9-Day Spain Road Trip from Almeria traveling north to Cartagena, Valencia, Cuenca, Madrid, and Jaen

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Almeria and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Almeria for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Almeria 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 en la Muralla del Cerro de San Cristóbal 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 Almeria. 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 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.

Savor the flavors at El Quinto Toro, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tony Garcia Espacio Gastronómico beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Casa Puga. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Almeria tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Kiosco Amalia is an excellent place to start.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-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 - Almeria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cartagena. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Almeria Cathedral. This church is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 5,277 reviews.

Continue your journey at Refugios de la Guerra Civil Española de Almería. This point of interest is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,835 travelers from near and far.

Almeria is also the home of Parque de las Familias. This jardín público has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,042 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at El Zapillo. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,251 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Parque Nicolás Salmerón. With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 3,007 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cartagena, 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 Cartagena's best restaurants.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Magoga, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional contemporary and traditional menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cartagena at Omkara, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Restaurante Magoga. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Cartagena tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Mostacho Café Bar III, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. El escondite is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Sol is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Cartagena and Alicante. 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.

Journey into the unknown at Roman theatre of Cartagena, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable archaeological site has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,504 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Parque de Alfonso Torres is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,477 reviews.

After soaking in Cartagena’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Alicante. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 29 min. When you arrive in Alicante, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Santa Bárbara Castle. This popular castle has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 35,044 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Archaeological Museum of Alicante. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,768 visitors, this archaeological museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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

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.

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.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.

On day 4 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 Cuenca, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Llotja de la Seda. This much-appreciated lonja is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,376 reviews.

Next up is Mercat Central. This market hall has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 79,570 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is L'Oceanogràfic. This public aquarium has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 76,085 reviews.

City of Arts and Sciences is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This tourist destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 125,881 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Cuenca. Cuenca 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 Cuenca. 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 Olea Comedor, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern and fusion menu. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Marisqueria Joni. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cuenca tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café Hispano, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bogart offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cuenca. CAFE BAR PRINCESA is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Cuenca and Torrejón De Ardoz, 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 Madrid. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Kick off the day at Torre de Mangana, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This tower is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,667 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit San Pablo Bridge. San Pablo Bridge is a bridge with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,784 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cuenca, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Torrejón De Ardoz. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 39 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Europe Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 45,087 reviews.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Madrid by reserving a table at DiverXO. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Smoked Room, recognized for its delicious contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Paco Roncero, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Madrid. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cafe Madrid is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, 1862 Dry Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Museo del Prado. This much-appreciated art museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 98,929 reviews. Each year, 3,497,345 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Casa de Campo. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 50,826 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Royal Palace of Madrid. This royal palace has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 77,471 reviews.

Plaza de España is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 98,199 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This association football venue is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 120,158 reviews.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Mi Venta, a top-rated dining spot in Madrid. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mas Al Sur, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Prada a Tope Madrid. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Madrid.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in 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 Madrid. In the evening, you’ll end up in Jaen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Main Square. This extraordinary square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 152,388 visitors.

Next, make your way to Market of San Miguel. This top attraction is a building with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 106,296 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to El Retiro Park. This urban park is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 162,386 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Jaen, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Jaen by securing a reservation at Radis. This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Dama Juana, celebrated for its delectable modern and traditional menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Bagá, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

When you’ve had your share of Jaen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Granada. Your travel time is around 1 hour 12 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Alhambra. This architectural ensemble is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 127,431 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Nasrid Palaces. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 20,263 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to 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 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Mirador de San Nicolas, Granada. This scenic viewpoint is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 63,173 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Almeria. Almeria 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 Almeria. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Buono, a top-rated dining destination in Almeria. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Croqueteria La Mala, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Stanley & de Marco. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Almeria this evening.

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

Day 9 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Almeria 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 Almeria’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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Almeria Walk of Fame. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 585 reviews.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Almeria. 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!