Relaxed 9-Day Spain Road Trip Starting from Valencia to Alicante

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Uncover the beauty of Spain on this 9-day relaxed road trip, journeying through Valencia, Peníscola / Peñíscola, el Castell de Guadalest, Elche, Alicante, and Benidorm. Unwind at your leisure on this self-drive vacation, discovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the serene exploration.

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 Valencia, Peníscola / Peñíscola, el Castell de Guadalest, Elche, Alicante, and Benidorm. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 6 nights in Valencia, and 2 nights in Alicante. 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 Valencia, 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 City Of Arts And Sciences. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Mercat Central.

Traveling leisurely through Spain means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent L'oceanogràfic. 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 – Valencia - arrival day

  • Valencia - Arrival day
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  • Mercat de Colón
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Your relaxed road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Valencia, where you'll stay for 5 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Valencia and begin your adventure in Spain.

Drop by the renowned Mercado De Colón. This popular building has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 37,146 visitors.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Valencia. 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.

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 Valencia.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ubik Cafè Cafeteria Llibreria, a top-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider USUAL resto-bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Éter Valencia. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Café Negrito, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cafe De Las Horas, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Valencia

  • Valencia
  • More

Drive 13 km, 55 min

  • Bioparc Valencia
  • Cabecera Park
  • Torres de Serranos
  • Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria
  • Jardins del Real / Vivers
  • More

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Valencia, where you'll stay for 4 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 Valencia, and meet locals along the way!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Valencia Bioparc. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,210 visitors.

Parc De Capçalera is another popular attraction you could visit today. This urban park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,696 visitors.

Serrano Towers is also highly recommended by travelers. This fortified tower has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,998 visitors.

Instal·lacions Dels Jardins Del Túria is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 37,810 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Jardins Del Real De València. This urban park has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,212 travelers.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Valencia, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Spain.

Exploring the food culture in Valencia offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Start your culinary exploration in Valencia by securing a reservation at El Poblet. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ricard Camarena, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Fierro, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Valencia

  • Valencia
  • More

Drive 10 km, 55 min

  • L'Oceanogràfic
  • Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias
  • Queen Sofia Palace of Arts
  • Quart Towers
  • More

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

Take the opportunity to see L'oceanogràfic. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 76,085 visitors.

City Of Arts And Sciences is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This tourist destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 125,881 travelers.

Valencia is also the home of Palau De Les Arts Reina Sofia. Around 7,710 people have rated this opera house an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Quart Towers. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 14,889 reviews, a visit to this fortified tower is a great idea.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Valencia 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 Valencia.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bar Vermudez, a top-rated dining spot in Valencia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Beer & Travels. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Valencia.

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

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Spain.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Valencia

  • Valencia
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Drive 2 km, 26 min

  • Plaça de la Verge
  • Valencia Cathedral
  • Plaza de la Reina
  • La Lonja de la Seda de Valencia
  • Mercado Central de Valencia
  • More

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Valencia. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Valencia. 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 Valencia!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Plaça De La Mare De Déu. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,170 reviews.

Continue your journey at Valencia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 22,457 travelers from near and far.

Valencia is also the home of Plaça De La Reina (valència). This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 28,058 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Llotja De La Seda. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 22,376 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Mercat Central. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 79,570 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this market hall.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Valencia offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante Canela, a highly-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're eager to try something different, consider A huevo Restaurante, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Tonyina. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Valencia, and Peníscola / Peñíscola

  • Valencia
  • Peníscola / Peñíscola
  • More

Drive 290 km, 3 hours 28 min

  • Bufador
  • Lighthouse of Peñiscola
  • Peniscola Castle
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Spain, you’ll explore the area around Peníscola / Peñíscola, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Peníscola / Peñíscola will make you fall even more in love with the village and uniqueness of Spain.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Valencia 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 38 min. Upon reaching Peníscola / Peñíscola, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Bufador. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,367 visitors.

La Casa De Las Petxines is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,367 travelers.

Peníscola / Peñíscola is also the home of Lighthouse Of Peñiscola. Around 1,438 people have rated this point of interest an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Peniscola Castle. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 61,572 reviews, a visit to this monument is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Peníscola / Peñíscola is also your chance to admire El Parc D'artilleria. This must-visit park enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,485 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Valencia.

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

Dine in style at Racó del Túria, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante Genuina boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Central Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Valencia.

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

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Spain.

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Day 6

Day 6 – Valencia, el Castell de Guadalest, Elche, and Alicante

  • Alicante
  • el Castell de Guadalest
  • Elx / Elche
  • More

Drive 272 km, 3 hours 48 min

  • El Castell de Guadalest
  • Huerto del Cura
  • Plaça de la Glorieta
  • El Palmerar
  • Parc Municipal
  • More

Day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Spain is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from el Castell de Guadalest and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the city of Elche and the city of Alicante. You’ll stay in Alicante for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Valencia, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to el Castell de Guadalest may take around 1 hour 53 min. Upon your arrival in el Castell de Guadalest, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned El Castell De Guadalest. This popular municipality of spain has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,496 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Elche, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from el Castell de Guadalest to Elche may take around 1 hour 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Elche, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Huerto Del Cura. This extraordinary garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,389 visitors.

Next, make your way to Plaça De La Glorieta. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,275 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to El Palmerar. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,060 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Parc Municipal. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,887 travelers.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Alicante. 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 Alicante, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Alicante by securing a table at Tabula Rasa. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Baeza & Rufete, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café-pub Bubyston, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Canibal Lounge Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Austin offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 – Alicante

  • Alicante
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour 19 min

  • Archaeological Museum of Alicante
  • Santa Bárbara Castle
  • Mercat Central d'Alacant
  • Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant
  • Parc El Palmeral
  • More

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Alicante, 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 Alicante, and meet locals along the way!

Make Archaeological Museum Of Alicante your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this archaeological museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,768 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Santa Bárbara Castle. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 35,044 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this castle every year.

Mercado Central De Alicante is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 24,503 visitors.

When you’re finished at Mercado Central De Alicante, the perfect next stop is Cocatedral De Sant Nicolau De Bari D'alacant. This church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,219 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Parc El Palmeral. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,211 reviews.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 7 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Spain. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Alicante itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at La Taberna del Gourmet, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Heladería Borgonesse is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Piripi. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Alicante tonight.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into 26 Cocktail Room. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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 – Alicante, Benidorm, and Valencia

  • Valencia
  • Benidorm
  • More

Drive 192 km, 2 hours 39 min

  • Aqualandia
  • 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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Benidorm. This drive usually takes around 44 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Aqualandia. This extraordinary amusement park has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 16,542 visitors.

Next, make your way to Plaça Triangular. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,047 reviews.

While in Benidorm, we also recommend a visit to Parc De L'aigüera. This park has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 2,390 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Valencia. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Spain by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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

Make sure to book a table at Restaurante del Este, a popular restaurant in Valencia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Valencia at Sagardi Valencia Centro, 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 Belmonte. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Valencia tonight.

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.

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

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Day 9

Day 9 – Valencia - departure day

  • Valencia - Departure day
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  • Plaça de l'Ajuntament
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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 Valencia.

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

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 Valencia is the remarkable Plaça De L'ajuntament. This square and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,316 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 Valencia or just grab something light to keep you going.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Puerta del Mar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mulligan's? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Valencia 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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