madrid to barcelona road trip itinerary

Our Mini Spain Road Trip: Madrid to Barcelona the Long Way

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Heading southeast out of Madrid, our first stop was Cuenca approximately 2 hrs away. Cuenca is one of Spain’s most enchanting medieval towns where houses precariously hang on the side of cliffs .

We spent our short time here exploring the winding lanes around the village, visiting local ceramic shops and enjoying delicious Spanish food al fresco on the village square.

Go ahead, explore a bit off the beaten path next time you are in Spain. You will be rewarded with fabulous food, scenery and a glimpse into the past.

23 thoughts on “Our Mini Spain Road Trip: Madrid to Barcelona the Long Way”

What a fun trip! I loved Spain, but didn’t actually do a road trip, I bet that’s such a fun experience! It’s so fun to get off the beaten path. Those roads and castles are beautiful. And that photo of the grapes is lovely!

Thanks for the message Amanda!

Love this! Some of the most amazing experiences happen while wandering off the beaten path, and it sounds like you had a fantastic time! Gorgeous photos as well. This is inspiring me to go to Spain!

A mix of off the beaten path and tried and tested places are our MO!

I love staying in the Paradores. We took a road trip from Madrid to Sevilla a few years ago and stayed in a couple of them. It was an unforgettable experience. Madrid to Barcelona seems like a very long drive.

I think Madrid to Barcelona is about 7 hours if you do it direct. Ours was a long meandering way but that’s what we wanted. And yes the paradores are awesome!

OK, I’m convinced. I need to go back to Spain and take a road trip. I’ve only been to Barcelona, but I feel like roadtripping is the best way to see the country…

We tend to road trip a lot and I love it. The flexibility, the insights to the culture and just being on the open road!

My husband want to do a similar road trip next year. We want to start near Madrid and head back up to Barcelona. I guess I need to brush up on my high school Spanish before the trip!

It’s a great trip!!

Sounds like an awesome road trip. I’ve never been to Spain but I’m looking forward to it, spanish is my native language which only enriches the cultural experience.

You would do very well there with speaking the language. I wished I had known more but after years in India my Spanish was a bit rusty!

Great post! We love wandering off into the unknown. My daughter always loves finding new parks.

Playgrounds abroad are the best. My son doesn’t know the difference but I love seeing the old school metal, probably not that safe playgrounds! Brings back memories!

This looks like an amazing road trip! I just may have to copycat your itinerary and return to Spain! The ghost town of Belchite looks like a fascinating place to explore. The towns you visited look so charming, I’d have a hard time leaving 🙂

Do it! If you have more time there is even more to see!

What a detour! The scenery, the architecture – taking the long way always pays off, and it’s only really then that you stumble upon local gems that you wouldn’t have otherwise found. Love your photos, sounds like it was a really fabulous trip 🙂 I’ll have to get to Spain soon!

Thanks for the comment. It was a great detour. And yes you must get to Spain. I had no interest for so long and random events led us there rather than a planned trip to Morocco and I am so glad we went!

Great Post! Spain is on my Europe list for sure for a long stay! i like how this post helps to remind us to not always just head for the big things, and sometimes the not-so-obvious experiences are the best!

It was a blast. I fee bad that we didn’t do some of the big touristy cities, but this made more of an impression on all of us than anywhere we visited in Spain!!

Wow! what a snap, Superb. Very nice post. thanks for saring

I used your trip as reference for a recent Spain vacation. I can not thank you enough for posting this with such detail and great photos. I stayed overnight in both Albarracin, and Cuenca and had the most incredible time.

I’m so happy to read this and that you had a wonderful trip! We really loved exploring off the beaten path in Spain.

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A Week in Spain: From Madrid to Barcelona

I’m sure time flies while traveling, but what to do with a week in Spain?

The answer to that is simple – try to come up with a comprehensive itinerary that best suits your needs and make sure to include the things that interest you most, even though one visit to the sunny destination will not be enough either way.

A great idea for your first sighting in (or a legendary comeback to) Spain is visiting two of the main hubs in the country in one go!

Here’s what to do with a week in Spain: From Madrid to Barcelona.

How to get from Madrid to Barcelona  

Whether you start your adventure in Madrid and end in Barcelona or vice versa, one of the best ways of traveling between the two cities is by taking a train . You can make your way from Madrid to Barcelona by train in around three hours, all the while enjoying scenic views along the way and making use of modern onboard amenities, ensuring your comfort and safety. Check Rail.Ninja for more information on trains, timetables, and other train-travel-related information in Spain.

Alternatively, you can hop on a bus or arrange yourself a private transfer to reach the destination, which can be slightly more time- or money-consuming.

For a scenic stop on your way from Madrid to Barcelona, hop off the train in Zaragoza , another lovely Spanish destination for you to explore. Home to some spectacular examples of Moorish architecture, it is the capital of the scenic Aragón region and the fifth-largest city in the country.

While there, make sure to visit the spectacular Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, the imposing Palacio de la Aljafería, and Museo de Zaragoza, or simply set off wandering its charming streets as scenic views await you on its every corner.

The Spanish Renfe trains in the train station in Barcelona.

Must-See Sights in Madrid

Let’s start with the bustling Spanish capital, Madrid; brimming with so many things to see and do, the city is a well of endless sightseeing opportunities. There are some incredible Madrid landmarks to include on your list.

One of the main visitor attractions in Madrid is undoubtedly the renowned Prado Museum , housing an exceptional collection of artwork, including but not limited to pieces by Velázquez, Ribera, and Zurbarán.

Another crucial stop on the itinerary of any museum lover is the National Archaeological Museum telling the story of Spain’s past and its significant events. Another great way to get better acquainted with the country’s history is joining one of the comprehensive theme tours, such as the Madrid of the Bourbons Walking Tour or the Spanish Civil War Tour .

The Prado museum in Madrid, Spain.

If museums are not something you enjoy, there are plenty of sightseeing opportunities and authentic activities to take part in, for instance, discovering the Golden Triangle of Art , joining a Tapas Cooking Class , taking a day trip to Toledo , enjoying a Flamenco Show , the list goes on!

Such activities allow you to familiarize yourself with the unparalleled fiery culture of Spain and to delve deeper into its flavorful world of gastronomy, popular all over the world.

With all the sightseeing tours to join, flamenco shows to watch, and tapas to taste in Madrid, three or four days pass by without you even noticing it!

You can also visit some of the flea markets in Madrid , or if you’re there on the weekend check out our guide on things to do in Madrid on a Sunday .

A bar in Madrid, Spain.

Barcelona Attractions Not to Miss

After that, comes the time for you to get better acquainted with the jewels of Barcelona, starting with an unforgettable tour of Gaudi’s masterpieces . Scattered all over the bustling city, his works attract a number of visitors, from those lined by the Sagrada Familia to the ones leisurely strolling around Park Guell .

Visiting these masterpieces are among the top things to do in Barcelona !

Skip the line and be the first to get into the La Sagrada Familia , Barcelona’s number one Gaudí attraction.

Barcelona’s skyline would be nowhere near as impressive if it weren’t for the breathtaking spires of Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece, rising into the sky like cloud shredders. Step inside with a guide and discover the history of the Sagrada Familia.

Watch the sunlight stream through the giant stained glass windows and learn about the architect Gaudí himself. He was so passionate about his project that he literally rests there – buried in the crypt!

Inside the La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain.

Other must-visit attractions on any Barcelona itinerary include the Cathedral de Barcelona , Las Ramblas , and the lively La Boqueria market , where you can sample local delicacies, buy fresh produce, or start souvenir hunting for the loved ones back at home. Don’t miss out on these cheap tapas bars in Barcelona !

Among the most popular sites, you can also find the Tibidabo Mountain providing picturesque views over the entire city and the Barceloneta beach , perfect for gazing at the sun slowly setting down in the evening. Don’t miss the chance also to visit the museums in the Montjuïc area and marvel at the dancing fountain nearby!

If you somehow still have a day to spare with the abundance of things to enjoy in Barcelona, don’t miss the chance to set off on a day tour! One of the most popular nearby attractions, perfect for a day-long getaway, is the postcard-like Montserrat Monastery , located just a short ride away, or a Game of Thrones tour in Girona , for those interested in the iconic TV series. Or, if you’re there in the winter check out the ski resorts near Barcelona .

Montserrat Monastery - A great day trip from Barcelona, Spain.

No matter which tours and activities you choose, there will always be so many more day tours to take part in, sights, cities and beautiful places in Spain to visit, which will undoubtedly leave you wanting to come back.

What’s on your list for a week in Spain?

This is Mel and I love to travel!

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The Best Road Trips in Spain and Their Self-Drive Itineraries

March 11, 2021

From rocky volcanic coasts to medieval city charm, driving in Spain can be an absolute joy. After years on the road as a travel writer and resident, I bring you the best road trips in Spain, plus the ultimate Spanish road trip itinerary. Bucket lists at the ready? Let’s go!   Updated 2021.

Table of Contents

THE BEST ROAD TRIPS IN SPAIN

If walking is one of the best ways to see a city, then driving is one of the best ways to see a country. Driving in Spain has brought me deep, deep joy, rising through the red dust of Andalusia and plunging through the deep green of Galicia. 

You can find the separate road trip itineraries through Spain dotted throughout the article, but this article focuses on the best road trips in Spain. 

• Download your free road trip essentials list and road trip packing list.
• Download the road trip planner and toolkit here.

Recommended

I love sharing the best travel resources I can find. 

• I never book a flight without looking on Skyscanner first
• My favourite one stop shop for airport transfers, food tours & excursions is Get Your Guide
• Out of the big accommodation machines, I use Expedia and Booking.com the most
• I’ve hand-picked useful travel gear and tools for you in my Amazon shop . Never leave home without a travel adapter or collapsible water bottle . I’d also recommend these soft ear plugs and a sleep mask .
• Access all our planners and budget spreadsheets in the Travel Toolbox ©
• Plan the perfect road trip with our Road Trip Planner & Toolkit ©
• Use these packing cubes to make life so much easier on the road.
• Save on mobile phone roaming charges with an eSIM from Airalo .

TRAVEL SPAIN BY CAR

We start with the ultimate Spain road trip itinerary, taking in the mainland for first time visitors. But don’t forget Spain’s islands, not to mention delving deeper into the regions to find a richer, more authentic experience when you have more time. 

Whether you call it fly-drive, self drive or want someone else to help you travel Spain by car, this is the collection of the best road trips in Spain. 

Happy planning!

The Ultimate Spain Road Trip Itinerary

If all you have is two weeks, then this is the best Spain road trip itinerary for you. This two week self-drive Spain itinerary brings you the highlights of the country at a reasonable, but not relaxed, pace. 

However, I’d always advise that you take is slow if you can. It’s far more enjoyable to spend more time out of the car than in. With that in mind, check out some of the other regional road trip ideas below.  

Of all the places in the world, Spain is disinclined to rush. People here like to take their time and savour the joys of everyday life. Racing to fit your busy schedule does not usually rank highly in that regard.

The Ultimate Spain Road Trip Itinerary At a Glance

• Day 1: Arrive Barcelona
• Day 2: Barcelona
• Day 3: Girona and the Pyrenees
• Day 4: Valencia
• Day 5: Valencia to Madrid
• Day 6: Madrid
• Day 7: Madrid to Toledo
• Day 8: Toledo to Granada
• Day 9: Granada and the Alhambra
• Day 10: Alpujarras Mountains
• Day 11: Seville via Cordoba
• Day 12: Seville
• Day 13: Cadiz via Doñana National Park
• Day 14: Malaga to fly home

Historical city centres in Spain were designed for pedestrians and, at a stretch, horses. They were not designed for cars! Be careful when following SatNav instructions into steep, old towns. You can find yourself unable to make some tight turns and then somehow need to reverse backwards down a narrow road. Stick to the main roads in town!

