day trips around spain

Barcelona Day Trips

We explore the best of catalonia’s many treasures….

Top 9 Day Trips:

1. Montserrat

2. Penedes Wine Region

3. Sitges (Beach Resort)

4. Tarragona (Roman Ruins)

5. Figueres (Dali)

6. Girona (Game of Thrones)

7. Cadaques

8. tossa de mar, 9. medieval villages.

Best Day Tours

More Destinations

Weekend Trips

Sandy beaches, jagged mountains, medieval towns and rolling vineyards… the region of Catalonia has so much to offer! We reveal our favourite day trip destinations from Barcelona , as well as the best organised tours that take you there.

This article was first published at the dawn of time, and last updated in May 2023. If you have any questions, pop them in the comments.

So you’ve already spent an afternoon or two pootling around Barcelona’s old town, admiring the Roman ruins, Gothic churches and palm-tree-decked plazas . You’ve photographed all of  Gaudi’s many magnificent Modernista buildings , checked out the Olympic Stadium and manifold museums on  Montjuic mountain  and relaxed in the hazy atmosphere of  the city’s gorgeous parks .

Naturally, you’ve also consulted your favourite travel guide’s fantastic list of  cool things to do in the city  – but you’re still bored!

Just outside this bustling metropolis lie sacred mountains and monasteries, golden beaches , Arcadian vineyards, spectacular national parks, sleepy Catalan villages and much much more.

And so, weary of urban life, you’re finally ready to renounce the charms of the ‘The Great Enchantress’ and leave the smells, sounds and circus of the city behind to see what else Catalonia and the Costa Brava have to offer… in which case, without further ado, let us introduce our handy guide to day trips and excursions outside of the city.

Yes, just outside this bustling metropolis lie sacred mountains and monasteries,  golden beaches  (which are all way cleaner than  Barceloneta ), Arcadian  vineyards , spectacular national parks, sleepy Catalan villages and much much more.

All of the above are easily accessible from Barcelona by train, bus or car, and whether you’re interested in the culture or scenery or outdoor activities like skiing in the Pyrenees , rock climbing, sport fishing, hiking, kitesurfing or sea kayaking there’s plenty worth travelling for.

…article continues after photo.

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1 Day Itinerary

The 9 Best Day Trips From Barcelona

Introducing our favourite destinations outside the city… (nearly) all of which you can reach easily by public transport,  or by hiring a car . As ten year veterans of the region, we know Catalonia better than Rick Steves and Paul Theroux put together, and we’ve concentrated on just the very top places of interest to make your life easier.

• Montserrat Abbey & Mountain
• Penedes Wine Region
• Sitges Beach Resort
• Tarragona (Roman Ruins)
• Figueres (Dali Theatre Museum)
• Girona (Game of Thrones)
• Tossa de Mar
• Medieval Villages
• Other Incredible Day Tours

And, for first time travellers to the region, we’ve also listed what we believe to be the best organised tours to each of these destinations, leaving from Barcelona city centre. Put any questions in the comments section, and I’ll be glad to help.

1. Montserrat Mountain

Catalonia’s sacred mountain range rears up just 38km away from Barcelona and such is its fame, beauty and religious significance that many come to this region to visit Montserrat first and Barcelona second! Most visitors tend to congregate around the impressive Benedictine Abbey, which houses the Black Madonna , a small wooden statue that was allegedly carved by Saint Luke in Jerusalem and later found by Catalan shepherds. The abbey sits underneath the majestic St. Jerome’s peak and the views from here, looking out over the whole of Catalonia are scintillating. Meanwhile, Montserrat mountain range itself is stunning to behold, thanks to its serrated peaks and magical limestone rock formations that glow pink in the setting sun.

Keep reading to find out how to get there by public transport, as well as a selection of top-rated tours that leave from central Barcelona.

Getting There By Train

You can reach Montserrat via a special train service that leaves from Plaça Espanya Train Station every hour (journey time just over one hour) and takes you to the Monistrol de Montserrat station, at the foot of the mountain.

From Monistrol station you can switch onto either the Cog Railway or Cable Car to reach the abbey. If you want to do that, it’s best to buy this combined ‘ Trans Montserrat ‘ ticket that includes metro tickets (to reach Plaça Espanya), train tickets to Monistrol de Montserrat and then your choice of Cog Railway or Cablecar – plus the use of the the Sant Joan Funicular (which takes you from the abbey to the very summit) and admission to the Audiovisual Gallery.

Otherwise the ‘ Tot Montserrat ‘ ticket includes all of that, plus entry to the excellent Montserrat Museum and a complimentary Catalan lunch (…’Tot’ is the Catalan word for ‘all’!).

Both packages are run by the official Barcelona tourism board… just follow the links to book.

Montserrat Day Tours

Given that train tickets are already quite pricey, it’s worth considering paying a little extra for the convenience of taking an organised tour, especially if you don’t fancy navigating your own way there or you like to have a guide take you around the abbey grounds. Here are a couple we could recommend.

I. Montserrat + Cog Wheel Train

II. Montserrat + Wine Tasting

III. Montserrat Abbey + Guided Hike

More Options

For a full range of guided tours check Get Your Guide’s Montserrat page . I would personally look for a tour that includes transport to and from Barcelona and a guided look at the Abbey’s church (which is free to enter), where the Black Madonna is displayed. After that Museum entry tickets are nice, the chance to see the L’Escolania Boys Choir is special, and enough free time to maybe take the funicular up to Sant Jerome’s peak, or at least take a short hike, is also attractive.

Lying just south of Barcelona is the scenic countryside of the Penedes region of Catalonia, one of Spain’s foremost wine producing regions along with Rioja and Priorat. The wine it’s famous for is  Cava , the Catalan take on French Champagne, but – as well as the sparkling stuff – there are plenty of vineyards producing reds and whites of great renown. No wonder that enotourism has really taken off here recently, and a day excursion to one of the many wineries in the Penedes, for a spot of sampling, is a day well spent. Many companies offer tours that include a vineyard and cellar tour, wine tasting, food and possibly even a spot of culture, or you could take the train and visit some wineries independently. More info on both below…

You can reach the region’s capital, Vilafranca del Penedes, easily by train from Barcelona, journey time 50 minutes from Sants Station with trains leaving twice an hour.  Check Renfe Rodalies for a timetable, or check the R4 route here for other destinations in the Penedes. You could also get off at Sant Sadurni D’Anoia and visit the famous Freixenet winery, or even better at Laverns-Subirat to take part in the Create Your Own Cava workshop at a boutique winery (see Tours section below).

Penedes Day Tours

It’s perfectly possible to visit one or two wineries independently, however there are some tours that we’d recommend, which guarantee a great experience, with guided tours (in English!) of the cellars and vineyards, plus tastings. For our full article on Barcelona wine activities keep reading .

I. Create Your Own Cava

II. Private Penedes Wine Tour

III. 4×4 Penedes Wine Tour (Small Group)

Just down the road from BCN is one of Costa Brava’s most scenic beach towns – the resort of Sitges. By day you can wander around sleepy white-washed streets, decorated with colourful kitsch ceramics and balconies full of potted plants; by night the cafes, restaurants and bars throw open their doors and Sitges becomes one of Spain’s most happening party places. This is where the first ever Pacha nightclub opened (in 1967!), whilst the gay scene is one of the strongest in the country. With 17 sandy beaches (some nudist), a beautiful Old Town and a triumvirate of good museums, Sitges makes for a fantastic day trip – or even longer – and has both a family-friendly and gay-friendly vibe.

To get to Sitges simply hop on the train from Sants Station, or Passeig de Gracia. They usually run every 15 minutes and take about 35-45 mins from Barcelona. Tickets are around 5 or 6 euros each way. For train timetables for check the Rodalies (suburban train) section of the city transport website .

    www.visitsitges.com

Sitges Day Tours

If you’re only interested in Sitges, then I wouldn’t necessarily take a tour… the train is cheap and easy, and this way you can potter around at your own pace, visiting the Cau Ferrat Museum , beaches and cafes. However, if you have a limited timeframe in which to explore the region, there are some fantastic combo tours on offer that also take you to other highlights of Catalonia. Here are a couple I’d recommend…

I. Montserrat, Sitges & Wine Tour

II. Tarragona & Sitges Tour

4. Tarragona

If Roman ruins are your thing, then a day trip to Tarragona is unmissable. A simply fantastic amphitheatre still stands from nearly two millennia ago, overlooking the Mediterranean sea, whilst Roman walls and porticoes can also be admired – as can a magnificent aqueduct, if you’re prepared to take a 4km jaunt out of town. It’s not just relics from the time of Caesar and chums though, and Tarragona has a wonderful Gothic cathedral and a picturesque Old Town as well, worth enjoying at a gentle pace. The one minus point is that, in a catastrophic bit of town planning, Tarragona’s rail tracks cut off the city beach, meaning you have to hot foot it around the station to get some sand. In other words go for the history/culture, not the sunbathing.

Again train is the best way to go, and you can get there from Barcelona Sants Station in 1 or 1.5 hours for less than 10 euros one way.

    www.tarragonaturisme.cat

Tarragona Day Tours

Similar to Sitges, you can easily pop down to Tarragona by train, but given the unique Roman history of the town ( Tarraco , as it was known, was more important than Barcelona back in the day!), a tour can help you make the most of a visit, as well as stop off at the stunning “Devil’s Bridge” aqueduct, which is slightly out of town.

I. Tarragona & Sitges

II. Tarragona & Sitges Private Tour

5. Figueres

Figueres is a nice little town… but it’s fair to say you probably wouldn’t bother visiting it if it wasn’t for its U.S.P. (i.e. Unique Selling Point). By which, of course, we mean the Salvador Dali Museum . Opened by the artist himself in 1974, the museum occupies the whole of what was once the municipal theatre (Salvador 1, Shakespeare 0), and is reckoned to be the largest collect of surrealist art in the world. Legions of fans make the pilgrimage each year, so book your tickets ahead if you plan on visiting in peak season. If you have time, it’s worth visiting Figueres’ pentagonal castle as well.

You can travel by train from Sants (which also calls in on Passeig de Gracia and Clot-Arago stations), journey time around 2 hours. Trains leave every 30 mins and tickets cost around 12-15 euros one way, depending if its the slightly faster or slower train. If you travel independently, you can book advance tickets to the museum on Tiqets.com. Alternatively a lot of local-based companies offer private tours, including museum ticket, guide and transport from Barcelona. Keep reading for some concrete suggestions…

    www.turismefigueres.com/en

Figueres Day Tours

Tour options to Figueres tend to include stops in either Girona, which is directly en route, and well worth seeing, or to Cadaques, a beautiful fishing village, where Dali spent his later years.

I. Girona, Figueres & Dali Museum Day Tour

II. Salvador Dali Tour (Figueres + Cadaques)

This beautiful, slow-paced medieval city got a major PR boost in recent years when it became a Game of Thrones filming location . Look carefully at the steps leading up to Girona’s towering Gothic cathedral and you will recognise them as the stairs where Jaime Lannister confronts the High Sparrow, and Cersei begins her walk of shame from the Grand Sept of Baelor. Others parts of the city form parts of Braavos, such as the Arab baths, where Arya fights The Waif. You don’t have to be a GoT nerd to enjoy Girona though, the picturesque cobbled streets, preserved Jewish district and the coloured tenement houses reflected on the River Onyar make it a splendid place to while away a few hours. If you choose to stay the night, you might want to reserve a table at El Cellar de Can Roca , considered one of the world’s best restaurants.

Getting to Girona from Barcelona is very easy. There are frequent trains from Sants Station and normally cost around €16 for a one way fast train (just 40 minutes).

    www.girona.cat/turisme

Girona Day Tours

Choose between a half day tour, or a multi-destination excursion that combines Girona with one of Catalonia’s other gems.

I. Medieval Girona Half Day Tour

II. Girona & Costa Brava Full Day Tour

The prettiest pueblo on the Costa Brava, Cadaques is a stunning white-brick-with-terracotta-tiles fishing village, situated on a calm bay, backed with verdant hills. No wonder Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali liked it so much. The main joy of any visit is to wonder around the little bays and beaches of the Cap de Creus headland, whilst the Salvador Dali House Museum is one town over at Port Lligat (advance reservations essential). The kicker is that this delightful jewel is a massive pain in the elbow to get to (see transport box below).

Getting There By Bus

You can’t reach Cadaques directly by train from Barcelona, however a company called Moventis / Sarfa runs a couple of buses a day that take 2 hours and 45 mins to get there from Estacion du Nord. Check the timetable , because at last glance these buses don’t necessarily work for a day trip, however they should function if you are planning to stay a bit longer. Otherwise you could hire a car, or join a tour…

    www.visitcadaques.org

Cadaques Day Tours

A fair way up the Costa Brava, your best bet to see Cadaques, if you don’t have a car, would be to join one of these excursions…

I. Cadaques & Figueres Dali Tour

II. Cadaques & Figueres Private Tour

The name might evoke some mirth from native English speakers, however as a day tour or even a weekend away, Tossa is a destination to be taken seriously. The cynosure of this coastal resort is its fortified Vila Vella (Old Town), the only such medieval fortress extant anywhere in Catalonia. It only takes a couple of hours maximum to walk around its turrets and lighthouse, so be sure to pack your sun cream and prepare to spend the rest of the day on the lovely beach that unfurls under the battlements. If you’re a sturdy walker ask directions at the tourist office for Cala Pola, a beautiful secluded beach that is a couple of hours walk away over craggy forest paths.

Around 12 buses a day leave from Estacion du Nord (or you can catch them at Barcelona’s airport if you prefer), taking 1.5 hours to reach Tossa. Tickets cost between 10 and 15 euros one way, and you can find a timetable here . In terms of getaways on the Costa Brava, this is probably your best bet in terms of convenient public transportation.

    visittossa.com/en

Tossa de Mar Day Tours

Here are a couple of great options for anyone looking to jump on an excursion heading for Tossa:

I. Costa Brava Day Tour (Tossa, Blanes & Swimming!)

II. Costa Brava Coastal Hike

Catalonia boasts at least a dozen beautifully preserved medieval villages, a handful of which are within reasonable driving distance from Barcelona. One of the most spectacular is undoubtedly Besalú , as you enter town by crossing its 12th Century Romanesque bridge spanning the river Fluvia. Ancient fortifications, a restored Jewish bath and a medieval synagogue make for other points of interest. Another gorgeous location is the village of Rupit , which is built upon the cliffs of the Osona region, 822 meters above sea level. The village dates back to the 10th century and is unspoiled by modern developments, with a Romanesque church, hanging bridge and nearby waterfalls. In the same region as Besalú and Rupit is the larger town of Vic, famous for its cured sausage and Medieval Fair, while both Tavertet and Castellfolit de la Roca are like a smaller versions of Rupit, both dramatically perched upon cliff edges.

Getting There By Public Transport

Of the villages I mentioned, only Vic is accessible by train. For the rest you’ll have to hire a car to realistically reach them from Barcelona, and that’s a theme for most of the medieval towns, as typically they aren’t on train lines and are too remote to reach by bus. Thankfully, a few enterprising tour companies have started taking travellers to these sights in recent years… keep reading for more info!

Medieval Villages Tours

Here are a couple of options for those looking to enjoy some of these hard-to-reach medieval gems:

I. Besalu, Rupit & Tavertet

II. Besalu, Vic, Santa Pau, Castellfolit de la Roca

More Incredible Day Tours

Believe it or not, there are actually several more unforgettable experiences that you can do in a single day from Barcelona. Check out the below…

1. Three Countries in One Day

2. Hot Air Balloon

Set your alarms early for this one… because the departure time for this breathtaking adventure is 6am from Plaça Catalunya (just be sure to select the option with transport from Barcelona, which is €200 per person)! After that you’ll be driven to the nearby Montseny natural park, one of Catalonia’s most spectacular areas for a 1 hour balloon ride. You’ll sail over forests, fields, mountains and medieval villages, savouring views usually reserved for the region’s majestic eagles. The experience finishes with a delicious local-style breakfast, and transport back to Barcelona. You can book via Get Your Guide . The same company offer a private hot air balloon trip , which is decently priced at €770 for 2 people, with hotel pick up.

3. Sea Kayaking on the Costa Brava

For more of an action trip, this water sports activity involves experiencing the amazing scenery of “The Wild Coast” from the vantage point of the sea. You’ll paddle in your kayak along the craggy coastline to stunning coves and visit sea caves, where you can go snorkelling in safety and check out the local marine life. Available from May to October, there are a few different options here, so check our detailed page about kayaking , or use the widget below to book the 8 hour trip (our top choice!).

Day Trip Destinations Map

Get a feeling for where you’ll be going, with this handy map…

More Day Trip Destinations

The above selection should be more than enough for any first time visitor to wrestle with, and indeed you’ve probably got some tough decisions on what to see just from these nine suggestions. If you’re based in Barcelona, however, or a frequent visitor, then stay tuned for more inspiration. We’ll be updating this page with some other of the region’s gems soon, such as Castelldefels, Calafell, Garraf, Altafulla, Montblanc, Begur, Pals and many more delights of the Costa Brava and the rest of Catalonia and North Spain soon.

What about overnight trips from Barcelona? Well some of the aforementioned destinations might actually work out better for a weekend… particularly Cadaques, which is pretty far away and hard to reach by public transport, and Tossa de Mar, where a two day stay would allow you to unwind and enjoy some quality beach time. For those of us who live in Barcelona, Girona or Vilafranca del Penedes offer a nice change of pace from the Catalan capital.

Otherwise here are some suggestions for weekend breaks away from BCN, starting with that notorious party island…

Ibiza (Balearic Islands)

A ‘day trip’ might be stretching it, but it’s certainly possible to plan a wild weekend in Ibiza using Barcelona as your base. Overnight ferries cruise across the Mediterranean on a nightly basis to the ‘White Isle’, whilst a number of airlines fly from Barcelona’s El Prat airport and if you book far enough in advance can be surprisingly cheap. Why go? Well the island’s nightlife is nothing short of legendary, whilst its beautiful Old Town and great beaches have made it one of Spain’s top holiday destinations ever since the 1950s. Yes, Wham’s Club Tropicana video was filmed here! Check out our feature length  travel guide to Ibiza , which also has details on summer party trips leaving from BCN.

About the Author

Duncan established Barcelona Life in 2009, whilst freelancing for the likes of Conde Nast, The Guardian, Easyjet Magazine, CNN Traveller and many more. From interviews with Ferran Adria to revealing the secrets of the city’s poetry brothels, he knows the city inside out… and shares all his best tips right here.

Julie Mushkin

Hi! We are going to Barcelona for a few days the first week of May with our young adult children (ages 18 and 20). We’d like to take day trip and considered going on the high speed train to Madrid, but we are open to other ideas. The only thing is that my kids aren’t big fans of museums and cathedrals-they like bigger areas with shopping and more activities. Can you give some suggestions? I’d really appreciate it.

Hi Julie, Barcelona has plenty of shopping opportunities so I wouldn’t bother going all the way to Madrid for that reason… Madrid is famous for its art museums and nightlife, so if that doesn’t appeal I would recommend taking a trip to the Costa Brava instead. The beaches and scenery are stunning, and you could elect for a sea kayaking trip, or a trip with a short hike or outdoor sightseeing.

Katherine Wenglikowski

Conceiving of my first trip to Spain in the early spring. I’d like to hire a driver for two days to take us up to Tossa where we can get over jet lag and use the car to get around. Or maybe just a one way trip to Tossa and we’ll find our way back by train once we make it to Girona. Not sure yet, but a reliable driver would be a recommendation. Many thanks, Katherine

Hi Katherine, I’m not sure if such a service exists beyond simply hiring a taxi – which I’d imagine is your best bet. Maybe contact one of the Barcelona airport transfer firms (who might offer more flexibility than the black and yellow city cabs that charge by the meter) and negotiate a price with them.

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10+ Spectacular Day Trips from Seville, Spain (Best of Andalucia!)

Vibrant, colorful, and lively in all the best ways, the capital of Andalucia can be hard to pull yourself away from–but it’s worth the effort, because there are some truly wonderful day trips from Seville!

After several visits to Seville (including one where we got to introduce my grandparents to the charm of southern Spain), we remain enchanted by both the city itself and Andalucia as a whole.

Planning a trip soon and trying to narrow down which Seville day trips are right for you?

From iconic palaces to Roman ruins to a memorable hike to–of course–whitewashed hilltop towns–here are the best day trips from Seville, Spain!

Table of Contents

A Note on Structuring Your Day Trips From Seville

Quick decision: an epic + easy seville day trip idea, the absolute best day trips from seville, spain, faq about taking seville day trips, read more about visiting spain, map of the best day trips from seville.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

If you take a look at the Seville day trips map that we included at the bottom of this blog post, you’ll probably notice something interesting: many of these destinations are tantalizingly close to each other, especially in the case of the Pueblos Blancos.

In certain cases, it’s not uncommon to combine 2 or 3 of these places near Seville into one epic day trip (typically, we recommend choosing no more than 2 if you’re traveling independently, organized day tours sometimes visit 3).

Some combinations, like Ronda paired with some more Pueblos Blancos , or Cádiz and Jerez de la Frontera , are popularly operated by tour companies, while others are more of a do-it-yourself endeavor.

We’ll go into more detail under each individual destination, but generally speaking, if you want to visit multiple destinations in one day, we’d recommend either booking a tour or  renting a car for the day .

Navigating public transportation can get stressful when trying to visit multiple destinations near Seville in one day, and many (not all) of these day trips are very car-friendly.

If you’d like to drive, we recommend searching for your rental car through  Discover Cars , which will allow you to sift through all your options and choose the right car for you based on price, the reputation of the company that is renting it, and the terms of the rental contract.

Shop rental cars for your day trip from Seville today!

Want to take a memorable day trip from Seville, but don’t want to overthink it?

This popular multi-stop day trip that covers Ronda as well as a couple of the smaller Pueblos Blancos is a a fantastic option!

In one day, you’ll be able to visit 3 of Spain’s cherished White Villages, enjoy a traditional lunch, and see some of Andalucia’s beautiful nature–all without worrying about navigating transportation.

Book your day trip to Andalucia’s Pueblos Blancos today!

Located less than an hour away by train, the beautiful, bite-sized city of Córdoba is easily one of the best day trips from Seville.

Once the most powerful Islamic city in Spain, Córdoba is most famous for its incredible Mezquita, or  Mosque-Cathedral –literally a former mosque with a cathedral built into its center–which is one of the most memorable buildings we’ve had a chance to visit anywhere.

The Mosque-Cathedral should absolutely be your top priority when visiting Córdoba, but beyond that, there’s still plenty to see within a short walk!

Snapping photos of the picturesque Calleja de las Flores, relaxing in the Patio de los Naranjos, wandering through the Jewish Quarter, and checking out some of  the beautiful patios of Cordoba  should also be on your to-do list.

How to Travel From Seville to Córdoba

The fastest way to travel between Seville to Córdoba is by train , which takes about 50 minutes each way.

From there, you’ll need to walk about 25 minutes from the Córdoba train station to the city center.

Check the train schedule and book tickets for your day trip to Córdoba today!

As one of the most popular White Towns of Andalucia, Ronda is jaw-droppingly beautiful, offering a wide variety of things to do and incredible (and incredibly easy to access) views of the Spanish countryside.

While visiting Ronda, be sure to check out the angles Puerto Nuevo (New Bridge) from all angles, stroll along the romantic Alameda del Tajo, admire the Cuenca Gardens, and if you have time, visit the Arab Baths.

Heading into the El Tajo de Ronda Gorge, either by hiking down from the historic center or driving outside of the center, is also unforgettable.

How to Travel From Seville to Ronda

The easiest ways to get to Ronda from Seville are to either book an organized day trip like this or to drive, which takes a little under 2 hours.

Because of its location, you’ll probably want to combine a visit to Ronda with a stop in at least one other Andalucia white village, which is simpler as part of a guided tour but doable by driving (just make sure to research where to park in each town in advance).

If you’d rather visit only Ronda and are more concerned about budget than time, there’s also a bus service that takes about 2.5 hours each way.

Book your day trip to Ronda today! Prefer to travel independently? Shop rental cars for your mini-Andalucian road trip!

Granada (+ the Alhambra)

Due to the distance involved, visiting Granada (which almost inevitably centers around visiting the Alhambra), is not altogether one of the most logical day trips from Seville… but it is one of the most popular and most asked about, which is why we’re including it here!

The Alhambra, or the collection of palaces and gardens that was the final Islamic stronghold in Spain, is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an absolute masterpiece.

We wrote about  visiting the Alhambra extensively here , but the long and the short of it is that this is a place you need to plan ahead for, as tickets sell out well in advance.

To keep transitions to a minimum and make sure you make most of your Seville to Granada day trip, we highly recommend visiting as part of an organized day trip .

Beyond the Alhambra–which will no doubt eat up the bulk of your day–be sure to wander through the Albayzin neighborhood, admire the views of the Alhambra from a distance at the beautiful Mirador de San Nicolas, and visit the beautiful Granada Cathedral (if time allows).

How to Travel From Seville to Granada and the Alhambra

Granada is  about 3 hours from Seville by train  or car–and getting to Granada still leaves you with a few stops (walking, a bus, more walking) to get to the Alhambra.

Taking a day trip to the Alhambra from Seville is best accomplished via an organized day trip like this .

Book your day trip to Granada and the Alhambra today!

Hoping to visit one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Andalucia?

Founded by the Phoenicians around 1100 BCE, Cádiz is known for its dizzyingly dense, whitewashed historic center, 100 watchtowers, beautiful cathedral, and seaside location.

Cádiz is the perfect place to visit near Seville for travelers looking for a little bit of sunshine and salt water–and the fact that its compact enough to make a day trip long enough to see a decent chunk of the city is a great benefit, too.

Don’t miss the gold-domed cathedral, the view from the Tavira Tower, the small streets of the El Pópulo neighborhood, or the Castillo de Santa Catalina while you’re there!

