One-Week Spain Road Trip from Alicante to Valencia, Cuenca, Madrid, and Albacete

Welcome to Alicante, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Alicante's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Alicante. 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 Alicante. 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 Tabula Rasa, a luxury dining venue in Alicante. This local gem’s delectable traditional cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression. Tabula Rasa is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Treat yourself to culinary excellence at Baeza & Rufete, offering a Bib-Gourmand awarded dining experience. With its 1 Michelin star rating, it caters to the most discerning palates. The incredible modern cuisine at Baeza & Rufete has earned praise globally.

Discover the culinary treasures of La Taberna del Gourmet, a beloved dining establishment within Alicante. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 3,691 satisfied customers.

El Portal Alicante - Krug Ambassade is an excellent example. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,120 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,140 customers.

26 Cocktail Room is another of the best bars in the city of Alicante that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 960 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Spain!

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Alicante and Valencia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valencia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to 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.

Next up, make your way to Mercado Central de Alicante. This building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,503 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Santa Bárbara Castle. This castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 35,044 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Archaeological Museum of Alicante. This archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,768 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Parc El Palmeral. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,211 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Alicante, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Valencia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 54 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Valencia. 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.

Reserve a table at El Poblet, a 2 Michelin star restaurant and a Bib Gourmand dining establishment in Valencia. This epicurean hotspot’s delicious creative offering makes it a crowd favorite. El Poblet is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Another popular dining spot in Valencia is Ricard Camarena, which critics have graced with 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s pleasant ambiance and food choices leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its creative menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Ricard Camarena’s culinary excellence.

Locals and foreign travelers alike recommend the popular Bib Gourmand restaurant, Fierro. Captivated customers consistently praise this restaurant in Valencia for its appetizing selection of food, including its modern courses. As a leading food haven, it boasts 1 Michelin stars for giving an unforgettable dining experience to its patrons.

After your meal, consider going for a drink to celebrate this wonderful night in Spain. One of the best bars in the city is Cafe de las Horas. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,922 customers.

To gain one of the best bar experiences in Valencia, we recommend the cocktails at Puerta del Mar. This bar has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,372 customers and is an excellent place to make local friends.

Another of the best spots to experience the nightlife scene in Valencia is Bar Tonyina. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,516 customers.

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

On day 3 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 Valencia and Cuenca. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cuenca, where you will stay for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Mercat Central. This market hall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 79,570 visitors.

When you’re finished at Mercat Central, head to City of Arts and Sciences. This one-of-a-kind tourist destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 125,881 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 37,810 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to L'Oceanogràfic. This public aquarium is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 76,085 visitors.

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 Cuenca may take around 2 hours 15 min. Upon your arrival in Cuenca, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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.

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

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

Make a reservation at Restaurante Recreo Peral while immersing yourself in Cuenca. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,722 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Restaurante El Torreón, a beloved dining establishment within Cuenca. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,390 satisfied customers.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Toledo and Madrid. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Madrid. Madrid will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Toledo. This car ride takes around 1 hour 55 min.

Kick off the day at Mirador del Valle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This landmark is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,058 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Alcázar of Toledo. Alcázar of Toledo is an alcázar with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,193 reviews.

Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,938 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Zocodover. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,930 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Toledo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Madrid. Your travel time is around 59 min.

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

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

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

Discover the extraordinary dining experience offered by Paco Roncero in Madrid. Its 2-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 2 Michelin-star reputation.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, a popular bar you can go to is El miniBAR. This place has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,297 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Areia. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,973 customers.

James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid is another great place where you can celebrate after a long, fun day in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,124 customers.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Madrid for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

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.

Plan ahead and secure a table at El Jardín Secreto Madrid, an acclaimed dining establishment in Madrid. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 4,058 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Pum Pum Café while experiencing the best of Madrid. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 3,614 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Corral de la Morería, an elegant culinary destination in Madrid. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,011 previous guests.

1862 Dry Bar is one of the best bars you can visit in Madrid tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,987 customers.

You can also enjoy a glass or two at a popular place like Taberna del Alabardero de Madrid. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,525 customers.

Alternatively, try Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar. Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is the perfect place to get to know some locals in the city. This top-recommended bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 966 customers.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Madrid and Albacete. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Albacete. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Make Main Square your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 152,388 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Market of San Miguel. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 106,296 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this building every year.

Royal Palace of Madrid is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This royal palace has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 77,471 visitors.

When you’re finished at Royal Palace of Madrid, the perfect next stop is plaza de España. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 98,199 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Museo del Prado. This art museum is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 98,929 reviews. Museo del Prado hosts around 3,497,345 visitors every year.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Albacete, 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 Madrid to Albacete may take around 2 hours 31 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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.

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

Transform your dining experience at Ababol, one of the top restaurants in Albacete, holding 1 Michelin stars. Offering a diverse menu focusing on contemporary cuisine, Ababol has earned praise from numerous satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit GOIKO while exploring Albacete. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 2,032 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of El Callejón de los Gatos, a popular restaurant in Albacete. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,546 discerning diners.

Liverpool Pub is one of the best bars in Albacete and the perfect place for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,161 customers.

You may also want to check out Bar restaurante LA BONITA. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your celebrations. Bar restaurante LA BONITA. Is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 954 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Martina Restaurant & Bar. Martina Restaurant & Bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,056 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Cabo Roig, Elche, and Alicante, 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 Alicante. You’ll stay here 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: Cabo Roig. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 36 min. When you arrive in Cabo Roig, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Murcia's Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,947 visitors.

Real Casino de Murcia is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,805 visitors.

Plaza de las Flores is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,389 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 Cabo Roig to Elche may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at El Palmerar. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,060 visitors.

When you’re finished at El Palmerar, head to Parc Municipal. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,887 reviews.

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

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Mish Mish. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Alicante boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from around 3,322 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Alicante is Restaurant Piripi. It has garnered a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,321 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at TK Restaurante, in Alicante. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,245 satisfied customers.

An excellent example is El Garaje Bar Alicante, which has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,943 customers.

Another of the best bars you should consider going to is Noray Puerto de Alicante / Café Bar. This bar offers a selection of great meals and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,699 customers.

Locals also enjoy LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR, and you might too. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 740 customers, an after-dinner drink at LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR is the perfect way to end this day.

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

Day 8 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Alicante before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Alicante’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.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Alicante. 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!