9-Day Road Trip in Spain and France from Barcelona to Valencia, Tarragona, and Perpignan

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Spain and France begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Barcelona in Spain. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Barcelona for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to Spain to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Barcelona before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Parc de la Ciutadella is a travelers’ favorite in Barcelona, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 68,100 visitors.

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

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Barcelona boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Spain.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Lasarte, one of the top Bib Gourmand restaurants in Barcelona, holding 3 Michelin stars. Offering a diverse menu focusing on creative cuisine, Lasarte has earned praise from numerous satisfied guests.

A local favorite is ABaC. This exceptional dining experience in Barcelona has been awarded 3 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 Cocina Hermanos Torres in Barcelona. Its 3-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 3 Michelin-star reputation.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar has charmed many with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 893 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar captures hearts with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 743 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Cerveseria Catalana, another local party gem in Barcelona. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 14,751 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Your multi-country road trip in Spain and France has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Barcelona. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Park Güell. This outstanding sculpture garden and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.4 stars out of 5 from 181,403 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Park Güell is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Sagrada Família is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This minor basilica and tourist destination welcomes approximately 4,527,427 visitors every year and boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 226,955 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing triumphal arch, Arc de Triomf. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,887 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, an outstanding sculpture garden, is one place you should visit while in Barcelona considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 62,263 travelers.

Explore the magnificent Mercado de La Boqueria and discover what makes this local sightseeing destination and wonder one of the best attractions in Barcelona. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 160,835 travelers.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Barcelona boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Spain.

Book a table at El Nacional, a famous dining establishment in Barcelona. This culinary hotspot and its delectable cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 23,496 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Barcelona is El Bosc de Les Fades, 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 14,606 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Barcelona’s Ciutat Comtal for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 12,951 satisfied diners.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Ocaña, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,052 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Elsa y Fred. It is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,884 customers.

El Xampanyet is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,394 customers.

Take in the ambiance of Barcelona as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Spain and France. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Barcelona in Spain, 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.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated tourist attraction and attraction in Barcelona — Casa Batlló. About 125,060 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular La Pedrera is another top sight in Barcelona that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved monument in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 85,188 visitors.

Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is a spectacular fountain and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Barcelona, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 85,986 enchanted visitors.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Valencia.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Spain and France by rewarding yourself with a taste of Valencia’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Discover an unparalleled culinary experience at El Poblet, a Bib Gourmand restaurant perfect to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 2-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature creative meals.

Indulge in the exquisite flavors at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Valencia, Ricard Camarena. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature creative dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Valencia you shouldn’t miss is Fierro. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s modern menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Cafe de las Horas, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Cafe de las Horas has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,922 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Puerta del Mar, a crowd-favorite. Around 3,372 customers have rated their experience at Puerta del Mar an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Bar Tonyina belongs to the list of the best bars in Valencia, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,516 bar-goers.

Take in the ambiance of Valencia as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in Spain and France has in store for you! You will be staying in Valencia for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated fortified tower and attraction in Valencia — Serrano Towers. About 39,998 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular Plaça de la Mare de Déu is another top sight in Valencia that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved square in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,170 visitors.

Mercat Central is a spectacular market hall and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Valencia, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 79,570 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Mercado de Colón. Because of its allure and charm, around 37,146 visitors have rated this attraction and building an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of L'Oceanogràfic. Echoing its popularity, 76,085 travelers have awarded this famous public aquarium and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Valencia's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Spain to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Valencia has them.

Don't miss out on experiencing Restaurante Canela, a renowned dining spot in Valencia. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,818 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Navarro while immersing yourself in Valencia. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,045 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Restaurante Flor de Valencia | Arrocería, a beloved dining establishment within Valencia. 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 1,561 satisfied customers.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Bar Vermudez. This famous bar in Valencia has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,200 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Beer & Travels. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Beer & Travels has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,028 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend El Lleón bar. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,124 customers.

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across Spain and France. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Valencia in Spain. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Tarragona. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Valencia Bioparc is a travelers’ favorite in Valencia, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,210 visitors.