How to Travel From Seville to Cádiz

Cádiz is located about an hour and a half from Seville by train , or a bit longer by bus.

You can easily spend a full day, or more, in Cádiz, but thanks to its location south of Seville, it’s also often combined with a visit to Jerez de la Frontera .

Shop train tickets to Cádiz today!

Los Pueblos Blancos

Los Pueblos Blancos, or the White Villages of Spain, are scattered around the country–but most are concentrated in Andalucia, within day-tripping distance of Seville!

Technically, some of the other Seville day trip ideas highlighted here include one or more Pueblos Blancos, including Jerez de la Frontera and Ronda.

However, there’s no doubt that one of the absolute best options for a day trip includes visiting several villages at once, which is what we’re outlining here!

A few other White Villages to add to your wish list include Setenil de las Bodegas (famous for being built directly into rocky overhangs and one of our favorite places in Andalucia), Arcos de la Frontera (known for amazing views and being surrounded by the Guadalete River on 3 sides), and Zahara de la Sierra (overlooked by its striking castle).

You can even mix up the views a bit by visiting Júzcar–a former Pueblo Blanco that is now famously the Blue Village of Spain .

While there are far more Pueblos Blancos in the area than you can see in one day, sampling 2 or 3 of them makes for a wonderful day in Andalucia!

How to Travel From Seville to Los Pueblos Blancos

Many of the Pueblos Blancos are very small, and generally, the best way to visit several of them in one day is to either rent a car and drive or book a tour.

This popular guided tour visits a few villages (including Ronda, Grazalema, and Zahara de la Sierra) and is a wonderful option!

Prefer to choose your own adventure, so to speak?

If so, we recommend renting a small car through  Discover Cars , which will allow you to compare the prices and inclusions of multiple companies at the same time and choose the best car for you from there.

Book your day trip to the White Villages today! Alternatively, check rates and book your rental car in Seville !

Jerez de la Frontera

As the largest city in Andalucia’s Sherry Triangle, Jerez de la Frontera is a fantastic Seville day trip option for sherry fans, view-seekers, and horse lovers alike.

In addition to tasting the region’s famous sherry at one (or more) local bodegas, some of the best things to do in Jerez de la Frontera include visiting the alcazar , touring the cathedral (climb to the top of the tower for beautiful views of the building and city), and meandering through the city’s many plazas.

For one of the most unique things to do in the area, consider seeing the beautiful Andalucian horses show off at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art .

How to Travel From Seville to Jerez de la Frontera

The easiest way to access Jerez de la Frontera from Seville is via train , which takes about an hour each way.

You can easily spend a full day, or more, in Jerez de la Frontera, but thanks to its location south of Seville, it’s also often combined with a visit to Cádiz .

Book train tickets or shop combined day trips to Jerez de la Frontera and Cádiz today!

Located at the southernmost point of mainland Europe, the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and intrigues visitors from around the world!

And, while it’s not really one of the best day trips from Seville, there’s no doubt that it’s one many travelers are curious about, which is why we’re including it here.

Located about a 2.5-hour drive from Seville, not including time spent in passport control, visiting Gibraltar from Seville requires a bit of a commitment.

With a well-planned day tour , though, you’ll have long enough in the territory to visit the famous Rock of Gibraltar, check out the iconic Barbary monkeys, visit the caves of San Miguel, and spend a bit of time downtown.

How to Travel From Seville to Gibraltar

Because of the distances and logistics involved (ie, crossing an international border twice), taking a day trip to Gibraltar from Seville is best accomplished with an organized day trip like this .

Don’t forget to pack your passport!

Book your day trip to Gibraltar today!

Whitewashed, beautiful, and easily accessible from Seville, Carmona is a fantastic addition to any trip to Andalucia!

Best known for its impressive  Alcazar de la Puerta de Sevilla , or fortress, Carmona also boasts a lovely historic center to meander through (don’t miss the chance to grab lunch in one of the beautiful plazas).

A stop by the Convent of Santa Clara is a must as well, both for the Moorish architecture and for the chance to buy cakes and other baked goods on-site, directly from the nuns who live there.

How to Travel From Seville to Carmona

It is possible to book a guided tour that visits Carmona ( this popular tour combines visiting Carmona with a trip to Córdoba), however, it’s also an easy day trip from Seville to do independently.

Carmona is about a 30-minute drive , or a bit longer of a bus ride , from Seville.

Itálica (Santiponce)

If you’re interested in Roman history–or alternatively, Game of Thrones history–paying a visit to Itálica might be the right getaway from Seville for you!

Home to one of the largest Roman amphitheaters in Europe, which also served as the dragon pit in season 7 of Game of Thrones, Itálica’s Roman history stretches back almost 2,000 years.

In addition to the size of the amphitheater, Itálica’s well-preserved mosaics and the fact that it was the birthplace of the famous Emperor Hadrian make the city a must-see.

Since Itálica doesn’t take all day to see, popular additions to the day trip include a visit to nearby Santiponce (the modern town closest to Itálica) and/or a visit to the beautiful Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo.

How to Travel From Seville to Itálica

In terms of distance, Itálica is one of the simplest and easiest day trips from Seville: you can reach the Roman ruins in about 20 minutes by bus from Seville.

However, if you’d rather make a day of it, this guided tour of Itálica gets great reviews and also includes a stop at the Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo.

El Caminito del Rey

El Caminito del Rey definitely isn’t the best Seville day trip for everyone… but for some travelers, it’s a dream opportunity!

Featuring magnificent gorge views and adrenaline-inducing heights, El Caminito del Rey is one of the most iconic hikes in Andalucia.

A decade ago, it was often touted as being the most dangerous hike in Spain–or even the world–but it has now been restored to be much more accessible.

… For those of us with a fear of heights, though, this almost 5-mile trail that soars hundreds of feet above the ground can still pose a mental challenge!

How to Travel From Seville to El Caminito del Rey

El Caminito del Rey is about 2 hours by train or car from Seville.

Independent travelers can book tickets for El Caminito del Rey , take the train to El Chorro , and then grab a shuttle bus to the trailhead.

Alternatively, booking a guided hike like this from Seville can take the hassle out of planning your hike and navigating train times.

Book your day trip to El Caminito del Rey today!

Can you take a day trip to the Alhambra from Seville?

Yes, you can take a day trip to the Alhambra from Seville… but it makes for a very, very long day!

If possible, it’s worth considering spending at least one night in Granada in order to visit the Alhambra (and see some of the other cool things to do in the city).

If you’re determined to see the Alhambra and don’t have a night to spare, though, the best way to take a day trip to the Alhambra from Seville is to sign up for an organized day trip like this , which will allow you to maximize the amount of time you can spend sightseeing once you arrive.

Book your day trip to the Alhambra today!

Can you take a day trip from Seville to Morocco?

There are companies that will sell you a day trip to Morocco from Seville, but we wouldn’t recommend taking one.

Taking a day trip from Seville to Morocco includes an almost 2.5-hour drive (longer by bus) to Tarifa, followed by a one-hour ferry to Tangier… where you’ll then disembark into a city that, while fascinating, isn’t generally one of the best-loved places by tourists visiting Morocco.

Personally, we would recommend opting for one of the many other options for a Seville day trip instead.

If you’re determined to visit Tangier despite the long travel times, though, this well-reviewed tour is a good option (and the vast majority of travelers will definitely want to book a tour in this case).

Don’t forget your passport and–if you’re anything like me–seasickness remedies!

Book your day trip to Tangier, Morocco from Seville today!

What are the prettiest white towns of Andalucia to visit?

Virtually all of Andalucia’s famous white towns are beautiful, and depending on location, they can be fairly different from each other as well!

A few of the most beautiful white towns include Zahara de la Sierra, Ronda, Arcos de la Frontera, Setenil de las Bodegas, and Grazalema.

What’s the best day trip from Seville to do independently?

If you want to enjoy a simple yet fascinating day trip from Seville without worrying about complicated transportation, you can’t beat paying a visit to Córdoba!

Located just under an hour from Seville by train , or about an hour and a half by car, Córdoba is a beautiful city with fascinating attractions and history.

Don’t miss the unique Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba , or the chance to step inside some of its most beautiful patios !

Here are the best things to do in Córdoba, Spain.

Is it worth renting a car for Seville day trips?

Whether or not it’s best to rent a car for your day trips from Seville depends a lot on what you plan to do!

Generally, if you want to visit smaller towns and villages–and especially if you want to visit more than one place in one day–it’s best to either rent a car or book an organized day trip.

We recommend planning where you’ll park in advance: while it’s not typically hard to figure out where to park, you’ll want to know before you arrive!

Like many places in Europe, the historic centers of these day trip destinations tend to be closed to non-local traffic, so you’ll need to park outside the center and then walk in.

Shop rental cars for your Seville day trips today!

What are some off-the-beaten-path day trips from Seville?

Thanks to its central location, there is a near-infinite number of places to visit close to Seville that could make excellent day trips (either on their own or combined with other spots).

A few other places to add to your radar include Olvera, Juzcar, and Málaga (not a traditional day trip destination, but one within range!).

If you’re willing to travel about 2.5 hours each way, Costa del Sol towns like Estepona and Marbella are also within reach.

Planning a trip to Spain soon and ready to learn more?

We’d love to help!

You can  browse all of our Spain blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• The Ultimate One Day in Seville Itinerary (+ Tips!)
• How to Travel Europe By Train: The Ultimate Guide
• The Perfect 2 Week Spain and Portugal Itinerary
• 21 Sun-Soaked Summer Destinations in Europe (+ Travel Tips!)
• What’s it Like to Take a Ferry From Barcelona to Rome? (Grimaldi Lines Review)

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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The 21 Best Day Trips from Barcelona (Picked by a Local!)

Catalonia has a strong mix of culture, architecture and natural beauty that is a shame to be overlooked. There are many convenient Barcelona day trips for all kind of travelers and tastes, including beaches, ski resorts, mountains, medieval villages or amusement parks. Here are my 21 favorites day trips from Barcelona!

Although there are world-class tourist attractions and a lot of things to do and to see in Barcelona , I can safely say one of the perks of living here is all the different day trips you can do around Barcelona.

I’ve picked some of the best 21 best day trips from Barcelona that you can travel independently (no need for expensive tours!). I’ve also added a list of the best beaches near Barcelona further down the bottom. Enjoy!

21 places to visit near Barcelona

• Sitges 🏖️

Cava Wineries

• Calella de Palafrugell 🏖️
• Delta de L’Ebre 🌿
• Cala Fonda 🏖️
• La Molina ⛷️
• Tossa de Mar 🏖️
• PortAventura Park
• Montserrat 🌿
• Sant Pol de Mar 🏖️
• Vall de Núria ⛷️ 🌿
• Begur 🏖️
• Cadaqués 🏖️
• Tibidabo 🌿
• Collserola 🌿

🏖️ beach day trip // ⛷️ skiing possible in winter // 🌿 nature day trip

The Best Barcelona Day Trips On A Map

To help you visualise things, this maps contains all the 21 best places for getaways outside Barcelona and I’ve thrown in a few additional ones.

• Blue : beach day trips
• Green : nature day trips
• Purple : historical or cultural day trips
• Yellow : seaside towns day trips
• Orange : other day trips (amusement parks, wineries)

Start your hotel search with this list of the highest-rated places to stay in the best areas of Barcelona.

Car or public transport in Catalonia?

You can get to most of the places covered in this article by public transportation – train, bus or a combination of both.

That said, a car is more convenient and will give you extra flexibility to visit 2 or 3 spots in the same day. Some of the beaches mentioned are only reachable by car.

I recommend renting a car in Barcelona with the super cool Drivy or with a traditional car rental agency but always compare prices first .

This tiny medieval village inland of the Costa Brava coast was one of my biggest travel surprises in Catalonia . Strolling the streets of Pals is literally a journey into the past and a great place to unwind.

I was impressed with the number of stoned balconies, quaint arches and intricate façades all within a maze of cobbled streets. There are many art & craft shops, traditional restaurants and local delicacies available. The whole thing just feels really picturesque.

Plus, it stands on top of a hill, so there are great views over the surrounding tranquil Catalonia countryside. Tip: look out for the sunflower fields nearby!

The bohemian and tolerant town of Sitges is a popular getaway for locals and travelers in Barcelona . It’s packed with little places to explore in the winding alleys as well as in the beautiful promenade by the Mediterranean.

Although the main beach in Sitges can get crowded too fast, the many smaller ones nearby – calas – are more off the beaten track.

I think Sitges falls into the category of one of those nice coastal towns, perfect to relax and recharge energies. There are MANY like these in Catalonia and I’d dare to say even more beautiful. However, this one is the best in terms of infrastructure including cultural offer, shops, restaurants, and hotels.

Gotta be honest here: Sitges is far from being my favorite place outside Barcelona – somehow it does not feel as authentic . But I do agree it’s a relaxing day out of the city and if you’re coming during Carnival it makes a great partying getaway.

How to get to Sitges From Barcelona ℹ️

The most convenient option to get to Sitges is by train. You can get there in an easy 35 minute train ride away on the R2 train from Sants or Passeig de Grácia stations.

Other options include buses – check Monbus – and driving by the C-32 highway that goes south.

Got a place to stay in Barcelona already? ⭐

Located just an hour-drive from Barcelona , the Penedès wine region is still pretty much overlooked. The epicenter is the town of Sant Sadurni D’Anoia where about 60 companies are based, exporting cava wine to the rest of the world.

While it may seem a plan for wine enthusiasts only, a regular person will find a cava tasting and tour enjoyable. I’ve visited the Codorníu wine estate in Sant Sadurni D’Anoia – one of the main brands of cava in Catalonia – and I enjoyed it a lot more than I was expecting.

The tour is comprehensive and informative, you get to ride an underground train on the caves where the wines are maturing, and there’s a cava tasting in the end. Cheers! 🥂

What is cava? 🍾

Cava is a type of sparkling Catalan wine which is made by adding sugar and yeast to Penedès wine. It’s then stored in traditional bottles to produce a second fermentation. It’s similar to champagne and prosecco in taste, color and number of bubbles.

Enclosed between the Pyrenees and the Costa Brava coast, Girona is on the crossroad of natural wonders.

The Jewish quarter in Girona is one of the oldest and best preserved in Europe. Walking around these streets allows you to discover small passageways, garden areas and viewpoints overlooking the city up on the ancient walls. Every turn is a new photo opportunity. It will be one of those places where the shutter of your camera does not stop.

Bonus points for Game Of Thrones fans. You will be pleased to know many scenes were filmed in Girona . An added reason to unleash your geekiness!

• Calella de Palafrugell

Oozing all the possible charm that Costa Brava has to offer, Calella de Palafrugell is an old fishing village turned beach getaway. Narrow streets that lead to fishermen’s houses in the Port Bo neighborhood. Together with the views of the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean, this place reminds me very much of Cinque Terre .

Like in most of Costa Brava , the coastline here is rugged but you can find small coves to relax for an entire day. Many scenic hiking opportunities around – check the Cap Roig botanical garden – or adventure yourself renting a kayak.

Delta De L’Ebre

This is suited for nature lovers, but I’m sure everyone will enjoy a visit to this huge natural park. With a rich variety of environments – river, wetlands, lagoons, islands, rice fields and beaches – the Ebro Delta s also home to numerous animals and plants.

Just to give you an idea, more than 300 of the total 500 species of birds in Europe can be seen here! This might sound as over-excitement , but how many times do you have the chance to see pink flamingos in the wild, hun?

One of the most spectacular sunsets I’ve seen on my life was right here in the Ebro Delta , in Platja del Trabucador . Not only the color palette was stunning, I was also surrounded by rice fields, a huge sandy beach and massive groups of birds flying. How many sunsets have you witnessed like this?

One final attraction is the nearby town of Tortosa , standing out the remains of Muslim, Jewish and Christian influences. Together, Tortosa and the Ebro Delta are a relaxing getaway from Barcelona, able to combine history, culture and wild nature in one day. How cool is that?

Find your room in Barcelona today

Located inland, just south of Pyrenees, lies Vic , a charming medieval town. Everything seems to revolve around Plaça Major , where you’ll find well-preserved architecture as well as bi-weekly food markets (Tuesdays and Saturdays).

If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-track destination and an injection of medieval history, this is a great option. Also if you’re around for the medieval fair – usually around November/December, make sure to pay a visit!

• Cala Fonda (Waikiki Beach)

The official name of this paradisiac beach is Cala Fonda , but it’s mostly known as Waikiki Beach amongst locals.

If you’re looking for a true nature getaway but can’t deal with the crowds in Costa Brava , this is a great trip option. Backed up by cliffs, with crystal clear water, enough personal space, and a chill atmosphere makes Waikiki the perfect memorable beach day.

Note: there are no bars, shops or restaurants nearby and it requires some hiking. It’s that remote.

How to get to Waikiki Beach From Barcelona ℹ️

The best way to get to Waikiki Beach is by car (1h). Drive to a little village called La Mora , in Tarragona , the nearest parking spot. From there, it’s about a 15-min hike.

An alternative is to get the Rodalies train to Altafulla – Tamarit (schedules here ). From there you’ll have to take a taxi to La Mora beach to start the final hike to Waikiki.

It’s also possible to use a more time-consuming combination of 2 buses (to Tarragona and then to Tamarit ) – personally, I don’t think is worth to go for this option for a day trip.

Now for something completely different. A neat thing about Barcelona is that there are all kinds of day trips available. I mean, how cool is that you can go skiing for the day?!

A trip to La Molina is a lengthy one – you’ll need to leave early in the morning and come back at the evening to have time in the slopes – but how cool is that you can go skiing in the Pyrenees for the day?

How to get to La Molina From Barcelona ℹ️

You can get to La Molina by car or use the train that departs from Plaça Catalunya (2h30).

There is a combo offer called Skitren that includes a return train ticket + bus to the slopes + daily skiing pass available. 41 EUR. More info here . Better value is impossible.

Tossa De Mar

This place might be a bit off the beaten track, but that’s exactly one of the reasons I love it. This small beach town was once a fishing village and today is known for the set of quaint streets leading to a marvelous medieval castle.

A climb all the way up along the 14th-century walls is a must. There are super views overlooking the city, the nearby beach and the Mediterranean.

Overall, Tossa de Mar is very relaxed and low key and a beautiful place to unwind.

How to get to Tossa de Mar From Barcelona ℹ️

Having your own wheels is the best option to get to Tossa de Mar. You can choose between the coastal road (slower) or the E-15 (faster, with tolls).

If you are stuck with public transportation, Moventis Sarfa has buses departing every day to several destinations in Costa Brava, including Tossa de Mar .

PortAventura

The largest theme park in Spain is naturally a favorite of kids but also grown-ups. PortAventura actually has 3 different parks in itself:

• PortAventura Park. The classic PortAventura with numerous different adrenaline-inducing rides in different worlds like Mexico or China.
• Caribe Aquatic Park Perfect for summer trips, featuring swimming pools, several different slides and even give rafting a try!
• Ferrari Land. The most recent park is a fit for speed-lovers since one of its attractions is the highest and fastest rollercoaster in Europe.

If you want to be serious about it, there are combined tickets for 2 or all 3 of the parks.

How to get to PortAventura Park From Barcelona ℹ️

A drive and a train ride take roughly the same amount of time (1h30). The latter is more convenient since you can book the train ticket with PortAventura World park tickets included and get the return journey for free. For more info check this page or directly the train schedules on Rodalies and look for the station PortAventura (right after Tarragona ).

Buses take slightly longer (up to 2 hours).

Montserrat Mountain

Picture a huge Benedictine monk monastery standing at the base of an 800-meter-high craggy mountain. Welcome to Montserrat ! The surrounding natural beauty around the holiest site of Catalonia inspires many pilgrims or daily travelers to go here year all-year round.

Literally translating as Serrated Mountain , its monastery holds a famous Black Madonna statue and is home to choir boy performances at 1 pm each day.

Montserrat is also a great place for rock-climbing and hiking. If you up for this, bring a jacket, hiking shoes, and some food. The few places where you can get food up there are not very good and expensive. The largest hiking trail will take you to Sant Jeroni peak, where you will feel on top of the world.

Despite being a place not really compatible with my vertigo, it was one of the day trips I enjoyed the most. Definitely a great getaway from busy Barcelona !

How to get to Montserrat Mountain From Barcelona ℹ️

You don’t need an organized tour to go to Montserrat . The journey will be a combination of train + cable car OR train + funicular.

In both cases, you will have to Plaça Espanya and hop on a Rodalies Line R5 train to Manresa . When buying your ticket, you will need to specify if you want the Cable Car or the Cremallera funicular version of your Montserrat ticket. These are not interchangeable.

If you buy a cable car version you CAN’T use it on the Cremallera funicular and vice versa. In other words:

• 1. Leave at Aeri station and take a scary 5-min cable-car ride to the top. The most spectacular ride.
• 2. Leave at Cremallera station and take a comfortable 23-min funicular ride to the top. Take this if you’re afraid of heights like me.

You can also drive to Montserrat (about an hour trip). You can park at the bottom of the mountain and take the cable car or drive directly to the monastery.

LA Times called it “the most interesting Spanish village you’ve never heard of” and I have to agree Besalú still falls under the category of hidden gems.

Once the capital of an independent state with the same name, the historical medieval village now boasts cobbled streets and facades with medieval and Gothic influences. In other words, a haven for history enthusiasts. The highlight is the eye-catchy 12th-century bridge over the Fluvià river.

Tip: I combined my trip to Besalú with a visit to Castelfollit de la Roca , a tiny village located on the hilltop of a giant cliff. 2 beautiful villages in 1!

Sant Pol de Mar

If you’re a beach bum and just want a relaxing beach day outside of Barcelona , heading up north the coast there are many different options. Top quality beaches start at Ocata , but there’s something special about Sant Pol de Mar .

A convenient day trip from Barcelona – the train leaves you right at the beach – this seaside town is totally unpretentious, with no fancy beach bars nor high-end restaurants. Expect small streets with local restaurants leading to a strip of white sand and turquoise waters.

To grab something to eat and make your day a tremendous success, head to a chiringuito (beach bar) Banys Lluís, with different options on seafood and paella .

How to get to Sant Pol de Mar From Barcelona ℹ️

The Rodalies R1 train to Sant Pol de Mar takes about 1h20 from the main stations in Barcelona – Sants , Plaça Catalunya or Arc de Triomf .

This town very close to the border with France is the birthplace of Salvador Dalí and home to Dali Theatre and Museum . Once a theater, his building was converted a museum by Dalí himself. It holds many pieces from his personal collection and the building itself is as quirky as Dalí’s style. I mean, who thinks of bright pink walls with giant eggs on top?!

If you are into art, this is a must-go!

How to get to Figueres From Barcelona ℹ️

You can comfortably take the train to Figueres from the main stations in Barcelona – Sants and Passeig de Grácia . Expect about an hour ride in the faster AVE or AVANT trains.

Driving takes about the same time.

Vall de Núria

A peaceful hiking paradise in summer and a ski resort with 11 pistes in winter, Vall de Núria is worth a trip during all seasons of the year. This glacial valley in the Pyrenees stands at an altitude of almost 2km but it’s surrounded by mountains 1km higher.

The variety of animals and plants – including marmots and deer – is incredible. There’s no higher contrast to the buzz of Barcelona . If you’re an avid nature hiker or just seeking for a nature getaway, it doesn’t get better than this.

How to get to Vall de Núria From Barcelona ℹ️

Car access to Vall de Núria is not permitted.

You can get to Vall de Nuria using the direct line Rodalies R3 from Plaça Catalunya to Ribes de Freser . There you’ll take the Ribes Enllac (kind of a mountain rack railway) to finally reach Vall de Núria . The whole trip takes about 2 hours and there’s a combined return ticket costing 30 EUR.

Similar to La Molina , during winter time, there is a combo offer called Skitren that also includes a daily skiing pass. More info here .

Just a bit over an hour south of Barcelona by train lies this beautiful coastal town, known for its Roman remains and top-notch sandy beaches.

I love how you can find random Roman ruins in plazas and streets all over the city. In fact, Tarraco was the first and oldest Roman settlement on the Iberian Peninsula. Today, the archaeological ensemble is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts one of the best preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Bonus points for overlooking the sea!

Apart from its outstanding historical value, Tarragona ‘s 15km of coast – known as Golden Coast – is home to inumerous bays, coves and sandy beaches worth a trip by itself. Two of the most hyped are Platja Larga and Cala Fonda .

How to get to Tarragona From Barcelona ℹ️

By far the most convenient option to get to Tarragona is by using the train (1h30). Due to the winding roads, driving can take you more than 2 hours so it’s not as convenient. Trains run several times per day. Check Rodalies website for up-to-date schedules.

Got a place to stay in Barcelona already?

Until recently, this town was better known from people living and work in Barcelona than for tourists. Know more and more travelers are uncovering the hidden gem of this province.

Despite the charming historic center and the views from the castle, the highlight of Begur is on its coast.

Like in all Costa Brava , the coast of Begur is filled with small bays and coves with pebble beaches and transparent waters. Places like Aiguablava , Aiguafreda and Platja Fonda get crowded really quickly during summertime, but are very worth it.

Staying in Begur

Begur and in particular Aiguablava is one of the best places you can choose to stay the night in Costa Brava .

My recommendation is this parador with GORGEOUS views to the Mediterranean. It’s in the area where the first photo in this article was taken.  

Not going to lie. This tiny fishing village close to the border with France makes a long day trip from Barcelona . But the quaint and ethereal vibe of the place is so interesting and different from everything else in Catalonia that is worth a visit.

This village was actually an inspirational muse for Salvador Dalí. Maybe it will be yours too?

How to get to Cadaqués From Barcelona ℹ️

The most convenient way to get to Cadaqués is by car (2h40).

Moventis (link in Spanish) has a bus departing 4 times per day to Cadaqués from Barcelona . Takes about the same as the car.

There’s also another lengthy option: getting a train to Figueres and then hop on a Teisa bus to Cadaqués . I don’t recommend this, but if you’re interested, this website explains it step by step .