Southern Spain Road Trip Through Andalusia

A road trip through Andalusia, Spain’s biggest region, unsurprisingly covers a lot of ground. This passionate place is the home of flamenco, jamon and sherry, as well as staggering, world-renowned monuments. 

You can easily fill two weeks with UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Alhambra in Granada, the Real Alcazar in Seville and the unbeatable mosque turned cathedral in Cordoba. 

But a self-drive road trip through Spain allows you to visit off the radar places and explore local traditions like joining the olive oil harvest in the mountains. From the beaches to the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada, driving through Andalusia really is one of the best road trips in Spain.

Andalusia Road Trip Itinerary At a Glance

• Day 1: Arrive Malaga.
• Day 2: Drive to Cadiz
• Day 3: Cadiz to Seville via Doñana National Park
• Day 4: Seville
• Day 5: Seville to Granada via Cordoba
• Day 6: Granada & Alpujarras Mountains
• Day 7: Back to Malaga to fly home. Find the complete southern Spain road trip itinerary here.
• Malaga is the biggest international airport but you can also fly into Seville and Granada with relative ease.

How about the Madrid to Seville drive?

With so many international flights arriving in Madrid, you may be wondering whether or not you should drive from Madrid to Seville or take the train instead. 

A Madrid-Seville Road Trip can pass through many off the beaten path destinations, like Zafra and Merida, but in my opinion, it’s not one of Spain’s best road trips. 

If you are short on time, I’d highly recommend taking the extremely fast and efficient Madrid-Seville train and then picking up your rental car in Seville to tour Andalusia.

It’s also possible to drive from Madrid to Granada by car, swerving up and down the Alpujarras Mountains, but again, I’d suggest picking up your wheels in Andalusia instead.

The Sanctuary of Dismembered Wax Body Parts

Northern Spain Road Trip Itinerary

Prepare to be surprised when you find out what makes this one of the best road trips in Spain.

The northern area of Spain swaps dry plains for rocky coves, and bull rings for lighthouses and salt marshes amid the green. Famed for its seafood and as the finishing point for the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route, this northern Spain road trip itinerary will show you a different side of the country.

• Want more detail? Explore this Galicia road trip itinerary.

Northern Spain Road Trip Itinerary At a Glance

• Day 1: Arrive San Sebastian
• Day 2: San Sebastian to Bilbao
• Day 3: Bilbao to Aviles
• Day 4: Aviles to A Coruña
• Day 5: A Coruña to Santiago de Compostela
• Day 6: Santiago de Compostela to Vigo
• Day 7: Back to San Sebastian to fly home

Recommended reading:  Road Trip Galicia, Spain; The Undiscovered Northern Coast

View above the clouds on El Teide in Tenerife

Road Trip Through Tenerife (Canary Islands)

As the largest Canary Island off the northwest coast of Africa, Tenerife is famous for its fly and flop beach holidays. But there are so many unusual things to do in Tenerife , from UNESCO World Heritage cities like Laguna to primitive biosphere reserves in Anaga. It’s a hiking paradise and if tight turns and steep roads don’t phase you, a great wild landscape awaits.

Driving through Spain takes on new and heady heights when you’re bounding over black volcanic stones and watching the clouds appear beneath you. This is one of the best road trips in Spain because it is also one of the most beautiful. 

It’s also easy to combine with staying in one place and organising a series of day trips around the island. So if packing and unpacking on a road trip becomes a chore for you, try this instead. 

Road Trip Through Tenerife at a Glance

• Day 1: Arrive and stay in UNESCO World Heritage La Laguna
• Day 2: Drive El Teide Volcano
• Day 3: Los Gigantes for a whale watching excursion
• Day 4: Hiking in Anaga National Park
• Day 5: Orotava, Icod de los Vinos and Garachico
• Day 6: Pyramids of Guimar
• Day 7: Explore La Laguna and fly home

Casa Mila: worth it on any Barcelona itinerary

Road Trip Through Catalonia (Catalunya)

Barcelona is the most famous part of Catalunya but to see more of the Catalan character, get behind the wheel and enjoy one of the best road trips in Spain.

Travel by car in Spain to discover the curious city of Girona, the sandy coast of Costa Brava and the smoky peaks of the Pyrenees.  

Costa Brava offers volcanoes, sleepy coves and some of the best restaurants in the world. That’s not a boast. That’s actually a validated claim (read more about that here. )

You’ll also find flamboyant artwork from local household name Salvador Dalí, a great spot for a hot air balloon ride and a renewed appreciation for the difference between Catalan and Castilian Spanish.

• How to spend three days in Barcelona, an inside guide
• Unusual things to do in Barcelona

Road Trip from Barcelona At a Glance

• Day 3: Barcelona to Girona
• Day 4: Figueres and Cadaques
• Day 5: Garrotxa Natural Park
• Day 6: Tarragona
• Day 7: Return Barcelona to fly home

Road Trip Through Central Spain

Treat yourself to a literary, gastronomic and thoroughly authentic journey through this central part of Spain, the region of Castilla La Mancha. It’s one of the best road trips in Spain for hidden gems and a sense of exploration. 

Take in Toledo, the former capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Search the hills for the windmills made famous by Don Quixote. Hike through one of the best bird reserves in the country. And relish taking your time amid small Spanish villages, far from the crowds. 

Road Trip Through Central Spain at a Glance

• Day 1: Arrive Madrid
• Day 2: Madrid
• Day 3: Madrid to Toledo
• Day 4: Toledo
• Day 5: Don Quixote Countryside
• Day 6: Hike through the Tablas de Daimiel
• Day 7: Return Madrid to fly home

Both islands have stunning coastlines (but this place is Menorca!)

Driving the Balearic Islands

One of the best road trips in Spain involves flying to one of her smaller islands and taking a laid back approach to plans and itineraries all together. Mallorca and Menorca are the two main Balearic Islands and each has a distinctive character. Mallorca has party spots, UNESCO World Heritage and wild hiking routes. Menorca specialises more in family beaches, quiet streets, small towns and an awful lot of gin.

• Menorca or Mallorca for your Balearic Island holiday?

Set yourself up with one home base for a week and take a series of day trips to explore either island.

One of the best things about Barcelona is that it leads right onto a sandy beach…

Road Trip Along Spain’s East Mediterranean Coast

Drive from Barcelona to Valencia to experience two of Spain’s most interesting cities and her sparkling coastline as well. Find the Roman amphitheatre at Tarragona and the rice fields that gave us paella outside Valencia. If you have more than one week to ten days, continue south to the Moorish fortress in Amería as part of a road trip through Andalusia. 

Road Trip Through the East Coast of Spain At a Glance

• Day 2: Barcelona and Girona
• Day 3: Valencia via Tarragona
• Day 5: Alicante and the Costa Blanca
• Day 6: Almeria and Cabo de Gata
• Day 7: Back to Barcelona to fly home (or to Malaga)

Road Trip Across Galicia

Decked out in deep green hues and bursting with salty seafood, a road trip through Galicia provides a completely different experience of Spain. 

With a coastline more reminiscent of the rugged, craggy inlets of Ireland than the white sand of the south,  it’s no surprise that Galicia offers seafood to make even the uncertain smile. Expect lighthouses, green fields, great walking routes and great food. 

• A Galicia Road Trip: Northern Spain’s Rugged Green Coast

Road Trip Around Galicia at a Glance

• Day 1: Arrive La Coruña
• Day 2: Pontedeume and Redes
• Day 3: Porto do Barqueiro &  Viveiro
• Day 4: Praia das Catedrais
• Day 5: Torre de Hercules Lighthouse & home

Road Trip Around the Basque Country

Link up San Sebastián, Bilbao and Santander for an epic road trip through Spain’s Basque country. Taste arguably the best food in the country in the pintxos bars in San Seb and take in the curls and swirls of the Guggenheim in Bilbao. 

Add in secluded coastal curves and surprise museums, like the Balenciaga museum in Getaria , and you will find yourself with an unforgettable Spanish Road Trip.

Road Trip Through the Basque Country at a Glance

• Day 1: Arrive Bilbao
• Day 2: Bilbao
• Day 3: Bilbao to Logroño via Pamplona
• Day 4: Logroño to San Sebastian
• Day 5: San Sebastian
• Day 6: Hiking in Getaria
• Day 7: Back to Bilbao to fly home

What to know if you travel Spain by car

Cars drive on the right and you’ll need a full and valid driving license.

Tips for Spain Road Trip Itineraries

If you book through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Cheers!

Typically, it’s best to pick up a vehicle at at the airport unless you have your heart set on exploring an historic city centre first. Bring your full driving license and book in advance. I’d highly recommend booking your car rental through Hertz.

Planning in Detail

I rely on the AA Route Planner to give me times and directions in Spain. Make sure you check for:

• Tolls (or factor them into your budget anyway)

What You Need to Drive in Spain

For a robust rundown of what you need to drive in Spain head to the Government website . From here you can check the latest recommendations and legal requirements, including information on an international driving permit.

Booking Hotels

Many smaller, boutique hotels in the centre of cities will not have parking options. It’s best to either park on the outskirts of town and walk in (in some places, such as Seville, taxis will struggle to get in as well) or if that’s too difficult for you then book a hotel on the outskirts of town and use their transport to travel in. 

Highlights of Driving in Spain

Travel Spain by car and you’ll find all the following benefits.

While the big cities can get the pulse racing, for the most part, driving in Spain is a beautiful experience. Here are five reasons why:

1) THE ROADS ARE EMPTY

Outside the main cities that is. Gleaming wide main roads covered with smooth tarmac are the rule rather than the exception. Drive from  Granada  to  Seville  or Segovia to Merida and you’ll hardly see another car for miles.

2) THE SCENERY IS STUNNING

Low swirling mist rising over olive groves, intense sunshine hugging the contours of rust-red rock. Sparkling coastlines and white-washed towns with church towers spiking out of scorched plains. The green cloaked mountains of Galicia, the almond-scented mountains of Alpujarras and the Catalan curves of  the eastern Pyrenees.  Unlike driving in some countries, these views are visible from the windscreen of the car – you don’t have to wait until you park and get away from the roads.

3) GIANT BULLS ON THE HORIZON

Not real ones, of course. But building-sized, black, one-dimensional bull cutouts. Apparently, these first appeared as part of an advertising campaign for sherry. They were due to be removed until people clamoured for them to stay. Now, they add to the fun, as you never quite know when the next one will appear.

4) FRESH TAPAS AT SERVICE STATIONS

Forget about crisps, biscuits and overpriced coffee. Most petrol stations along the road in Spain are family run affairs with a chef on site. Coffee costs less than a euro while a plateful of patatas bravas, chocos, gambas or more is only a few minutes away. And if you’re feeling too hot? Try refreshing gazpacho instead.

5) FREEDOM AND GETTING OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

For reasons I’ll never quite understand, Spain has a reputation as a sand-and-sea destination and that’s about it. Visitors tend to cling to the coast and never realise just what they’re missing. Hiring a car and hitting the roads is the first step towards fixing that. Stop off in one of Andalucia’s pueblos blancos, for example, and you’ll probably be the only foreigner in town.

And that’s just for starters.

What is the best way to travel across Spain? Road trip or by train?

Great question. And the answer is: it depends. 

Driving through Spain is an absolute joy, once you are out of the cities. Road tripping through Spain allows you to reach hidden villages and hike through unspoilt landscapes. It also makes life much easier if you are travelling with your children. 

