9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Valencia traveling south to Madrid, Cuenca, Alicante, and Benidorm

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Valencia for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s itinerary in Valencia covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a historical landmark, a food market, a science center and much more! Start your adventure at Plaça De La Mare De Déu. This popular public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the UNESCO world heritage-listed wonders of Llotja De La Seda, a must-see historical landmark in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Mercat Central. This extraordinary food market offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to City Of Arts And Sciences, where you can take in its mesmerizing features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Plaça De La Reina (valència). This symbolic public square offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Valencia's best restaurants.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Cosmo Valencia after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Casa Pepe for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cafe De Las Horas is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 4 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 Madrid. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cuenca, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Madrid allows for both. Start by heading to Main Square. This timeless public square provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Market Of San Miguel, a history-steeped food market, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Museo Del Prado, a world-famous museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the globally renowned El Retiro Park. Round off your day at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, another gem in Madrid with history-steeped features to discover.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cuenca. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cuenca. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Cuenca by securing a reservation at Olea Comedor. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and fusion cuisine. Alternatively, Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Tu Rincón. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Café Hispano, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bogart provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Alicante, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Cartagena and Alicante. You still have 1 night left in Alicante.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, a mesmerizing, a photogenic, a historically significant, and a grand. Whether you decide to explore Alicante on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Santa Bárbara Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic castle before continuing your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cartagena. This car ride takes around 1 hour 31 min.

Make your way to Faro Cabo De Palos, a locally appreciated lighthouse that draws attention for its romantic features.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Alicante, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cartagena may take around 1 hour 31 min. Upon your arrival in Cartagena, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at National Museum Of Underwater Archaeology, an up-and-coming museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to House Of Fortune and admire its photogenic features. When you’re ready, continue to Roman Theatre Of Cartagena, a popular archeological site beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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

As you explore more of Alicante, 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 LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Taberna del Gourmet offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Heladería Borgonesse. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Alicante.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Canibal Lounge Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Old Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Pub Carabassa. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Alicante, la Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa, and el Castell de Guadalest. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Benidorm, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with a photogenic and a historically significant. Start at the notable Mercado Central De Alicante, an eye-catching market in Alicante. Next, go to Archaeological Museum Of Alicante.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. La Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa, 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 Alicante to la Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa may take around 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in la Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make your way to Valor Chocolate Museum, an intriguing museum that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to la Vila Joiosa / Villajoyosa and set your GPS to el Castell de Guadalest. 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 35 min. Upon reaching el Castell de Guadalest, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering El Castell De Guadalest, a locally renowned castle known for its visually striking features.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Spasso Benidorm | Italian Restaurant - Pizzeria, a top-rated dining destination in Benidorm. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Costa Coffee - Benidorm Playa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel RH Victoria & Spa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Benidorm this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Ku Lounge Cafe stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!