9-Day Spain Road Trip from Madrid to Cuenca, Valencia, and Albacete

Say hello to Madrid! 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 Madrid for 3 nights before you continue your adventure!

Madrid 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 plaza de España 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 Madrid. 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 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.

Experience a taste of DiverXO in Madrid by booking a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, DiverXO delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Smoked Room, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Paco Roncero, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Cafe Madrid, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, 1862 Dry Bar 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!

On day 2 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.

Journey into the unknown at Casa de Campo, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 50,826 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Western Park is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 28,992 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Madrid is Great Pond of El Retiro. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 22,242 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Madrid offers an experience you will remember.

El Retiro Park is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Madrid. This urban park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.8 out of 5 stars in 162,386 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Crystal Palace. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,270 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Spain that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Madrid has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

Make sure to book a table at La Mi Venta, a popular restaurant in Madrid. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Madrid at Mas Al Sur, 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 Prada a Tope Madrid. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Madrid tonight.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Madrid for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make Santiago Bernabéu Stadium one of your first sightseeing stops in Madrid. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 120,158 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This art museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 32,846 reviews. Up to 671,078 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Madrid special.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Círculo de Bellas Artes. This movie theater has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 27,540 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Main Square. A trip to this popular square is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 152,388 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Market of San Miguel. This building enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 local and international travelers.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Madrid on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at BiBo Dani García, an iconic dining spot in Madrid. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Malacatín, a popular restaurant in Madrid. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Pum Pum Café, a hidden gem nestled in Madrid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Madrid. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cuenca. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Palace of Madrid. This royal palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,471 visitors.

Temple of Debod is another popular attraction you could visit today. This egyptian temple has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 44,446 visitors.

Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 1 person visit this top attraction every year. This art museum has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 46,855 visitors.

Museo del Prado is an attraction you won’t want to miss. Around 3,497,345 people visit this place every year. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 98,929 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Las Ventas. This bullring has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 29,501 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cuenca, 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 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.

Experience a taste of Olea Comedor in Cuenca by booking a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Olea Comedor delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern, and fusion cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Marisqueria Joni. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cuenca this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Hispano, known for its lively atmosphere. Bogart is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, CAFE BAR PRINCESA offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Castilla-La Mancha Paleontological Museum. This extraordinary fossil museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,372 visitors.

Next, make your way to Torre de Mangana. This top attraction is a tower with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,667 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to San Pablo Bridge. This bridge is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,784 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cuenca, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Mislata. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Parc de la Canaleta your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,939 reviews.

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 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.

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 with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Café Negrito, known for its inviting atmosphere. Cafe de las Horas is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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.

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Valencia has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Valencia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 37,810 reviews.

Continue your journey at Mercado de Colón. This building is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 37,146 travelers from near and far.

Valencia is also the home of L'Oceanogràfic. This public aquarium has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 76,085 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at City of Arts and Sciences. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 125,881 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Casa Montaña, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss El Lleón bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Valencia.

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

On day 7 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 Albacete, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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 Plaça de la Reina (València). Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 28,058 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Plaça de la Mare de Déu. This square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,170 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Serrano Towers. This fortified tower and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,998 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Valencia Bioparc. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,210 travelers, this zoo is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Valencia.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Albacete. Albacete 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Albacete. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Albacete by securing a reservation at Ababol. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante Sublime boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Don Gil Restaurante. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Albacete.

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

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

On day 8 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 Toledo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Madrid, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Albacete’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Toledo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 31 min. When you arrive in Toledo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Alcázar of Toledo. This popular alcázar has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,193 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Army Museum. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,537 visitors, this military museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Zocodover. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,930 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.

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 delightful dinner at Sagaretxe, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Arrabal Madrid? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Taberna El Sur as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Madrid.

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 Madrid before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Madrid’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Take the opportunity to see Puerta de Alcalá. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 43,833 visitors.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurante El Espigón Madrid offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Coque.

You’ll then say farewell to Madrid. 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!