If you mainly wish to city hop between the big cities like Madrid, Barcelona and Seville, then the train is the better option. If you want to get off the beaten track and explore, go for a road trip.

Tools & Planners for the Best Road Trips in Spain

You’re in road trip heaven here, as we have everything from a full list of road trip essentials to the Ultimate Road Trip Planner for people who love freedom and hate spreadsheets.

And just for fun, we have the best road trip quotes and some road trip questions and games to help everyone get along.

Also, check out our road trip planning series on YouTube:

• The 5 biggest road trip planning mistakes people make (and how to fix them)
• The 7 best road trip planning tools.

1 thought on “The Best Road Trips in Spain and Their Self-Drive Itineraries”

The scenery is stunning indeed. I didn’t have to go driving to notice that. It’s wonderful!

Comments are closed.

Aerial view of Barcelona

Terraces in Plaza Real, Barcelona

Montserrat Monastery

Tarragona cathedral

Oñar River, Girona

Boadella beach, Lloret de Mar

La Seu d'Urgell, Lleida

Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park

8 Days – Barcelona & Surroundings by car

Spend 2 days discovering the iconic city of Barcelona before renting a car to drive along the beautiful beaches of the Costa Brava, visit the historic towns of Girona and Tarragona as well as Montserrat mountain. Head north and spend a few nights soaking up the fresh mountain air of the majestic Pyrenees mountains in Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park before heading back to the city.

route PROGRAMME

Day 1-2: barcelona.

Arrive at Barcelona El Prat airport. Spend the next 2 days exploring this cosmopolitan city – the Gaudi architecture at the famous Sagrada Familia or Park Guell, strolling along the Las Ramblas or visiting Camp Nou stadium. Not to forget the exciting nightlife in Port Olympic area. Overnight in Barcelona.

Day 3: Full day trip to Montserrat & Tarragona

Today, after picking up the rent a car, head out to the craggy heights of Montserrat mountain known for its unique pink formations, awe-inspiring views and a 1000-year old Bendectine monastery. You can drive all the way up to Montserrat (61.2 kms/1 hr 15 mins) or park at the stations below to enjoy the experience of taking the cable car or the rack railway to the top.

Leave Montserrat and head to the lovely seaside town of Tarragona (107 kms /1 hr 20 mins), filled with Roman ruins. Ramble around the Ramblas Nova full of shops and restaurants, visit the spectacular Roman amphitheatre facing the sea and enjoy the best views of the Mediterranean sea from the Balcon del Mediterraneo . Overnight in Barcelona.

Day 4: Full day excursion to Girona & Costa Brava

Travel through the scenic countryside to visit the colorful Roman city of Girona and discover its atmospheric Old Town. Enroute, visit the coastal region of Costa Brava surrounded by unspoiled beauty. Visit some of the famous coastal villages along the Costa Brava, such as Blanes , Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar or the quintessentially Spanish Calella de Palafrugell . Enjoy the beaches, explore the quaint streets or just take in some Mediterranean sun! (Barcelona – Costa Brava: 85 – 145 kms; Costa Brava – Girona: 40-55 kms; Girona – Barcelona: 103 kms/1. 5 hrs). Overnight in Barcelona.

Day 5: Barcelona – Pyrenees (Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park)

Leave the sandy beaches of Barcelona and head to the majestic Pyrenees mountains which runs across the Spanish regions of Catalonia, Aragon and Navarra. The most famous point in the Catalan Pyrenees is the Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park and you can base yourself in any of the villages surrounding the park.

Barcelona – Vielha : 280 kms/4hrs Barcelona – Baruerra/Boi/Espot : 260 kms/3 hrs 40 mins Overnight in Pyrenees.

Day 6: Pyrenees (Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park)

Head to the national park known for its spectacular scenery, beautiful lakes and wildlife. You can enjoy hiking, trekking, biking or any of its walking trails. Overnight in Pyrenees.

Day 7: Pyrenees – La Seu d’Urgell - Barcelona

Leave the Pyrenees for the drive back to Barcelona. Enroute, stop at the lovely mountain town of La Seu d’Urgell (124 kms from Vielha, 80 kms from Espto, 140 kms; 1.5 – 2.5 hrs). Overnight in Barcelona. (La Seu d’Urgell – Barcelona: 175 kms/2.5 hrs). Overnight in Barcelona

Day 8: Barcelona

Drop off the car and take your return flight back home from Barcelona El Prat airport.

main DESTINATIONS

One of the most modern, active and cosmopolitan European cities on the Mediterranean.

A spectacular landscape just an hour from Barcelona, with a Monastery and an art museum.

Around 100 kilometres from Barcelona, this city has one of the best-preserved Roman circuses on the Mediterranean.

Girona & Costa Brava

The Costa Brava begins 75 kilometres from Barcelona. Discover towns like Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí.

The Pyrenees

Just a two-hour drive from Barcelona, this is one of Spain’s most beautiful mountain areas.

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Classic 10-14 Day Spain Itinerary

Spain is renowned for its romantic allure and famous for its delicious tapas and vibrant flamenco culture.

The country is a tapestry of diverse history, rich culture, and exquisite cuisine. Its magnificent cities are home to some of the world’s most stunning cathedrals, palaces, museums, and historic sites.

This 10-14 day Spain itinerary takes you to the Spain’s classic cities: Barcelona, Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, and Granada. The itinerary starts in Barcelona and ends in either Seville or Granada.

You’ll see the major sites, attractions and landmarks. You can travel via low cost flights, high speed trains, or car.

Spain has a fantastic train system (Renfe) with high speed trains connecting the major cities. You won’t want to have a car in the major cities.

You can take public transportation or book a tour to some of the small town day trip options. But a car will give you more flexibility if you want to veer off course or make more stops along the way.

This super detailed Spain itinerary is perfect for first timers and is easily adjustable. You can change the order, depending on which major city you fly into.

If you follow the 10 day itinerary for Spain, you’ll have 3 bases: Barcelona (4 nights), Madrid (2 nights), Cordoba (1 night), and Seville (3 nights). I give you tips on where to stay in each city.

If you opt for 14 days in Spain, you will add on 4 days with Granada as a base.

Snapshot Of 10-14 Day Itinerary For Spain

Here’s a quick glance at what you can see with this itinerary:

• Day 1 : Barcelona
• Day 2 : Barcelona
• Day 3 : Day Trip to Montserrat or Girona
• Day 4 : Train to Madrid
• Day 5 : Madrid
• Day 6 : Day Trip To Toledo or Segovia
• Day 7 : Train to Cordoba
• Day 8 : Seville
• Day 9 : Seville
• Day 10 : Day Trip to Ronda
• Day 11 : Drive to Granada, stop in Antequera
• Day 12 : Granada
• Day 13 : Granada
• Day 14 : Day Trip to Frigiliana and Nerja

10-14 Days In Spain Itinerary

Day 1: barcelona’s main attractions.

You’ll start your Spain itinerary in Barcelona. This big city has so many amazing things to do and see.

You’ll need 3 days to soak up the incredible Gaudi architecture , devour the savory food, and wander in the atmospheric Gothic Quarter.

1. Gothic Quarter

On your first day in Barcelona, head to the Gothic Quarter and stroll down the maze-like Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s most famous street.

It’s a pretty nice (but very crowded) boulevard with a plethora of cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

The must see sites in the Gothic Quarter include intact Roman ruins, Barcelona Cathedral, Royal Square, and the Picasso Museum.

There’s also a historic market place, La Boqueria, that’s well worth checking out, especially if you need a snack.

Here’s my complete guide to Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter . Click here to book a walking tour of this beautiful neighborhood. Click here to book a tour of La Boqueria and take a cooking class.

2. Sagrada Familia

In the afternoon, head to Gaudi’s wildy creative opus, Sagrada Familia (pre-book tickets!) This is one of Spain’s most visited landmarks.

Sagrada Familia is a place of superlatives both inside and out. Inside, it’s majestic star-lit white forest.

You can marvel at the intricate stained glass windows that create a mesmerizing play of light and colors The exterior showcases impressive facades adorned with biblical scenes and intricate sculptures that embody Gaudí’s unique vision.

Entry is timed, and tickets sell out quickly. You will definitely want to  buy your ticket online in advance . Try to reserve a slot for the late afternoon when the sun flows in through the stained glass windows.

There’s so much to see at Sagrada Familia that you also might want to book a guided tour .

At sunset, take the metro or bus to Bunkers del Carmel. Bunkers was an anti-aircraft base set up during the Spanish civil war.

When it was abandoned, Barcleonians adopted it as a hangout and lookout terrace. Bunkers gets pretty crowded in the evenings. But watching the sunset is well worth the climb and wait.

Day 2: Barcelona’s Iconic Gaudi Architecture

After fueling up, head to Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelon’s toniest neighborhoods. This area has some of Barcelona’s most iconic architecture, including UNESCO-listed structures created by Antoni Gaudi.

1. Casa Battlo

Casa Batllo is one of the world’s most unique buildings. It’s Antoni Gaudi at his hallucinatory, dreamlike best.

Casa Battlo’s creative facades is an emblem of dragon iconography. Here’s my complete guide to Casa Batllo . Click  here  to purchase a (very necessary) skip the line ticket. Click here to book a 2 hour guide tour + skip the line ticket.

2. La Pedrera

La Pedrera , or Casa Mila, is another Gaudi masterpiece. In terms of ingenuity, architectural design, and style, it was even more revolutionary than Casa Batllo.

The rough hewn building was nicknamed “The Quarry” because of its jagged, rocky facade and weird undulating shape.

But La Pedrera is considered one of the crown jewels of the Art Nouveau movement. It’s been used in 15 movies. In classic Gaudi fashion, La Pedrera was heavily influenced by nature — by air, sea, and water.

The building ripples and waves like a burbling ocean. The iconic rooftop has winding pathways and a spiky forest of 30 chimneys.

Here’s my   complete guide To La Pedrera . Click  here  to purchase a skip the line ticket for La Pedrera.

In the evenings, a  spectacular audiovisual show  takes place on the terrace. The rooftop terrace and stairwells are illuminated with projections set to music.

3. Park Guell

In the evening, head to the Park Guell at sunset. Park Guell might be Gaudi’s most fantastical creation.

It’s a 45 acre public park and garden complex, with stunning mosaic art, located on Carmel Hill in Barcelona. Enjoy a gorgeous sunset experience and stroll in Barcelona’s finest park.

Most of the Park Guell is free to visit and you’ll have some nice views over the city. But you’ll need a  ticket  to access the central Monumental Zone.

If you want to visit the former home of Gaudi, the house-museum is located just outside the Monumental Zone in the park’s free section.

Day 3: Day Trip To Montserrat Or Girona

1. montserrat.

You first option is a day trip to magnificent Montserrat . Montserrat means “serrated mountain.”

The mountain is a unique fantasia of jagged peaks and rocky spires. Nestled in the rock is a dramatic Benedictine monastery, which is still an important pilgrimage site and the most sacred site in Catalonia.

Take a funicular or rack railway up to the top and explore the basilica and museum. The art-rich museum houses works by El Greco, Dali, and Monet. There are also designated hiking trails ranging from 1 to 3 hours.

The metro will get you there in 2 hours. To save valuable time, you may want to  book a tour , which will be much more efficient than public transport. Try not to go to Montserrat on a weekend, when it’s busiest.

Alternatively, you can head to the medieval city of Girona. Historic Girona is chock full of beautiful buildings — churches, monasteries, fascinating museums, and the colorful houses of the Onyar River.

