11-Day Spain road trip from Madrid to Albacete, Valencia, and Cuenca

Welcome to Madrid, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 4 nights immersing yourself in Madrid's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Madrid is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Madrid. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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 your stay in Madrid one for the books by indulging in an unforgettable culinary experience at DiverXO, a 3 Michelin star-rated gem acclaimed by food experts. Its delightful creative cuisine and the praise from satisfied patrons speak of its outstanding quality. DiverXO, which has a Bib Gourmand award, gives you the best value for your money, and ensures your dining experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Another Michelin restaurant in Madrid you shouldn’t miss is the Bib-Gourmand awardee Smoked Room. With 2 Michelin star rating, it’s a haven for food lovers and enthusiasts. Smoked Room proudly maintains an outstanding reputation, attracting diners from near and far, all delighted by its contemporary culinary offerings.

Paco Roncero is not just another restaurant in Madrid. Its 2-Michelin star menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and take you on a gastronomic adventure. This Bib-Gourmand awarded restaurant’s creative dishes and numerous glowing reviews from satisfied patrons have solidified its reputation as a culinary gem in Madrid.

After dinner, visit El miniBAR, which is considered one of the best bars in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,297 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular place like Areia. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,973 customers.

Alternatively, check out James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,124 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Spain!

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Madrid has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Madrid by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

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.

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

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit El Jardín Secreto Madrid. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Madrid has received a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from around 4,058 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Pum Pum Café should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Madrid, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,614 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Corral de la Morería. This highly regarded restaurant in Madrid has earned a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 3,011 satisfied guests.

One of the best bars in Madrid you could visit tonight after your dinner is 1862 Dry Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,987 customers.

Another popular bar in the city is Taberna del Alabardero de Madrid. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,525 customers.

Locals also enjoy Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 966 customers.

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

On day 3 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.

Your discoveries in Madrid do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Madrid 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 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.

Don't forget to book a table at La Mi Venta, a well-known eatery in Madrid. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,658 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Malacatín while exploring Madrid. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 3,017 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of JUNGLEKING - International Food & XL Brunch in Madrid, a popular restaurant in Madrid. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,533 discerning diners.

Many locals go to Harvey's Cocktail Bar to have a good time. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,137 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option is Cafe Madrid. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 662 customers.

Inclán Brutal Bar is another great option in Madrid. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,713 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Madrid, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Madrid, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Segovia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Real Sitio de San Ildefonso. This car ride takes around 17 min.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Real Sitio de San Ildefonso, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Madrid. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Madrid and your accommodation.

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

Book a table at La Bien Aparecida, a famous dining establishment in Madrid. This culinary hotspot and its appetizing cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,473 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Madrid is Prada a Tope Madrid, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.4 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 2,511 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Madrid’s Arrabal Madrid for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,924 satisfied diners.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Taberna El Sur, claiming it’s one of the best. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,959 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the city is Mercado de la Reina 12. This bar has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 6,470 customers.

Café Central is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 5,181 customers.

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.

On day 5 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 and Albacete. In the evening, you’ll end up in Albacete, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Madrid, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Toledo may take around 55 min. Upon your arrival in Toledo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Zocodover. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,930 visitors.

When you’re finished at Zocodover, head to Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo. This one-of-a-kind church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,938 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Alcázar of Toledo. This alcázar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,193 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Toledo and set your GPS to Albacete. 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 2 hours 30 min. Upon reaching Albacete, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Ababol, a 1 Michelin star restaurant and a dining venue in Albacete. This local gem’s delectable contemporary cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression. Ababol is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Make a reservation at GOIKO while immersing yourself in Albacete. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,032 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of El Callejón de los Gatos, a beloved dining establishment within Albacete. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,546 satisfied customers.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, an awesome bar you can go to is Liverpool Pub. This place has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,161 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Bar restaurante LA BONITA. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 954 customers.