Uma foto publicada por BRUN🌎 (@bruno_mb) a Mai 1, 2016 às 1:55 PDT

Going to a viewpoint in Barcelona is one of the must-do activities in the city so why not go to the biggest of them all?

Tibidabo is the highest point of Collserola mountain range. A weird mix of an amusement park and a cathedral on top which somehow works. But this place is most famous for one of the most glorious views of Barcelona .

How to get to Tibidabo From Barcelona ℹ️

Most visitors go on a three-leg journey of train + tram + blue funicular ( Tramvia Blau ) to get to the top of Tibidabo from the center of Barcelona . The thing is 1) it’s crowded 2) the blue funicular raises some safety concerns 3) it’s expensive.

A much easier option is to take the T2A bus that goes directly from Plaça Catalunya (corner with Rambla Catalunya) to the top of Tibidabo . This is actually a bus run by the amusement park , but everyone can use it. The bus departs daily roughly every 20 minutes up from 10 am up until 30 minutes after the park closes, but only runs on weekends during winter months.

I’ll close with the closest destination to Barcelona . Some may not even consider this a day trip, but I think there’s enough to see and do to make you entertained for a full day.

Collserola Park stretches over an area of 8,000 hectares and is one of the “green lungs” of Barcelona . To put in perspective, this 22 (!) times bigger than Central Park . A heaven for hikers, but for bikers and dog-walkers too, this mountain range spawns all the way from the urban limits of Barcelona and has its highest point in Tibidabo (512m).

If you’re a fan of hiking trails, head to Parc del Laberint d’Horta and start walking up. There’s a trail connecting it to the city of Sant Cugat . Expect amazing views, some wildlife (wild pigs can be found roaming!) and make sure you have a lunch break at Can Borrell , one of my favorite Catalan restaurants.

Extra: Best Beaches Near Barcelona

Barcelona has it all. Add a buzzing city center with lots to do to a huge coastline full of beaches and you have the perfect urban setting.

The reality is though, the beaches in the center are not that good. In fact, Barceloneta beach can actually be extremely disappointing .

You’ll need to go away from the city to escape the crowds and find beaches that properly honor the Mediterranean bliss.

The Best Beaches North of Barcelona

Going north of Barcelona you will find top-notch beach destinations with crystal clear waters in places like Costa Brava .

As a rule of thumb, the farther north you go from Barcelona , the cleaner the sea but also the smaller the beaches. Personally, the first decent beach going north is Badalona, but I usually go for beaches after Ocata.

The stops of the Rodalies train are conveniently close to beaches. Here are some of the areas you should look for:

• Montgat Nord
• Premiá de Mar
• Platja D’Aro
• Sant Pol De Mar

The Best Beaches South of Barcelona

Costa Brava is undeniably Catalonia ‘s most famous coast with locals, day trippers and tourists. Things can get a bit crowded in the summer.

Still, in the south, places like Casteldefells , Sitges and the entire Costa Dorada shouldn’t be discounted as they usually are less packed.

Stretching all the way down to Valencia , you can find more than 40 blue-flagged beaches with shallow warm waters, mixed between huge sand stretches and small rocky bays.

• El Prat (next to the airport!)
• Casteldefells
• Platja Larga

Getting around Barcelona

The public transport in Barcelona and around is easily one of the best urban systems in the world, you can go to lots of places without the need to drive.

However, any day trip will be more convenient if you rent a car and specifically the beaches are only accessible by car. On my last trip out of Barcelona, I used GetAround , that allows you to rent cars from normal people. You can even unlock the car with your phone! 😱 Here’s some money for you to try it out .

If you prefer a traditional car hire company, try to book your car as soon as possible – it can save you loads of money. I always use this awesome tool to compare rental prices .

Day Trips from Barcelona: A Lot To Choose From!

Barcelona might have many attractions for travelers , but as you can see, there are at least as many things to see outside the city. It all comes down to whether you are seeking beach time, history or a nature destination (or all-in-one!).

In total, I’ve listed more than 30 places on this article, more than a full month of travel. And still, I’m sure I just scratched the surface of all the places to go in Catalonia ..

Remember to use this map to help you plan out everything!

The best rooms in Barcelona fly quickly, book yours today!

Other useful resources to plan your day trips in barcelona.

• 7 Unique Experiences in Barcelona
• Pre-selected list of the best hotels to stay in Barcelona
• Moventis Sarfa
• Rodalies (trains in Catalonia)
• Barcelona Insider Guide

Which other suggestions of day trips from Barcelona do you have? What am I missing?

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Find the day trips from Valencia that were made for you

Nov 1, 2021 • 7 min read

If you visit Buñol, Spain, out of season, the 13th-century Castle Buñol is one of the town's must-sees © Jeroen Boer / Shutterstock

As one of the best-connected cities in Spain  with a wealth of historical, gastronomic, natural sights and activities nearby, Valencia is the ideal base from which to take a day trip and explore the wider Valencia region . 

While there are plenty of things to do in the city , you can have an epic day visiting verdant vineyards, Moorish cities, relaxing coastlines and picturesque villages that are just under two hours away. You can even get the train to Madrid with plenty of time to spare for sightseeing in the capital.

Taking a day trip from Valencia is also a good way to get to know this diverse Spanish autonomous region. It’s one of the best places in Spain for food and drink, and some of the country’s best restaurants are along the coastline. With both mountainous natural parks and flatter coastal wetlands and nature reserves, the region is well suited to active travelers, nature enthusiasts as well as families.

Here are seven day trip ideas from Valencia for all kinds of travelers.

Famed for its tomato-throwing festival La Tomatina , the small town of Buñol is an easy and pleasant day trip from Valencia. Although the town’s population nearly triples during the one-day tomato event in August, there is a range of less messy but no less fun cultural events the rest of the year, from concerts throughout May and June, to the Buñol Fair in August, which culminates in a battle between the two resident music societies. 

If you’re here out of season, head for the 13th-century castle or ornate gardens before wandering the cobbled streets to dine at Las Bairetas ­– known for its classic Valencian rice dishes cooked in the wood-fired oven.

How to get to Buñol

Less than 40km (25 miles) from Valencia, Buñol can be reached in under 90 minutes. Catch the C3 (Utiel) train from the beautiful art nouveau Estació del Nord or make the 40-minute trip on the A-3 motorway if traveling by car.

Thanks to the brilliant AVE high-speed train network, you can whiz to the Spanish capital Madrid from Valencia in less than two hours. Go for the galleries and museums, and stay for the exuberant nightlife. The famous golden art triangle of El Prado , Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza  museums will keep you busy all day with their permanent collections of works by Velásquez, Picasso and more. Watch for the visiting exhibitions and book museums and galleries in advance to secure entry.

Looking for a touch of old-world Madrid? Snag a table for afternoon tea at the fully restored Palm Court in the extensively renovated Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid . The hotel has hosted everyone from Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner to Princess Grace of Monaco and visiting dignitaries. 

How to get to Madrid

The AVE train is by far the quickest and easiest way to travel between Valencia and Madrid taking one hour 40 minutes. It departs from Valencia Joaquín Sorolla station almost every hour and arrives at Madrid Puerta de Atocha. If you’d prefer to drive, take the A-3 motorway and you’ll arrive in Madrid in about three and a half hours.

It offers swaths of sand, mountain views and a pretty old town, but Dénia on Spain’s eastern coast is the place to visit for food. The city has been on must-visit lists for gourmets since 2015, the year the city was named Unesco Creative City of Gastronomy. Chef Quique Dacosta is one of the contributing factors, thanks to his three-Michelin-star restaurant on Carrer Rascassa. Book well in advance for the stand-out seasonal menus with wine pairings. 

If you fancy something slightly more casual, try El Baret de Miquel Ruiz , a quirky restaurant serving up local produce – think red prawns and fresh vegetables – helmed by Miquel Ruiz, who gave up his Michelin-star restaurant in favor of this more relaxed venue. Try Calle Loreto for traditional tapas bar-hopping and look out for the biannual “ruta de tapas,” where restaurants, cafes and bars offer a tapa and drink for a few euros.

How to get to Dénia

Buses leave Estación de Autobuses de Valencia for Almeria via Dénia regularly and take about 90 minutes. You can easily drive between the two cities in about 75 minutes.

Utiel-Requena

Although true oenophiles know that the Utiel-Requena region has been producing wines for more than 2000 years, it’s only within the last few decades that these fantastic wines and interesting grape varieties have been making headlines on the international stage. 

The area has some 40,000 hectares (98,842 acres) of vineyards growing a variety of grapes – most notably the native Bobal grape. Although the wine-growing area gets its name from the two main towns, the wine route here takes in more than 10 other villages. Plan your visit using the Ruta del Vino website and stop by places like  Bodega Sierra Norte  or Viña Memorias to taste the best the region has to offer.

How to to Utiel-Requena

The C3 train can take you from Valencia Nord station to Siete Aguas, El Rebollar, Requena, San Antonio de Requena and Utiel in under two hours. Alternatively, a dedicated driver can weave through the vineyards in around an hour via the A-3 motorway.

It might have gained a bit of a bad rep for its high-rise hotels and tacky tourist strip , but there’s much more to Benidorm than the gaudy tourist trail. Explore the old town, perched between the more lively Levante beach and the quieter residential Poniente side. 

Idle down the whitewashed steps from the hilltop site of the city’s former castle to the Balcón del Mediterráneo for views over the adjacent coastline and across the water to the L'illa de Benidorm nature reserve. Then stroll back through the narrow streets and grab a tapa and vino at one of the many traditional tascas. 

The Parc de L´Aigüera is also worth a wander; the neoclassical park stretches up through the town and is home to two amphitheatres that often house concerts. Families should head to Terra Mítica , a theme park on the resort’s outskirts, for a day of thrilling rollercoasters and vertiginous water rides.

How to get to Benidorm

Buses depart regularly for Benidorm from the Estación de Autobuses de Valencia. Look for those heading to Cartagena, which take about 1 hour 45 minutes. If you rent a car, head down the AP-7 – you can even stop in Dénia en route – where the journey will take around 90 minutes.

Teruel is the day trip for architecture aficionados and history lovers – and all other lovers. The city is the preeminent place to experience Mudéjar architecture, a style of Moorish building and decoration that appears throughout the city, from the 14th-century Mudéjar tower to the 12th-century Catedral de Santa María de Mediavilla . 

Fans of the works of Tirso de Molina, the Spanish Baroque dramatist, will enjoy learning more about the lovers of Teruel who inspired one of his greatest works. Don’t miss the imposing Los Arcos Aqueduct, a viaduct and aqueduct in one. 

How to get to Teruel

Getting from Valencia to Teruel in Aragón takes about 90 minutes by car via the A-23. Trains and buses are also available, but journey times can stretch to a little over two and a half hours.

The Mediterranean Sea

It would be remiss not to make the most of the Mediterranean when you’re this close, and thankfully there are plenty of options for boat trips from Valencia. The portside has several catamaran companies that offer options like morning cruises with a swim in the sea, sunset cruises with dinner and full-day adventures on the water. 

Private yacht hire is another option if you want a more personalized tour of the coastline. If you prefer freshwater to seawater, take a short drive to El Palmar and try an Albufera boat trip. You’ll sail out onto the famous Albufera lake, visiting rice paddies and traditional fishers’ houses, and tasting local cuisine on the way.

How to get to the Mediterranean Sea

Catamaran cruises and boat hire trips start from Valencia’s main marina in the Poblats Marítims district. From Valencia to El Palmar takes about 25 minutes by car or about 35 minutes on the number 24 bus from Porta de la Mar to El Palmar. Check with boat tour operators in advance, as some will also provide transfers from Valencia.

You might also like: The best time to go to Spain 15 free things to do in Madrid Trail magic happens all the time on Spain’s best hikes

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10 Absolute Best Day Trips from Madrid

By: Author Laura Bronner

Posted on Last updated: February 29, 2024

From the Prado Museum to Gran Vía, Madrid has plenty to keep you busy during your visit. However, whether it’s because you have extra time or you feel the need to get out of the big city for an afternoon, there are many fantastic day trips from Madrid.

Within two hours of the Spanish capital, travelers will find incredible towns awash with Roman and Renaissance history. You can explore 1st-century aqueducts, royal palaces, and Disney-inspired castles.

Each town marks a spot in a delightful, rolling countryside where the journey is as good as the destination. Don’t want to hire a car? Don’t worry. Madrid’s high-speed trains and immersive tours will help you see the best of the surrounding region.

Even if you are only spending 3 days in Madrid , you may want to add a day to your trip to explore one of these beautiful Spanish destinations.

Getting to the Best Madrid Day Trips 

The best way to explore most of Spain is by train. Spanish trains are well connected, especially from a hub as major as Madrid.

From Madrid, you can take regional trains to many of the best day trips or hop on a fast train to a major city anywhere in Spain and be there in half the time of a car.

The best place to book train travel in Spain is directly on the RENFE website . Try to book at least a few days in advance to get the best price. If you are booking last minute, you may get a better deal on Omio (even though they have a booking fee).

The second option for getting around to the best day trips from Madrid is to rent a car in Spain. You can rent them from Madrid airport when you arrive or pick one up close to downtown.

When I’m in Spain (or anywhere in Europe for that matter), I always check prices and usually find the best options on Discover Cars . They show you all of the lowest prices with rankings for each company so you know what you’re paying for.

You can select airport pickup or city center pickup. Their full coverage is always significantly cheaper than the full coverage offered by the rental car companies (but is just as comprehensive and easy to use). Check out rental prices on Discover Cars here .

The final option for exploring the outskirts of Madrid is to take a tour. You can explore tour options around Madrid using GetYourGuide or the similarly fantastic Viator for great, affordable, and locally run tour companies.

Best Day Trips from Madrid

The historic streets of Toledo create a scene that draws visitors from Madrid daily. Christian, Arab, and Jewish history, culture, art, and architecture infuse the former Spanish capital with a breathtaking aura.

These old, narrow streets, bound together like shoestrings, are a marvel to explore. Getting lost in this UNESCO World Heritage Site is merely a necessary part of the itinerary.

An hour by car, or half that by train, Toledo straddles these hilltops and gazes down at the Tagus River. Through its medieval core lies a litany of highlights. Step by step you’ll wander by (or explore) such majestic structures as the Toledo Cathedral and the Alcazar.

The former is renowned for its splendid facade, a spectacular interior, not to mention original pieces by the one El Greco. The Alcazar has an alluring blend of styles that combine the best of Moorish, Roman, and Gothic.

It’s an easy drive to get to Toledo, just 60 minutes down the A-42. There are also plenty of trains between Madrid and Toledo throughout the day. 

Do you prefer to leave the logistics to others, while diving deeper into Toledo’s history? Check out this guided tour , one that also provides free time to explore on your own.

Toledo is a beautiful city and an easy day trip from Madrid.

Even for the most seasoned traveler, memories of Cuenca don’t fade. Their medieval streets, as traditional as any in Spain, are enveloped by tall sandstone townhouses fixed with fabulous wooden balconies.

The colors of the town, like the sun itself, shimmer in broad daylight and it looks down into the valley with two river gorges collide.

From below, Cuenca stands on top of the hill like candles on a cake, if the edge of the cake was a sheer cliff and not something sweet.

Built into the top part of the cliffs are the town’s famous Casas Colgadas , developed between the 15th and 18th centuries. Hugging the hill with all its might, one can head out onto the balcony and either revel or be terrified by the sheer drop.

Cuenca lies just under two hours east of Madrid by car. As you explore, you’ll see that colgadas are just part of what makes this UNESCO site special. Get about on foot to admire the Parador de Cuenca, the Spanish Museum of Abstract Art, and the cathedral.

A train to Cuenca will help save you time at only an hour long. But if you’re thinking of a guided day trip, this tour takes you to Cuenca, Devil’s Windows, and the Enchanted City .

Cuenca’s hanging houses really do look like they are teetering on the edge carved into the mountainside.

3. Valencia

The coastal city of Valencia, on the shores of the Mediterranean, may seem a little too far for a day trip. That rings true if driving in Spain is your only option.

But you can turn that almost 4-hour journey into a cruisy 2-hour trip if you jump on Spain’s high-speed rail. Better yet, settle in for one of the best weekend trips from Madrid by spending two days in Valencia .

If you’ve only got the day, head out from the Spanish capital in the morning to make sure you can see as many of the wonderful things to do in Valencia as possible. After enjoying the scenery and the convenience of the train, get about exploring one of the country’s most beautiful locations.

Here, the past combines with modern culture and amazing food. It’s also a chance to trade the city heat for a dip in the cobalt-blue waters of the Mediterranean as one of the many Valencia beaches .

Refreshed, get about experiencing Valencia’s growing street art scene along El Carmen. Dance between boutiques, retro shops, and the Lonja Silk Exchange. To save time getting around all of the different sites in one day, you may want to consider using Uber in Valencia while you’re there.

When your tummy grumbles, head to Valencia’s Central Market. In the mood for some paella? Well, you’ll be happy to know Valencia is where the famous dish was invented. If you want to know more, join this paella class before jumping on the train back to Madrid.

When you arrive in Valencia by train, you’ll arrive at one of the two Valencia train stations , Valencia Nord, pictured here, is the most beautiful of the two.

It takes less than 30 minutes to get from Madrid’s Chamartín station to the ancient streets of Segovia. Stepping off the train, head to the entrance of the Old City, where pedestrianized streets allow you to take in every drop of history.

As you wander, there’ll be one structure that continues to grasp your attention: El Acueducto. The Roman aqueduct is almost 3000ft of engineering brilliance that dates back to the 1st century. It’s arguably the most impressive Roman monument that still stands in Spain. Across its 163 arches, it reaches a height of over 90ft (28m).

The jaw-dropping, comb-like structure is as good a first impression as one town can give. But as you continue to head towards the peak of Segovia, you’ll uncover the Plaza Mayor. This happening square is the cultural centerpiece, one that’s also home to the formidable cathedral from the 1500s.

After a stop for a coffee and treat in one of Plaza Mayor’s cafe patios, head west down the thin cobblestone alleys. Soon a sense of déjà vu will appear as you see the inspiration between Sleep Beauty’s castle. This is, in fact, El Alcazar, whose garden harbors wide views of the rolling Castilian countryside.

Combine your day trip to Toledo with Segovia and Ávila into one guided tour .

The famous Aquaduct of Segovia is well worth visiting on a day trip from Madrid.

5. Ávila

Whether it’s combined with Toledo and Segovia or a standalone destination, Ávila is one of the best day trips from Madrid. The center of its province, Ávila lies beyond medieval fortress walls, over 80 imposing towers, and 2,500 turrets.

Exploring the town at street level is only part of the fun. For better perspective and views, you can wander along the top of the 11th-century, 39ft tall defensive walls. From here, you can truly appreciate how well-preserved Ávila is.

After coming back down to earth, make a beeline for Plaza Mercado Chico . Here, travelers can get a real sense of not just the past, but Ávila’s current magic.

Like Segovia’s El Alcazar, there’s a hint of Disney joy here. Dine in the square before taking in Ávila’s other major sites. These include the Basilica of San Vicente, the Mirador of the Four Posts, and the Cathedral of Ávila.

Getting to Ávila is as simple as making your way to Madrid’s Principe Pio station . The regular trains make the 1hr 40 minute journey. Alternatively, you can join a tour like this one which includes stops in Toledo and Ávila .

The city of Aranjuez has beautiful architecture and history to explore while you are visiting as a day trip from Madrid.

6. The Royal Palace of Aranjuez

One of the easiest day trips from Madrid, the Royal Palace of Aranjuez , was first established in the 16th century. The former opulent hunting lodge, known for its extravagant lawns, soon became the spring home of the Spanish Royal Family and their court.

Through the eras, the changing of kings, and a little help from damaging fires, the palace has a beautiful mix of architectural styles. Since 1931, it has been an open museum, where you can admire the brilliant facade up close, explore the embellished gardens, and wander through the luxurious chambers.

Each room tells its own story, with evidence, period furniture, and elaborate art painting a vivid portrait. Not to mention the literal portraits of former royalty that pop up throughout. Other notable highlights include the Porcelain Room, with endless porcelain tiles and chinaware. You can also explore the Hall of Mirrors, inspired by the Palace of Versailles. Lastly, the Throne Room, with obvious significance, but the magnificence of the thrown and rich decorations make it memorable.

After seeing as much as you can inside the palace, take in the Royal Gardens. Arguably the reason the palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the gardens, complete with glistening fountains, flowerbeds, and statues, are a sight to behold.

When traveling to the palace, we recommend the 40-minute drive. You can otherwise take the C-3 commuter line.

Salamanca is rich with history and architecture to explore on a day trip from Madrid.

7. Salamanca

Incredible history and architecture can be found in Salamanca, similar to many of our favorite Madrid day trips. But there’s something different about this little city. The sandstone architecture certainly sets it apart. However, it’s the city’s iconic university that makes the journey worthwhile.

The 15th-century intellectual movement was in part headed by the thinking minds of the University of Salamanca, an institution established four centuries prior. Today, it’s the third oldest university on earth.

Much like the university itself, Salamanca has grown largely uninterrupted, preserving its past along the way.

Known as the Golden City, Salamanca’s eye-catching sandstone buildings such as the New and Old Cathedrals will stop you in your tracks. The Old Cathedral, from the 12th century, boasts a wonderful Romanesque design with a colorful apse, opulent chapels, and a memorable cloister.

You can continue to take in the golden buildings at the Plaza Mayor. Surrounded by three stories of endless sandstone, enjoy a little fiesta at one of the square’s cafes and restaurants.

To get here, it’s around 2 hours and 15 minutes by car. You can also jump on a train from Madrid’s Chamartín station and around in under 2 hours. With so much history to cover, join this guided walking tour to see the town’s best monuments .

The buildings in Cuenca are what makes this such a special day trip from Madrid.

8. Chinchón

A quick hour from Madrid, Chinchón is a great way to escape the capital’s busy streets and enjoy a rural side to life in Spain. Chinchón sits on the hilltops and has developed a fantastic food scene and a relaxed atmosphere.

You should begin your trip to Chinchón at its unique medieval plaza. It’s not like any we’ve mentioned prior, purely due to its circular layout.

Surrounded by shady patios, delightful buildings, and a healthy buzz of locals and travelers, indulge in the cuisine at La Repesca Casa de Vinos or La Casa del Pregonero.

Sample all the tapas, paella, and, of course, some of Chinchón’s surrounding vineyards. If you’re looking for something a bit stronger, the local spirit Anís de Chinchón dates back over 300 years.

Well-fed and hydrated, set about exploring the rest of Chinchón. Highlights include the 15th-century clock tower, impressive views from the surrounding miradores, and the Parador de Chinchón.

One hour, by car or bus from Plaza Conde Casal, it’s an easy single-day adventure. If you’re into wines, this tour gives you a taste of town along with the surrounding wine region.

The Monastery of El Escorial draws visitors from all over Spain and it is well worth visiting even if you aren’t particularly religious.

9. Monastery of El Escorial

If the Royal Palace of Aranjuez has left you searching for more royal elegance and unforgettable architecture, then the Monastery of El Escorial is the answer. Under an hour by car from Madrid, it’s an easy half-day trip from the city center.

The Monastery of El Escorial is a little bit quieter than its more famous counterpart. In that sense, you get greater value as the monastery is the largest Renaissance building on earth.

Almost 450 years old, this complex site consists of a royal residence, pantheon, library, school, hospital, and museum.

El Escorial itself is a beautiful small town on the edge of one of Spain’s most iconic royal landmarks. It’s easy to overlook, but wandering the streets of this town, trying some local cuisine, and admiring the culture is a great way to complement your monastery experience.

It’s best to arrive by car, as the train & bus journey requires several stops. However, you can visit the monastery and the Valley of the Fallen on this guided tour .

The stunning castle of Segovia is straight out of a Disney movie and you don’t want to miss seeing it up close.

10. Ribera del Duero

We’ve hinted that Madrid lies near some fantastic vineyards. With a visit to Ribera del Duero, you can forego the history and Renaissance buildings for a joyous exploration of Spanish wines.

The Ribera del Duero wine region lies two hours from downtown Madrid. A car is necessary to make this trip, although there are several wineries and tasting tours . These allow you to ditch the keys and the responsibility while ensuring you get to enjoy the region’s best drops.

But folks, it wouldn’t be Spain without some historic castles, including Peñafiel and Peñaranda de Duero castles. So if you have some spare time, go exploring the splendid countryside.

 20 Best Day Trips from Granada You’ll Love!

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: June 27, 2023  - Last updated: April 29, 2024

A guide to help take the day trips from Granada and enjoy the nearby attractions.

This majestic city is known for grand examples of medieval architecture dating to the Moorish occupation, especially the Alhambra.

Granada’s location makes this even easier: it only takes an hour to get to the mountains or to get to the beach, meaning you could spend the morning skiing and the afternoon swimming in the Mediterranean.

Here are some of the best day trips from Granada for an unforgettable experience after doing all the things to do in Granada !

You, dear reader, support this blog. If you purchase through a link, we earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Pssst…??!! You can’t get enough Granada? Have a look at my other posts:

• Things to do in Granada
• Most Beautiful Places in Granada
• What to Eat in Granada

Best Day Trips from Granada

• Ronda : One of the most romantic cities in Andalucia – Get a guided tour here
• Sierra Nevada : Stunning views of villages and forests – Check out guided tours here
• El Caminito del Rey : Aerial path suspended 100 meters above the gorge – Here’s the guided tour
• Seville : Home to the Alhambra and General Life Gardens – Get your guided tour here
• Malaga : The city is an excellent choice for those looking for a big town – Check out more guided tours here

1. Sacromonte Caves 

The gypsies created houses by making cave homes on the hill. Sacromonte district owes its fame to these houses.

Originally, it was the Arabs of Spain who discovered that the soft stone of Sacromonte was easy to carve in.  

They ( Gitanos , Jews, and Muslims) built the caves that later became homes. Lively flamenco dancing performances, along with a Spanish dinner, are offered in these whitewashed caves.