Walk the walled Old Quarter of Barri Vella. Visit the Roman ruins of the Forca Vella fortress.

One of Girona’s most unmissable sites is the Cathedral de Santa Maria , combining Romanesque cloister and a Gothic nave (one of the world’s largest). Located in the old Jewish Quarter, the Arab Baths are also quite breathtaking.

When you’re done admiring the sites, take a footbridge across the River Onyar. Sit down at one of the terrace cafes lining the Place de la Independencia.

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, Girona was also a key filming location for Season 6. You can join a guided GOT tour , which will take you to Girona’s must see GOT sites. You can also book a guided day tour from Barcelona .

Where To Stay In Barcelona

For a splurge, try the  Ma ndarin Orienta l ,  Cotton House , or the  Hotel Arts .

Other nice hotels include  The Serras  (urban chic hotel overlooking Port Vell), the  Hotel Cataloinia Passeig de Gracia  (luxury hotel with a sunny terrace), or  Hotel Bagues  (a sumptuous gem on La Rambla).

If you like boutique hotels (I know I do), check out the  H10 Madison , the  Hotel Neri ,  or the  Hotel Pulitzer .

Day 4: Train To Madrid

On day 4 of your 10-14 days in Spain, take a flight or high speed AVE train from Barcelona to Madrid. The train takes 2:45.

Depending on when you leave Barcelona, you will have 1.50 to 2 days in Madrid.

1. Historic Center

Settle into Madrid’s vibrant vibe with a stroll in Madrid’s historic core, the pedestrianized Calle de las Huertas and the main square of Puerto del Sol.

You may want to book a  2 hour guided walking tour of the historic center  to get oriented.

2. Prado Museum

In the afternoon, your first stop is the masterpiece-filled Prado Museum .

The Prado is Spain’s cultural jewel, boasting one of Europe’s finest and most sensuous painting collections. Its artistic anchors are Goya, Velazquez, and Rubens.

Don’t miss the haunting Black Paintings by Goya in the subterranean gallery. If you’re a Goya devotee, you may want to inspect his frescos in the San Antonio de la Florida Chapel, where he is also buried.

Click here to book a skip the line ticket. Click  here  to book a ticket + guided tour of the Prado.

3. Plaza de Cibeles

Near the Prado Museum, you’ll also find the Plaza de Cibeles. It’s another of Madrid’s emblematic squares. This Neo-Classical beauty is home to some stunning architecture.

Click  here  to book a guided tour of the magnificent palace.

The Buenavista Palace is the oldest building in the plaza. The Cibeles Fountain shows the Greek goddess of fertility, Cybele, seated atop a chariot being pulled by lions.

In the evening, end your day with a progressive tapas dinner. Head to the La Latina neighborhood.

The Cava Baja street is just a few blocks south and east of the Royal Palace. This three block stretch is crammed with tapas bars and restaurants.

Day 5: Explore Madrid

1. royal palace.

On day 2 in Madrid, begin with a visit to the sumptuously decorated Royal Palace, which rivals Versailles .

It’s one of Europe’s greatest palaces with 2,000 rooms, a king’s ransom of gilding and chandeliers, and luxurious tapestries.

The palace is also renowned for its painted frescos and stunning artwork. You’ll find paintings by many artistic luminaries — Velazquez, Goya, Rubens, El Greco, and Caravaggio.

You can choose either a  skip the line guided tour  or an  unguided timed entry slot .  

2. Plaza Mayor

Continue through Madrid’s bustling Puerta del Sol to the elegant Plaza Mayor or to Gran Via. The 17th century Plaza Mayor is the beating heart of Madrid.

Gran Via is a famous shopping street in Madrid, close to other sightseeing attractions like the Plaza de Cibeles and Plaza de Espana.

3. Museum Choices

In the afternoon, head to either the Reina Sofia or the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. Opened in 1992, the Reina Sofia is Madrid’s well-curated modern art museum. There’s a special focus on Spain’s favorite sons, Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali .

The iconic star of the Reina Sofia is Guernica , Picasso’s grim depiction of the Nazi bombing of Guernica Spain in 1937.

Click  here  to book a skip the line ticket for the Reina Sofia. Art lovers should consider a guided tour of the magnificent museum.

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is another wildly popular museum in Madrid. It covers every major period in Western art, from 13th century Italian Renaissance to 20th century Pop Art.

This is where you’ll find some fan favorites — Impressionists, Post-Impressionists, German Expressionists, and Surrealists.

Click  here  to pre-book an entry ticket. Click  here  to book a guided museum tour.

4. El Retiro Park

If you’re not a fan of museums, instead take a bucolic stroll and picnic in Madrid’s most popular green space, Retiro Gardens.

El Retiro is filled with royal remnants and wonderful monuments. There’s the Crystal Palace, the Statue Walk, the Alfonso XII monument, and a man made lake to explore.

5. Salamanca

Walk through Retiro to the upscale residential neighborhood of Salamanca. Salamanca is a shopper’s paradise, home to tony shops and Spain’s most expensive street, Calle Serrano.

If you’re looking to treat yourself to a fantastic meal, Salamanca has fantastic restaurants.

Start your night with a glass of vino at Angelita Madrid or Valgame Dios, bars in the trendy Chueca neighborhood of central Madrid.

If you want to have dinner in this area, try Mercado San Anton where you can choose from international cuisines.

Day 6: Day Trip To Toledo Or Segovia

On day 6 of your 10-14 day trip to Spain, plan a day trip to either Toledo or Segovia.

Toledo is a historic city with plenty to see and explore. It’s larger and rich in history. On the other hand, Segovia, smaller and nestled in the mountains, offers a cooler and more relaxed atmosphere.

It’s not possible to visit both in one day, so you’ll need to choose.

If you can only see one, I’d recommend Toledo for its wealth of sights. However, it’s a win-win situation either way, as both places have their unique charm.

Just south of Madrid and situated atop a gorge, medieval Toledo is one of Spain’s best loved UNESCO cities.

Toledo is an incredibly well preserved town, with a concentrated mix of art and history stashed within its medieval walls. The best sites stretch out from Toledo’s lively main square, Plaza de Zocodover.

At the town’s center is perhaps Spain’s best and most beautiful cathedral. The primarily Gothic Cathedral is one of Europe’s best cathedrals, with a richly decorated interior.

>>> Click here to book a tour of the cathedral

The sacristy is like a mini-Prado, boasting an impressive array of artworks by masters such as El Greco, Velazquez, Goya, and Caravaggio. Around its interior, you’ll find beautifully ornate chapels.

For more art, consider visiting the Santa Cruz Museum or the smaller El Greco Museum, which both house more of El Greco’s stunning paintings .

Next, make your way to the Toledo Alcazar, a former imperial residence that stands out in Toledo’s skyline. If you’re interested in history or military, you’ll enjoy the Army Museum located inside the Alcazar.

The high speed train gets you to Toledo in just over 30 minutes. For ease, you can also book a full day tour from Madrid to Toledo.

Segovia makes the perfect easy day trip from Madrid. Segovia is a history rich town with a beautifully preserved Roman aqueduct. Stroll through the streets of the beautiful town, enjoying the authentic old world charm.

Then visit Segovia’s medieval Alcazar fortress, its crowning glory. Built atop a rock with pointy slate spires, the alcazar looks like a castle conjured from a medieval fairytale.

Alfonso VIII lived in the fortress in the 12th century before architectural changes transformed it into a Gothic castle in the 13th century.

>>> Click here to book a ticket to the alcazar

Segovia’s aqueduct is one of Spain’s the most ancient landmarks, the best preserved example of Roman civic architecture in Spain. Dating from approximately the 2nd century AD, it’s a tour de force of Roman engineering that stood the test of time.

The aqueduct is set in a lively square of Segovia, part of everyday life. On Plaza de Azoguejo, a grand stairway leads from the base to the top of the aqueduct.

In its shadows, sits a replica of the She-Wolf of Rome, a statue found in the Capitoline Museums in Rome .

There are frequent departures for the 30 minute train ride to Segovia.

You can also visit Segovia (+ Avila) on a guided day trip tour from Madrid. To get the most out of your day, you can also book a guided tour of both Toledo and Segovia.

Where To Stay In Madrid

You’re spoiled for choice for excellent hotels in Madrid. 

You can stay at classy well-established hotels like  The Westin Palace Madrid , the  Four Seasons Hotel Madrid , or the  Mandarin Oriental Ritz . 

My personal favorites are probably the:

• Hotel Gran Melia Palacio Los Duques  (luxury hotel in an ancient duke’s palace with a secluded garden)
• the  URSP Hotel and Spa  (a simply gorgeous hotel with a wellness center)
• the  Principal Madrid  (luxury boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace).

Day 7: Train to Cordoba

On day 7, take the high speed train 2 hours from Madrid to Cordoba.

Cordoba is an exotic stone paved city with both a Roman and Moorish past. Cordoba is a natural film set, it’s just so beautiful. Cordoba has an authentic Spanish vibe with fewer tourists than Seville.

Stroll across the stunning Roman Bridge, both a UNESCO site and a Game of Thrones filming location.

READ : One Day In Cordoba Itinerary

1. Mezquita, the Mosque Cathedral

Most people come just for Cordoba’s #1 site: the magnificent Mezquita , the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba. Dating from the 10th century, it’s a UNESCO site and one of the world’s most well-preserved Islamic buildings.

In the 16th century, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella converted the Mezquita into a cathedral. It’s a a snapshot of the sophisticated dual culture that once existed in southern Spain.

Outside, a large courtyard (you can enter for free) welcomes you.

Inside, the Mezquita is vast — an eye catching forest of candy cane horseshoe arches. 800 red and blue granite columns are topped with double arches of alternating red brick and white stone.

Highlights of the Mezquita are the Mihrab (or high altar in a mosque), the Visigoth mosaics and ruins, the Royal Chapel, and the central golden altar. Newly restored, the Christian altar makes it easy to forget you’re in a former mosque.

The mosque also has a bell tower, which you can climb for dramatic views.

Click   here  to pre-purchase a ticket. Click here for a guided history tour of the Mezquita.

The Mezquita is open from 8:30 to 9:30 am, 10 am to 2 pm, and 4 pm to 7 pm daily .  At night, you can go to the  sound and light show  for 18 euros. 

2. Old Town

Amble around the narrow streets of the charming old Jewish Quarter. This area was once a vibrant Jewish community from the 10th to the 15th century.

Now, it’s the largest old town in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s home to many historic monuments. You may want to book a  2 ho ur guided walking tour  of this romantic area.

Inspect the Instagram popular Calleja de las Flores. Wander down Tomás Conde, Almanzor Deanes, Manríquez, Judíos and Romero, and any little lanes meandering off these streets.

3. Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos

Then, pay a visit the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos , or Alcazar of the Christan Monarchs in English. It’s similar (but not as elaborate) as the Royal Alcazar in Seville, built in the Mudéjar style. The UNESCO World Heritage site was built in 1328.

The alcazar features an elaborate Moorish bathhouse, King Alfonso XI’s castle, and gardens. The gardens have ponds, reflecting pools, plantings.

The alcazar’s main tower is known as the “Tower of the Inquisition.” During the Spanish Inquisition, in 1482, the circular tower was used a prison, headquarters, and torture and interrogation chambers.

Click  here  if you’d like to book a 1 hour guided tour of the alcazar. For maximum efficiency, you can also book a combo tour of the Mezquita and the Alcazar .

4. Evening: Medina Azahara

For the perfect end to your 1 day in Cordoba trip, visit the Medina Azahara after hours. You can enjoy wandering about the tranquil ruins, which are lit up to good effect after dark.

