9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Almeria traveling north to Cartagena, Valencia, Madrid, and Jaen

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Almeria, 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 Cartagena. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Almeria, including a historical landmark, a museum, a church, a street, a park and much more! Start your day at Edificio De Viviendas Casa De Las Mariposas. This culturally significant historical landmark is an increasingly popular place to see in Almeria. Then, wander over to Refugios De La Guerra Civil Española De Almería. If visually striking sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cathedral Encarnación De Almería. This photogenic church is a favorite among visitors.

Almeria offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Almeria Walk Of Fame is an intriguing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the street, don’t forget to check out the awe-inspiring El Zapillo. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing park in Almeria.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Cartagena. Cartagena offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. 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 Cartagena. 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cartagena by reserving a table at Magoga. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of contemporary and traditional cuisine. Looking for something different? Cafetería Cervantes offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cartagena.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pub Frank18 offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, 4 Copas is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Mostacho Café Bar Iii is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Cartagena and Alicante. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valencia, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Cartagena on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Roman Theatre Of Cartagena is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this standout archeological site before continuing your journey.

Set your GPS to Alicante and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Alicante beckons with new experiences!

Mercado Central De Alicante is a captivating market we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour to Patio De Armas, an enchanting castle that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Santa Bárbara Castle, an awe-inspiring castle.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Valencia, 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 Valencia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Valencia by securing a table at El Poblet. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ricard Camarena, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Fierro, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Valencia. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Pub Pasos after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Clann Bar Tapas, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Café Negrito also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Madrid. You’ll stay in Madrid for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Madrid allows for both. Start by heading to Parque Del Oeste. This popular park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Temple Of Debod, a history-steeped monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Plaza De España, a famous public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the iconic El Retiro Park. Round off your day at Crystal Palace, another gem in Madrid with noteworthy features to discover.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Alhambra, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurante Alabaster offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Madrid.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Jazz Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. España Building is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, 1862 Dry Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 6 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.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This wondrous stadium is an awe-inspiring place to see in Madrid. Continue your discovery at Puerta De Alcalá, an awe-inspiring monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Madrid, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Thyssen-bornemisza Museum. This locally renowned museum offers a historic encounter with Madrid. Museo Del Prado is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Madrid.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you explore more of Madrid, 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Areia, a top-rated dining spot in Madrid. If you're in the mood for something new, try La MaMá Restaurante, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Sacha Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Madrid.

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

Get ready for an exciting day in Madrid. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, a food market, a palace, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Main Square. This is a world-famous public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Market Of San Miguel, a globally renowned food market in Madrid.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Royal Palace Of Madrid. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía, another of the city’s impressive attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Jaen. Jaen offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Jaen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Radis in Jaen by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Radis delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Dama Juana, acclaimed for its delectable modern and traditional specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Bagá, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Granada. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Almeria. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Jaen and set your GPS to Granada. 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 12 min. Upon reaching Granada, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Alhambra is a globally renowned palace we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour to Nasrid Palaces, a visually striking palace that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by S. A. I. Catedral Metropolitana De La Encarnación, a stunning church. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Mirador De San Nicolas, Granada, a visually striking and truly unique observation deck.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Almeria, 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 Almeria's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at THE MAD BAR, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, El Quinto Toro boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurante La Encina. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Almeria.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Santa Clara Playa-bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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