Relaxed 9-Day Spain Road Trip Starting from Alicante to Valencia

Your relaxed road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Alicante, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Alicante and begin your adventure in Spain.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Parc Canalejas. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,593 visitors.

Find your way to your hotel in Alicante. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Spain. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Alicante.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Alicante by booking a table at Tabula Rasa. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Baeza & Rufete, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. You might also want to secure a reservation at LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Alicante this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Alicante.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café-Pub Bubyston, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Canibal Lounge Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Alicante. AUSTIN is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain. Enjoy your first taste of Alicante as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Alicante. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Alicante!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Archaeological Museum of Alicante. Previous visitors have rated this archaeological museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,768 reviews.

Santa Bárbara Castle is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 35,044 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Mercado Central de Alicante. This building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 24,503 reviews.

Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant is another outstanding experience in Alicante. Around 3,219 travelers have rated this church an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Parc El Palmeral is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,211 reviews.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities in Spain. Alicante offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Alicante.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Taberna del Gourmet, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Heladería Borgonesse? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Piripi as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Alicante.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Alicante and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Round off your dining experience by visiting 26 Cocktail Room, a prime location for a drink.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

On day 3 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Spain. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Spain.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Benidorm. This drive usually takes around 44 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Aqualandia your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this amusement park an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 16,542 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Plaça Triangular. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,047 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Parc de L'Aigüera is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 2,390 visitors.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Valencia. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Valencia.

Discover the culinary delights of Valencia by securing a reservation at El Poblet. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ricard Camarena, renowned for its delicious creative 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 Fierro, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Valencia.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Café Negrito after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Cafe de las Horas, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Valencia!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Valencia, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Kick off the day at Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 37,810 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Mercado de Colón. Mercado de Colón is a building with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 37,146 reviews.

L'Oceanogràfic is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This public aquarium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 76,085 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit City of Arts and Sciences. This tourist destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 125,881 visitors.

Spain makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Spain also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Valencia has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Casa Montaña, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss El Lleón bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Valencia.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Valencia and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Valencia can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Spain!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Valencia, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Valencia, and meet locals along the way!

Journey into the unknown at Plaça de la Mare de Déu, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,170 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Valencia Cathedral is a recommended place to visit. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,457 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Valencia is Plaça de la Reina (València). Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 28,058 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Valencia offers an experience you will remember.

Llotja de la Seda is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Valencia. This lonja promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,376 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Mercat Central. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 79,570 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 5 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Spain. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Valencia itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Valencia, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dine in style at Bar Vermudez, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10 boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Beer & Travels. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Valencia.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Valencia’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Valencia. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Valencia!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Valencia Bioparc. This zoo is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Valencia, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,210 visitors.

Parc de Capçalera is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,696 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Quart Towers. Visitors have rated this fortified tower an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,889 reviews.

Serrano Towers is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a fortified tower rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,998 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Jardins del Real de València, perhaps the most famous urban park in Valencia. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,212 travelers.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Spain.

Exploring the food culture in Valencia offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Savor the flavors at Restaurante Canela, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, A huevo Restaurante beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar Tonyina. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Valencia tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Valencia!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 7, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Spain and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of la Vall d'Uixó and beyond. With 1 night left in Valencia, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. La Vall d'Uixó, 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 Valencia to la Vall d'Uixó may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in la Vall d'Uixó, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Coves de Sant Josep. This extraordinary cave has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,967 visitors.

Set your GPS to Castelló de la Plana and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 35 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Castelló de la Plana beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Ribalta Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,311 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Peníscola / Peñíscola. This car ride takes around 59 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Bufador. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,367 visitors.

Next, make your way to La Casa de las Petxines. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,367 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Peniscola Castle. This monument is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 61,572 travelers.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Valencia.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Valencia.

Dine in style at Racó del Túria, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante Genuina boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Central Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Valencia.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Valencia’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Spain. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Spain tomorrow with new energy.

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in Spain is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Alicante for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Spain.

Set your GPS to el Castell de Guadalest and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 53 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. El Castell de Guadalest beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at El Castell de Guadalest. This municipality of spain is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,496 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to el Castell de Guadalest and set your GPS to Elche. 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 1 hour 11 min. Upon reaching Elche, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Huerto del Cura, a remarkable garden where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,389 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Plaça de la Glorieta. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,275 travelers.

El Palmerar is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,060 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Parc Municipal. This well-loved park boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 3,887 reviews.

In the city of Alicante, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Spain.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Alicante, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant L'Ereta, a top-rated dining spot in Alicante. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Steki Restaurante. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Alicante.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Alicante.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Spain is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Alicante.

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Alicante’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.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Alicante is the remarkable El Carrer dels Bolets. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,121 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Alicante or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Alicante and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Spain is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.