Medina Azahara is the largest archaeological site in Spain. Destroyed during a civil war in the 11th century, the Medina is only 10% excavated.

You can explore the private residences, guard houses, a basilica, a mosque, and gardens. The two highlights of the site are the House of Ya’far and the Abd-al-Rahman II Hall in the gardens.

If you’d like to book a tour to see this UNESCO site, click   here  for a wonderful 3 hour guided tour.

Where To Stay In Cordoba

The  Patio del Posa dero Hotel Boutique B&B  is an ultra chic boutique hotel housed in a fully restored 15th century house. The  Hotel Ho spes Palacio del Bailio  is a luxury hotel in a palatial 16th century building. It comes complete with Moorish flourishes and frescos.

The  Hotel Viento 10  is a swish boutique hotel in a Moorish style house. It has a rooftop terrace with a great view of the Mezquita.

Finally, the  Hotel Madinat  is an upscale hotel housed in a superbly restored 18th century mansion. It’s a mix of contemporary styling and Arab flourishes. The hotel has two terraces and a rooftop watch tower.

Day 8: Seville

From Cordoba, it’s a quick 45 minute train ride to Seville. If you start early, you can have most of day 8 on your Spain itinerary in Seville to sightsee.

Seville is Andalusia’s exquisite capital. You’ll likely spend most of day 1 visiting Seville top 2 attractions — the Royal Alcazar and Seville Cathedral.

1. Royal Alcazar

The Royal Alcazar is a world-renowned cultural gem, a centuries-old complex that includes palaces, fortifications, charming courtyards, and vibrant water gardens filled with shades of orange, purple, and green.

This awe-inspiring 10th-century palace was transformed in the 14th century by King Pedro the Cruel with a Mudejar-style renovation.

Inside, don’t miss the Hall of the Ambassadors, the Courtyard of the Maidens, the Courtyard of the Dolls, and the Hall of Tapestries in the Gothic Palace.

The highlight is the Ambassador’s Hall, or Throne Room, often called the “Half Orange” Room because of its stunning gilded cedar domed ceiling.

Outside, the Alcazar boasts lush, sprawling gardens. These exotic, maze-like gardens make up 80% of the grounds and offer a beautiful, tranquil escape.

Don’t miss the Baths of Maria De Padilla, King Pedro’s mistress. The baths are one of the Alcazar’s Game of Thr ones filming locations , a place where the Sand Snakes plot.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting the magnificent Royal Alcazar . It’s my favorite place in all of southern Spain.

You absolutely must pre-book tickets for the alcazar in advance, or you’ll waste time stuck in a long line. The Alcazar is also well worth booking a guided tour to see the complex.

2. Seville Cathedral

Seville Cathedral , the world’s largest, stands as a massive Gothic masterpiece. King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella commissioned it in 1402 to showcase Seville’s prosperity and might after the Reconquista.

Adorned with intricate carvings, the cathedral boasts 15 unique doors on its four facades. Inside, the grand nave stretches out as the longest in the world.

The glittering altar, richly gilded in gold leaf, catches the eye. 80 chapels and Christopher Columbus’s tomb await exploration along the sides.

Click here for a skip the line ticket to this magnificent cathedral. You can combine the alcazar and the cathedral on a single guided tour as well.

3. Barrio Santa Cruz

In the late afternoon, head to Seville’s Barrio Santa Cruz for wandering, cocktails, and dinner. It’s a popular district within the city — a mass of tangled cobbled streets with tiny palazzos and tile covered patios.

Some streets are so impossibly narrow, they’re called “kissing lanes.” There are also orange trees everywhere.

You may want to book a  guided walking tour  of the pretty barrio.

In the evening, have dinner at classic tapas bar, El Rinconcillo . It’s the oldest bar in Seville, with an impressive restaurant.

Day 9: Seville

1. plaza de espana.

On day 2, head to the Plaza de Espana, one of Seville’s most famous landmarks. It was built to host the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition.

The plaza has a fetching mix of Baroque, Renaissance Revival, and Moorish Revival styles. The highlight is the Spanish Pavilion, a sweeping half circle structure with rose gold brick buildings.

The tiles show historical scenes and maps from the 49 provinces of Spain arranged in alphabetical order. Entry to the plaza is completely free.

You can easily spend a couple of hours here, admiring the square, and strolling in the adjacent Maria Louisa Park.

Spend your afternoon in the Triana neighborhood. Triana is sprinkled with history, flamencos, tapas, and everything Andalusian. It’s not nearly as crowded as Barrio Santa Cruz.

And it’s chock full of the colorful houses, small cafes, mosaic tiles, and the Isabel II Bridge. This is where you can stock up on beautiful ceramics.

Triana is also a good place to take a guided food tour .

Not far from the cathedral, you can grab a casual bite to eat at Bodeguita Romero on Calle Harinas. Or try La Brunilda Restaurant , a great spot for tapas and one of Seville’s best restaurants, on Calle Galera.

Brunilda doesn’t take reservations. It opens for dinner at 8:30 pm and you should queue up at 8:00 pm. It’s completely worth it!

In lieu of a restaurant, you could also go on a tapas crawl , a wine + tapas tour , or a “10 tasting of Seville” guided tour .

Day 10: More of Seville or Day Trip to Ronda

If you don’t want to leave beautiful Seville, this is the time to ferret out some of its lovely hidden. There are so many amazing things to see and do in Seville.

If you’re ready to see a cute white pueblo town, head to Ronda on day 10 of your Spain itinerary. It’s Andalusia’s third most visited city.

And there’s a a reason — Ronda is beyond dramatic. It’s perched on a mountainous gash carved by the Rio Guadalevin. Ronda is synonymous with its dramatic 18th century bridge, the Puente Nuevo.

Ronda is also famed as the birthplace of bullfighting. The city’s Plaza de Toros is one of Ronda’s most popular attractions, thanks to its beautiful architecture.

Aside from the bridge, Ronda itself is beautiful — plenty of cozy town squares, cobblestone alleys, balconies everywhere, and lovely architecture. You can visit the Mondragon Palace and the Arabic Baths, if you’re feeling ambitious.

Ronda isn’t that easy to get to from Seville.

To avoid transportation hassles, I’d book a guided day tour from Seville to Ronda . You can also book a  guided full d ay tou r of the white pueblo villages that includes Ronda .

Where To Stay In Seville

Air Bnb is a good option in Seville. There are also some beautiful boutique hotels.

My picks would be:  Hotel Alfonso XIII ,  Hotel Colon Gran Melia ,  Suites Machado , or  Hotel Casa del Poeta .

I also think Barrio Santa Cruz is also a great, and more quiet, place to stay. In this area, you should check out the  Hotel Casa 1800 Seville  (timeless elegance) or the  EME C atedral Hotel  (sumptuous hotel with a roof terrace, Michelin restaurant, and spa).

Day 11: Drive to Granada, Stop in Antequera

On day 11 of 14 days in Spain, you’ll drive from Seville to Granada. En route, you can stop and savor some of Andalusia’s pueblos blancos.

I recommend Antequera, the perfect midway point. It’s a 1:45 from Seville to Antequera and another 1:15 from Antequera to Granada.

Antequera is Spanish-Baroque town, fittingly dubbed the “Florence of Andalusia.” Plus, the town is utterly unspoiled by over-tourism.

It’s a largely undiscovered spot in an Andalucia, a region tourists adore. In 2017, the New York Times named Antequera as one of “52 Places to Go in 21017” in its annual list of must see destinations. That’s quite an endorsement.

Park your car on the outskirts of town and walk up Calle Don Infante, one of Europe’s prettiest streets.

Antequera boasts an impressive Moorish Alcazaba, a lovely Renaissance church, and a stunning medieval and baroque historical core. You’ll have an eyeful of swoonful scenery.

Antequera has a rich legacy of architecture spanning 2000 years. It’s tightly packed, literally awash with white stone houses, Renaissance and Baroque buildings, and 33 old churches dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries.

Antequera’s UNESO-listed ancient megaliths/dolmens are outside the old town. You’ll see signs.

The dolmens are essentially Spain’s Stonehenge . They date from the Bronze Age and are among the oldest things on the planet.

History buffs may want to book a  guided tour of the dolmens . You can also book a guided walking tour of Antequera .

Day 12: Granada

On day 12 of 2 weeks in Spain, you can explore Granada. The city will sweep you away with its authentic Spanish vibe and dazzling attractions .

Set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada is a stunning ancient city known for its historic architecture.

Each of Granada’s neighborhoods has its own unique and earthy character, adding to the city’s charm. It’s famous for the majestic Alhambra, a Moroccan-style souk, a grand cathedral, vibrant flamenco music, and a delightful bonus – free tapas

1. Royal Chapel and Granada Cathedral

Begin your day by visiting the ornate tombs of Ferdinand and Isabella, the rulers responsible for Granada’s Christianization and the exploration of the Americas.

Then, just 10 minutes away, explore Granada Cathedral in the city’s historic center. This cathedral is one of Spain’s largest, second only to Seville Cathedral, and ranks as the fourth largest in the world.

The cathedral showcases a blend of Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles. Inside, you’ll be greeted by a towering interior, a magnificent altar, and various side chapels.

Click here to book a guided tour of the chapel and cathedral.

2. Historic Center

While you’re in Granada’s historic center, take time to explore the other sights in the labyrinth of streets in area. A good place to start is with the Alcaiceria. It’s a small passageway with the remnants of Granada’s old Islamic merchant bazaar.

Then, there’s the Madrasah of Granada, the former mosque school which is now part of the University of Granada. And take a stroll along the scenic street of Carrera del Darro.

This cobblestone street along the River Darro, part of the Albaicin, is quite romantic. It takes you to both the El Bañuelo and Casa de Zafra.

El Bañuelo is an ancient Arabic hammam from the 11th century. Housed in a 14th century casa, the Casa de Zafra is a history museum .

3. Albaicin

After marveling at the cathedral, take some time to explore the old Arab neighborhood of Albaicin, or Albayzin. Located on a hillside to the east of the city center, Albaicin is the medieval Moorish quarter of Granada.

This ancient area, known for its narrow, winding streets and bohemian atmosphere, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. The main streets, Paseo de los Tristes and Carrera del Darro, run parallel to the River Darro and are lively spots with restaurants, cafes, tapas bars, and street performers.

While there, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a breathtaking sunset view of the Alhambra from the Mirador San Nicolás, often accompanied by the scent of jasmine in the air.

To explore this beauty and the neighborhood of Sacramonte, click here to book a guided walking tour . I did this tour and thought it was amazing. This is a good place to book a  sunset walking tour .

Day 13: Granada

1. alhambra.

Start day 13 of your 2 weeks in Spain at Granada’s marquis site, the UNESCO-listed Alhambra . Budget more than half a day for your visit. The Alhambra is one of the most popular and best sites in southern Spain, and even in the world.

It stands on a stunning piece of real estate, high on Sabika Hill, with panoramic views over Granada and the beautiful countryside.

The highlights of the Alhambra are the Alcazaba, the Charles V Palace, and the jaw dropping Nasrid Palace.

The Nasrid Palace offers the world’s finest example of the refined, intricate, and elegant architectural style of the Moorish civilization.

More than any other attraction I’ve mentioned, you MUST have a  ticket to visit the Alhambra  and reserve it well (weeks) in advance. They sell out so fast.

You may want to book a guided tour of this magnificent UNESCO site. Tours are also another way to nab the valuable ticket. They also sell out fast.

You’ll find room after room of intricate tile mosaics, delicate plaster reliefs, and elaborate coffered ceilings. The rooms are linked by gleaming patios with gurgling fountains and pools.