In Museo Cuevas del Sacromonte , ten caves have been recreated as they were 100 years ago, so visitors can learn about the living conditions and trades of its inhabitants.

The visitors will gain an understanding of the culture, history, and natural environment.

A part of the museum is dedicated to nature, offering information about the flora, fauna, climate, landscape, and agriculture of the area.

So, if you’re planning day trips from Granada, the Sacromonte should be top of your list. – Check out the flamenco show at the caves here.

Entry Ticket with Audio Guide in Multilingual

Opening hours : Daily 10:00 am-6:00 pm

Price: 5 euros 

2. Sierra Nevada

Sierra Nevada is one of Andalucia’s most fascinating cities. On a day trip from Granada Spain to Sierra Nevada, there is no doubt that you’ll discover beautiful scenic landscapes.

Explore one of the most recognized sites in the Sierra Nevada National Park. It was declared a national park on 14 January 1999.

The Lavaderos de la Reina in the Sierra Nevada is a must-visit as well.

The tour lasts 7 hours and it’s one of the best day trips from Granada, especially during winter months when you can ski as well in Sierra Nevada.

Here are some great restaurants in Sierra Nevada: Alquería de Los Lentos restaurant;  Vivac Sierra Nevada; and La Bodeguita Bar.

Taking a bike tour is also a great idea for exploring and you can even join an e-bike tour .

How to get from Granada to Sierra Nevada:  by car, via one of the best Spanish road trips in Europe. The journey takes between 30 and 40 minutes.

Related articles:

• Ultimate Sierra Nevada Ski Guide
• Things to do in Sierra Nevada Ski Resort
• Best Sierra Nevada Hotels

Nerja is worth visiting and is one of the loveliest towns in Andalusia.

It offers visitors plenty of things to see and do and when it comes to day trips from Granada that are a must-do, this city is it.

Nerja is a very relaxing city surrounded by paradisiac beaches. Torrox Costa also has a nice beach and it’s between Malaga and Nerja.

Cueva de Nerja is a nearby cavern with unusual stalactites and stalagmites. It’s also known for its paleolithic paintings, viewable by guided tour.

How to get from Granada to Nerja:  you can pay 23 euros for a local driver service

Related article: Unique Things to do in Nerja

4. Alpujarras

Las Alpujarras , as it is popularly known, is a famous region of mountain villages that has a unique mini-ecology.

It is ideal hiking terrain for adventurous travelers and one of the best villages in Andalucia .

Declared a Natural Reserve by UNESCO, it is worth taking day trips from Granada in order to enjoy this city’s wonders.

You can go on hikes that take you through breathtaking unspoiled landscapes and traditional villages.

How to get from Granada to Alpujarras: You can get there by car, bus or taxi.  There are no trains.

5. El Caminito del Rey

Declared by the Junta de Andalucía as a Natural Area in 1989, it had already been classified as a Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA) in 1987, and since 2006.

It has been part of the Andalusia-Morocco Intercontinental Biosphere Reserve of the Mediterranean.

It is a great idea to have a tour guide as El Caminito del Rey is an exciting road that embraces the slope of the mountains and crosses incredible gorges.

The whole pathway is 7 km of walking. We suggest you wear appropriate shoes and have a bottle of water. 

The Caminito Del Rey isn’t overly long, and if you’re walking fast, you can complete the hike in around an hour and a half.

This famous attraction, Caminito del Rey, is one of the best day trips from Granada Spain, and it will take you only one hour to get there.

Don’t forget, once you’re on the walkway of Caminito del Rey, there are no toilets or bins, so keep any trash on you until the end of the walk. 

How to get from Granada to El Caminito del Rey:  The cheapest way to go to Caminito del Rey from Granada is by bus.  The company is called ALSA.  The departure is from Granada Station.

PLANNING A TRIP TO GRANADA?

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A 2 day trip to Ronda will enable you to take in all it has to offer. Ronda is a university city and one of the prettiest white villages in Andalucia .

There are a lot of things to do in Ronda . Garcia Lorca Park is named after one of Granada’s most famous sons, the poet, and dramatist Frederico Garcia Lorca.  

The New Town of Ronda ( El Mercadillo ) is more functional and marginally less picturesque than the Old Town but is still easy on the eyes and retains a relaxed charm.

Start your explorations of Ronda by strolling the park. The walk is beautiful if you visit in the spring when pink and white blossoms cover the trees.

Join a sightseeing walking tour here to make it more fun.

How to get from Granada to Ronda:  By car is the fastest (2 h) way to travel from Granada to Ronda.

7. Malaga and Marbella

There are plenty of things to do in Malaga, like discovering an authentic flamenco show at Flamenco Alegría.

See traditional dancing and hear beautiful singing and guitar playing from Málaga with a guided flamenco and tapas tour .

If you’re going on day trips from Granada to Malaga , there are some great stops along the way —Benalmadena, Nerja, Torremolinos, Antequera, and Almunecar.

Malaga is usually listed among the top places to visit in Granada. Marbella is famous for its beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, resorts, and lively nightlife.

For air travel to Marbella, from any Spanish or foreign city, the Pablo Ruiz Picasso International Airport is the best choice. 

How to get from Granada to Malaga: It takes 1h 30 minutes to drive from Granada.

There are several daily bus schedules from Granada to Malaga.  One can also take a bus from Granada’s bus station to Malaga’s bus station. 

Another way to travel from Granada to Malaga is by train.  One can take the train from Granada’s train station to Malaga Maria Zambrano. 

RENFE offers several day schedules between the two cities and the trip can take up to 1h 20min. – Get a ticket in advance here.

• Best Paella in Malaga
• Hiking Trails near Malaga
• Best Boutique Hotels in Malaga
• Where to stay in Malaga

Seville is one of the most interesting day trips that you can make from Granada. 

There are a lot of places to see in Seville. Real Alcazar is a gorgeous complex of the Royal Palace of Seville. 

The Alcázar started to be built in the 10th century as a fort and it was revamped many times over the 11 centuries of existence.

There are many things to do in Seville . The Plaza de España is a bombastic place where you can hire row boats to cross the canal. Price: 6 euros (35 minutes).

You can do day trips from Seville to Granada if you are staying in Seville as your base.

How to get from Granada to Seville: the fastest journey time by train from Seville to Granada is 2 hours and 33 minutes.

• One Day in Seville
• Best Breakfast in Seville
• Best Museums in Seville
• Seville Architecture

Another one of Granada’s best day trips is the enchanting coastal city of Almeria.

If you go to Granada, you should visit Almeria . It’s a great day trip and you can do unique things in Almeria .

Almeria is home to the only desert in Europe – Tabernas.

Tabernas desert has been the location of hundreds of films, including the Game of Thrones.

How to get from Granada to Almeria: It takes an average of 2h 30m to travel from Granada to Almería by train, over a distance of around 68 miles (109 km).

The first train leaves Granada around 10:00 in the morning. The last departure is usually at 22:15 PM.  

Trains are typically more frequent on weekends when we find around 18 departures.

10. Salobreña and the Costa Tropical

It’s really worth going to Salobena. You can buy a Spain tour to visit the Arab Castle or you can go in by yourself. There are very good Spain tours packages!

In addition to the Castle, you can visit the Historical Museum, where you will discover the roots of this town with more than 6,000 years of history.

This is one of the most beautiful villages in Granada’s Costa Tropical. A walk through its steep and narrow streets reveals its Arab past.

Thousands of years ago, the Arab sultans used this castle for the forced ’retirement’ of the members of the Nazari royal family who lost their trust.

How to get from Granada to Salobreña : The quickest way to get from Granada to Salobreña is by taxi.  It costs $75 – $95 and takes 44 min.

The cheapest way to get from Granada to Salobreña is to rideshare which costs $6 and takes 1h 10m.

11. Frigiliana

There are many festivals throughout the year.  The Three Kings in January, the Carnival in February, and the Fiesta de San Antonio , in June.

Things to see in Frigiliana:

• Cueva de Nerja (there are a series of chambers with impressive stalactites and stalagmites). Opening times: 9 AM to 4:30 PM – 12€
• Nerja Aqueduct (Considered as a historic jewel of Spanish architecture)
• The Garden Restaurant is an excellent option for lunch

How to get from Granada to Frigiliana: The distance from Granada to Frigiliana is approximately 32 miles (51 km).

The quickest way to get from Granada to Frigiliana is getting a taxi, which costs $110 – $140 and takes 1 hour. 

12. Montefrío

Visiting Montefrí­o is an amazing experience as the magnificent Arab fortress and the Church de la Villa boldly sit on top of a rock. This is accompanied by beautiful scenery in the surrounding area.

That is a great trip to Spain. The church of La Villa was built on top of the old fortress between 1486 and 1507.

Montefrío is in the northwest of the province of Granada. There is a direct bus departing from Granada and arriving at Montefrio. 

Services depart six times a week and operate Saturday. The journey takes approximately 1h 30m.

Top sights in Montefrío: Mirador del Paseo; Castle of Montefrío; Iglesia de la Villa.

How to get from Granada to Montefrio:  The cheapest way to get from Granada to Montefrio costs only €11, and the quickest way takes just 48 min 

On a day trip in Cadiz, you can see many things. This magnificent baroque and neoclassical cathedral by the southern seaside of Cádiz overlooks its own quaint plaza. 

There are tapas bars and ice cream shops with terrace setups around Plaza Catedral, with the imposing landmark in view.

Enjoy a hop-on and hop-off sightseeing tour to enjoy all the best things to do in Cadiz .

Places to go: Mercado Central ; Torre Tavira the highest point in the city); Real Plaza de Toros de El Puerto de Santa Maria (a building dating from the 19th century).

How to get from Granada to Cadiz: The direct drive from Granada to Cadiz has 330 km and should take 3 hours 35 minutes.

• Fun Things to do in Cadiz
• Is Cadiz Worth Visiting

14. Cordoba

If you visit Cordoba on day trips from Granada, you will be able to see churches and historical and natural sites.

Cordoba is characterized by its world-famous mosque-cathedral, picturesque Jewish Quarter, and pretty patios.

Córdoba’s beautiful Mezquita, or mosque-cathedral , is clearly the city’s top attraction, the one thing you just must see while in the city.

The Palacio de Viana is a palace museum in the Santa Marina neighborhood of Cordoba, about 15 minutes by foot from the Mezquita.

One of Cordoba’s upper-class families once lived in the palace from the 15th century.

Other things that are worth doing in Cordoba are the ruins at Medina Azahara , the Roman Bridge, and of course, Cordoba’s famous patios.

How to get from Granada to Cordoba: Granada to Cordoba bus services, operated by ALSA, depart from Granada station. – Get tickets in advance here .

• One Day in Cordoba
• Where to Eat in Cordoba
• Things to do in Cordoba
• What to Eat in Cordoba

15. Lecrin Valley 

Lecrin Valley is usually listed among the top places to visit in Granada. The valley is a group of small villages set amongst a backdrop of olive groves and almond trees. 

How to get from Granada to Lecrin Valley: There are 3 ways to go, by bus (40 min), taxi, or car (around 20 min)

16. Antequera

One of the best day trips from Granada by train is Antequera offering a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

The city boasts a rich heritage dating back thousands of years, evident in its fascinating ancient sites. 

Among its notable attractions are the dolmens, prehistoric megalithic tombs that stand as testaments to Antequera’s ancient past. 

Additionally, Antequera is home to Roman ruins, such as the Roman baths and a Roman bridge, further adding to its historical significance.

Antequera is blessed with breathtaking natural landscapes, most notably El Torcal National Park, known for its unique limestone formations, sculpted over millions of years by wind and water erosion. 

How to get from Granada to Antequera : The train is the best way and takes about 49 minutes to 1 hour with tickets ranging from €10 to €35.

ALSA operates a bus route between the two cities twice daily with a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes with tickets ranging from €8 to €13. – Get tickets in advance here.

Jaen, a historic city, beckons visitors with its rich cultural heritage and gastronomic delights making it one of the best day tours from Granada. 

One of its most striking landmarks is the impressive Renaissance cathedral, a masterpiece of Spanish architecture.

It also boasts a well-preserved network of medieval Arab Baths, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s Moorish past.

No visit to Jaen would be complete without indulging in its most famous product: olive oil . 

Known as the “ World Capital of Olive Oil ,” Jaen is renowned for producing some of the finest olive oils in Spain, so sample this liquid gold at local olive oil mills and shops.

How to get from Granada to Jaen: You can take a direct bus operated by ALSA. The journey typically lasts about 1 hour and departs frequently throughout the day. – Get tickets in advance here.

Related article: Things to do in Jaen, Spain

Guadix, a town steeped in history and unique charm is another place to enjoy day trips to Granada. 

The fascinating cave dwellings dot the landscape, providing a glimpse into centuries-old traditions of cave dwellings.

Exploring these troglodyte homes offers a fascinating journey into the past, revealing the ingenuity of the residents who carved out their lives in the soft rock formations.

Amidst the labyrinth of cave dwellings stands the stunning Guadix Cathedral, a testament to the town’s rich religious heritage and architectural prowess. 

This magnificent Renaissance-style cathedral boasts an imposing facade adorned with intricate carvings and a towering bell tower that dominates the skyline.

How to get from Granada to Guadix: By bus, it takes around 45 minutes and costs €5-€8. Trains depart a few times a day and take about an hour. You can get tickets in advance here.

Visit the ancient town of Baza with its Moorish fortress, Renaissance cathedral, and archaeological sites such as the Dolmen de Baza.

Dominating the skyline is the imposing Moorish fortress, a testament to Baza’s strategic importance throughout the centuries.

At the heart of Baza lies its Renaissance cathedral, a majestic symbol of faith and architectural splendor. It is adorned with elegant facades, intricate carvings, and soaring spires. 

Dolmen de Baza, a prehistoric burial monument dating back thousands of years, provides a window into the rituals and beliefs of Baza’s early inhabitants.

It’s truly one of the best day tours from Granada Spain.

How to get from Granada to Baza: There are two main ways by bus or by car. The trip takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes by bus and 1 hour and 3 minutes by car.

Enjoy the beaches, promenades, and seafood restaurants in the coastal town of Motril.

Nestled along the sun-kissed coast of the Costa Tropical, visitors can indulge in its seaside delights and rich cultural heritage. 

Beyond its idyllic beaches, Motril offers a taste of Andalusian history and culture in its historic center. 

Wander through winding streets lined with whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful flowers, immersing yourself in the town’s timeless charm and architectural beauty. 

At the heart of the historic quarter stands the majestic Moorish castle, a testament to Motril’s rich past and strategic significance.

Motril is also renowned for its culinary delights, particularly its fresh seafood making this one of the best day trips from Granada.

How to get from Granada to Motril: By bus takes about 50 minutes to 1 hour and 10 minutes, with buses departing hourly from Granada’s main bus station. – Get tickets in advance here.

Bottom Line on Best day trips from Granada

Granada was rich and affluent during the Arab rule in the Iberian Peninsula and nowadays is a city that more closely resembles an open-air museum.

Another great advantage of visiting Granada is the day trips. You can visit neighboring cities and nearby regions surrounded by history and natural beauty.

If that isn’t enough, it will charm you with the world-famous Alhambra attracting millions of visitors yearly. 

You also will have the beautifully preserved historic old town (Albaicin), centuries-old monasteries, authentic flamenco shows in the Sacromonte district, and stunning views anywhere you go.

It’s no secret that day trips from Granada offer gorgeous views, impressive history and culture, and accessibility.

FAQ about Best Day Trips from Granada

Are 3 days in granada too much.

For 3 days in Granada, you can visit the icons of this city. The Alhambra; Granada Cathedral; Generalife Palace; you can dine on tapas; go to the beach

Can you do a day trip from Granada to Seville?

A full-day excursion from Seville to Granada includes a visit to the Alhambra palace complex.

Tour the Moorish Albaicn neighborhood’s historic salons, courtyards, and pavilions. stroll through flower-scented narrow streets.

How many days in Granada is enough?

If you only plan to spend one day in Granada, the plan for your itinerary might be a little bit more intense than usual.

It is best to spend at least two or three days in Granada.

What are places to visit near Granada, Spain?

Places to visit near Granada Spain you can explore are the historic city of Cordoba with its mesmerizing Mezquita and the coastal city of Malaga, birthplace of Picasso.

What to see around Granada?

Places near Granada you can visit the enchanting Alhambra Palace, the picturesque Alpujarra region, and the stunning Sierra Nevada National Park.

What are the best daytrips from Granada?

The best day trips from Granada include exploring the fascinating Sacromonte Caves, discovering the charming town of Nerja with its stunning beaches, or experiencing the thrilling El Caminito del Rey.

Hola, I’m Paulina! Together with my team, we are passionate about Southern Spain. Here we share all you need to know for great times in Southern Spain with the best places to visit, stay and, of course, the best food to eat.

Let’s dive in and explore Southern Spain’s outdoors, food and culture con pasión!

13 BEST Day Trips from Valencia, Spain

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Exploring underground caves by kayak, soaking in hot springs and seeing Roman ruins – these are the best day trips from Valencia!

Valencia doesn’t get enough love in my opinion. Too often I see people prioritise the bigger Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona. They flock to the Spanish islands, or cultural capitals like Seville, and miss out on this gem on the east coast.

Well they’re missing out, because Valencia is on of my favourite cities in Spain. The architecture is incredible, there’s loads to see and do, and it’s home to the paella too. I really can’t recommend visiting this city enough.

If you’re spending a long weekend or week in the city, there are some fantastic day trips from Valencia that I’d suggest too. It’s really easy getting out the city and exploring more of the Spanish countryside.

In this article we’ll be going from underground caves to beach towns, to ancient walled cities complete with castles. There really is something for everyone here. Also, wait until you see the oasis at Montanejos – it’s so stunning.

I really hope this helps plan your trip to Valencia and this part of Spain . Don’t forget to bookmark this page so you can keep adding things to your Spanish bucket list!

Heading to the capital instead? Check out my favourite day trips from Madrid . Also, here some of my favourite Spanish adventures for you to do!

Best Day Trips from Valencia

Best known for the looming mediaeval castle that towers above it, Xátiva is a small city at the foot of a mountain. 

With ancient winding streets, it’s rich in history has been immortalised at a number of local museums and galleries. It’s also the birthplace of one of the Borgia popes , who remain infamous for corruption, scandal and nepotism (the more you know!).

The castle is of course the main attraction and can be reached on foot in about 30 minutes. It’s a beautiful walk, but try to go early in the morning before it gets too hot, or it’s a killer. You can get to Xátiva by car in an hour, or by train within 40 minutes. For me, this place is a must when looking for places to visit near Valencia.

Montanejos 

Montanejos is one of the most popular Valencia day trips, and for good reason: the thermal springs. These are what Montanejos is most famous for, and I can confirm that they live up to the hype.

The surroundings to the thermal springs are pretty spectacular too, and that’s part of the charm. You’ve got rugged cliffs and picturesque green hills, both of which make Montanejos a great spot for hiking, as well as the river running through it. 

Montanejos is difficult to get to by public transport, so I’d recommend driving – it’ll take you an hour and a half from Valencia. If you can’t, all is not lost: book this thermal springs and waterfall day trip , or join a guided hiking tour if walks are more your jam.

Albufera Natural Park 

Fun fact: most of the rice for paella, the dish Valencia is famous for, is sourced from the Albufera Natural Park . This beautiful stretch of land is probably best known for the expansive lake – it’s actually the largest in Spain. I’d highly recommend visiting for the tranquil boat ride alone.

To reach Albufera, it’s a mere 20 minute drive. However, this is also one of the most popular Valencia tours so it’s easy to arrange a day trip .

You’ll find Chulilla nestled into the mountains, on the edge of Chera-Sot de Chera Natural Park. And if its location gives you high hopes, you’re in luck: it’s one of the prettiest towns in the region.

Chulilla is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts as there’s loads to do. You’ve got the Túria River Canyon , Hanging Bridges, and the famous Blue Pool (Charco Azul). 

Home to lots of limestone surfaces, it’s also one of the best places for rock climbing in Spain. There are hundreds of routes for all abilities, but if you prefer to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground, you’re spoiled for choice in terms of hiking routes too. 

There’s no public transport to Chulilla, but it’s only an hour away by car. If that’s not an option, you can book a guided day trip where all the transport is taken care for you.

We’re all in agreement that walled cities are objectively cool, right? Well, that’s what you’ll find in Morella. 

This is a gorgeous little place packed full of history. There’s tons to see that’ll leave you feeling as though you’ve been plunged back in time: the Santa Luciá Aqueduct, Porta de Sant Miquel, or my particular favourite, the Morella la Vella cave paintings (now a UNESCO World Heritage site).

Oh, did I forget to mention the castle? Yeah, you can’t miss it. It towers over the city from the top of a hill. Like several of the day trips from Valencia I’ve mentioned, Morella is best reached by car, which will take you two hours, or through a guided tour if you haven’t got a car.

Speaking of cool cities, I can’t not mention Peñíscola. This is a coastal town, known nowadays as the setting of Meereen in Game of Thrones .

Here you’ll find the beautiful beaches of Pebret and Norte, as well as a historic, ancient old town within the city limits. One of my favourite things about it is the views. Look out towards the coast and sea, or the lavender and olive trees of Artillery Park. 

While you can reach Peñíscola through a combination of bus and train, it’s easiest to drive or take a day trip. This particular tour visits both Morella and Peñíscola in one day, so it’s a great shout if you’re pressed for time.

Caves of San José

Another of my favourite Valencia tours is the Caves of San José . This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it comprises a series of beautiful caves. Most of them hang over the longest navigable river in Europe, so most of your exploration will be via kayak, save for 250 metres on foot.

The caves are a 40 minute drive from Valencia, or you can book a day trip . I can’t recommend this tour enough. I think it’s one of the best tours near Valencia, so definitely add this one to your itinerary.

One of the places I’d recommend most highly if you’re a history buff is Sagunto. It’s got everything you could possibly want. Tons of museums, a castle, plus it’s packed with Roman ruins and a Roman theatre.

Sagunto is super easy to get to – hop on the train and you’ll be there in 35 minutes. This is one of the quickest day trips from Valencia by train, so if you’re short on time then this one is for you.

Utiel-Requena

Spanish wine doesn’t stop at Rioja. Utiel-Requena is a wine region near Valencia home to tons of vineyards, plus the two towns Utiel and Requena (hence the name).

I’d recommend visiting Requena in particular. Not only can you visit the local wineries but you can also explore the Villa de Requena caves . Requena can be reached by train from Valencia, but you can also book a guided tour if you’d like to go wine tasting. Personally, I’d recommend the tour – then you can leave the car at the hotel and enjoy yourself drinking your way through all the Spanish vineyards.

Albarracín 

Albarracín is one of the further out day trips from Valencia – it’s a two hour drive. But if you have the time and energy I’d highly recommend it. 

Albarracín is well known as one of Spain’s prettiest villages. It’s packed out with old architecture and is genuinely pretty enough for a postcard (or in this day and age, a pinned post on Instagram). It’s surrounded by sweeping valleys and nature and has loads of hikes to check out too. 

There are no public transport links to Albarracín, so it’s one if you’ve hired a car.

If you’ve heard of Buñol before I’m betting it’s because of its famous festival, La Tomatina , which is essentially the world’s biggest food fight. It attracts people from all over the world, so if you’re visiting Valencia in August, you may as well go and experience it.

If not, though, there’s lots you can get up to. Buñol is home to a castle and some of the best hikes in the area, including a fair few waterfall trails .

You can reach Buñol in an hour by train. Again, I really liked this place – it’s definitely got a lot more going for it than just La Tomatina.

No matter what country I find myself in, I always love a coastal town. Cullera is a small city which certainly delivers, and it’s only a 35 minute train ride away from Valencia.

As well as hosting some of the best beaches in eastern Spain, in Cullera you’ll also find attractions such as its castle, a botanical garden, and some cool museums.

Alicante is another Valencia day trip that’ll require you to go the distance, but it’s definitely worth it (especially if you want to tick off another major Spanish city). In an ideal world, you’d actually need a few days as there’s so much to do, but you can squeeze in the highlights in a few hours.

What to focus on depends on your interest. For history and architecture, check out Santa Bárbara castle , the basilica, the cathedral and Alicante’s range of museums. For delicacies, head to Central Market. For views or a more relaxed vibe, it’ll have to be the beach, parks, and gardens.

Alicante is a fair distance away, but there are lots of options to get there. Catch a bus or get the train in around 2 hours, or make the drive by car in just under two hours.

And that’s about it from me! Have you visited any of these yet? Or is there a tour or day trip that you think I’ve missed? Either way, give me a shout in the comments.

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About the Author

Georgie Cunningham is a freelance content writer and strategist based in Bristol. When she’s not writing (or thinking about) content, she’s writing fiction, travelling, or chasing after her crazy cocker spaniel, Cosmo.

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12 Amazing Day Trips From Girona, Spain (With A Map)

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Nestled in the heart of Catalonia, the enchanting city of Girona beckons travelers with its historic charm, picturesque streets, and vibrant culture.

But beyond its captivating cityscape lies a treasure trove of breathtaking destinations waiting to be explored on day trips.

In this blog post, we’ve enlisted the insights of travel experts who have traversed the region extensively, unveiling their top picks for unforgettable day trips from Girona, Spain .

So, prepare to embark on a journey through Catalonia’s hidden gems and discover the remarkable destinations that await just a stone’s throw away from Girona’s historic center.

Let’s dive into the incredible day trips that will make your visit to this corner of Spain truly unforgettable!

Barcelona is a city bursting with things to see and do. However, if you only have one day to explore, there are a few must-see attractions that you shouldn’t miss.

First on your list should be a visit to Antoni Gaudi’s masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. This awe-inspiring church is one of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s easy to see why. With its soaring spires and intricate facade, the Sagrada Familia is truly a sight to behold. Get your tickets online to skip the waiting line!

Next, take a stroll down Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s famous pedestrian boulevard. This lively street is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it the perfect place to people-watch or do some shopping.

