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

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Girona and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Girona 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.

Girona 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 Devesa or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Girona. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Girona by securing a reservation at El Celler de Can Roca. This renowned restaurant offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Massana, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Also, be sure to check out Bar/Restaurant RUTA 66. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Girona.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at La Pedra, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Sunset Jazz Club, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, McKiernans provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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

Drop by the renowned Girona Cathedral. This popular church has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,744 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Muralles de Girona. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,195 visitors, this city walls deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Arab Baths of Girona. This hammam has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,574 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Sant Pere de Galligants. This church building and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,218 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Castell de Sant Miquel (Gironès). With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,099 travelers, this castle is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Girona.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Tarragona. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Tarragona by reserving a table at La Xarxa. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and rice dishes cuisine. Looking for something different? CReeA offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hotel Tarraco Park. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tarragona.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Cube Night, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Cafeteria Florida provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Tolo offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Tarragona and Peníscola / Peñíscola. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Valencia. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Balcó del Mediterrani. This scenic viewpoint is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,291 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Tarragona Amphitheatre. This roman amphitheatre has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,655 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Roman circus of Tárraco. This chogang elementary school has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,761 visitors.

Set your GPS to Peníscola / Peñíscola and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Peníscola / Peñíscola beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bufador. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Peníscola / Peñíscola, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,367 visitors.

Peniscola Castle is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 61,572 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at El Poblet, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ricard Camarena is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Valencia. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Fierro. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Negrito. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Cafe de las Horas offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Valencia. You’ll stay in Valencia for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Drop by the renowned Mercat Central. This popular market hall has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 79,570 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Mercado de Colón. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 37,146 visitors, this building deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to City of Arts and Sciences. This tourist destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 125,881 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is L'Oceanogràfic. This public aquarium and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 76,085 local and international travelers.

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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Casa Montaña, an iconic dining spot in Valencia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo, a popular restaurant in Valencia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of El Lleón bar, a hidden gem nestled in Valencia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Valencia, 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 Barcelona. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Make Valencia Bioparc one of your first sightseeing stops in Valencia. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,210 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Serrano Towers is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This fortified tower is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,998 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Plaça de la Mare de Déu. This square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,170 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 37,810 previous visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Barcelona, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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 symphony of flavors at Lasarte in Barcelona by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Lasarte delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at ABaC, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 3-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Cocina Hermanos Torres, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.

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.

Head back to your accommodation in Barcelona and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Barcelona has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Barcelona by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Museu de la Ciència CosmoCaixa. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,537 visitors.

When you’re finished at Museu de la Ciència CosmoCaixa, head to Park Güell. This one-of-a-kind sculpture garden is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 181,403 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Sagrada Família. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 226,955 visitors. Visiting Sagrada Família means you'll be one of 4,527,427 people who do so every year.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to La Pedrera. This monument is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 85,188 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Casa Batlló. This famous tourist attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 125,060 travelers.

You can learn more about Barcelona today by going on a tour. Barcelona offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Dr Stravinsky offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, El Xampanyet is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Barcelona for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Take the opportunity to see Montjuïc Castle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 50,433 visitors.

Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 28,394 travelers. Up to 718,000 people visit Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya every year.

Barcelona is also the home of Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. Around 85,986 people have rated this fountain an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Plaça de Catalunya. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 175,036 reviews, a visit to this square is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Barcelona is also your chance to admire Mercado de La Boqueria. This must-visit point of interest enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 160,835 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at CocoVail Beer Hall - Craft Beer Barcelona, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, El Nacional is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ciutat Comtal. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Barcelona tonight.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Barcelona. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Girona, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, a remarkable church where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,464 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Parc de la Ciutadella. This urban park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 68,100 travelers.

Arc de Triomf is another must-visit attraction. This renowned triumphal arch offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 77,887 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 Palau de la Música Catalana. This well-loved concert hall boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 40,217 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a catholic cathedral, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 62,263 previous visitors.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Restaurant Mimolet, a popular restaurant in Girona. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Girona at Saratoga Café, 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 Restaurant El Cul del Món. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Girona tonight.

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

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Pont Palanques Vermelles. This bridge is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,071 visitors.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Girona. 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!