Highlights are the Courtyard of the Myrtles, the Throne Room, the Salon of the Abencerrajes, the Hall of the Two Sisters, and the Courtyard of the Lions (the most photographed spot).

2. Generalife Gardens

Once you’ve finished exploring the lavish palaces, make your way to the beautiful Generalife Gardens. These gardens served as the summer retreat for the Nasrid rulers, offering a cool escape from the summer heat.

Generalife was the luxurious leisure villa of the last Moorish sultans, with a design theme centered around water.

In the gardens, you’ll find narrow paths winding through flowerbeds, terraced gardens, reflecting pools, and fountains, creating a serene and picturesque setting.

4. Sacromonte

In the evening, explore the otherworldly barrio of Sacromonte, home to Granada’s Roma community. Time stands still in this unusual rustic quarter of Granada.

For centuries, Sacromonte was the home of gypsies, bohemians, artists, and foreign refuges. Sacramonte also sports one of the most mesmerizing views of the Alhambra.

Click  here  to book a flamenco show in Sacromonte, which has the best venue for performances in Granada.

Day 14: Day Trip to Frigiliana and Nerja

On your last day, day trip to Frigiliana and Nerja.

Frigiliana is a gorgeous hillside town. Just 15 minutes down the road from Frigiliana, on the Costa del Sol, is pretty laid back Nerja. If you’re a nature lover, also plan time for the Nerja Caves.

1. Frigiliana

The stunning beauty of Frigiliana, just a 1:15-hour drive from Antequera, is truly breathtaking. This town is remarkable in its picturesque charm.

Frigiliana is a pristine, tucked-away cliff town, adorned in blue and white. It’s further beautified by vibrant orange and purple vines and pots of blood-red geraniums. It’s no wonder the Spanish tourist board named it the prettiest village in Andalusia.

The town’s main draw is its cobbled, pedestrian-only streets lined with whitewashed houses, each sporting colorful doors. The central pathway, Calle Real, runs through the village. But the real magic lies in wandering off this path to explore the various nooks and crannies.

Just down the road from Frigiliana is the pretty and laid back resort town of Nerja. At the top of the Costa del Sol, Nerja has a natural majesty. It also has 10 miles of powdery sand beaches.

Despite tourism on the Costa del Sol, the city center retains much of its historic village charm. Calle Almirante Ferrandiz is Nerja’s restaurant row. Try Pulguilla, Patanegra 57, or Mo Gastro Tapas.

The heart of Nerja is its beautiful Balcón de Europa, a palm-lined promontory built on the foundations of an old fort. The Balcony of Europe juts out like a natural pier and offers panoramic views of the cobalt blue sea and honey colored coast.

Legend holds that the balcony got its moniker from King Alfonso XII. He apparently stood upon the site and, stunned by its beauty, proclaimed: “This is the balcony of Europe.” This is no doubt apocryphal, but makes for good storytelling.

I drove to Frigiliana and Nerja. But, if you don’t have a car or want to relax, you can book a  combo day tour  of the two towns from Granada.

3. Nerja Caves

The soft, calm sway of the Mediterranean Sea swells into Nerja’s renowned caves. Just 2.5 miles from Nerja, the  Nerja Caves  are a major attraction in southern Spain. They are home to natural wonders and the world’s tallest stalagmite.

You can visit both Frigiliana and the Nerja Caves on a  guided day tour  from Granada.

After your day trip, head back to Granada and enjoy your last night in Spain.

>>> Click here for a ticket to the Nerja Caves

Where To Stay In Granada

The  Eurostars Catedral  is a lovely hotel housed in a 16th century manor, just a short walk from the cathedral. The  Catalonia Granada  is a lovely hotel that comes complete with a plunge pool and open air terrace. 

If you want a place where tradition and avant garde style meet, check out the  Hospes Palacio de los Patos . It’s housed in a UNESCO-listed palace, with sprawling gardens, a spa, and mosaic floors.

If you want to stay near the Alhambra complex, check out the  Hotel Alhambra Palace , with ornate decor and viewing points. It’s an extremely popular option with tourists.

I hope I’ve inspired you to take a 10-14 day trip to Spain. To help you with your Spain trip planning, you may enjoy these other travel guides and resources:

• 30+ secret towns in Spain
• 10 day itinerary from Barcelona to Bilbao
• 1 week itinerary for northern Spain
• 10 day itinerary for Basque Spain
• Day and weekend trips from Bilbao
• 40+ landmarks in Barcelona
• Hidden Gems in Barcelona
• Architecture lover’s guide to Eixample
• Best museums in Spain

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Last Updated on January 16, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

Spain Road Trip: 8 Amazing Routes for an Epic Trip

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income.

Our Pick of the Best Road Trips in Spain

Amongst the beautiful landscapes of Spain, in the mountainous interior and along the gorgeous coasts, you’ll find fascinating history, vibrant culture, and incredible cuisine. One of the best ways to experience Spain is by taking a road trip.

With the lively attractions of Barcelona, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the historic medieval cities of the interior, and endless summer days in Andalucia, Spain is an eclectic place to take a road trip.

We base ourselves in Spain when not traveling and have explored much of the country on four wheels and two! Whether you want historic cities, gorgeous landscapes, beaches and sun, or something a bit different, our detailed guide has the best Spanish road trip routes plus itineraries and travel tips, to help you plan the perfect trip.

Getting to Spain

Whether you’re taking a Spain road trip in a car, motorcycle, campervan, or motorhome, self-driving is absolutely the best way to explore this spectacular part of the Iberian Peninsula.

When you road trip Spain you can stop whenever you want, try new activities, visit places you see along the route, and have the freedom to change plans at the last minute.

Spain is an easily accessible country from the UK and most of Europe, with a direct ferry route from England to Santander or Bilbao, and an established network of autovias to help your road trip across the country. Plan on getting to Spain as part of your trip and enjoy an epic road trip to Spain, followed by one in the country itself!

RELATED POST: Driving from UK to Spain – Routes & Tips

Book with Skyscanner and fly into the well-located international airports of Madrid , Malaga , and Barcelona are ideal starting points your Spanish road trip – you can be anywhere in the country within a day and that’s the beauty of a viaje por carretera , or road trip in Spanish!

Are you planning to rent a car in Spain? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best car rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a roadtrip in Spain.

For a real adventure , hire a motorhome or campervan in Spain. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Best Spanish Road Trips Map

Which is the best road trip in Spain?

• Castille-Leon for historic cities, vineyards, and empty roads.
• Barcelona and Catalonia for beautiful beaches and lively party vibes.
• The Basque County and Pyrenees road trip is perfect for foodies and hikers.
• Andalucia for gorgeous Moorish cities, flamenco, and fantastic beaches.
• East Coast Costas for vibrant seaside resorts and sunny days year round.
• Central Spain for wild natural landscapes and off-the-beaten-path towns.
• Green Spain for quiet beaches, mountain hiking, and fab food.
• Epic Spain for an amazing journey through the best of Spain.

Is this your first time visiting Spain? Get all the information you need in our Spain Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Castille-Leon

Madrid – segovia – salamanca – zamora – león – valladolid – penaranda del duero – madrid.

• Distance: 915km
• Duration: 7-10 days
• Drive Time: 11 hours

This fantastic seven to ten day Spain road trip itinerary through the land of frontier castillos and roads that stretch into the distance for miles will take you across the high plateaus and rugged mountains of central Spain. This is a road trip for those who want the real Spain.

It will be unbearably hot in summer and bitterly cold in winter in this part of Spain. This road trip in Spain should be taken in spring when the fields are carpeted with colorful wildflowers, or in autumn/fall for the late summer sun and the beautiful ochre and red of the Duero vines.

Pick up your hire car at Madrid airport and spend a day in Madrid , the largest city in Spain, seeing the most important attractions, including Plaza de España, the Prado Museum, Plaza Mayor, and the nearby Baroque Royal Palace before heading to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Segovia, a walled city with grand squares and mansions from its days as a royal holiday resort, and one of the most distinctive medieval castles in Europe.

Next up,  visit Salamanca , known as the Golden City because of the prolific use of honey-colored sandstone in the civic and religious buildings of the city. Salamanca is beautifully graceful, with learning at its heart, and the most elegant Plaza Mayor in Spain.

Zamora is your next destination. With its Romanesque churches and charming streets and squares of the old town, this makes a great stop for an overnight stay. Onwards to Leon, a sociable city with a fabulous casco antiguo,  packed with great architecture and atmosphere, and a notable Gothic cathedral.

Valladolid, your next stop is high on the mesta (plateau) and has been lived in by many of Spain’s famous historical figures. Despite that, it is a more modern town than its neighbors. You’ll find restored plazas and churches along with some excellent museums.

To the east, the small town of Penaranda del Duero is deep in the lush rolling vineyards of La Rioja, where some of the  best wines in Spain  are produced. This gorgeous town, on the Ribera del Duero Wine Route, sits beneath an impressive castle and is a popular weekend getaway for  Madrilenos .

Spain is famous for its history and if you have an extra day at the start or end of your road trip,  visit Toledo , an hour’s drive to the south of Madrid. Known as the Imperial City, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has one of the most well-preserved old towns in Spain and more historical sites per square meter than Rome! 

• Eat suckling pig in Segovia, a truly delicious local specialty.
• Head for the tapas bars of the cathedral quarter in Leon. Order a small beer and get a complimentary tapa!
• Visit a bodega along the glorious Ribera del Duero and enjoy a wine tasting.

Where to Stay

Madrid ⇒ Only You Hotel Atocha  for its hip vibe, contemporary luxe decor, and fantastic public spaces.

Leon ⇒ Hotel Real Colegiata San Isidoro  for its superb location, complete uniqueness, and fabulous history.

Valladolid ⇒ Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine  for sheer luxury, fabulous restaurants, and an incredible spa. A fabulous hotel for the perfect end to your road trip.

RELATED POST: Madrid in One Day – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Spain . We recommend True Traveller for their excellent TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Barcelona & Catalonia

Barcelona – sitges – tarragona – la seu d’urgell – figueres – calella de palafrugell – tossa de mar – barcelona.

• Distance: 642km
• Drive Time: 10 hours

This seven day Costa Brava road trip from Barcelona takes you through one of Spain’s most distinctive regions. Catalunya is fiercely independent with a unique identity, and like nowhere else in the country. With its own language, Catalan, the region has long been an intersection of cultures and influences.

We start on the Costa Brava in the second biggest city in Spain, Barcelona. This is Gaudi’s city and home to the sublime but unfinished La Sagrada Familia cathedral. Once you’re done admiring his masterpiece, head for the Gothic Quarter, a great spot to while away an evening bar hopping in this most lively of cities.

If you have enough time, try  hiking in Montserrat , just a short drive from the city. Famous for the cliff-hugging monastery and distinctive serrated rocks, you don’t even have to hike, you can get a cable car to the top! 

Head south along the coast to beautiful Tarragona, stopping at Sitges if partying is your thing …but be prepared to party hard, the town is famous for its nightlife.

Tarragona is situated on a rocky hill above the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. With a fine historic center and a scattering of Roman ruins, this is a great place to spend the day visiting the must-see 2nd century Amfiteatre Romà, Necropolis, and Forum before wandering the Passeig Arqueològic for sweeping views of the city. Or you could just relax on one of the many beaches.

From here it’s inland and north to the Pyrenean medieval town of La Seu d’Urgell, overlooked by the Sierra de Cadí mountains. Replete with the Romanesque style architecture of Catalonia in the 11th and 12th centuries, this is a town for meandering.