And finally, no trip to Barcelona would be complete without a visit to Park Guell. This beautiful park was also designed by Gaudi, and it’s home to a stunning mosaic dragon and views of the cityscape. It’s worth buying tickets online to skip the waiting line here as well.

By ticking these three attractions off your list, you’ll be sure to make the most of your time in Barcelona.

Girona to Barcelona car ride time: 1 hr 30 min.

Cap de Creus

Recommended by Vicki from Vickiviaja

Girona is simply a great city in Catalonia. However, one of the best things about visiting Girona is its beautiful surroundings. If you have some time, you should definitely plan a  visit to Cap de Creus . Because here you can perfectly combine wonderful nature and hiking opportunities with one of the most beautiful beaches of Costa Brava as well as a picturesque coastal town in just one day trip.

The landmark of Cap de Creus is the Far de Cap de Creus. The lighthouse is located on a hill on the coast and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding nature and coast. In addition, there are a few small calas (bays) where you can refresh yourself in the crystal clear waters of Costa Brava.

Whether you prefer to spend your time by the water, snorkeling, taking pictures, or exploring the wonderful nature is entirely up to you.

In any case, you should afterward also visit the nearby coastal town of Cadaqués. It is considered one of the most beautiful towns in the region and enchants its visitors with its picturesque white buildings, narrow paths, and idyllic seaside atmosphere.

The headland is located on the very north of the Catalan coast, only about 25 km from the French border. The easiest way to reach Cap de Creus is by car from Girona, about a 1 ½ hour drive.

Figueres and Cadaques

Salvador Dalí was a Spanish surrealist artist who was born in Figueres, Catalonia. His full name was Salvador Domingo Felipe Jacinto Dalí i Domènech, Marquis of Dalí de Púbol. Salvador Dalí was a skilled painter, sculptor, and filmmaker. He is perhaps best known for his painting of the Persistence of Memory, which features soft melting clocks. Salvador Dalí died in 1989, and he is buried in the museum that bears his name in Figueres, Catalonia.

The Dalí Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Salvador Dalí. It houses the world’s largest collection of his art, as well as an extensive archive of photographs, manuscripts, and personal objects. The museum is located in the former municipal theater. The building was renovated to incorporate many of Salvador Dalí’s design elements, and it now features surrealist architecture. The Dalí Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in Salvador Dalí’s life and work.

If you’re planning a trip to Figueres, then you are probably wondering what else is there to see in this charming Spanish town beside the Dali Museum. Here are a few of our favorite things:

The Castle of Sant Ferran: This 18th-century fortress is one of the largest castles in Europe, and it’s definitely worth a visit. You can explore the massive ramparts, walk through the ancient prison cells, and even enjoy a picnic in the lovely gardens.

The Empordà Museum: This museum is dedicated to the art and culture of Catalonia, and it has an excellent collection of both traditional and contemporary works. If you’re interested in learning more about Catalan history and culture, this is the place to go.

Whether you’re a fan of Dalí or not, Figueres is definitely worth a visit. So don’t miss out on these other great attractions!

Girona to Figueres car ride time: 45 min.

Cadaques is a beautiful seaside town in Spain that is definitely worth a visit. The best way to explore the town is on foot, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

Start your visit by strolling through the winding streets of the old town, taking in the architecture and stopping for a coffee at one of the many cafes.

Then, make your way down to the waterfront where you can admire the views of the Mediterranean Sea. If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a boat for a swim or go for a hike in one of the nearby natural parks.

In the afternoon, enjoy some traditional Spanish cuisine for lunch before heading back to Girona.

Figueres to Cadaques car ride time: 55 min.

If you prefer going on a guided tour instead of going on your own, check out this  day tour to Figueres and Cadaques !

Montserrat Monastery and mountains

If you’re looking for a day trip from Girona that is both beautiful and historic, look no further than the Montserrat monastery . Situated atop a mountain about an hour outside of the city, the monastery offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Visitors can take a tour of the church, check out the information center, explore the grounds on their own, and take in the stunning views for free. There is an option also to visit the museum and monastery.

Montserrat Monetary is built on a small mountain range. The mountains are a popular hiking destination for both locals and tourists, and there are several routes to choose from depending on your fitness level.

You can go up to the mountains by a cable car , and then even further up by a funicular. The hikes around the top of the funicular take you through a variety of landscapes, from forests to rocky cliffs, and offer stunning views of the surrounding area. An easy option is to go up by the funicular and then hike back down to the monastery on your own.

Whichever route you choose, make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as comfortable shoes.

With its beautiful scenery and varied trails, Montserrat is an ideal destination for a day hike.

Girona to Montserrat car ride time: 1 hr 45 min.

Tossa de Mar and Lloret de Mar

Tossa de Mar

Tossa de Mar is a beautiful town located on the Costa Brava in Spain. Although it is a popular tourist destination, there are still plenty of activities to do in Tossa de Mar that are not that crowded but are worth the visit. Here are some of the best things to do in Tossa de Mar:

• Visit the Tossa de Mar Castle: The castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tossa de Mar. It dates back to the 12th century and provides stunning views over the town and coast.
• Go for a swim at Cala Llevado: Cala Llevado is a stunning cove located just outside of Tossa de Mar. It is perfect for a refreshing swim and there are also plenty of sun loungers if you just want to relax in the sun.
• Explore the caves of Costa Brava on a paddle surfing board.
• Enjoy a meal at Tapas Portal – it is a tapas restaurant located in the heart of Tossa de Mar. It offers traditional Spanish cuisine with a twist, and the service is excellent. Outdoor seating is available as well.

Girona to Tossa de Mar car ride time: 45 min.

Lloret de Mar

Resort town Lloret de Mar is bursting with things to do, both on land and at sea. Inland, you can explore the picturesque streets of the old town, visit the stunning Lloret de Mar castle, or take a hike in the nearby mountains. And that’s just the beginning – there are plenty of shops and restaurants to keep you busy, plus a lively nightlife scene if you’re looking to party.

But Lloret de Mar comes alive when you hit the beach. The sparkling Mediterranean Sea beckons, and there’s plenty of opportunity for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports. And when you’re ready for a break from the sand, there are plenty of cafes and bars along the waterfront to enjoy a refreshing drink or bite to eat.

It’s possible to hike from Tossa de Mar to Lloret de Mar, as these towns are connected by the Cami de Ronda hiking trail. The markings are easy to find. There is also frequent public transportation between the towns, so you can leave the car in one of them, take a hike, and then return to your car.

Tossa de Mar to lloret de Mar car ride time: 20 min.

Sant Feliu de Guíxols and Canyet de Mar

Sant Feliu de Guíxols is a beautiful town in Catalonia, Spain. It’s situated on the Costa Brava, and it has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. There are plenty of things to see and do in Sant Feliu de Guíxols, so you’ll never be bored. If you’re looking for things to do in Sant Feliu de Guíxols, here are some suggestions:

• Go for a swim at Cala Maset. This is one of the most popular beaches in town, and it’s perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
• Sample some traditional Catalan cuisine. There are plenty of great restaurants in Sant Feliu de Guíxols, so try some local specialties such as paella and calçots (a type of onion).
• Explore the Old Town. Sant Feliu de Guíxols has a beautiful Old Town, with narrow streets and medieval buildings. It’s definitely worth taking some time to explore this area of town.

Girona to Sant Feliu de Guíxols car ride time: 45 min.

The road from Sant Feliu de Guíxols to Canyet de Mar goes along the Costa Brava and offers stunning sea views. There are multiple hairpin turns on the road and dramatic cliffs coming straight out of the water. When driving between the two towns count in some time to stop at the viewpoints to soak in the amazing views.

Sant Canyet de Mar is a charming fishing village located on the Costa Brava in Spain. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as plenty of good food and wine. There are also numerous activities to keep people of all ages entertained. For those who enjoy the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails in the area.

This town has especially beautiful paths built for exploring the seaside . There are dramatic cliffs and rocks, surrounded by trees and other fauna. What’s interesting is how the paths incorporate the trees and other natural objects – they are built around nature, and not through it (see the picture at the top).

There are also several beaches nearby where people can sunbathe, swim, and snorkel. And for those who prefer to stay on dry land, there are plenty of shops and cafes to explore.

Sant Feliu de Guíxols to Canyet de Mar car ride time: 20 min.

Besalú, Banyoles and Volcano Area La Garrotxa

There’s no shortage of things to do in Besalú. This charming town, located in the province of Girona, is home to a wide variety of attractions. For history buffs, there’s the 11th-century Romanesque bridge and the 12th-century Jewish quarter. Curious people will appreciate the Museum of Miniatures and Micro-Miniatures and the Museum. And for those who just want to enjoy some time outdoors, there are the walking trails along the River Fluvià.

Girona to Besalú car ride time: 40 min.

Banyoles is a small town in the province of Girona, Catalonia, Spain. With a population of just over 20,000 people, it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. And there’s plenty to do in Banyoles, from exploring the picturesque Old Town to visiting the iconic Lake Banyoles. If you’re looking for things to do in Banyoles, here are a few ideas to get you started.

One of the most popular things to do in Banyoles is to visit Lake Banyoles. The lake is huge (it covers an area of over 107 hectares!) and is surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing, and there are also plenty of walking and cycling trails nearby.

Another popular activity in Banyoles is exploring the Old Town. There’s plenty to see and do here, from admiring the architecture to sampling the local cuisine. Make sure to visit the Plaça Major, the main square where you’ll find several cafes and restaurants for people-watching.

Besalú to Banyoles car ride time: 20 min.

La Garrotxa

La Garrotxa is a picturesque region of Catalonia located to the north of Girona. The area is home to a large number of volcanoes, all of which are now dormant. However, the volcanic landscape is still very evident, and there are numerous hiking trails that wind their way through the lava fields.

La Garrotxa is also known for its traditional Catalan cuisine, and there are several excellent restaurants in the area.

Banyoles to La Garrotxa car ride time: 40 min.

If you prefer going on a guided tour instead of going on your own, check out this day tour to Besalú, Banyoles, and Volcano Area La Garrotxa !

Port Aventura

Port Aventura is a world-famous theme park located in the province of Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain. The park features six themed areas based on different cultures and regions, as well as a water park, hotel, and Ferrari Land. With so much to see and do, visitors can easily spend a day or two at Port Aventura.

Here are just a few of the many activities that guests can enjoy:

• Ride the Dragon Khan, one of the tallest roller coasters in Europe. It has eight inversions.
• Take a spin on the Shambhala, the fastest and tallest roller coaster in the park.
• Get wet on wild water rides like the Grand Canyon Rapids.
• Visit SesameAdventure, Port Aventura’s section for younger guests.
• Explore Mediterranean, Polynesian, Mexican, and Chinese-themed areas.
• Shop for souvenirs or try your hand at winning one of the game stalls.

Whatever your interests, there’s sure to be something for you at Port Aventura!

Girona to Port Aventura car ride time: 2 hr 10 min.

El Vendrell and Tarragona

El Vendrell

El Vendrell is a small town in Catalonia, Spain It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, thanks to its beautiful beaches, Mediterranean climate, and friendly people.

There are plenty of things to do in El Vendrell, from swimming and sunbathing to exploring the town’s Roman ruins. The beach is the perfect place to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun, and there are plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy after a long day in the sun. For those who prefer to explore, the town’s Roman ruins are a must-see.

Girona to El Vendrell car ride time: 1 hr 50 min.

Tarragona is a city in Spain with a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire. If you’re only visiting for one day, there’s plenty to keep you busy.

Start by exploring the well-preserved Roman ruins of the Roman Wall of Tarragona and Amphitheater de Tarragona, then head to the Old Town to see the Catedral Basílica Metropolitana y Primada de Santa Tecla de Tarragona.

No trip to Tarragona would be complete without trying the local specialty, Tarragona clams.

And when going back to Girona, be sure to visit The Ferreres Aqueduct just outside of Tarragona. You can climb up to cross it as a bridge for more impressive views and photos.

El Vendrell to Tarragona car ride time: 30 min.

Calella de Palafrugell

Calella de Palafrugell is a small town on the Costa Brava in Spain. It’s the perfect place to spend a day if you’re looking for sun, sand, and sea.

The best way to start your day is by indulging in a delicious breakfast of churros and chocolate at one of the town’s cafes. After breakfast, head to the beach for a swim or sunbathe. For lunch, try the seafood paella at one of the restaurants overlooking the water. In the afternoon, explore the town’s labyrinthine streets and visit some of the shops selling local arts and crafts. Finish your day with a sunset walk along the promenade.

As you watch the sun dip below the horizon, you’ll be glad you chose to spend your day in Calella de Palafrugell.

Girona to Calella de Palafrugell car ride time: 55 min.

Hot Air Balloon Flight

Imagine floating above the stunning Costa Brava coastline in a hot air balloon. The waves sparkle in the sunlight as you glide silently over the Mediterranean Sea.

Below you, the picturesque towns and villages nestled amongst the hills come into view.

As you rise higher, the landscape unfolds before you, offering a bird’s-eye view of this beautiful corner of Spain.

A hot air balloon flight is a truly magical experience and one that should not be missed. So if you’re looking for a unique way to see the Costa Brava, book a flight today . You’ll be glad you did!

Local Wineries Tour with Breakfast and Wine Tasting

Looking for a fun and informative way to spend a day in Girona? Then be sure to check out the Local Wineries Tour with Breakfast and Wine Tasting!

This tour takes you to three different local wineries, where you’ll learn all about the wine-making process and have the chance to taste some of the region’s best wines. And what could be better than starting the day with a delicious breakfast and a glass of wine?

Whether you’re a wine lover or just looking for a unique way to spend a day in Girona, this tour is sure to please you. So book now and get ready for a day of fun, food, and wine!

Travel tips and tricks:

• Save big on flights with Skyscanner.com – This incredible tool lets you find the most affordable airfare to your dream destination. You’ll love their “Whole Month” feature, which displays the best prices for the entire month. If you’re flexible with travel dates, this is a game-changer for scoring the cheapest tickets.
• Stay in the heart of the action – I always find the perfect accommodation on Booking.com . Their map view lets me filter hotels by my budget and select ones that are right in the center of it all. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this easy way to book your ideal stay!
• Go beyond the resort – I’m all about making the most of my trips, and GetYourGuide.com has been a lifesaver for booking unforgettable tours and day trips. It’s the most hassle-free way to dive into the local culture and explore the hidden gems in every new place.
• Hit the road with DiscoverCars.com – There’s no better way to explore your destination than by car! Renting a vehicle has never been easier, and with their competitive prices, you’ll have the freedom to create your own adventures.

I highly recommend trying these tools for yourself – not only will you save money, but you’ll also create memories that last a lifetime. Happy travels!

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20+ Best Day Trips from Valencia in 2024 (By a Local!)

If you’re looking for a quick escape from Valencia, you’re in luck. There are plenty of picturesque towns, stunning beaches, and historical sites within easy reach of the city. 

So whether you’re interested in exploring ancient castles, relaxing on the beach, or indulging in delicious regional cuisine, there’s a day trip from Valencia that will suit your interests. 

And given I’m lucky enough to live in this beautiful city within easy reach of all these places, I can definitely confirm that these are worth doing!

Keep reading to find out some of the best ones I’ve discovered.

Planning a trip to Valencia last minute?

If you’re booking your  trip to Valencia last minute, I’ve got you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

⭐  Top tours in Valencia

• City Highlights Guided Bike Tour (great way to see the city)
• Palosanto Flamenco Show (incredible night out)
• Old Town Tour, Wine and Tapas in an 11th Century Monument (all the highlights at once)
• Catamaran Cruise at Sunset (experience the Mediterranean – with cava)
• Oceanogràfic – Valencia Aquarium (biggest one in Europe!)

🛏️ Top hotels in Valencia

• Only YOU Hotel Valencia (5-star luxury)
• Vincci Palace (boutique hotel with beautiful décor)
• Hostal Antigua Morellana (great budget option in a superb location)

🚌 Want to see everything with minimal effort while you’re in Valencia? Check out the 24- or 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Ticket !

Table of Contents

Best day trips from Valencia

1. albufera.

In need of a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Valencia? Albufera, a mere 10 kilometers from the city, is your perfect day trip oasis. Home to Spain’s largest lake, this idyllic spot is beloved by tourists and locals alike for its stunning views, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

Embark on a boat tour to fully experience Albufera’s beauty, gliding through the serene lake and witnessing the surrounding rice fields and the area’s fascinating flora and fauna (including hoards of flamingos which migrate here from Africa each year!) 

If you’re feeling a bit more active, you can even rent a bike or take a leisurely walk along the many trails. Either way, be sure to visit the picturesque village of El Palmar to savor its traditional charm and mouth watering local cuisine – this is the home of paella, after all!

For birdwatchers, Albufera is a haven, with the chance to spot herons, storks, and flamingos, especially during spring and autumn migrations. In fact, you can see a photo I took of the flamingos at Albufera below, just to show you how close you’re able to get to them!

Overall, Albufera is an unmissable destination and is easily one of the reasons why Valencia is worth visiting , with its captivating natural splendor and vibrant cultural legacy.

Craving a day trip filled with history, culture…and, of course, wine? Requena, just 68 kilometers from Valencia, is your go-to spot. 

This medieval town boasts a rich history, having served as a strategic enclave during the Middle Ages, and is home to the unique Bobal grape cultivated in the Utiel-Requena wine region.

Embark on a private wine tour to learn about the history and production of this special wine, visit a winery, and taste various Bobal wines as you immerse yourself in the art of winemaking. You can then wander through Requena’s old quarter, with its beautiful architecture reflecting the style of Hispano-Muslim towns, and explore the town’s ancient walls, castle, and striking Gothic church of El Salvador.

Requena offers a charming blend of history, culture, and wine, providing an easy day trip from Valencia and a delightful opportunity to experience a different side of the region. So pack a picnic and set off for Requena to enjoy a day of exploration and relaxation.

Ready for a journey into the past? Xàtiva, a mere 60 kilometers from Valencia, is your ideal destination.

Steeped in history, this town boasts a magnificent castle perched on a hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. While it’s outside of the city itself, this example of Roman, Moorish and Medieval history all in the one place is easily one of the things that Valencia is known for .

Start your adventure by visiting the Castle of Xàtiva, divided into two sections: the Castle of Menor and the Castle of Mayor. Wander through its courtyards and halls while soaking in the rich history of this impressive fortress. Don’t forget to snap some photos from the top, capturing the stunning vistas!

Strolling through Xàtiva’s old town is like taking a step back in time. Admire the elegant fountains, lovely plazas, and well-preserved architecture. Be sure to visit the Collegiate Basilica of Santa Maria, a beautiful example of Gothic and Baroque styles.

For art aficionados, Xàtiva is home to the birthplace of the famous Borgia family. Visit the Museu de l’Almodí, where you’ll find an impressive collection of art, including works by famed painter José Ribera, a Xàtiva native.

Xàtiva is a charming blend of history, culture, and stunning views. It’s an easy day trip from Valencia that will transport you back in time and leave you with lasting memories.

Craving a mix of ancient history and stunning coastline? Sagunto, just 25 kilometers north of Valencia, is your perfect day trip. This town, steeped in over 2,000 years of history, offers a fascinating glimpse into Spain’s past.

Begin your exploration at the ancient Roman theater, which dates back to the 1st century. Expertly restored, this venue still hosts performances today. 

From there, climb up to the impressive Sagunto Castle, a fortress with both Iberian and Roman origins, offering panoramic views of the town and sea.

Don’t miss the chance to wander through the old Jewish Quarter, a maze of narrow streets that transports you back in time. Be sure to visit the Sagunto History Museum, where you can learn about the town’s rich past through archaeological finds and exhibits.

After your historical tour, unwind at the nearby beach of Puerto de Sagunto. Relax on the golden sands or take a dip in the clear, blue waters of the Mediterranean.

Sagunto offers a captivating blend of ancient history and coastal relaxation. It’s an unforgettable day trip from Valencia that will captivate your senses and enrich your understanding of Spain’s diverse past.

5. Peñíscola

Searching for a picturesque coastal getaway? Peñíscola, about 140 kilometers north of Valencia, is a dream come true. 

With its stunning beaches, winding cobblestone streets, and iconic castle, this charming town promises a memorable day trip.

Your first stop should be the famous Peñíscola Castle, perched high above the town on a rocky crag. This 13th-century fortress was once home to Pope Benedict XIII, and its beautifully preserved walls and towers offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the old town, admiring the whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flowers. Browse the local shops for unique souvenirs (my article on what to buy in Valencia should give you some good inspiration!) and savor delicious seafood at one of the many restaurants.

But don’t forget to hit the beach! The pristine Playa Norte stretches for miles, inviting you to lounge on the soft sands or take a refreshing swim in the azure waters. Alternatively, for a more secluded experience, head to the smaller, idyllic Playa Sur.

Peñíscola is the perfect blend of history, charm, and seaside relaxation. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a magical day trip from Valencia.

Looking for a quaint, artistic escape? Altea, about 130 kilometers south of Valencia, is a delightful haven of narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and stunning sea views. This picturesque town, nestled between the sea and the mountains, offers an enchanting day trip experience.

Begin by exploring Altea’s old town, known as El Fornet. Meander through the labyrinth of cobbled streets, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and admiring the beautiful blue-domed church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo. Be sure to pause and enjoy the panoramic views of the Mediterranean from the church plaza.

Altea is renowned for its thriving arts scene, so take some time to visit the many galleries and studios scattered throughout the town. You might even discover your new favorite artist!

When you’re ready for some relaxation, head to Altea’s tranquil beaches. The main beach, Playa de la Roda, is a lovely spot to unwind, swim, or sunbathe. For a more secluded experience, explore the charming coves that dot the coastline.

Altea is an enchanting town that captivates visitors with its artistic charm and mesmerizing sea views. It’s an idyllic day trip from Valencia that promises to leave you inspired and rejuvenated.

7. El Saler

In need of a nature retreat close to Valencia? El Saler, just 12 kilometers away, is your perfect destination. Nestled between the Albufera Natural Park and the Mediterranean Sea, El Saler offers a tranquil day trip experience with pristine beaches and lush surroundings.

Begin by exploring the natural beauty of Albufera Natural Park, home to a diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna. Take a leisurely walk or rent a bike to traverse the scenic trails. Don’t miss the opportunity to spot a variety of bird species, especially during migration seasons.

After immersing yourself in nature, head to El Saler’s stunning beach. This beautiful stretch of golden sand is backed by sand dunes and pine forests, creating a serene atmosphere. Unwind on the shore, take a refreshing swim, or even try your hand at windsurfing.

El Saler is a charming haven where nature and relaxation harmoniously coexist. It’s an ideal day trip from Valencia that offers an escape from the city and a chance to reconnect with the natural world.

Ready for a journey to a medieval gem nestled in the mountains? Morella, approximately 175 kilometers northwest of Valencia, is a captivating town that will transport you back in time. 

With its imposing castle, ancient walls, and narrow streets, Morella promises an unforgettable day trip experience.

Start your adventure at the impressive Morella Castle, perched high on a hill overlooking the town. Explore the castle’s chambers and towers, and soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the top.

From there, take a stroll through the charming streets of Morella, admiring the well-preserved Gothic architecture, including the Basilica of Santa Maria la Mayor. If you’re interested, be sure to visit the town’s museums, such as the Temps de Dinosaures and the Convent of San Francisco, which showcase Morella’s rich history and prehistoric past.

When hunger strikes, indulge in Morella’s local cuisine, including its famous truffles and unique pastries, such as the “flaó.”

Morella is a magical destination that combines history, culture, and stunning scenery. It’s a day trip from Valencia that will leave you enchanted and eager to return.

What’s your perfect destination for your dream trip to Spain?

Want to discover a city or live your island dreams?

Embrace the food scene or step through the pages of history?

Whatever your travel style, discover the perfect Spanish city to add to your trip here!

9. Montanejos

Craving a rejuvenating retreat surrounded by mountains and crystal-clear waters? Montanejos, about 90 kilometers from Valencia, is a paradise waiting to be discovered. This charming village is renowned for its thermal springs and offers a day trip experience that combines natural beauty with relaxation.

Begin your visit by exploring the Fuente de los Baños, Montanejos’ famous thermal springs. These naturally warm waters, said to have healing properties, are perfect for a soothing soak. Unwind as you take in the picturesque surroundings and let the stress of daily life melt away.

For adventure seekers, Montanejos offers an array of outdoor activities. Hiking trails, rock climbing, and canyoning are just a few of the exciting options available in the area. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, take a stroll along the Mijares River or relax at the scenic Arenós Reservoir.

Montanejos is a hidden gem that combines relaxation, nature, and adventure. It’s a rejuvenating day trip from Valencia that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories and a renewed sense of well-being.

10. Chulilla

Yearning for a day trip that offers breathtaking landscapes and a touch of adventure? Chulilla, around 60 kilometers from Valencia, is your perfect match. This picturesque village, nestled in the mountains, is known for its dramatic cliffs, stunning views, and exciting outdoor activities.

Begin your Chulilla adventure with a visit to the iconic hanging bridges, which span the Turia River. These suspension bridges, set against a backdrop of towering cliffs, offer an exhilarating walk with spectacular views.

For hiking enthusiasts, Chulilla boasts a variety of trails, such as the Charco Azul route, which takes you through beautiful landscapes and offers the chance to swim in a crystal-clear pool. Don’t miss the breathtaking sight of Chulilla Castle, perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the village.

Chulilla is also a rock climber’s paradise, with numerous climbing routes that cater to all skill levels. After a day of adventure, unwind in the village’s charming streets, lined with traditional houses and cozy cafes.

Chulilla is a captivating destination that promises adventure, natural beauty, and a tranquil atmosphere. It’s an ideal day trip from Valencia that will leave you with a sense of awe and a desire to explore even more.

In search of a sun-soaked coastal retreat with a touch of history? Calpe, approximately 125 kilometers south of Valencia, is a dream destination. 

This vibrant town boasts beautiful beaches, fascinating archaeological sites, and an iconic natural landmark, offering an unforgettable day trip experience.

