Relaxed 9-Day Spain Road Trip Starting from Barcelona to Tarragona

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Discover Spain stress-free with this 9-day relaxed road trip, winding through Barcelona, Salou, Tarragona, and Peníscola / Peñíscola. Enjoy a relaxing self-drive holiday through stunning landscapes and calm adventures.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Spain at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Barcelona, Salou, Tarragona, and Peníscola / Peñíscola. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 5 nights in Barcelona, and 3 nights in Tarragona. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Spain.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Spain. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Barcelona, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-day journey across Spain and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Spain with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Spain.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Spain. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Sagrada Família. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Park Güell.

Traveling leisurely through Spain means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Plaça De Catalunya. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through Spain's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Spain.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Spain. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Spain's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Spain.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Spain. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 8 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 9 days of your self-drive road trip in Spain. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 9-day vacation in Spain and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain today!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Barcelona - arrival day

  • Barcelona - Arrival day
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  • Ciutadella Park
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Your relaxed road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Barcelona, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Barcelona and begin your adventure in Spain.

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.

Find your way to your hotel in Barcelona. 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 Barcelona.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cerveseria Catalana, an iconic dining spot in Barcelona. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar, a popular restaurant in Barcelona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ocaña, a hidden gem nestled in Barcelona. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar 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. Torre Rosa is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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 Barcelona as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Barcelona

  • Barcelona
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Drive 30 km, 1 hour 21 min

  • CosmoCaixa Barcelona
  • Park Güell
  • La Sagrada Familia
  • Palau de la Música Catalana
  • Arco de Triunfo de Barcelona
  • More

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Barcelona, 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 Barcelona, and meet locals along the way!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Museu De La Ciència Cosmocaixa. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 37,537 reviews.

Park Güell is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sculpture garden is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 181,403 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Sagrada Família. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 226,955 reviews. Every year, around 4,527,427 travelers visit this site to discover its unique features.

Palau De La Música Catalana is another outstanding experience in Barcelona. Around 40,217 travelers have rated this concert hall an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Arc De Triomf is not far away. This triumphal arch is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 77,887 reviews.

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

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.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Dr Stravinsky, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, El Xampanyet is another popular option for a drink or two.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Spain!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Barcelona

  • Barcelona
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Drive 15 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • Montjuïc Castle
  • Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya
  • Magic Fountain of Montjuïc
  • Casa Batlló
  • La Pedrera-Casa Milà
  • More

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Barcelona, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Make Montjuïc Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 50,433 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Museu Nacional D'art De Catalunya. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 28,394 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this art museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 718,000 annual visitors.

Magic Fountain Of Montjuïc is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This fountain has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 85,986 visitors.

When you’re finished at Magic Fountain Of Montjuïc, the perfect next stop is Casa Batlló. This tourist attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 125,060 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to La Pedrera. This monument is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 85,188 reviews.

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.

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 Barcelona, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at CocoVail Beer Hall - Craft Beer Barcelona, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try El Nacional? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ciutat Comtal as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Barcelona.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Barcelona. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Barcelona

  • Barcelona
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Drive 3 km, 51 min

  • Mercado de La Boqueria
  • Cathedral of Barcelona
  • Aquarium Barcelona
  • Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar
  • More

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Barcelona. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Barcelona. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Barcelona!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mercado De La Boqueria. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 160,835 visitors.

Cathedral Of The Holy Cross And Saint Eulalia is another popular attraction you could visit today. This catholic cathedral has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 62,263 visitors.

Aquàrium Barcelona is also highly recommended by travelers. This aquarium has a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 56,175 visitors.

Basilica Of Santa Maria Del Mar is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,464 reviews.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Spain. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Elsa y Fred, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Antigua offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Viana Barcelona. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Barcelona.

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

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Barcelona, Salou, and Tarragona

  • Tarragona
  • Salou
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Drive 134 km, 1 hour 59 min

  • PortAventura Park
  • Tutuki Splash
  • More

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Spain will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Spain, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Barcelona, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Salou may take around 1 hour 19 min. Upon your arrival in Salou, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at Portaventura Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable amusement park has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 22,883 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Tutuki Splash is a recommended place to visit. This amusement ride is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,942 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Salou is Font Cibernètica Salou. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,851 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Salou offers an experience you will remember.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Tarragona. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular 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 Tarragona, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Xarxa, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern, and rice dishes menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Tarragona at CReeA, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Cube Night, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Cafeteria Florida offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Tolo. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Tarragona, and Peníscola / Peñíscola

  • Tarragona
  • Peníscola / Peñíscola
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Drive 264 km, 3 hours 14 min

  • Peniscola Castle
  • Lighthouse of Peñiscola
  • Bufador
  • More

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Tarragona and visit amazing attractions in Peníscola / Peñíscola destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Tarragona. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Tarragona, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Peníscola / Peñíscola may take around 1 hour 32 min. Upon your arrival in Peníscola / Peñíscola, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at El Parc D'artilleria. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,485 visitors.

When you’re finished at El Parc D'artilleria, head to Peniscola Castle. This one-of-a-kind monument is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 61,572 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Lighthouse Of Peñiscola. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,438 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to La Casa De Las Petxines. This sightseeing destination is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,367 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Bufador. This famous sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,367 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Tarragona and your accommodation.

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

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

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

Keep the evening going at Polski Bar Avenida Tarragona Campclar Dardos, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Baires Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Terrassa Tapes I Música, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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.

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Day 7

Day 7 – Tarragona

  • Tarragona
  • More

Drive 1 km, 25 min

  • Torre del Pretori - Museu d'Història de Tarragona
  • Circ Romà
  • Balcó del Mediterrani
  • Amfiteatre de Tarragona
  • More

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Tarragona, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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 Tarragona, and meet locals along the way!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Torre Del Pretori O Castell Del Rei. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 451 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Roman Circus Of Tárraco. This chogang elementary school has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,761 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Balcó Del Mediterrani. This scenic viewpoint has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,291 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Tarragona Amphitheatre. This roman amphitheatre is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,655 visitors.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Tarragona by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

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 Tarragona.

Dine in style at Ol’ Dirty Burgers La Cantonada, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Touché Lounge and Drink boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Casa Balcells. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Tarragona.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Tarragona. The bars in Tarragona make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Tarragona, and Barcelona

  • Barcelona
  • Tarragona
  • More

Drive 95 km, 1 hour 26 min

  • Portal del Roser
  • Muralla Romana de Tarragona
  • Passeig Arqueològic
  • Parc de Saavedra
  • Camp de Mart
  • More

On day 8 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.

Journey into the unknown at Portal Del Roser, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable historic building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 527 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Muralla Romana De Tarragona is a recommended place to visit. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 399 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Tarragona is Passeig Arqueològic. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 488 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Tarragona offers an experience you will remember.

Parc De Saavedra is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Tarragona. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.2 out of 5 stars in 1,149 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Camp De Mart. Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,706 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

In the city of Barcelona, 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.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at BORO Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Barcelona. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Bosc de Les Fades, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Disfrutar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Barcelona this evening.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

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Day 9

Day 9 – Barcelona - departure day

  • Barcelona - Departure day
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  • Plaça de Catalunya
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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 Barcelona.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Barcelona's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Spain.

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 Barcelona is the remarkable Plaça De Catalunya. This square and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 175,036 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 Barcelona or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Con Gracia, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Barcelona 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.

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