9-Day Spain Road Trip from Barcelona traveling south to Sitges, Valencia, and Tarragona

Say hello to Barcelona! Your exciting road trip through Spain is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Barcelona for 3 nights before you continue your adventure!

Barcelona 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 Parc de la Ciutadella or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Barcelona. 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Barcelona by securing a table at Lasarte. Esteemed as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit ABaC, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 3-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Cocina Hermanos Torres, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Barcelona. Located in the heart of the city, this 3-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bobby's Free, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Torre Rosa also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Spain!

Day 2 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Barcelona. You have 2 nights left in Barcelona. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

When you're ready to see some sights, Museu de la Ciència CosmoCaixa is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,537 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Park Güell. This sculpture garden has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 181,403 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Sagrada Família. This site gets more than 4,527,427 visitors annually. The minor basilica has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 226,955 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting La Pedrera. This monument is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 85,188 reviews.

Casa Batlló is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this tourist attraction, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 125,060 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Barcelona.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at ARTiSA Barcelona, 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 Restaurant El Foro, 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 Braseria La Selva Barcelona, a hidden gem nestled in Barcelona. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Dr Stravinsky, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to El Xampanyet. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Barcelona has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Barcelona by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Take the opportunity to see Mercado de La Boqueria. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 160,835 visitors.

Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This fountain has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 85,986 travelers.

Barcelona is also the home of Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya. This art museum gets more than 718,000 visitors on an annual basis. Around 28,394 people have rated this art museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Palau Sant Jordi. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 25,638 reviews, a visit to this point of interest is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Barcelona is also your chance to admire Montjuïc Castle. This must-visit castle enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 50,433 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Barcelona, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Barcelona below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Barcelona's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at CocoVail Beer Hall - Craft Beer Barcelona, a top-rated dining destination in Barcelona. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Nacional, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ciutat Comtal. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Barcelona this evening.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Barcelona, 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 Sitges. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Plaça Sant Jaume. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 16,451 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.

Palau de la Música Catalana is also highly recommended by travelers. This concert hall has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 40,217 visitors.

Arc de Triomf is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 77,887 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar. This church has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,464 travelers.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sitges. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Casa Hidalgo, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Taberna del Puerto boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Mare Nostrum2. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Sitges.

Continue your lively evening at Pub Voramar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Peníscola / Peñíscola. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valencia, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sitges and set your GPS to Peníscola / Peñíscola. 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 59 min. Upon reaching Peníscola / Peñíscola, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to La Casa de las Petxines. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,367 visitors.

Next, make your way to Lighthouse of Peñiscola. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,438 visitors.

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

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Valencia.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at El Poblet, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ricard Camarena, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Valencia is Fierro, a renowned restaurant , known for its delicious modern menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café Negrito, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cafe de las Horas offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Valencia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 37,810 reviews.

Next up is Mercado de Colón. This building has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 37,146 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.

Your discoveries in Valencia do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Valencia on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Valencia. 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.

Dine in style at Casa Montaña, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out El Lleón bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Valencia.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Valencia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Tarragona, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Mercat Central, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable market hall has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 79,570 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.

Plaça de la Mare de Déu is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Valencia. This square promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,170 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Serrano Towers. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,998 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Tarragona. Tarragona 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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Tarragona by booking a table at La Xarxa. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of modern and rice dishes cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider CReeA, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Tarraco Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tarragona this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Cube Night. 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.

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

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Roman circus of Tárraco. This extraordinary chogang elementary school has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,761 visitors.

Next, make your way to Tarragona Amphitheatre. This roman amphitheatre is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,655 reviews.

While in Tarragona, we also recommend a visit to Balcó del Mediterrani. This scenic viewpoint has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,291 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Monument als castellers (Tarragona). With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,474 travelers, this sculpture is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Tarragona.

Make your way to The Ferreres Aqueduct, perhaps the most famous park in Tarragona. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,777 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Barcelona, 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Barcelona. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Elsa y Fred, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Antigua offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Viana Barcelona is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Barcelona.

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

Day 9 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Barcelona before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Barcelona’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Spain, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Spain home with you through these charming souvenirs.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Plaça de Catalunya. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 175,036 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience 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’ll then say farewell to Barcelona. 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!