Begin by exploring the stunning beaches of Calpe. Arenal-Bol Beach and Levante Beach are two of the most popular, featuring soft sands and crystal-clear waters. Relax on the shore, take a dip in the Mediterranean, or partake in water sports like kayaking or windsurfing.

For a dose of history, visit the Roman ruins of the Baños de la Reina, a fascinating archaeological site featuring ancient baths and fish farms. Don’t miss the chance to explore Calpe’s old town, with its narrow streets, colorful murals, and the beautiful Church of La Virgen de las Nieves.

One of Calpe’s most iconic landmarks is the Peñón de Ifach, a massive limestone rock that juts out into the sea. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the town and surrounding coastline, or enjoy the scenery from the nearby ecological walk.

Calpe is an irresistible blend of sun, sea, and history. It’s a delightful day trip from Valencia that offers something for everyone, from beach lovers to history buffs.

Eager to experience a lively beach town with a rich cultural heritage? Gandia, just 70 kilometers south of Valencia, is the perfect destination. This bustling town offers golden beaches, a fascinating old quarter, and a grand ducal palace, ensuring a memorable day trip for all.

Start your Gandia adventure at the beautiful Playa de Gandia, a wide stretch of golden sand with ample amenities and clear, blue waters. Relax on the shore, swim in the Mediterranean, or stroll along the promenade lined with shops and restaurants.

Once you’ve had your fill of sun and sea, venture into Gandia’s historic old quarter, known as the Ducal Palace of the Borgias. Explore the palace’s elegant courtyards, intricate frescoes, and impressive architecture, and learn about its connection to the infamous Borgia family.

Now’s a good chance to wander the charming streets of Gandia’s old town, admiring the Gothic-style Collegiate Church of Santa María and the picturesque Plaza Mayor. You could even check out the Archaeological Museum, which showcases Gandia’s rich history through a collection of artifacts and exhibits.

Gandia is an enticing mix of beachside fun and cultural exploration. It’s an ideal day trip from Valencia that offers a diverse range of experiences, catering to both relaxation seekers and history enthusiasts.

13. Tavernes Blanques

Craving a peaceful escape just a stone’s throw from Valencia? Tavernes Blanques, only 6 kilometers away, is a delightful destination for a tranquil day trip. 

This small town is known for its verdant parks, local pottery, and warm atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely visit.

Start your Tavernes Blanques excursion by wandering its charming streets, admiring the local architecture and getting a feel for the town’s laid-back vibe. Be sure to visit the town’s traditional pottery workshops, where you can observe artisans at work and even purchase unique, handmade souvenirs.

One of Tavernes Blanques’ highlights is its abundance of green spaces. Take a leisurely stroll through the lovely Parc de la Torre, a serene oasis featuring a historic tower and well-tended gardens. Or, visit the nearby Parc de l’Alqueria del Moro, where you’ll find a stunning palace surrounded by lush vegetation.

Tavernes Blanques is a charming hideaway that offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s a delightful day trip from Valencia that will leave you feeling refreshed and reconnected with local traditions.

Ready for an unforgettable journey to a town steeped in history and architectural splendor? Teruel, about 140 kilometers west of Valencia, is a true hidden gem. 

With its stunning Mudejar architecture, ancient churches, and romantic legends, Teruel offers a day trip experience that transports you to another time.

Begin your Teruel adventure by admiring the town’s Mudejar architecture, a unique blend of Islamic and Christian styles that has earned UNESCO World Heritage status. Don’t miss the striking towers of El Salvador, San Martín, and San Pedro, which are prime examples of this captivating art form.

Explore Teruel’s ancient churches, such as the Cathedral of Santa María, with its beautifully preserved frescoes, and the Church of San Pedro, which houses the famous Lovers of Teruel Mausoleum. Discover the tragic story of these star-crossed lovers, who are often compared to Romeo and Juliet.

Venture into Teruel’s historic old quarter, where you’ll find narrow cobblestone streets, charming squares, and the impressive Alcazaba, a fortified palace with panoramic views of the town.

Teruel is a captivating destination that offers a remarkable blend of history, art, and romance. It’s a day trip from Valencia that will leave you with a deep appreciation for Spain’s rich cultural heritage and a desire to explore even more hidden gems.

15. Albarracín

Longing for a day trip to a fairy tale village nestled amidst stunning landscapes? Albarracín, around 190 kilometers west of Valencia, is the perfect destination. This enchanting town, with its narrow winding streets, ancient walls, and colorful houses, offers a day trip experience that feels like stepping into a storybook.

Get started on your Albarracín journey by exploring its well-preserved old town, where you’ll find charming cobbled streets lined with picturesque houses adorned with wooden balconies. Wander through the Plaza Mayor, the heart of the town, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and mountains.

Make your way to the impressive Albarracín Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the town. Discover the castle’s rich history as you explore its ruins, and marvel at the panoramic vistas from the ramparts. Don’t miss the ancient walls of Albarracín, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past defenses.

Surrounding Albarracín is the captivating landscape of the Albarracín Mountains, a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Embark on a hike or rock-climbing adventure to fully appreciate the area’s natural beauty.

Albarracín is a magical destination that offers a unique blend of history, charm, and natural wonders. It’s a day trip from Valencia that will leave you enchanted and yearning for more.

16. Alicante

Seeking a bustling coastal city filled with history, culture, and beautiful beaches? Alicante, approximately 170 kilometers south of Valencia, is an ideal destination for a diverse day trip experience. This vibrant city offers a mix of stunning coastline, historic landmarks, and lively entertainment options, ensuring a memorable visit.

You can start your Alicante adventure on the gorgeous beaches, such as Playa del Postiguet or Playa de San Juan. Bask in the Mediterranean sun, take a refreshing swim, or indulge in water sports like paddleboarding or sailing.

Once you’ve soaked up the sun, head to the impressive Santa Bárbara Castle, an ancient fortress perched atop Mount Benacantil. Explore the castle’s history, marvel at its architecture, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and coastline.

Wander through Alicante’s charming old town, El Barrio, where you’ll find narrow streets, colorful houses, and lively plazas filled with cafes and restaurants. Visit the city’s museums, such as the Archaeological Museum of Alicante, to delve into the region’s rich history and culture.

Alicante is an enticing destination that offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and beachside fun. It’s an ideal day trip from Valencia that caters to a wide range of interests, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

17. Torrevieja

Dreaming of a coastal getaway with natural beauty and a laid-back atmosphere? Torrevieja, about 220 kilometers south of Valencia, is the ideal destination for a soothing day trip. This charming town is known for its beautiful beaches, serene salt lagoons, and vibrant harbor, offering a delightful blend of relaxation and entertainment.

Begin your Torrevieja visit by exploring the town’s stunning beaches, such as Playa del Cura and Playa de Los Locos. Relax on the golden sands, take a refreshing swim in the clear waters, or stroll along the picturesque promenade.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby salt lagoons of Las Salinas, which are famous for their vibrant pink and green hues. Take a leisurely walk around these natural wonders and keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, including flamingos and other bird species.

Head to the bustling marina, where you can enjoy a leisurely meal at a waterfront restaurant, join a boat tour, or indulge in water sports like jet skiing or snorkeling. As the sun sets, experience Torrevieja’s lively nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and clubs to suit all tastes.

Torrevieja is a captivating coastal town that offers a soothing blend of natural beauty and lively entertainment. It’s a rejuvenating day trip from Valencia that promises a truly memorable experience.

18. Benidorm

In search of a day trip packed with excitement, beautiful beaches, and endless entertainment options? Benidorm, approximately 140 kilometers south of Valencia, is the ultimate destination. This bustling resort town offers a lively atmosphere, golden beaches, and a wealth of activities, ensuring a thrilling day trip experience.

Begin your Benidorm adventure on the town’s famous beaches, Levante and Poniente. Bask in the sun on the golden sands, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or partake in water sports like parasailing or scuba diving.

For a change of pace, explore Benidorm’s charming old town, with its narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and lively plazas filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Be sure to visit the Balcony of the Mediterranean, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the town and the sparkling sea.

Benidorm is also a haven for theme parks and attractions, such as Terra Mítica, Aqualandia, and Mundomar. These parks offer thrilling rides, water slides, and wildlife encounters, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Benidorm is an exhilarating destination that offers a vibrant mix of beachside relaxation and thrilling attractions. It’s an ideal day trip from Valencia that caters to a wide range of interests and guarantees an unforgettable experience for all.

19. Les Fonts de l’Algar

Looking for a day trip immersed in stunning natural beauty and refreshing waterfalls? Les Fonts de l’Algar, about 150 kilometers south of Valencia, is the perfect destination. This enchanting spot is known for its crystal-clear springs, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation, offering a day trip experience that rejuvenates the senses.

Start your day by following the walking trail that winds through this natural paradise. Marvel at the gushing waterfalls, verdant landscapes, and pristine pools as you explore the area.

Take a refreshing dip in one of the many natural swimming pools, or simply relax and soak up the tranquil atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby Arboretum, where you can learn about the region’s diverse flora and fauna.

Les Fonts de l’Algar is a blissful escape that offers a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s a revitalizing day trip from Valencia that promises to leave you feeling refreshed and inspired by nature’s beauty.

Craving a day trip to a picturesque town with stunning landscapes and fascinating history? Cuenca, approximately 210 kilometers northwest of Valencia, is an enchanting destination. 

This medieval town, perched on a steep cliffside, offers a blend of historic architecture, dramatic landscapes, and captivating art, ensuring a memorable day trip experience.

Begin your visit by exploring the town’s famous Casas Colgadas or Hanging Houses, which are precariously perched on the edge of a cliff. Wander through Cuenca’s narrow streets, admiring the beautiful cathedral, charming plazas, and medieval architecture.

Discover Cuenca’s art scene at the Fundación Antonio Pérez, which showcases contemporary art, or the Museo de Arte Abstracto Español, featuring a collection of abstract works by renowned Spanish artists.

Venture into the stunning landscapes surrounding Cuenca, such as the Enchanted City or the Hoces del Río Duratón Natural Park, where you can hike, canoe, or simply marvel at the breathtaking scenery.

Cuenca is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty. It’s a day trip from Valencia that will leave you with lasting memories and a desire to explore even more of Spain’s hidden gems.

21. Castellon

Seeking a day trip that combines beachside relaxation, historic landmarks, and cultural exploration? Castellon, about 100 kilometers north of Valencia, is an ideal destination. This charming coastal city offers beautiful beaches, a captivating old town, and a wealth of cultural attractions, promising a diverse day trip experience.

Head straight to the city’s gorgeous beaches after you arrive, such as Playa del Pinar or Playa del Gurugú. Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea, or take part in water sports like windsurfing or paddleboarding.

Venture into Castellon’s historic old town, where you’ll find the impressive Santa María Cathedral, the medieval El Fadrí bell tower, and picturesque squares lined with shops and cafes. Explore the city’s museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts, which showcases a collection of Valencian art and ceramics.

For a taste of nature, visit the nearby Desierto de las Palmas Natural Park, where you can hike, bike, or simply enjoy the stunning landscapes.

Castellon is a delightful coastal city that offers a mix of beachside relaxation, historic charm, and cultural exploration. It’s an ideal day trip from Valencia that caters to a wide range of interests and guarantees an unforgettable experience for all.

What are the best day trips from Valencia by public transport?

For those who prefer to leave the car behind and explore Valencia’s surroundings using public transport, there are plenty of fantastic day trips within easy reach. Here are some of the best options to consider:

• Xàtiva: Hop on a train from Valencia’s Estació del Nord and arrive in Xàtiva in just under an hour. Discover the impressive Xàtiva Castle, explore the charming streets of the old town, and visit the birthplace of the famous Borgia family.
• Sagunto: A quick train ride of around 30 minutes from Valencia takes you to Sagunto, where you can marvel at the ancient Roman theater, stroll through the charming old town, and explore the impressive Sagunto Castle.
• Gandia: Reachable by train in just over an hour, Gandia offers a beautiful beach and a captivating historic center, where you can visit the Ducal Palace and the Collegiate Basilica of Santa Maria.
• Castellon: With a train journey of around an hour, Castellon invites you to explore its beautiful beaches, historic old town, and the nearby Desierto de las Palmas Natural Park.

What day trips in Valencia are good for avoiding crowds?

If you’re seeking a more serene experience away from the tourist hotspots, consider these day trips to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the Valencian region:

• Albufera Natural Park: While popular, Albufera offers plenty of opportunities to find your own quiet spot among the walking trails, rice fields, and serene lake. Visit during off-peak hours or weekdays to enjoy even more peace and quiet.
• Chulilla: This picturesque village, nestled in a dramatic gorge, offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Discover the stunning Turia River canyon, hike the local trails, and explore the charming village streets.
• Les Fonts de l’Algar: Although it can get busy in the summer months, visiting Les Fonts de l’Algar early in the day or during the off-season will allow you to experience the waterfalls and natural swimming pools in relative tranquility.
• Montanejos: Head to Montanejos to relax in the thermal springs, hike in the surrounding mountains, and enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Arrive early and explore the lesser-known trails to avoid the crowds.

By choosing off-peak times and lesser-known destinations, you’ll be able to enjoy a more tranquil and authentic experience while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Valencia.

Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire thousands of visitors each month to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Having lived in Spain for some time now, Anna's made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country - with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!

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Top 12 Day Trips From Malaga, Spain

Get a taste of Andalusia in Nerja, Ronda, Antequera, and Marbella

Malaga , a mid-sized city in Spain's southern Andalusia region , offers a just-right combination of culture and beach—plus, it's the perfect starting point to explore southern Spain. The city's major airport and convenient bus and train stations make traveling around Andalusia as simple as checking the times, booking the tickets, and starting on your Spanish adventure. Renting a car is also a good option and in many cases the best way to make a quick trip to these towns.

You can take organized tours to Morocco, Seville, and Granada, and there is a direct train to Osuna, where HBO's Game of Thrones  was filmed.  

There are ferries to Morocco from Malaga , but the voyage takes about eight hours. It is quicker to take a bus to Tarifa, about a two-hour drive from Malaga, and get a ferry from there; these ferry routes take only about 35 minutes. The only city you can reach on a day trip from Malaga is Tangier, so consider a longer ​ Morocco tour from Spain .​

A day trip from Malaga to Morocco is virtually impossible if you are traveling without a group and guide. But Morocco warrants a longer stay than a day, and you could certainly plan that by yourself (the country is a lot more tourist-friendly than it used to be).

Granada's proximity to Malaga makes it a perfect day trip from the city. It's about an hour-and-a-half drive, and it is easy to reach Granada from Malaga by bus (there are no trains), or you could take a guided tour or rent a car and drive yourself. Granada welcomes tourists, so you could easily visit Granada independently, without a tour.

But one big advantage of a guided tour is the visit to the Alhambra. It's always included on a guided tour and is the high point of the trip. If you are not on a tour, you will most likely have to wait in a long line to get in, and the tour lets you jump the line. 

Nerja, a bit less than an hour's drive from Malaga, is a popular beach town on the Costa del Sol, but its caves set it apart from the other coastal towns of Andalusia. The caves stretch for about three miles. The caves of Nerja are one of the most visited sites in Spain. Its beachfront promenade sits high on a promontory and affords spectacular views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding Sierra Almijara, Tejeda, and Almira Mountains.

Ronda is ​about a 1.5-hour drive from Malaga, is a little off the beaten path, making a guided tour an especially good option. Ronda is the birthplace of bullfighting and has a great winemaking tradition, but it's most famous for the centuries-old bridges over the Tajo Gorge. It's also got those iconic whitewashed Andalusian houses, a hallmark of southern Spain.

Ronda is small and easy to get around by yourself. If you have a car, the drive to Ronda is interesting, particularly if you drive via Marbella.

The bus and the train both take just under two hours each way. That's a lot of travel time in one day and requires making sure you get your logistics just right. With four hours in one day taken up by travel, you want to make sure you get the earliest bus or train you can. A guided tour is also probably a little quicker, as is driving yourself.

Seville is the most popular city in the south of Spain, but it takes about two hours to get there from Malaga, and that makes it a very long day trip. It's really best to make it at least an overnight trip from Malaga because of the distance. If you are attempting to do it in a day, a guided tour is your best bet. You can get there on the train in about two hours or on the bus in about three. Driving would also take about two hours.

One of the most beautiful cities in Europe, let alone Spain, Seville is a vibrant magnet for flamenco, bullfighting, tapas, and renowned architecture. If you are not taking a tour, find a walking tour to really get a good glimpse of the city along with some commentary about what you're seeing.

Jerez de la Frontera

Jerez de la Frontera is most famous for being the birthplace of sherry. It is also well known for its horse shows. If you can stay the night, Jerez is also good for flamenco and, yes, tapas. As is true across Spain, this is a late-night activity. Stroll through old Jerez along its cobblestone streets and take in its Baroque churches and typical Spanish plazas.

Getting to Jerez by train takes about four hours, and that makes it impossible to visit for just a day unless you drive yourself, which still takes about 2.5 hours. Unless you really are squeezing it into your itinerary, it is best to stay overnight.

The world's been talking about Osuna since "Game of Thrones" was filmed there. Keep an eye out for the old university and bullring, which played the parts of Dorne and Mereen. The "Thrones" connection is its main attraction, so if you're not a fan, this is a candidate for skipping.

You can get to Osuna from Malaga on the train in about two hours or you can drive, which is a bit quicker; you can get there in your car in about 1.5 hours.

Cordoba is a popular city to visit in Andalusia, after Seville and Granada—but its beachy old town and one of the world's most important historical mosques makes it an important stop for visitors. It's full of whitewashed houses and buildings amid patio gardens bursting with blooms, a quintessential postcard of Andalusia. Islamic, Jewish, and Christian cultures all merged here to form a true Spanish experience.

You can drive to Cordoba from Malaga in about two hours, and that's pushing it for a day trip since there is so much to see here. Taking the train, which zooms across the distance, takes less than an hour and is the best option.

Visit Gibraltar , it's a territory of the United Kingdom. You can take dolphin- or whale-watching tours , too, and don't miss a trip up to the top of the Rock of Gibraltar, where you will get a spectacular view of Africa.

The best way to get to Gibraltar from Malaga is by bus. It takes about three hours and deposits you right at the border of Spain and Gibraltar, and then you walk across the border. Pretty cool.

If you want to experience what medieval Spain was like, Antequera is just what you're looking for. It's 30 miles from Malaga and a perfect day trip. Its architecture reflects its Roman, Moorish, and Baroque Spanish heritage. You can get there from Malaga via the bus, which makes several trips every day, as does the high-speed train. Both take less than an hour. If you're driving, it's about a half-hour away from Malaga.

Andalusia is most famous for its whitewashed villages, with these iconic houses in sparkling white with red-tiled roofs marching up and down the twisting, narrow streets of many of the towns. They form a perfect canvas for the cascading blooms all along the street and on the patios.  Frigiliana is one of the best examples of a typical whitewashed town, and it is an easy hour's drive from Malaga. You can also get to Frigiliana on the bus but you must go through Nerja to do that. The whole trip takes about an hour and 15 minutes.

If you want glam, Marbella is the place you want to be. It has nightlife, spectacular golf, stunning beaches, and upscale shopping. And if you want some history with your luxury, walk around the Marbella's Moorish Old Town, where you'll find interesting boutiques and charming restaurants around the Plaza de los Naranjos.

If you're driving, it takes about 50 minutes from Malaga. If you're taking public transportation, you can catch a bus to Marbella at the Malaga Airport about every half hour, and it takes about 40 minutes to get there.

Where to See a Bullfight in Malaga, Ronda, or the Costa del Sol

How to Get From Malaga to Tangier by Bus, Plane, Car, and Ferry

Plan the Perfect Trip to Spain

Guide to Visiting Granada in Spain

How to Get from City to City in Spain

The Best Day Trips From Seville

Best Spain Tours Starting From Madrid

How to Travel From Seville to Cordoba by Train, Bus, and Car

The Best Ferries to Morocco From Spain

Osuna, Spain and Game of Thrones

How to Travel from Malaga to Ronda by Train, Bus, and Car

How to Get From Malaga to Tarifa by Public Transport

Getting From Malaga to Seville

How to Travel From Málaga to Marbella by Train, Bus, and Car

The Best Cities in Andalusia

How to Get From Valencia to Cordoba, Seville, Granada, and Malaga

Home » Destinations » Europe » Spain » 5-14 Day Spain Itinerary: A Guide For Planning Your Perfect Spain Trip

5-14 Day Spain Itinerary: A Guide For Planning Your Perfect Spain Trip

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Plan Your Perfect Spain Itinerary with These Detailed Templates!

Want to explore Spain but confused about the perfect itinerary? You are not alone! It can be a true challenge to determine how many days to spend exploring.

From 5-day Spain itineraries to 7 or 10 days, to 14-day itineraries – there are certainly lots of different routes and options to choose from. The hard part? None of the routes are necessarily  bad or wrong  since there’s just so much to see and do all around Spain!

Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world. Because of its popularity, Spain knowledge is really flowing around the travel world these days!

It’s no secret that Lisa lived in Spain  and took full advantage of her location (and her Spanish language knowledge)! So, she’s experienced quite a few of the places we recommend below for a great stop on your itinerary!

Spain Itinerary Overview

Best Time to Visit:  Generally, summer is the hottest and winter is colder and wetter, but regional exceptions apply. March-June and September-end of October are best.

Getting Around: Trains ( RENFE ) and buses ( Alsa ) are reliable. A rental car in Spain is a must-have for smaller towns.

Popular Places to Visit:  Barcelona , Madrid , and Valencia for larger cities, and Granada , Seville , and Córdoba are worth a look, too.

Where to Stay:   Check for hotels in Spain here and Check for hostels in Spain here .

Table of Contents

Spain Itinerary – 5 Days

If you plan on travelling through Spain for only 5 days, it’d be best to fly into one of the bigger cities as they are usually well connected with other European cities.

Depending on your route, you can either take public transport if the travel times align with your plans or opt for a rental car  if you would like more flexibility.

As with the other Spain itineraries in this blog post, our 5-day itineraries are pretty fast-paced. However, since it is pretty much impossible to go top to bottom and  actually see  parts of the country we decided to write two separate Spain itineraries for 5 days.

One covers the north and northeast of Spain while the other itinerary covers the south of the country . Choose the one that is more suitable for your interest and travel plans and feel free to modify the written itineraries however you see fit!

Spain Itinerary 5 Days – Northern Trip

For this classic 5-day trip across the northern parts of Spain, the total driving time is about 8 hours and covers around 750km .

If you rent a car, given this exact route, there are tolls on most of the highways so keep that in mind that it may be longer if you took non-tolled roads that may be more indirect. A bus would be able to breeze right along these highways, however.

navigate map

Spain Itinerary 5 Days – Northern Trip Overview

Day 1: Barcelona

• Day 2: Half-Day Barcelona/ Zaragoza
• Day 3:  Logroño
• Day 4:  Donostia-San Sebastián

Day 5: Bilbao

Barcelona is a good city to start a road trip since it is a popular tourist destination and thus has frequent flights to other European or International cities. Barcelona is the capital city of Catalonia which has its own unique culture and language next to Spanish.

Since it is such a popular city, the car rental industry is very well developed and it is easy to pick up a rental car from the airport or in the city.

Find your rental car in Barcelona here .

Alternatively, the bus station in Barcelona is great and easy to reach from the centre. There are numerous connections to Zaragoza which will be the next stop on your 5-day Spain itinerary.

Accommodation in Barcelona : As a super popular tourist destination, there are lots of hotels and apartments available in Barcelona.

Check here for Accommodations in Barcelona .

Specifically, for hotels check out Catalonia Born Hotel with a boutique style and rooftop pool in the city centre and close to the beach.

If you travel by car, Sallés Hotel Pere IV is a lovely and affordable hotel with spa in the heart of the city with a private parking garage onsite .

As for hostels, you can check out Barcelona hostels here. Specifically, we liked Kabul Hostel . This place even made our list of favourite hostels across Europe .

Overall, since Barcelona is so popular we strongly  advise you to book in advance – especially during summer – as it can get very expensive otherwise.

Must-see Attractions in Barcelona:

• Sagrada Familia
• Casa Batlló
• The National Catalonian Arts Museum

We’ve written a whole guide on some of the incredible places to visit in Barcelona if you are interested in seeing more!

Day 2: Barcelona/Zaragoza

On the second day of your 5 days in Spain, you’ll spend the morning in Barcelona (you’ll get a cafe con leche y croissant in any cafe/bar for quite cheap if you get off the main tourist roads) and then drive from Barcelona to Zaragoza later in the day.

The drive from Barcelona to Zaragoza will take you approximately 3 hrs 10 min by car (includes a toll road), 3,5 hrs by bus and 1,5 hrs by train . If you end up taking the train, try to book in advance if you can as this will usually end up being cheaper.

Accommodation in Zaragoza: Since Zaragoza is a smaller city, there are fewer accommodations to choose from – but still lots of really great options.

Check here for hotels in Zaragoza .

Specifically, we love the look of  Hotel Sauce . This bright and airy hotel is located right in the city centre and offers a homemade buffet breakfast, air conditioning, and private parking onsite for those travelling by car.

If you are looking for a rooftop pool,  Hotel Palafox has you covered! Also located right in the heart of the city, the hotel has a cool decor, great city views, tasty breakfast, and also has parking and air conditioning!

There aren’t a ton of hostels but the ones that do exist are well-rated – so you can check here for hostels in Zaragoza .

Must-see Attractions in Zaragoza:

• Basílica del Pilar
• Aljafería Palace
• Cathedral San Salvador

Day 3: Logroño

On your third day, you will drive from Zaragoza to Logroño which is the capital of the autonomous region of La Rioja and known for its delicious wine.

If you get the chance visit one of the wineries and do a wine tasting – please plan ahead if you’re travelling by car since drinking and driving is a big no-no!

The drive will be a lot shorter than the day before. By car, it’ll take you approximately 1 hr 40 min and by bus the journey would be around 2 hrs if you get a direct bus.