Martina Restaurant & Bar is another great place where you can celebrate your adventures in Albacete. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,056 customers.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Xàtiva, Anna, and Valencia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valencia, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Anna’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Albacete behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 26 min. Anna welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Anna, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Xàtiva. This drive usually takes around 26 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at El Poblet, one of the top Bib Gourmand restaurants in Valencia, holding 2 Michelin stars. Offering a diverse menu focusing on creative cuisine, El Poblet has earned praise from numerous satisfied guests.

A local favorite is Ricard Camarena. This exceptional dining experience in Valencia has been awarded 2 Michelin stars. Featuring creative cuisine, this popular Bib Gourmand restaurant is a top choice for both locals and tourists.

Discover the extraordinary dining experience offered by Fierro in Valencia. Its 1-Michelin star menu is designed to tantalize your taste buds and take you on a culinary adventure. Many previous guests have raved about this Bib Gourmand restaurant, adding to its 1 Michelin-star reputation.

Cafe de las Horas is a fantastic bar many locals in Valencia recognize. This popular bar is an excellent place to unwind after a busy day and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,922 customers.

You can also enjoy a few drinks and some snacks at Puerta del Mar, another popular bar in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,372 customers.

Bar Tonyina is a local favorite and a great place to hang out and socialize with other travelers in Valencia. Customers have rated the exciting Bar Tonyina an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,516 reviews.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Valencia. You have 2 nights left in Valencia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante Canela, an iconic dining spot in Valencia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,818 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Navarro while in Valencia. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, treasured by 2,045 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Restaurante Flor de Valencia | Arrocería, a favorite in Valencia. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,561 discerning guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the city. Bar Vermudez is a popular option with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,200 customers.

Another top option is Beer & Travels. This bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,028 customers.

El Lleón bar is also a great place to continue your evening. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,124 customers.

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

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 Valencia has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Spain by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Reserve your spot at La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo, a popular local restaurant in Valencia. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,370 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Central Bar during your stay in Valencia. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,369 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Racó del Túria, a popular local gem in Valencia. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,195 satisfied guests.

If you’re up for getting a drink, consider going to USUAL resto-bar. Around 811 customers have given this incredible bar an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Locals of Valencia also enjoy the drinks at Apotheke. This place is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 649 customers and is one of the best you can experience in the city.

Another top-rated alternative for a celebratory drink is Casa Montaña. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,465 customers.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Valencia and Cuenca. 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 Plaça de la Reina (València). This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Valencia, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 28,058 visitors.

Valencia Cathedral is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,457 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Plaça de la Mare de Déu. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,170 reviews.

Llotja de la Seda is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a lonja rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,376 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Mercat Central, perhaps the most famous market hall in Valencia. This attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 79,570 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cuenca. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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.

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

Discover the essence of culinary excellence at Olea Comedor, a luxury local dining experience. Renowned for its prestigious rating and impressive menu, Olea Comedor consistently impresses both foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional modern and fusion cuisine.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Restaurante Recreo Peral while experiencing the best of Cuenca. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 2,722 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Restaurante El Torreón, an elegant culinary destination in Cuenca. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,390 previous guests.

After dinner, visit Las Brasas and experience the nightlife in the city of Cuenca. This bar is one of the best places to cap off the night and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,335 customers.

You can also hang out at La Ronería De La Habana. This bar serves a variety of snacks and drinks and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,072 customers.

Locals recommend Restaurante Sidrería La Figal, so definitely check it out too. Restaurante Sidrería La Figal is a place to enjoy friendly chats with locals and fellow travelers and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,526 bar-goers.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Torrejón De Ardoz, Coslada, Alcobendas, and Madrid, 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 Madrid. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Torrejón De Ardoz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 34 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Torrejón De Ardoz beckons with new experiences!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Coslada. This car ride takes around 18 min.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Madrid, 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 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.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Mas Al Sur, one of the top bars you could visit in the city. Mas Al Sur is an excellent place for a refreshing evening drink and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,973 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals at Cervantes Cervecería. Around 3,073 customers have rated their experience at Cervantes Cervecería an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Sagaretxe also belongs to the list of the best bars in the Madrid, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 3,358 bar-goers.

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

Day 11 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.

As you approach the end of your journey in Spain, take a moment for some retail therapy in Madrid’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.

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

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!