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Park Güell has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 200,348 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Sagrada Família, which is a church that gets around 4,527,427 visits every year. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 262,289 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of La Pedrera, a standout museum and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 95,521 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Casa Batlló. This museum is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 150,893 visitor reviews.

Just around the corner lies the magnificent Cathedral Of The Holy Cross And Saint Eulalia, a popular church and attraction many visitors enjoy. More than 68,874 people have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Barcelona's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Spain to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Barcelona has them.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Barcelona by booking a table at Lasarte. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star 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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Les Gens Que J'aime stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bobby's Free offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Old Fashioned Gin Tonic & Cocktail Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Spain and France. Today's main destinations are Barcelona in Spain, 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 2 nights.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated food market and attraction in Barcelona — Mercat De La Boqueria. About 181,799 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The popular Plaça De Catalunya is another top sight in Barcelona that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved public square in the area, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 192,246 visitors.

Magic Fountain Of Montjuïc is a spectacular fountain and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Barcelona, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 86,567 enchanted visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Peníscola / Peñíscola. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Barcelona, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Peníscola / Peñíscola. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Something that makes Peníscola / Peñíscola the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding castle, Peniscola Castle. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 67,342 visitors.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Valencia’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Valencia. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Spain in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at El Poblet, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ricard Camarena is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Valencia. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Fierro. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pub Pasos, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Clann Bar Tapas offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Café Negrito provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Day 4 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Valencia. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Valencia today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Instal·lacions Dels Jardins Del Túria. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 37,810 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Mercado De Colón. This incredible attraction and market holds an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to 41,417 visitors.

According to travelers in Valencia, the extraordinary L'oceanogràfic is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and aquarium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 88,408 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible science center, City Of Arts And Sciences. Up to 136,843 visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Valencia’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Spain and France.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at USUAL resto-bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Casa Ripoll offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante La Cepa Vieja (Valencia). With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Valencia.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Cosmo Valencia, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Casa Pepe offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Cafe De Las Horas provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Take in the ambiance of Valencia as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across Spain and France. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Valencia in Spain. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Tarragona where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Valencia is the fantastic Mercat Central. As an appreciated food market and local gem in the area, Mercat Central has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 86,775 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Llotja De La Seda. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,788 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Plaça De La Reina (valència), a standout public square and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 31,399 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Plaça De La Mare De Déu. This public square is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 36,033 visitor reviews.

Just around the corner lies the magnificent Serrano Towers, a popular monument and attraction many visitors enjoy. More than 44,087 people have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Tarragona’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Valencia behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 42 min. Tarragona welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Tarragona. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Spain's delectable cuisine at one of Tarragona's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Start your culinary exploration in Tarragona by securing a reservation at La Xarxa. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern and rice dishes cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of L'Àncora del Serrallo, a popular restaurant in Tarragona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Cube Night. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Cafeteria Florida, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Tolo provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

As the night falls in Tarragona, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Spain and France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Figueres in Spain. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Figueres and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 22 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Figueres beckons with new experiences!

In Figueres, the extraordinary Parc-bosc Municipal awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,164 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Figueres is the spectacular Dalí Theatre And Museum. This attraction is a museum that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 44,728 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Toy Museum Of Catalonia. This local museum and wonder has an overall review score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,431 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Carcassonne.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Spain and France, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Carcassonne. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Don’t miss out on dining at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your European tour in Spain and France, you’ll start and end your day in Carcassonne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Carcassonne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Carcassonne in France to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

A tour of Carcassonne is not complete without a visit to the famous Basilique Saint Nazaire. This incredible church and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,146 travelers.

Make the most of your Carcassonne travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Cité De Carcassonne. This castle and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 76,968 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne for an experience worth remembering. This local castle and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,201 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lastours. This car ride takes around 25 min.

A tour of Lastours is not complete without a visit to the famous Les Quatre Châteaux De Lastours. This incredible castle and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,293 travelers.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Carcassonne. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Spain and France.

Don’t miss out on dining at V and B Carcassonne, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Auberge des Lices, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Adélaïde. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

As the night falls in Carcassonne, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Carcassonne in France. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Barcelona, your home for 1 night.

A tour of Carcassonne is not complete without a visit to the famous Carcassonne. This incredible castle and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 183 travelers.

Make the most of your Carcassonne travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Carcassonne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral and unique destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,294 travelers.

Set your GPS to Castelnaudary and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Castelnaudary beckons with new experiences!

Écluses De Saint-roch is a travelers’ favorite in Castelnaudary, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 866 visitors.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Barcelona. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Barcelona’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Spain and France.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Els 4Gats, a popular restaurant in Barcelona. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Barcelona at Bar El Born, 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 Ocaña. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Barcelona tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Manchester is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dry Martini, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Icebarcelona. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Spain and France! Enjoy your evening in Barcelona to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.