From La Seu d’Urgell, it’s a hop and skip to Andorra, the sovereign landlocked country that crowns the Pyrenees. We’re on the fence about this tiny microstate, which we thought was a little… odd. But, if you want to tick another European country off your list, now is the time!

From here, a spectacular drive through the foothills of the Pyrenees takes you to Figueres, via La Garrotxa Natural Park, known for its many extinguished volcanoes. Figueres, the birthplace of artist Salvador Dalí, houses the Teatre-Museu Gala Salvador Dalí, which is worth a visit if you like Surrealism.

You’re heading south now, bypassing Girona (which is worthy of a visit all of its’ own if you have time) in favor of the Costa Dorada beach resorts of Calella de Palafrugell and Tossa de Mar.

Calella de Palafrugell is one of the most beautiful coastal villages in Spain, with cute white houses, colorful wooden boats on the beach, and rocky inlets and hidden coves, and makes a perfect spot to stop and relax for a couple of days.

Tossa de Mar has a beautifully preserved old town, complete with cobblestone streets and fortifications and a fine beach, at total odds with its near neighbor, Lloret de Mar, which was one of the first places to Spain offer package holidays in the post-Franco tourist boom in the 1970s and has the highest concentration of hotels in the Mediterranean.

• The works of Gaudi define Barcelona and the Sagrada Familia and La Pedrera are must-sees.
• Bar hop and eat pintxos, delicious small snacks on sticks, local to Catalonia and the Basque region.
• Take out a kayak or paddleboard from El Golfet Beach to enjoy a different perspective of the coast, and the clear turquoise waters.

Barcelona ⇒ B Hotel  for its handy location between the airport and the city, glitzy rooftop terrace with pool, and welcoming staff.

Tarragona ⇒ Plaça De La Font  for its excellent old town location, lively vibe, and superb breakfast.

Tossa de Mar ⇒ The Hotel Delfín for its beachside location, supremely stylish decor, and pool with a view.

RELATED POST: One Day in Barcelona – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

Basque Country & Pyrenees

San Sebastián – Bilbao – Pamplona – Torla Ordesa – Ainsa – Zaragoza – Barcelona or Madrid

• Distance: 962km
• Drive Time: 12 hours

This northern Spain itinerary takes in the cities and coasts of the Basque Country, and the magnificent Pyrenees mountains that extend for more than 400 kilometers between Navarre, Aragon, and Catalonia, and create a natural barrier between the Iberian Peninsula and the rest of continental Europe.

Start in Donastia-San Sebastian, the jewel in the crown of the Basque resorts. A picturesque city with fabulous beaches, San Sebastian is perhaps best known as a foodie town, with some of the finest restaurants in Spain gracing its leafy boulevards and squares of the city center.

Bilbao makes a natural next stop and now rivals Donosti, as it’s known locally, as one of the top coastal cities in Spain. The beautifully curved and sweeping architecture of Museo Guggenheim and the fine Basque cuisine and freshly caught seafood served in its lively restaurants and bars make Bilbao a worthy stop.

In the northern Spain foothills of the Pyrenees, Pamplona is a town with a compact and enticing casco antiguo and a hulk of a citadel to visit. From its powerful fortress city history to the modern-day  Fiestas de San Fermin (Running of the Bulls festival), this city is as swashbuckling and red-blooded as they come.

Visit in early July for the festival and nine days of riotous partying and entertainment, but book early as thousands of visitors descend and everything gets booked up at least nine months in advance.

From Pamplona, the mountains are enticingly close. Torla-Ordesa is the nearest village to the breathtaking Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park where you can explore lush meadows, gushing waterfalls, and incredible gorges formed by glaciers millions of years ago.

The best way to see all this natural beauty is to hike the Circo do Soaso, a Pyrenean cirque that surrounds the vast Ordesa Valley. With sheer walls stretching up the 3,355m peak of Monte Perdido looking down, and over twenty cascades along the tumbling Rio Arazes to accompany your hike, this will undoubtedly be the highlight of your Pyrenees road trip.

Capital of the old kingdom of Sobrarbe, which became part of the kingdom of Aragon in the 11th century, Ainsa is a fantastic example of medieval city design and has the best views back to Monte Perdido from the preserved citadel.

From here, it’s south to Zaragoza, famous for the Baroque Nuestra Señora del Pilar basilica, a pilgrimage site with a shrine to the Virgin Mary and the Mudéjar-style Aljafería Palace, an 11th-century Moorish palacio. Together with La Seo Cathedral, the Mudéjar architecture of Aragon forms a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

And now you have a choice! From Zaragoza, it’s almost equidistant to Madrid or Barcelona, give or take 10km. So, Spain is now your oyster and you can go south for the museums and classical architecture of Madrid, or east for the laid-back vibes of Barcelona.

• Arriving at the Cola de Caballo horsetail waterfall at the far end of the Ordesa Valley, and having lunch under the mist.
• Sample the Basque seafood cuisine, like baked spider crab and clams marinière in the old town of San Sebastian.
• Watch the bulls (from a distance!) get a fair chance at Pamplona’s Fiestas de San Fermin.

San Sebastian ⇒ Zenit Convento San Martin for its central location, stylish decor, and rooftop pool.

Pamplona ⇒ Pamplona Catedral Hotel for its beautiful design, friendly customer service, and very comfy beds.

Zaragoza ⇒ Hotel Sauce for cozy rooms, great location, and exceptional homemade breakfast in their bakery.

RELATED POST: How to Hike the Circo de Soaso and Ordesa Valley

Malaga – Marbella – Ronda – Cadiz – Jerez de la Frontera – Seville – Antequera – Cordoba – Granada – Malaga

• Distance: 1041km
• Duration: 10-14 days
• Drive Time: 13 hours

Andalucia in the south of Spain is the quintessential Spanish region and is home to some of the most colorful and vibrant cities in the whole of the country. Heavy with Moorish influence, evident in the fantastic food and historic architecture, the cities of Andalucia are a feast for the senses.

This south Spain road trip starts on the Costa del Sol, in the  lively coastal city of Malaga , which comes to life on the seafront. A favorite place for Malaguenos to go for a stroll post siesta , a fiercely protected custom in the south of Spain, the seafront comes alive after 5pm. You’ll find whole families out, enjoying the sunshine and stopping for a beer and tapa along the paseo .

From Malaga, the seaside resort of Marbella beckons, where you can spend a day soaking up the sun on one of the three immaculately kept sandy beaches and enjoying the people-watching before visiting the charming old town. Head for Plaza de los Naranjos at the center of the Casco Antiguo and enjoy a coffee whilst watching the world go by. For lunch, find  Taberna Casa Curro Marbella  where you’ll enjoy great tapas and fruity Spanish wine.

Up next is beautiful Ronda, surrounded by the dramatic mountains of Sierra de Grazalema and Sierra de las Nieves. The drive from Marbella to Ronda is simply stunning, with white villages on every hillside and spectacular views as the road dips and swoops between lakes, valleys, and peaks.

Known for its Ronda its arched bridge of Puente Nuevo which spans the 120m deep river gorge of El Tajo, the bridge is best seen from the beautiful  La Casa del Rey Moro , where you’ll find lush and fragrant gardens and a spectacular view. There’s also a spectacular bullring here, and whatever your views about the divisive sport of bullfighting, you should visit Plaza de Toros.

Just north of Ronda are the Pueblo Blancos of Zahara de la Sierra and Setenil de las Bodegas. Both are worth visiting, and the latter is known for its whitewashed houses built into the surrounding cliffs and that image, the one with the rock covering half the narrow street and its houses.

The faded splendor of the sea city of  Cadiz , one of the oldest cities in Europe, will beguile you. Just across the water in the famed sherry triangle is Jerez de la Frontera, the home of sherry since the 14th century. The nearby towns of Sanlúcar de Barrameda and El Puerto de Santa María are the other points of the triangle.

Make sure to stop for a tour of a sherry bodega for a taste of Spain’s most famous alcoholic drink. Whatever you think you know about sherry, think again!

As well as sherry, Jerez is also famous for its flamenco tradition and is one of the best places to watch the steamy and seductive dance whose name literally means ‘hell-raising’!

Next is hot and steamy Seville, one of the most popular places in Andalucia, if not Spain! Seville boasts the Gothic Seville Cathedral, the imposing Giralda Tower, and the stunning Alcazar, all conveniently clustered together in the historic center, and located right next to the narrow streets of the Barrio Santa Cruz, the heart of Seville’s lively tapas culture offering some of the best plates in Andalucia.  

Past the ancient dolmens and lover’s rock of Antequera is Cordoba, known for the UNESCO Mezquita mosque cathedral, which will take your breath away when you step inside for the first time. Meander through the nearby Jewish quarter where you’ll find narrow lanes and pretty squares where many of the whitewashed houses are covered in blooms from window boxes providing the perfect images of this gorgeous city. 

Next up is one of Spain’s most underrated cities. Well off the beaten path, Jaén is known for its olive oil production, and its medieval fortresses, including Santa Catalina Castle. The Renaissance Jaén Cathedral houses the Holy Veil which is said to have been used to wash Christ’s face.

From Jaén, it’s a beautiful drive south to Granada, in the Sierra Nevada mountains and very possibly Spain’s most romantic city. The Alhambra, the spectacular Moorish palace sits high on a hill overlooking Albaicin, the old town of Granada, and is the jewel in Andalucia’s crown.

Finish this southern Spain road trip by hitting the Costa Tropical and the seaside resorts of Almuñécar, Salobreña, La Herradura, and Nerja.

• Watching live Flamenco in Seville , passionate, sensual, and a true art form.
• The Alhambra Palace is the most exciting and romantic of all of Europe’s ancient palaces.
• The Mezquita in Cordoba is one of the most spectacular mosque cathedrals in the world.

Malaga ⇒ Hotel Molina Lario for its perfect location, buzzy rooftop bar, and incredible cathedral views.

Seville ⇒ Case del Poeta for its perfect Santa Cruz location, live Spanish guitar gigs, and stunning roof terrace views.

Granada ⇒ the  Hotel Santa Isabel la Real  for cozy rooms, spectacular Alhambra views, and an exceptional cooked breakfast.

RELATED POST: The Perfect Andalucia Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Spain.

East Coast Costas

Valencia – denia – xabia – altea – alicante – cartagena – almeria.

• Distance: 553km
• Drive Time: 8 hours

This delightful and easy seven day trip down Spain’s eastern Mediterranean coast bypasses the worst of the high-rise excesses and explores the best of the Spanish Costas, including some you’ve never heard of! Costa de Valencia, Costa Blanca, Costa Calida and Costa de Almeria.

Valencia is a seriously underrated city and is preferred by many Spaniards to Barcelona. The city is much less touristy than Barcelona but has the cultural variety of Madrid and the charm of Seville. Alive with noise and color, the city will surprise and delight you. 

Visit Valencia  during the fabulous Las Fallas  when the city erupts with bonfires, music, and life. Don’t forget to sample a traditional drink of horchata (made from tiger nuts) when you’re in Valencia, it’s not to be missed!

Head south and make for La Albufera, a huge lagoon separated from the sea by a sandbank and surrounded by rice paddy fields, still irrigated by systems installed by the Moors.

An important wetland and the stopping-off point for thousands of migratory birds, the area is also where paella originated, due to the perfect growing conditions for rice. You can take a guided tour through the lagoon on a boat trip, and check out the ‘paella’ villages, including Perel-Lonet, the best place to get a taste of the real thing, not with seafood but with chicken, rabbit, and snails. 