In Valencia, don’t miss City of Arts and Sciences, a great tourist destination and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 125,881 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Valencia off your list when you visit the wonderful Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 37,810 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Jardins del Real de València. This urban park and place of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,212 reviews.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Valencia today.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Tarragona. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Tarragona. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Make sure to book a table at La Xarxa, a luxury dining venue in Tarragona. This local gem’s delectable modern and rice dishes cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression. La Xarxa is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Make a reservation at Restaurant Casa Balcells while immersing yourself in Tarragona. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,900 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of AQ, a beloved dining establishment within Tarragona. 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 1,289 satisfied customers.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to CReeA, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, CReeA has charmed many with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 605 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at El Galliner de l'Antiquari, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. El Galliner de l'Antiquari captures hearts with its 4.3 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 799 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Ol’ Dirty Burgers La Cantonada, another local party gem in Tarragona. This bar has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,311 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Spain and France, 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 to see in Tarragona in Spain and Perpignan in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Perpignan, where you will stay for 2 nights.

In Tarragona, the extraordinary Roman circus of Tárraco awaits. This attraction is a valued chogang elementary school that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,761 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Tarragona is the spectacular Tarragona Amphitheatre. This attraction is a roman amphitheatre that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,655 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Balcó del Mediterrani. This local scenic viewpoint and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,291 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Monument als castellers (Tarragona) is another attraction you might want to add to your Tarragona exploration itinerary. This sculpture is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,474 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — The Ferreres Aqueduct. More than a popular park and attraction, The Ferreres Aqueduct offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Tarragona. The Ferreres Aqueduct boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,777 traveler reviews.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Perpignan’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of France's delectable cuisine at one of Perpignan's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Le 17. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Perpignan boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from around 570 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Perpignan is Le Clos des Lys - Traiteur et Restaurant à Perpignan. It has garnered a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,461 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Le Restaurant Jean, in Perpignan. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,399 satisfied customers.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, O'Flaherty's. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,082 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Au Fût et à mesure Perpignan Centre. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 654 customers.

Buffalo Grill Perpignan cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 3,836 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.3 out of 5 stars average rating.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Spain and France! Enjoy your evening in Perpignan to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

On day 7, you will wake up in Collioure with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Perpignan before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Spain and France.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Perpignan. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in France in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Le Figuier, a distinguished dining establishment in Perpignan. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 1,171 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Perpignan is Le Petit Mogador. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 273 happy diners.

VIGATANE stands out as a local favorite in Perpignan. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,839 customers.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Le Grand Café de la Paix. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4 out of 5 stars by 1,088 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Arena Bar. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 361 customers.

Dry States cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 288 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.5 out of 5 stars average rating.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Spain and France! Enjoy your evening in Perpignan to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Perpignan in France and Barcelona in Spain. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Barcelona. Barcelona will be your home for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Perpignan, including the outstanding Perpignan Cathedral. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,336 reviews, this fascinating catholic cathedral and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Perpignan is also home to the captivating Le Castillet, a local museum considered one of the highlights of the city. About 2,760 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.3 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Palace of the Kings of Majorca is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Perpignan. This extraordinary point of interest and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 6,906 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Parc Saint-Vincent will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing park and attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,599 reviews.

Soak in Perpignan's rich culture at the fantastic Sports Park. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Perpignan is its overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,992 visitor reviews.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Perpignan today.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Barcelona of your choice.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Spain and France, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Barcelona. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Paradiso, an acclaimed dining establishment in Barcelona. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,403 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of CocoVail Beer Hall - Craft Beer Barcelona while experiencing the best of Barcelona. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 3,235 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Disfrutar, an elegant culinary destination in Barcelona. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 2,164 previous guests.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Bobby's Free, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Barcelona. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, backed by 2,003 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Restaurant El Foro, consistently rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Dr Stravinsky, one of the top-rated bars in Barcelona, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,837 satisfied customers.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

On day 9 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Barcelona before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Spain and France. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Barcelona’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Spain.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Barcelona is the magnificent Plaça de Catalunya. Around 175,036 visitors have rated this excellent square and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Get a last taste of Spain’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Barcelona and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Spain and France.

The time has come to say farewell to Barcelona for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 9-day European road trip in Spain and France with fond memories. Safe travels!