Accommodation in Logroño : Similarly to Zaragoza, Logroño is a smaller city with many great accommodations in the heart of the city.

Check here for apartments and hotels in Logroño .

Specifically, Hotel Murrieta is a popular and very affordable option with a good breakfast right in the heart of the city. If you drive a car, Hotel Calle Mayor is a more charming (but still very affordable) hotel with secure underground parking at the hotel.

If you are looking for a hostel in Logroño, there aren’t many but the ones that exist are very good. You can check here for hostels in Logroño .

Must-see Attractions in Logroño :

• Cathedral of Santa María de Redonda
• Church of San Bartolomé
• The Bodegas (Wineries)

Day 4: Donostia-San Sebastián

Some would consider San Sebastián one of the most beautiful towns in Spain and Lisa can see why.

When she lived in Bilbao she visited San Sebastián quite a few times and really enjoyed the vibe of the town (and having a beautiful beach so close). Don’t forget to eat some delicious Pintxos since San Sebastián is especially known for them!

The drive from Logroño to San Sebastián takes around 2 hrs by car, and between 2 and 5 hrs by public transport .

Since you are travelling between two smaller cities the connections are not  that  great and we would recommend planning ahead to compensate for this.

Accommodation in San Sebastián : San Sebastián is one of the most expensive towns in Spain and very popular among luxury travellers.

So, don’t be surprised if accommodations seem a little more expensive overall. That said, you can still find a great place to stay that suits your budget and style if you’re not looking for luxury.

Check here for hotels in San Sebastián .

Specifically, you can check out  Casual de las Olas San Sebastián . This hotel is a bit further from the old town and beach but makes up for it in sleek decor, breakfast, and air conditioning.

If you want more of a laid-back guesthouse feel, check out  Talaia HT . This authentic and cozy guesthouse is located in the heart of the old town – and has public parking nearby .

If you are looking for a hostel, you can find great hostels across San Sebastián here . Wherever you book, our advice is to book early to find deals and generally save money when booking.

Must-see Attractions in San Sebastián :

• Urgull Hill
• Plays de La Concha
• San Sebastián Cathedral

Bilbao has to be one of Lisa’s favourite Spanish cities. Not because it is especially beautiful, but because she lived there for a few months and it felt like home from the beginning. If you get the chance, take the metro to one of the beaches – you won’t regret it!

The drive from San Sebastián to Bilbao is a short and beautiful one as you will drive through some mountainous regions. By car it’ll take you approximately 1 hr 15 min and by bus the journey will be around 1,5 hours .

Bilbao also marks the end of this 5 day Northern Spain itinerary.

Bilbao is a good city to fly out of as it is one of the biggest cities in the region and well connected to bigger airports in other European cities. To get to the airport you can simply take the Airport bus from the bus station at San Mames.

Accommodation in Bilbao : Since Bilbao is a bigger city there is a wider variety of accommodations available.

Check here for apartments and hotels in Bilbao .

Specifically, Hotel NH Bilbao Deusto is a bright and simple hotel with buffet breakfast and  private underground parking . Lisa had friends stay there and liked it. It’s not right in the heart of the city centre – but across the water from the Guggenheim Museum!

If you want to stay right in the heart of old town Bilbao, you should definitely check out Ercilla Hotela . This is a very stylish and popular hotel with an amazing rooftop terrace, lounge, also onsite parking , and traditional Basque food in the restaurant!

If you are looking for a cheaper place to stay, Bcool Hostel is a very “cool” hostel in Bilbao. In general, remember to book accommodations closer to the city centre/the river since the rest of Bilbao can be quite hilly!

Must-see Attractions in Bilbao:

• Guggenheim Museum
• The Old Town (Casco Viejo)
• Zubizuri Bridge

*Just so you know, we have a whole detailed guide on Bilbao things to do !

Spain Itinerary 5 Days – Southern Spain Itinerary

If you would like to explore Southern Spain instead of the north, then we would recommend the following 5-day Southern Spain itinerary.

Generally, the south is a little bit warmer than the north so maybe don’t try to do this trip in the middle of the summer heat as it can be quite exhausting!

The itinerary is just over 600 kilometres with a total driving time between 7 and 8 hours depending on your mode of transportation.

Spain Itinerary 5 Days – Southern Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Málaga

Day 2: Day trip to Granada

• Day 3:  Marbella
• Day 4:  Cádiz

Day 5: Seville

Day 1: málaga.

We are starting this itinerary in Málaga since it is an easy airport to fly in from other parts of Europe.

When Lisa arrived at the airport the first time she was actually kind of shocked to see that all the signs were written in German as well.

Needless to say, Málaga is a very popular destination among German tourists. It’s also an interesting city to visit in the wintertime !

Lisa didn’t like the city that much (as in wouldn’t want to live there), but it is definitely worth exploring for a day or two. It is also quite easy to get from the airport to the city centre by public transport. You can find your rental car from Malaga here .

Accommodation in Málaga: Malaga is a popular tourist destination in the south of Spain and so there are lots of different accommodation options. That said, apartment rentals are a very popular option.

Check here for apartments or hotels in Malaga .

Specifically, if you want a hotel, check out Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano . This minimalist design hotel is bright and clean and offers an excellent breakfast while being located right in the heart of the city centre.

If you are planning to stay in Malaga a bit longer, check out Apartamentos Nono . Located close to the beach and a quick walk to the city centre, these apartments have kitchenettes for smaller meals, terraces, and onsite private parking .

If you are searching for a hostel, Malaga has lots. You can search for hostels in Malaga here . When visiting Malaga with a friend, Lisa stayed at Casa Al Sur Terraza .

Even though it’s a “hostel”, it’s a popular place to stay in Malaga. They have private rooms and a lovely rooftop terrace. She and her friend stayed in a private room and loved it!

Just remember for this itinerary, wherever you book you will need to stay for 2 nights !

Must-see Attractions in Málaga:

• Alcazaba Palace
• Picasso Museum
• Cathedral of Málaga

Today you’ll take a day trip to Granada. If you decided to rent a car you can do this by car, but then have to find parking in Granada. Lisa and her friend took the bus to Granada which was pretty easy to do since there are frequent buses throughout the day.

In Granada, you HAVE to go see La Alhambra. Make sure to book your ticket in advance (since there is only a limited amount of spots per day).

Lisa and her friend had to pick up her tickets at an office in the city before going to the actual attraction. Double-check your ticket since you might have to do that, too!

The journey from Málaga to Granada is approximately 1.5 hrs by car and 2 hrs by bus .

Accommodation in Granada:  You won’t need a place to sleep in Granada since you’ll be returning to Málaga at the end of the day.

But IF you are curious – check out Hotel Granada Center or Granada Five Senses Rooms & Suites for two great hotels in the heart of the historic city centre!

Must-see Attractions in Granada:

• Alhambra Palace
• Albaicín District
• Cathedral of Granada

Day 3: Marbella

On the third day of this 5 day Southern Spain itinerary, you’ll drive from Málaga to Marbella. Marbella is a city by the water and part of the well know Costa del Sol. It is one of the most popular tourist cities in the region mainly due to its nice beaches and climate.

Since Marbella is quite close to Málaga the drive won’t be long – giving you more time to explore the city and relax at the beaches. The journey takes approximately 1 hour by car (there are different routes some of which include toll roads) and 1.5 hours by bus .

Accommodation in Marbella : Since the tourism industry is quite developed in Marbella, there are lots of amazing sunny accommodations to choose from.

Check here for hotels and apartments in Marbella . 

Specifically,  Paloma Blanca Boutique Hotel is a gorgeous (and affordable) boutique hotel with breakfast and free private parking onsite. 

If you are looking for more of a beach resort,  Amàre Beach Hotel Marbella is a beautiful all-inclusive adult-only beachside resort with breakfast, spa, pool, amazing views, and more!

Must-see Attractions in Marbella:

• The Old Town of Marbella
• Avenida del Mar
• Puerto Banús

Day 4: Cádiz

Cádiz is often considered a hidden gem in Spain. Lots of people who have been there seem to love it and Lisa is dying to visit the city.

Fun fact: Some think of Cádiz as the oldest continuously inhabited city in Western Europe. It is just slightly smaller than Marbella with lots of attractions waiting to be explored.

Driving from Marbella to Cádiz by car will take you approximately 2 hours including a toll road and slightly longer if you want to avoid toll roads.

You’ll drive along the coast for a while and could consider stopping along the way. Another option would be to make a pit stop in Gibraltar which you will pass along the way.

Unfortunately, Marbella and Cádiz do not seem to be connected well by public transport and travel between the two cities would involve going back to Málaga and/or through Sevilla (or Seville as the English like to call it).

If it is too much of a hassle for you to get from Marbella to Cádiz, consider skipping it and going straight to Seville instead.

Accommodation in Cádiz: Even though Cádiz is a smaller city, there are plenty of places to stay.

Check here for hotels and apartments in Cádiz .

Specifically, Hotel Boutique Convento Cádiz is a gorgeous hotel in the old town (close to the beach) with a great breakfast and private parking nearby .

Alquimia Albergue-Hotel is a cool and cozy hotel (also in the city centre) close to the beach and also with parking nearby. As for hostels, Cádiz does have quite a few hostels with amazing ratings. You can check here for hostels in Cádiz .

Must-see Attractions in Cádiz:

• Cádiz Cathedral
• Fortress San Sebastian
• Plaza de San Juan de Dios

Seville is another popular destination in Spain and is often considered one of the hottest cities of the country. Therefore we would not recommend going there during July and August if you don’t like extreme heat (Lisa definitely doesn’t).

It is a beautiful city with lots of attractions to check out so be sure to have a good amount of time for exploring. If you don’t end up going to Cádiz, there is more than enough to do in Seville to keep you busy for two days!

Driving from Cádiz to Seville will take you approximately 1.5 hours by car and just slightly longer (1 hr 45 min) by bus . Seville also marks the end of this Southern Spain trip as it has a big airport which makes it super easy for you to fly back home.

Accommodation in Seville : Seville is a bigger and very popular city so there is no shortage of great accommodation options.

Check here for apartments and hotels in Seville .

Specifically, you have to see Petit Palace Puerta de Triana . This very trendy and cool design hotel offers a buffet breakfast and is located right in the city centre close to top attractions.

If you want a more historic stay,  Hotel Simon is a more simple and authentic hotel. It’s located in a historic building, also does breakfast, and is also located in the heart of the city centre.

Neither of the above hotels offers parking – but few in the city centre of Seville offer onsite parking (or even public parking nearby).

If you are looking to have parking available,  then you can check out La Parada del Marqués . It’s a beautiful guesthouse/hotel also centrally located and offers breakfast options and good connections to public transit!

If you are looking for a hostel, you can search for hostels in Seville here . Again, since Seville is so popular we would advise booking ahead – especially during the high season!

Must-see Attractions in Seville:

• Seville Cathedral
• Plaza de España

Spain Itinerary 7 Days

If you have slightly more time to explore Spain, we have also created two 7-day Spain itineraries for you. You’ll see that once again we give you two options since seven days are – in our opinion at least – still not enough to see the whole country.

Therefore, you’ll find a  7-Day Western Spain Itinerary and a 7-Day Eastern Spain Itinerary  below. As always, feel free to modify them to make them fit your exact plans!

Spain Itinerary 7 Days – Western Trip

For this itinerary, the total driving time would be around 14 hours and the distance would be around 1300 km .

These estimates account for the Toledo day trip (and back to Madrid) AND finishing with ONE of either Seville OR Malaga from Córdoba. So, in theory, it could be shorter or longer than we have indicated here on the map!

We’ve already covered some of the places above, but we will mention the important parts again to make it easier for you to plan your exact trip.

Please note that we won’t actually include any places on the west coast of Spain – that would be a whole other trip in itself. Your 7-Day Western Spain Itinerary could look something like this:

Spain Itinerary 7 Days – Western Trip Overview

Day 1: Bilbao

Day 2: burgos.

• Day 3:  Salamanca
• Day 4:  Madrid
• Day 5: Madrid / Day trip to Toledo

Day 6: Córdoba

Day 7: seville or málaga.

Similarly to how we ended the five-day itinerary in Bilbao, we’ll start this itinerary there as it is a relatively easy airport to fly into from other places in Europe. If you’re starting your longer Spain trip, you can find your rental car in Bilbao here .

Make sure to use your time to explore the Casco Viejo (the Old Town) and walk along the river! There are some great Pintxo places in the Old Town that you should absolutely check out!

Accommodation in Bilbao : Bilbao is a larger city so there’s quite a variety of accommodations available.

Check here for hotels in Bilbao .

Specifically, Hotel NH Bilbao Deusto is a bright and simple hotel with good breakfast and underground private parking . Friends of Lisa stayed there and said they enjoyed it. It’s close to the river across from the Guggenheim Museum but still a quick walk to the old town.

To stay in the heart of old town Bilbao, you have to see Ercilla Hotela . This is a very stylish and popular hotel with a lovely rooftop terrace and lounge, onsite parking , and they even serve traditional Basque food!

As for hostels, Bcool Hostel is a very “cool” hostel in Bilbao. In general, remember to book any hotels or accommodations somewhat closer to the city centre/the river because Bilbao can be quite hilly around the edges!

Burgos might not be a city that is immediately on your radar for places to visit in Spain  but we would recommend a stop there on your way south.

Lisa visited Burgos with friends on a day trip from Bilbao so she knows how easy it is to get there. Burgos is a nice city but since there is not a  ton  to see, one night is the perfect amount of time in our opinion.

Getting from Bilbao to Burgos takes approximately 1.5 hours by car and 2 hours by bus .

Accommodation in Burgos : Burgos is not an overly big city, but you can still find lots of great accommodations.

Check here for hotels in Burgos .

Specifically, Hotel Puerta de Burgos is a popular, trendy, and affordable hotel with private underground parking at the hotel. This makes it a great option if you have a car because it’s a little further from the centre (still quite close) and just off the motorway.

Another great hotel closer to the city centre/attractions is NH Collection Palacio de Burgos . This is an elegant hotel with a great breakfast and private parking, too.

If you want to stay in a hotel that physically faces the famous Burgos Cathedral, check out Hotel Mesón del Cid !

Must-see Attractions in Burgos:

• Burgos Cathedral
• Las Huelgas
• Museum of Human Evolution

Day 3: Salamanca

From Burgos, your journey continues to Salamanca – another one of Lisa’s favourite cities in Spain. Salamanca is sometimes called “The Golden City of Spain” and you’ll understand why.

The many sandstone buildings get illuminated beautifully by the sun – making it appear golden. Be sure to bring your camera because you’ll want to use it in Salamanca. Our tip: Cross the river to get amazing photos of the cathedral.

Getting from Burgos to Salamanca is easy and will take approximately 2.5 hours by car or 3 hours by bus .

Accommodation in Salamanca: Salamanca has lots of great accommodations in the city.

Check here for hotels in Salamanca .

Specifically, Hospes Palacio de San Esteban is an authentic-style hotel in the city centre with an incredible breakfast and onsite private parking . 

If you are looking for a very affordable hotel with views of the Cathedral, Hotel San Polo is for you. The popular hotel is in a location that doesn’t get much more central! There’s no parking available – making it great if you travel by bus and train only.

When Lisa visited Salamanca on a weekend trip, she stayed in a hostel with friends close to the Old Town and loved it. You can check out the good selection of hostels in Salamanca . 

Must-see Attractions in Salamanca:

• Salamanca Cathedral (Old + New)
• Plaza Mayor
• Salamanca University

Day 4: Madrid

Since Madrid is the capital of Spain you shouldn’t miss it on your itinerary. Conveniently it is also quite close and easy to get to from Salamanca.

Since there is so much to see in Madrid one day to explore might not be enough for you. That’s why you might opt for spending two days in Madrid instead.

Lisa has been to Madrid two times now and still hasn’t seen everything there is to see. But at least you’ll get a good sampler!

As mentioned, getting from Salamanca to Madrid is easy. The journey will take approximately 2 hrs 12 min by car (including a toll road) and  3 hours by bus .

Madrid’s main bus station is actually underground which is kind of cool and caused a lot of confusion for Lisa and her friends when they tried to find it the first time.

Accommodation in Madrid : Being the capital city of Spain, Madrid is a popular city with lots and lots of accommodation options. Keep in mind that Madrid has many “hostals” which are technically guesthouses but are basically hotels.

Also, if you have a car don’t be surprised if parking is in a public lot for a high fee – that’s just Madrid.

Check here for apartments and hotels in Madrid . 

Specifically, you might want to check out Room007 Select Sol . This charming and trendy hotel is right in the heart of the city, has air conditioning, and serves breakfast at a cafe next door!

If you are looking for a simple stay right in the centre, check out Hostal Madrid . This authentic guesthouse is so centrally located with top attractions and a metro station around the corner.

It’s such good value for money that the two times Lisa travelled to Madrid she actually stayed here both times!

Should you be on the hunt for an actual hostel, you can check here for hostels in Madrid . Keep in mind wherever you book, you will be booking accommodation for two nights. 

Must-see Attractions in Madrid:

• Museum Reina Sofia
• Puerta del Sol

Keep in mind we have a whole separate detailed guide on  amazing things to do in Madrid !

Day 5: Madrid or Day trip to Toledo

As mentioned, you might opt to spend another day in Madrid since there is so much to see.

If that’s the case read our Madrid guide linked above to get more recommendations. Alternatively, you could opt to go on a day trip to Toledo, a beautiful small city not too far from Madrid.

If you don’t want to drive there yourself, you can choose to book a day tour which includes a tour of Toledo among other things. If you want to drive yourself the journey will take you approximately  1 hour by car  and the  same amount of time by bus .

Must-see Attractions in Toledo:

• Toledo Cathedral
• Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes

The next day you will drive to Córdoba, a city in Andalusia known for its famous flower street – among other things of course. There is a lot of history to be found in Córdoba so consider taking a walking tour if you want to learn more about it.

This is one of few routes where you will actually be faster taking public transport as if you were to drive yourself since there is a good train connection between Madrid and Córdoba. 

Driving by car  takes approximately  4 hours  while the journey by train  would be slightly shorter with  2 hrs 15 min .

Accommodation in Córdoba : If you’re looking for a hotel, there are lot of options to choose from.

Check now for hotels in Córdoba .

Specifically,  Maciá Alfaros is an authentic hotel located right in the heart of the city centre with an incredible swimming pool and easy parking onsite.

Hotel Cordoba Center is an elegant hotel located outside the heart of the centre. It’s still very walkable to the centre, is very close to the train station, and has a rooftop pool with amazing views!

There are quite a few hostels with very good ratings in Córdoba so you can check here for hostels in Córdoba .

Must-see Attractions in Córdoba:

• Mosque–Cathedral of Córdoba
• Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos
• Historic Center of Córdoba

For this itinerary, you can decide in which city you would like to end your trip. For some, it might be more convenient to fly out of Seville while for others Málaga might be the better option. So it’s really up to you and your preference!

The journey from Córdoba to Seville takes approximately 1 hr 40 min by car and 45 min by train . The time it takes to get from Córdoba to Málaga isn’t much longer with  1 hr 50 min by car  and  50 min by train .

Accommodations in Seville : As mentioned above, Seville is a popular city so there is always accommodations to choose from.

Specifically, check out Petit Palace Puerta de Triana . This trendy design hotel offers a buffet breakfast and a really great location in the city centre.

For a historic stay, Hotel Simon is a more simple and more authentic hotel. It’s located in a historic building, does breakfast, and is also located in the city centre.

Neither of the above hotels have parking – but fewer properties in Seville offer onsite parking (or even public parking nearby).

If you are travelling by car and want parking available,  then check out La Parada del Marqués . It’s a beautiful guesthouse/hotel also centrally located with breakfast options and good connections to public transit!

If you want a hostel stay, you can search for hostels in Seville here . Regardless of what type of accommodation you book, Seville is popular so we would advise booking ahead – especially during the high season!

Accommodation in Málaga: Malaga is a popular destination in the south of Spain with lots of different accommodation options. That said, apartment rentals are very popular.

Specifically, for hotels, you can check out Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano . This design hotel is bright and clean and offers breakfast while being located right in the heart of the city.

If you are planning for a longer stay, check out Apartamentos Nono . Located close to the beach and a quick walk to the city centre, these apartments have kitchenettes, terraces, and onsite private parking .

If you want a hostel, Malaga has lots. You can search for hostels in Malaga here . When visiting Malaga with a friend, Lisa stayed at Casa Al Sur Terraza .

Even though it’s a “hostel”, it’s a popular place – with private rooms and a lovely rooftop terrace. Her and her friend stayed in a private room and loved it!

Spain Travel Itinerary 7 Days – Eastern Trip

If the other 7-day Spain itinerary doesn’t really appeal to you and you would like to stay closer to the coast, maybe this itinerary is more to your liking. The driving time would be just shy of 11 hours and would be approximately 1000 km driving distance !

Spain Itinerary 7 Days – Eastern Trip Overview

• Day 1+2: Barcelona

Day 3: Valencia

• Day 4:  Alicante
• Day 5:  Murcia

Day 6: Granada

Day 7: málaga, day 1 + 2: barcelona.

Once again, this itinerary starts in Barcelona since it is one of the easiest airports to fly into. Since you have a little bit more time with this itinerary you’ll stay in Barcelona for two days.

There is lots to see so you still won’t see everything, but definitely more than in just one day. To then continue on with this itinerary through Spain, you can find your rental car in Barcelona here .

Accommodation in Barcelona:  As mentioned above, there are lots of hotels and apartments in Barcelona.

For hotels, you might like Catalonia Born Hotel with a boutique style and rooftop pool close to the beach in the city centre.

If you travel by car, Sallés Hotel Pere IV is an affordable hotel with spa in the heart of the city with a private parking garage .

As for hostels, you can check here for Barcelona hostels . We liked Kabul Hostel . Wherever you stay, remember to book in advance because the city does fill up and it can get expensive! And remember, you’ll be staying at this  place for two nights .

• Las Ramblas

The third day of this Spain itinerary will take you from Barcelona to Valencia which is another city on Lisa’s favourite list.

It was actually the first Spanish city she visited and she fell in love with the city and its people right away. Her favourite part is that there is a huge part in what was formerly a river that stretches through a big part of the city.

In order to get from Barcelona to Valencia, you’ll drive along the coast for  3.5 hours by car  and  around 3 hrs 15 min by train. 

Accommodation in Valencia:  Since Valencia is a bigger city, you are sure to find accommodations that work for you.

Check here for hotels in Valencia .

Specifically, Petit Palace Ruzafa is a bright and boutique hotel right in the city centre.

They offer healthy breakfast options and free bike rentals. There’s no parking making this a great hotel for those travelling without a car.

If you want a place right on the beach, check out Hotel Miramar . This cool beachfront hotel has a bar and restaurant right downstairs and has paid parking onsite . If you are looking for a hostel, you can check here for hostels in Valencia .

Must-see Attractions in Valencia:

• City of Arts and Science
• Lonja de la Seda
• Cathedral of Valencia

Day 4: Alicante

Alicante is a popular holiday town that lots of Europeans visit to enjoy the nice weather and the beaches. Maybe you have heard of the name Costa Blanca?

Alicante is part of that exact region. When you’re there don’t forget to check out some of the nice beaches – but of course, there are also lots of other things waiting to be explored.

Getting from Valencia to Alicante won’t take overly long. The drive will take approximately 2 hours by car  and 1.5 hrs to 2.5 hours by train or bus respectively.

Accommodation in Alicante:  Alicante is a popular city due to its great location on the coast.

Check here for hotels in Alicante . 

If you want to stay directly on the beach, Hotel Almirante is a bright and stylish hotel with breakfast buffet. It’s a bit farther from the city centre, but there is free onsite parking  if you have a car.

If you want more of a resort style, Melia Alicante is also located right on the beach with stunning views over the water. It’s much closer to the centre of the city and has good amenities (pool), paid parking next door, and a really good breakfast!

You can also find a good mix of hostels in Alicante. In any case, don’t forget to book ahead in the summertime since it can get very crowded.

Must-see Attractions in Alicante:

• Castle of Santa Barbara
• Casco Antiguo (Old Town)
• Beaches such as Playa Postiguet

If you’re heading for Alicante to get some sunshine, we’ve got a guide on things to do and see in Alicante that includes some great food tips for you to check out!

Day 5: Murcia

Murcia is a city in the southeast of Spain and the capital of the region with the same name. Travellers who don’t know much about Spain (yet) might not have heard of the city before but this doesn’t mean it is not worth a visit.

The drive from Alicante to Murcia is quite short with 1 hr by car and 1 hr 10 min by bus . This will give you a good amount of time to explore the university city and get a rest from all the driving.

Accommodation in Murcia: Since Murcia is a less touristy city you’ll find great places to stay and (generally) fewer crowds.

Check here for hotels in Murcia .

Specifically, the Hesperia Murcia Centro is a clean and modern hotel right in the city centre near the Cathedral. There’s also  private onsite parking and a tasty breakfast.

If you want to stay closer to the coast – you could stay in Cartagena (about 30 minutes away from Murcia). Here, check out  NH Cartagena – with bright, sea views and parking all in a great location.

Must-see Attractions in Murcia:

• Murcia Cathedral
• Floridablanca Gardens
• Monteagudo Castle

From Murcia, your journey will continue to Granada, a city which we have mentioned quite a few times by now so we won’t go into details again. If you haven’t yet, make sure to get your Alhambra tickets in advance!

Driving from Murcia to Granada will be a slightly longer trip with 2 hrs 45 min by car and around 3.5 hrs by bus .

Accommodation in Granada:  Since Granada is a popular travel destination, many accommodations are available.

Check here for hotels in Granada .

Specifically, Hotel Granada Center is a VERY popular hotel with great breakfast, a very central location, and private underground parking onsite .

Also situated in the city centre is Granada Five Senses Rooms & Suites – a sleek and modern hotel with small rooftop pool with great views of the historic old town! If you are looking for a hostel, you can check here for hostels in Granada . 

Since we have mentioned Málaga countless times above, there is not much to add. As you probably know by now Málaga has a great airport to fly out of so this is where this 7-day Eastern Spain itinerary ends.

The journey from Granada to Málaga is approximately 1,5 hrs by car and 2 hrs by bus .

Accommodation in Málaga: Malaga is a popular tourist destination in Spain so there are lots of available accommodations – with apartments being the most popular.

For hotels, check out Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano . This minimalist design hotel is bright and offers a great breakfast while being located right in the city centre.

For longer stays, check out Apartamentos Nono . Located close to the beach and to the city centre, these apartments have kitchenettes for small meal prep, terraces, and onsite private parking .

If you are searching for a hostel, you can search for hostels in Malaga here . When visiting Malaga with a friend, Lisa stayed at Casa Al Sur Terraza .

It’s a popular place to stay in Malaga with private rooms and a great rooftop terrace. She and her friend stayed in a private room and really liked it!

Spain Itinerary – 14 Days

This road trip would be a beast. As planned above with the scheduled day trips you’d cover around 2600 kilometres .

The driving time would be around 27 hours and 30 minutes – but of course, this varies by traffic and which day trips/stop days (beach days) you opt to take, etc.

If you swung down to Gibraltar at the end and then went to Granada and Malaga, it could very well be a tad longer.

You should also consider the price of renting a car for two weeks to see if there are any companies that offer discounts!

Compare prices for your car rental from Bilbao here .

Since you have read about most of these places in some of the itineraries above we’ll keep this one short.

Our version is written from north to south, so from Bilbao to Málaga. As with most of our itineraries, you can reverse the direction if you feel like it So, to really see the whole country, your updated 14-day Spain itinerary might look something like this:

14-Day Spain Itinerary Overview

• Day 2: Day trip to Santander, Vitoria-Gasteiz or Beach Day
• Day 3:  Donostia-San Sebastián
• Day 4:  Zaragoza

Day 5+6: Barcelona

Day 7: valencia, day 8+9: madrid.

• Day 10: Toledo or Córdoba

Day 11: Seville

• Day 12: Seville or Day trip to Cádiz/ Gibraltar
• Day 13: Málaga (or Granada)
• Day 14: Málaga

Once again we are starting this itinerary in Bilbao since it is an easy city to get to. There are quite a few things to see and delicious foods to try so with this itinerary you have slightly more time to explore the city!

Accommodation in Bilbao:  Once again, Bilbao is a bigger centre in Spain so you’ll find lots of accommodations to suit many different styles and budgets.

Specifically, Hotel NH Bilbao Deusto is a bright hotel with breakfast and underground private parking . Friends of Lisa stayed here and enjoyed it. It’s the river from the Old Town – but it’s a nice area and a quick walk to everything.

To stay in the centre of Bilbao’s historic old town, check out Ercilla Hotela . This is a very stylish hotel with a great rooftop terrace/lounge, onsite parking , and food onsite, too.

If you are wanting a hostel, Bcool Hostel is a great option in Bilbao. Just remember: when booking any accommodations in Bilbao,  try to book in the centre or near the river since the edges of the city can be very hilly!

Since the next day in this itinerary is a day trip we’d suggest booking your accommodation in Bilbao  for two nights !

Day 2: Day Trip to Santander, Vitoria-Gasteiz or Beach Day

To give you the chance to see a bit more of the region we recommend a day trip to either Santander or Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of the Basque Country.

Alternatively, you can also opt to spend the day at the beach if the weather is nice (more on that below!) or use the time to see more of Bilbao.

Getting to Santander from Bilbao takes approximately 1 hr 15 min by car and 1.5 hrs by bus . The journey to Vitoria-Gasteiz is slightly shorter, taking approximately 1 hr by car and the same amount of time by bus .

Must-see Attractions in Santander:

• Palacio de la Magdalena
• Centro Botin
• Sardinero Beach

Must-see Attractions in Vitoria-Gasteiz:

• Catedral de Santa María
• Iglesia de San Miguel

If you opt for a beach day instead, we would recommend Sopelana beach. It is easy to reach by metro. Just take the line no 1 in the direction of Plentzia and get off at the Sopelana stop.

From there you can either walk or take the bus to the beach. It’s Lisa’s favourite beach in the Bilbao area since it looks beautiful and is not too crowded. It’s also a great stop to try some surfing.

Day 3: Donostia-San Sebastián

The next stop on your 14-day Spain itinerary is San Sebastián – a city we have already mentioned before. Beautiful beaches and delicious pintxos await you!

The drive from Bilbao to San Sebastián takes around 1  hr 15 min by car  and 1.5 hrs by bus . There are very frequent buses by lots of different operators between these two cities. 

Accommodation in San Sebastián : San Sebastián is one of the more expensive towns in Spain. It’s also very popular among luxury travellers. So, don’t be surprised if accommodations seem a little more expensive overall.

Specifically, check out Casual de las Olas San Sebastián . This hotel is a bit further from the old town and beach but makes up for it with sleek decor, breakfast, and air conditioning.

If you want more of a laid-back feel, check out Talaia HT . This authentic and cozy guesthouse is located in the heart of the old town – and has public parking nearby .

If you are looking for a hostel, you can find hostels across San Sebastián here . Wherever you book, our advice is to book accommodations early. Generally, you save money when doing that.

Day 4: Zaragoza

Day 5 of this itinerary will take you to Zaragoza, a city mentioned in the 5 day Northern Spain itinerary. The drive will be a bit longer but you’ll still have enough time to check out some of the attractions Zaragoza has to offer.

Driving from San Sebastián to Zaragoza will take approximately  2 hrs 45 min by car  (including a toll road) and around  4 hrs by bus .

Accommodations in Zaragoza: Zaragoza is a smaller city but there are still lots of really great accommodation options.

Specifically, check out Hotel Sauce . This bright hotel is located right in the city centre and has buffet breakfast, air conditioning, and private parking onsite for those with a car in Spain!

If you want a hotel with a rooftop pool, Hotel Palafox is for you! Also situated right in the heart of the city, the hotel has a unique decor, city views, a nice breakfast, and also has parking and air con!

A tour across the country wouldn’t be complete without including Barcelona. Since there is so much to see you’ll be spending two nights in the city to give you enough time.

The drive from Zaragoza to Barcelona will take you approximately 3 hrs 10 min by car (includes a toll road), 3.5 hrs by bus and 1.5 hrs by train .

Accommodation in Barcelona : As mentioned above, you’ll find loads of great hotels and apartments in Barcelona.

If you are looking for a hotel, check out Catalonia Born Hotel with a boutique style and rooftop pool in the city centre (also close to the beach).

If you travel by car, Sallés Hotel Pere IV is a lovely and affordable hotel with a spa that is located in the heart of the city and has a private parking garage onsite .

As for hostels, you can check out Barcelona hostels here. Specifically, we enjoyed Kabul Hostel . Hostel or hotel – just remember to book early because Barcelona is a popular city. Also remember that for this itinerary, you’ll be staying over for two nights .

And we’re back in one of Lisa’s favourite cities. The drive from Barcelona to Valencia will be a bit longer but it is worth it (in our opinion at least).

Driving from Barcelona to Valencia will take around  3.5 hrs by car  (including a toll road),  3 hrs by train  and  4 hrs 15 min by bus .

Accommodation in Valencia:  Since Valencia is a bigger city, you’ll find accommodations that work for your style and budget.

Check now for hotels in Valencia .

Specifically, Petit Palace Ruzafa is a boutique hotel very much in the lovely city centre. They offer healthy breakfast, free bike rentals, and no parking – making it great for travellers without a car!

If you’re looking to stay right the beach, you’ll likely love Hotel Miramar . This cool beachfront hotel has a bar/restaurant right downstairs, ocean views, and has paid parking onsite . If you want to stay in a hostel, you can check now for hostels in Valencia .

Must-see Attractions in Valencia: 

Of course, you can’t forget about the capital of the country when going on a trip through Spain.

Since there is so much to see and do you will spend two nights in Madrid. This will also give you some time to recover from the long driving days you’ve had.

Driving from Valencia to Madrid takes approximately  3.5 hrs by car  and slightly less than  2 hrs by train .

Accommodation in Madrid : Being the capital city of Spain, Madrid is a popular city with lots of accommodations.

Keep in mind that Madrid has “hostals” which are technically guesthouses but are basically hotels. Also, parking can be very expensive per day but that’s just Madrid for you.

Specifically, check out Room007 Select Sol . This charming and trendy hotel is right in the heart of the city, has air conditioning, and serves breakfast at a cafe next door. You are very much in the city centre here!

If you are looking for more of a guesthouse stay right in the centre, check out Hostal Madrid .

This authentic accommodation is so centrally located with attractions and the metro close by. It’s good value for money –  the two times Lisa travelled to Madrid she actually stayed here both times!

Should you want an actual hostel, there are loads of hostels in Madrid. You can check here for hostels in Madrid . Keep in mind wherever you book, you will be booking this accommodation for two nights  if you are following this itinerary.

*We have written in-depth about many of the attractions you can visit in Madrid in our things to do in Madrid guide!

Day 10: Toledo or Córdoba

For the next stop on your itinerary, you can decide where you would like to stop. From Madrid you are driving further south and both Toledo and Córdoba would be great options for a stop on the way to Seville.

The drive from Madrid to Toledo will be short and only take  an hour by car or bus . The drive from Madrid to Córdoba is a lot longer and takes approximately  4 hrs by car  and  2 hrs by train .

While this drive would be longer, your drive the next day would be significantly shorter from Córdoba than from Toledo.

Accommodation in Toledo:  If you choose to stay in Toledo, you can check here for hotels in Toledo .

Specifically, you have to check out Hotel Santa Isabel – an authentic and charming Spanish hotel in the heart of the city with an incredible rooftop terrace, good breakfast, and private parking under the hotel  if you need it.

Accommodations in Córdoba: If you end up in Córdoba, you can check now for hotels in Córdoba .

Specifically,  Maciá Alfaros is an authentic hotel located right in the heart of the city with a nice swimming pool and parking onsite.

Hotel Cordoba Center is an elegant hotel located just a short walk to the centre. It’s location is very close to the train station – and there is a lovely rooftop pool with city views!

There are also many hostels with very good ratings so you can check here for hostels in Córdoba .

On day 11 you will drive from either Toledo or Córdoba to Seville – a city we have mentioned multiple times now because it is very much worth the visit.

If you ended up staying in Toledo, it’ll take you 4.5 hrs by car  and  4 hrs by train to get to Seville. If you stayed in Córdoba it’ll only take you 1.5 hrs by car  and  45 min by train  to get to Seville.

Accommodation in Seville : As we have mentioned above a bunch of times, Seville is a big and popular city so you’ll have no shortage of accommodations to pick from.

Check here for hotels in Seville .

Specifically, we like the look of Petit Palace Puerta de Triana . It’s a trendy design hotel with a buffet breakfast located right in the city centre close to top sights!

If you want more of a “historic stay”, Hotel Simon is a simple and authentic hotel located in a historic building!

They also do breakfast and are also located in the city centre. So you know: neither of the above hotels have parking – but not that many hotels in the city centre offer onsite parking (or even nearby public parking).

If you have/rent a car and need parking available, we’d say check out La Parada del Marqués . It’s a beautiful guesthouse/hotel also quite conveniently located but they also have parking, breakfast options, and good connections to public transit!

Should you be looking for a hostel, you can search for hostels in Seville here .

Again, since Seville is very popular so we would advise booking any accommodations ahead of time – especially during the high season! Remember, you’ll stay for two nights  if you follow this itinerary!

Day 12: Seville or Day trip to Cádiz/ Gibraltar

Since there is a lot to see and do in Seville, you have the option to stay another day to explore more of what the city has to offer.

If you’d prefer to see a different place you can consider day trips to either Cádiz or Gibraltar. Know that Gibraltar is not officially part of Spain but belongs to the United Kingdom instead.

It’ll take you around  1.5 hrs by car or train  to get from Seville to Cádiz. To get from Seville to Gibraltar it’ll take  between 2 and 3 hrs by car .

There does not seem to be any public transport between Seville and Gibraltar since it is another country, but you can participate in an organized tour from Seville to Gibraltar .

Must-see Attractions in Gibraltar:

• Rock of Gibraltar
• Great Siege Tunnels
• The Old Town

Day 13: Málaga (or Granada)

On your second to last day of this itinerary, you will drive from Seville to Málaga, a route we have mentioned quite a few times by now up above.

If you really wanted to visit Granada you could also drive there instead. You could then make the trip to Málaga at the end of the day or the next day.

The journey from Seville to Málaga will be approximately  2.5 hrs by car  and  2 hrs by train.  Whatever city combo you choose, just remember to book the right amount of nights in cities (one or two) for the end of your itinerary (keeping in mind where you fly out)!

Accommodation in Málaga:  As a popular city in the south, Malaga has lots of places to choose from when it comes to accommodation options.

For hotels, have a look at Hotel Boutique Teatro Romano . This lovely design hotel offers breakfast – and it’s very centrally located in the heart of the city!

For an apartment rental (maybe for a longer stay), check out Apartamentos Nono . Located close to the beach and a quick walk to the city centre, the apartments have kitchenettes, terraces, and private parking onsite (if you travelling by car).

Malaga also has lots of hostels if you like. You can search for hostels in Malaga here . Lisa stayed at Casa Al Sur Terraza when travelling to Malaga with a friend.

For a “hostel”, the Casa is a very popular place to stay with private rooms and a sunny rooftop terrace. Lisa and her friend booked a private room and enjoyed it!

Accommodation in Granada:  Since Granada is popular, many accommodations are available.

Specifically, Hotel Granada Center is a VERY popular hotel with a great breakfast, a very central location, and private underground parking onsite  if you have a car.

Also situated in the city centre is Granada Five Senses Rooms & Suites – a modern hotel with a small rooftop pool with views of Granada’s old town! If you want to book a hostel, you can check here for hostels in Granada . 

Day 14: Málaga

And this is the end of your two weeks Spain itinerary. Once again Málaga is the city you fly out of since there are lots of great flight connections to other places in Europe.

Alternatively, you could also stay in Seville and visit Málaga on a day trip if the airport in Seville works better for you.

Things to Consider When Travelling in Spain

Before you dive into Spain trip planning, you’ll want to consider a few details. From the currency they use (the Euro) to the weather, public transport, and the best time to visit, we cover a few key areas below to help you prepare.

Best Time of Year to Visit Spain

Spain is a destination that can be visited year-round – you just have to set your expectations right. Lisa visited Malaga with a friend in December and it was quite warm but of course not warm enough to go swimming.

Since the country is quite big and has a diverse geography, there are actually a lot of different climate zones in Spain. Generally, the summers are hot and dry while the winters are mild and quite rainy.

The average maximum temperature for July and August is 30 °C and 17/16 °C in December and January. However, this can vary greatly depending on which city you are visiting (e.g. Granada is always a little bit colder).

We would recommend that you avoid the south – especially Seville – and Madrid in July and August since it can get VERY hot.

And according to Lisa’s Spanish teacher in Bilbao, it would probably also be a good idea to avoid visiting the Basque country during the winter months since it can rain a lot.

In our opinion, the perfect months for visiting Spain would be from March to June and September to the end of October.

Public Transportation in Spain

Spain has a very well-developed long-distance bus system. Lisa was especially impressed by that since in Germany long-distance buses didn’t exist until a few years ago and sometimes it can still be a bit chaotic or unclear.

In Spain, almost every major city has an actual bus station (and not just a signpost). One of the biggest bus companies in Spain is Alsa .

Lisa has used them quite a few times when living in Spain (to go from Madrid to Bilbao for example) and always had a pleasant experience.

In addition to buses, Spain also has a pretty good rail system. You can check the train connections and prices on the RENFE website here .

We would recommend that you always check both buses and trains as sometimes they take approximately the same amount of time and the bus can be significantly cheaper.

In a few areas (such as parts of the Basque country), the buses can be actually a lot faster than the train.

You can reach all of the places mentioned in these Spain itineraries with public transport.

So if you don’t feel comfortable with renting a car in a foreign country you can still follow all of these itineraries. The bus and train stations are often very centrally located so it shouldn’t be a hassle to get into the centre in any of the cities.

Car Rental in Spain

If you would like to rent a car and make these itineraries a road trip that is a great option, too.

Driving in Spain is generally pretty safe – but it can get a little crazy in bigger cities like Barcelona or Madrid. Spaniards also like to speed – but if you are a confident yet careful driver then this shouldn’t be an issue.

Since Spain is such a popular destination, there are lots of different rental car agencies available. Make sure to read the fine print about additional costs in case there are any issues.

You can compare prices for your Spain trip with this handy comparison tool .

In Spain, there are quite a few toll roads which start with an ‘AP’ in the name. If you want to avoid paying tolls you can often find a road that runs in a similar direction.

Generally, your driving time will be longer if you avoid toll roads but you never know which hidden gems you come across on your way.

Travel Insurance for Spain

When visiting Spain you – and especially when renting a car – should get travel insurance.

While you’ll probably be fine, accidents do happen (and Spaniards are more reckless drivers than in other countries) and they can be expensive. That’s why we always travel with insurance.

If you live in a European country and have European health insurance, you can get the blue EU Health insurance card with which you are covered in emergencies. If you don’t have that option, we recommend that you get private travel insurance.

Related Posts

If you are planning your visit to Spain, check out our other posts on travelling, working, and studying in Spain!

• 12 Need to Knows When Travelling to Spain for the First Time
• 11 of The Most Beautiful Cities in Spain
• 17 of the Top Attractions in all of Spain
• Catalonia Road Trip Itineraries

And there you have it – 5 epic itineraries around Spain! Whether you need 5 days or 14, we think you’ll have lots to work with to plan that perfect trip. Lisa is so happy to be able to provide you with her knowledge of the country.

There is still so much to cover – but we think that these itineraries are a great starting point – you may even do the routes as is and see how they go!

As always, Happy Waddlin’, – L&E

• Compare flights on Skyscanner
• Check for Hotel Deals or Book A Hostel
• Get A Rental Car (depending on the destination)
• Research plug types and possibly get a travel adapter
• Go over our packing list

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10 Best Day Trips From Alicante in 2024

In 2018 I made my first trip to Alicante and it made me fall in love with the Costa Blanca instantly. So pretty much every year I have been back and I will travel to Alicante again in 2024.

In my complete  Alicante travel guide I wrote about the best places to visit and the best things to do and already mentioned some day trips. But to give you even more options for your Alicante holidays I will show you the best day trips from Alicante in 2024.

In total my trip to Alicante lasted almost a week. At first I explored the city and loved hanging out in Alicante Old Town, hiking up to the Santa Barbara Castle and strolling along the Explanda de Espana and the marina. After 3 days I wanted to see more of the places near Alicante so I decided to rent a car. Initially I just rented the car for 1 day, but ended up bringing it back after 3 days only.

There are so many cool day trips from Alicante and I checked them out for you one by one. From little coastal villages, to a Santorini look-a-like town and from exploring caves to hiking up to viewpoints.

When visiting Spain make sure you stay connected! If you are from the UK then be sure your UK sim card includes free EU roaming before you end up with high roaming charges. Are you from overseas then I advice you to check out my article with everything you need to know for buying a prepaid sim card in Spain in 2024  or simply order an e-sim card for Spain on the internet .

How to do day trips from Alicante

Doing day trips from Alicante is the easiest if you rent a car. There is a toll road that gets you from A to B fast and there are no traffic jams. Some of the places to visit in Alicante can only be reached by car, like Guadalest and the Canelobre caves as they are completely off the beaten path.

I rented a car for less than €20 per day through the  Do You Spain website . They compare all the companies and give you the best fares. They also have all risk insurance for a couple dollars extra per day.

If you only want to see some other big cities on your Alicante holidays then you can also go around by bus/train. Murcia and Benidorm can easily be reached from the Alicante train/bus station in the city center.

From Alicante to Benidorm

The drive from Alicante to Benidorm is about 46 kilometers and takes 40 minutes. Keep in mind that you will have to pay about €4 toll one way, but there is also a toll free road. I would recommend you to take that one as you pass by some lovely villages on your way. And who does not like a little road trip while on your Alicante holidays.

There is a direct bus from Alicante to Benidorm that runs every hour and takes only 55 minutes. Price for the bus is around €5. Click here to buy your bus tickets online or view all the time tables.

There is a tram that connects Benidorm and Alicante, a kind of slow train. There are 19 stops on this route, but some of them I actually named as great day trips from Alicante. Villajoyosa is a great stop, so if you are looking for places near Alicante to visit then taking the tram is a great way to go sightseeing. The trip takes 1 hour and 20 minutes but has way better scenic views than a car or bus. A return ticket from Alicante to Benidorm is €6,40.

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10 Amazing places near Alicante

This is one of my favorite things to do in Alicante. Altea is one of the most beautiful towns I have seen in a long time. It is located on the coast 58 kilometers northeast of Alicante.On the toll road it only takes 40 minutes to get to Altea.

The village lies just off the main coastal road a little elevated on a hill. The old town is painted white and on top of the hill there is the main square with many terraces.

Trendy boutique shops can be found in the narrow streets. After seeing these photos there is no need to say that this is one of the best day trips from Alicante. Make sure you don’t miss visting Altea on your trip to the Costa Blanca.

2. Benidorm

Probably one of the most popular Alicante day trips. The long golden sand Benidorm Beach is one of the most iconic places to visit in the Costa Blanca, which actually means white sand translate from Spanish.

Multiple skyscrapers lined up on a long boulevard make this place the Manhattan of Spain.

The boulevard is the perfect place for long beach strolls where bars and restaurants are lined up and people watching is one of the best things to do. Head to Benidorm Palace for an amazing dinner show or in summer a visit to the Aqualandia water park is a popular thing to do on holidays in Alicante.

3. Guadalest

When it is not all about beaches on your holidays in Alicante then you have to check out Guadalest. This iconic mountain village is a popular tourist spot in Alicante because of its city walls and castle on top of a hill.

This quaint little town is an Alicante off the beaten path tourist attraction and is surrounded by high mountain tops. There is also a water reservoir below.

There are several hiking trails around but sipping a coffee enjoying the amazing views also is a great thing to do. For €4 you can climb up to the castle. From Alicante to Guadalest is about 60 kilometers, 1 hour drive. From Benidorm you turn inland all the uphill to Guadalest. The drive is very scenic.

Some more Alicante travel ideas you will find in Calpe. To be honest the city itself didn’t really appeal to me, but that could also be because I didn’t have time to climb to the top of the Calpe Rock: Peñon de Ifach. This impressive rock formation on the coast sticks out of the ocean like I have never seen before. It somehow reminded me a little of Gibraltar . There is a possibility to climb to the top of the Calpe Rock, but it takes about two hours. Definitely one of the most adventurous things to do in Alicante. Next time I will surely give it a try! From Alicante to Calpe is 60 kilometers and takes about 50 minutes.

Although picture perfect, just a little sleepy town on top of a hill. To me not worth taking a day trip from Alicante just for Polop, but when you are visiting Guadalest you will pass it by anyway. Good place to go for a drink and wander around in the narrow streets.

6. Villajoyosa

A little overlooked by tourist that travel to Alicante and Benidorm! Villajoyosa (Villa Joiosa) is a cute little coastal town 30 kilometers North of Alicante and 14 kilometers South of Benidorm that should not be missed on your Alicante holidays. With a little fantasy you could name it the Cinque Terre of Spain. Villajoyosa also has a lot of small colorful houses.

Tall waving palm trees and the beach in front make this one of the best places to visit in Alicante. The houses are painted in red, green, yellow and blue so that the fisherman could recognize their village back in the days. There is a lovely boulevard for a little stroll and a bunch of coffee places with good views. You can easily get to Villajoyosa by tram from Alicante and Benidorm. 

7. Canelobre Caves

Just 25 kilometer north of Alicante you find the Canelobre Caves. It only takes 30 minutes to get there, but you will need a car as it is inland and uphill. The caves are open for the public on guided tours that leave every 30 minutes and cost €7. As it is close to the city I think it is a great Alicante day trip and you can perfectly combine it with hiking around the mountain range. There are several hiking trails leaving from the parking lot. The trails are displayed on big information signs.

On your way to or from the Canelobre Caves make a stop at Busot, another sleepy mountain village. If you are looking for places near Alicante a photo of the town square and the narrow colorful streets will surely pop up somewhere.

Sit in the shade on of the terraces and have a lunch after your hike in and around the caves.

From Alicante Old Town to Murcia is about 80 kilometers drive, a little less than an hour. The city of Murcia is one of those medieval Spanish cities you always see in pictures. A colorful old town with a big square and a huge cathedral. Murcia also has flamingos, mud baths and thermal spa’s. This is a city that is not overrun by mass tourism and for a slice of authentic Spain city life Murcia is another day trip that should be named in every Alicante travel guide.

10. Cartagena

No, we are not talking about the famous Cartagena in Colombia now, Spain has a little less popular city with the same name. Nevertheless one of those great places near Alicante. The coastal village of Cartagena is famous for its spectacular Roman Amphitheater, which dates back more than 2000 years ago. It is nestled in the middle of the old town and well worth going on a day trip from Alicante. From Alicante to Cartagena is about 1,5 hours. 

Alicante boat trips

If all the above Alicante day trips were not enough you can always add a boat trip to your itinerary. Two popular destinations for Alicante boat trips are Benidorm Island and Tabarca Island. The last one is a declared Marine Reserve since 1986 and snorkeling is one of the best things to do in summer.

If you have any specific questions about any of these places near Alicante leave me a comment and I will do my utmost best to help you make the most of your holidays in Alicante. But I invite you to also have a look at my complete Alicante Travel Guide for 2024 . Click on the link and find everything about things to do and places to visit in Alicante.

If this blog about Alicante day trips was helpful please consider helping me by sharing this article link somewhere on the internet. Any forum or social media would be very helpful. Pin, tweet or share it on Facebook and I will be forever thankful!

Enjoy your trip to the Costa Blanca!

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