Next up is the old port town of Denia, less touristy and ex-pat, and the closest departure point in Spain for the Balearic Islands. From here, you can sail to Ibiza, Formentera, and Palma, to start your Mallorca road trip (if you have a few extra days!).

There’s more to Denia than the port though. Home to a modern marina surrounded by cool bars and an old town lined with fish restaurants and Spanish fusion food, this is a wonderful place for an overnight stop. Check out our favorite, Els Magazinos, for street food Spanish style.

Javea, or Xabia in the local dialect of Valenciano, is a pretty seaside resort close to Cabo de la Nao, a beautiful rocky promontory where you’ll find hidden coves and beaches. Lively in the evenings in summer, you’ll also find a beautiful sandy beach and a pretty old town.

For the best beach in the area, head south by around 5km to Playa la Barraca, a shingle beach with perfect turquoise water and a fantastic seafood restaurant. 

Altea is your next stop, a small resort that sits below a historic hilltop village, which has incredible views. The old village is gorgeous with bougainvillea and jasmine in bloom, alongside alleys lined with alfresco dining and interesting boutiques and gift shops.  

Bypass built-up Benidorm and head for the very Spanish city of Alicante, with its wide and spacious esplanades and seafront paseo. The renovated old town is a perfect place to stroll and people-watch, especially in the early evenings. You’ll also find good tapas restaurants and bars in this area. 

Swing by the  pink lake at Torrevieja . Las Salinas Torrevieja is a real sight, with its bubblegum pink water and fascinating history of salt production.  

Head south, ignoring the outskirts of Cartagena, and make for the medieval narrow and twisting streets of the old town. The city will surprise you with its eclectic architecture, historic sites, and modern feel. 

It’s quite a long drive down this part of the coast but the unspoiled and undeveloped resorts of Aguilas and El Puerto de Mazarron make good stopping points before arriving in the wild and beautiful region of Almeria , one of the driest places in Europe and home to some weird and wonderful landscapes and coastal rock formations, both on dry land and in the surrounding sea.

The Cabo de Gata particularly is a  scuba diving hotspot and a kayaker’s and hiker’s paradise, and whales are sometimes spotted along these shores.

• The authentic and vibrant city of Valencia, where there are more Spanish than visitors.
• Exploring the gorgeous Mediterranean beaches of the Cabo de la Nao that are perfect for snorkeling.
• The sheer exuberance of Alicante, with its magnificent beaches and atmospheric old town.

Valencia ⇒ One Shot Mercat 09 for its historic location, rooftop pool, and hip vibe.

Alicante ⇒ Melia Alicante  for its stunning views, casual style, and excellent service.

Cartagena ⇒ NH Cartagena for its central location, contemporary style, and welcoming feel.

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Tarifa to Tangier: Tips & Tricks for a Day Trip to Morocco

Central spain.

Madrid – Toldeo – Cáceres – Ciudad Real – Consuegra – El Toboso – Cuenca – Madrid

• Distance: 1085km
• Duration: 10 days

This road trip from Madrid explores the wild and windswept plateau of Castilla-La Mancha and Extremadura, parts of Spain’s interior that are really on the road less traveled. Amongst the hidden gems and architectural surprises expect abandoned villages and huge swathes of, well, nothingness.

For us, the the rolling steppe and vast plains, rich with birdlife and craggy outcrops more than compensate for its remote nature and long hours on the road.

Toledo is up first, and what a start to your road trip! An ancient city set on a hill above the plains, Toldeo is known for the medieval Arab, Jewish, and Christian monuments in its walled old city, giving rise to its name ‘City of the Three Cultures’. There’s also a connection with Hannibal who used extra-hard Toledo steel for his swords in the Punic Wars.

It’s a gorgeous drive through forests and rolling plains to medieval Cáceres, a UNESCO jumble of narrow alleys, castles, palaces, and squares, where it’s easy to while away a few days eating tapas and admiring the olive trees growing in serried ranks across the rolling lands which surround the town.

Ciudad Real is a quick stop to admire the 14th century Puerta de Toledo, one of the city’s original Mudéjar-era gates, and visit the Quixote Museum, dedicated to Miguel de Cervantes’ classic Spanish novel, Don Quixote .

Next up, riding the Cerro Calderico mountain and with the 12th century Castle of La Muela as a backdrop, are the Consuegra windmills, a line of twelve tower mills described in the story of Don Quixote , that are one of the most iconic landmarks in Spain. 

Initially built to grind grain, the mills were modeled on the Dutch windmills of the 16th and 17th centuries. These tower mills were passed down through the generations until being retired in the 1980s when twelve of the original thirteen mills were restored and opened as a tourist attraction. 

El Toboso is your next stop. Famous for being the hometown of the fictitious Dulcinea, lover of Don Quixote, El Toboso has a great many pretty corners and traditional buildings of masonry and whitewashed walls. Don’t miss the House of Dulcinea, a traditional La Mancha structure from the 16th century, which has been beautifully renovated.

Your final stop before returning to Madrid is Cuenca. Founded by Moors, Cuenca is perched on a limestone spur above the Júcar and Huécar rivers and has a historic Walled Town with steep cobbled streets and medieval castle ruins. Cueunce is most famous for its well-preserved casas colgadas , or hanging houses which are dramatically cantilevered over the Huécar gorge as they cling to the cliffside.

Green Spain

San sebastian – bilbao – comillas – oviedo – a coruna – santiago de compostela.

• Distance: 838km

This north of Spain road trip will take you through the beautiful and lush, aptly named Green Spain, hugging the north coast along the Atlantic Ocean.

From San Sebastian through Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia, you’ll see some of the most picturesque landscapes in Spain, enjoy amazing food, and crisscross the famous  Camino de Santiago .

Start in gorgeous Donastia-San Sebastian, the most well-known of the Basque resorts. A picturesque seaside resort with fabulous sandy beaches, San Sebastian is known as a foodie town, and deservedly so. There is a great collection of fine restaurants and authentic pintxo bars here, serving world-class food produced from local ingredients.

Next is Bilbao, home of the incredible Museo Guggenheim and backed by beautiful green mountains. The museum itself is a work of art, with beautifully curved and sweeping architecture.

Bilbao now rivals San Sebastian as one of the top coastal cities in Spain , with its vibrant restaurant and bar scene, and offers fine Basque cuisine and freshly caught seafood in its atmospheric restaurants and bars.

Head west to the stunning Santillana del Mar, known as the town of the three lies. Not holy  (santi),  not flat  (llana)  nor by the sea  (del mar) . This medieval town is well-preserved and worth a meander before you make your way to Comillas, further along, the coast.

Traditionally low-rise, you’ll find a lovely beach, a tiny fishing port, and a charming cobbled  casco antiguo  here. If you have a few extra days, head into the Picos de Europa National Park for excellent hiking in the beautiful peaks of this small, but perfectly formed mountain range.

Oviedo is the next stop and the starting point of the lesser-known Camino Primitivo (the oldest Camino). This compact and elegant city is another foodie delight, with a vibrant gastronomic scene.

Home to Spanish cider, you’ll find traditional  sidrerías  along Calle Gascona, known as Cider Boulevard. Visit in September for  Fiestas de San Mateo,  a live theatre and music spectacular. If you go in October, you’ll be in the middle of the apple harvest in  Asturias, a region in which you could easily spend several weeks .

A Coruña is up next, passing by the spectacular Playa de Las Catedrales en route. The ‘beach of the cathedrals’ is one of Spain’s top natural landmarks and is best visited at low tide , when its possible to walk on the beach and get up close to the fabulous rock formations.

A Coruna is a dynamic city that is home to a busy port, a relaxed beachfront resort, and an atmospheric old town. The seafood here is some of the freshest and most delicious in Spain, with seafood tapas being a specialty. Take a walk out to the Tower of Hercules, a lighthouse that looks nothing like a lighthouse!

Finally, you’ll reach Santiago de Compostela, the end point of the famous Camino de Santiago, and your last stop. As you enter the city, you’ll see pilgrims covering the final few miles and proudly displaying their  Vieira,  the scallop shell badge that you’ll have seen along your route .  

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Santiago de Compostela is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, full of labyrinthine alleys, dramatic squares, and historic religious buildings.

There are too many must-sees to list, but consider a walking tour with a local guide if you don’t have much time, you’ll get to see the most important things and learn about the history of the city too. 

It’s a hop and a skip from here into tiny Portugal, via fascinating Vigo. Portugal packs a powerful punch with incredible coastlines and vibrant cities and a  Portuguese road trip  makes the perfect complement to your Spanish road trip. 

• Visit the highly recommended  Guggenhei m Museum Bilbao  and be awe-struck by both architecture and art.
• Explore the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela and make the climb to Las Cubiertas , the cathedral roof, for incredible views of the city and the landscape beyond.
• Walk along the boardwalks at Playa de Las Catedrales and marvel at the extraordinary natural arches and racing sea.

Bilbao ⇒  Hotel Tayko  for its minimalist style, hip location, and excellent restaurant.

Oviedo ⇒ Barcelo Oviedo Cervantes  for its laid-back vibe, modern decor, and smooth service.

Santiago de Compostela ⇒ Parador De Santiago de Compostela  for its history, traditional decor, and HUGE breakfast buffet.

RELATED POST: North Spain Road Trip: Itinerary, Route & Tips

Madrid – Salamanca – Santiago de Compostela – San Sebastián – Barcelona – Valencia – Alicante – Almeria – Granada – Malaga – Cordoba – Seville – Cáceres – Toledo – Madrid

• Distance: 3791km
• Duration: 3-4 weeks
• Drive Time: 38 hours

If our seven great driving tours of Spain have whet your appetite but you have a bit more time and want to experience all that Spain has to offer, why not try this combination of all our Spain road trips together?

Stop in the major cities on this eclectic itinerary, and take day trips as you go to see the main attractions along the route. Enjoy local gastronomy, learn about regional customs, and marvel at the variety that Spain has to offer.

From coast to mountains and taking in all the major cities and must-see places, this ultimate Spain road trip will give you the drive of your life and show you the best of Spain in all its wonderful guises. 

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip., or check out our favorite road trips in Europe for inspiration.

Planning Your Spain Road Trip

Spain road trip resources.

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in Spain.

• Search for affordable flights to Spain with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Spain with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Spain with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in Spain with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Best Time to Visit Spain

Spain has varied weather and different climate systems, depending on where you are in the country.

The weather of Spain in spring is just perfect for those who want to enjoy the beautiful climate and it’s no wonder that this is also considered to be one of the peak seasons for travelers in Spain.

From March to May, the weather is pleasantly warm and you definitely won’t need your winter woolies! You may need a long-sleeve top for the evenings, and if you’re visiting the north of Spain, it’s a good idea to pack a cozy fleece or jumper and a waterproof.

A visit in spring also offers the opportunity to experience Easter or Semana Santa . Catholics in Spain celebrate Holy Week through traditions that commemorate the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus and each day has its special traditions, like processions on the streets and bringing olive branches to church. It really is a spectacle, and best seen in Seville or Granada.

Summers in Spain can be punishingly hot, especially in the south, and there will be a greater influx of European tourists heading to the popular beach resorts and historic cities, although most Spaniards will stay at home during these months.

Lower temperatures in the green north make it a great option during the summer, but be aware that prices for flights, accommodation, car hire, and activities increase everywhere.

Similar to spring, fall sees milder temperatures and fewer visitors, making it a good option for a post-summer break. Spain turns the most beautiful shades of russet and yellow during fall and hotels and other accommodation are reasonably priced at this time.

Winter temperatures are where the extremes really show. Northern Spain may see snow and Madrid in winter can be super cold, just as Malaga is one of the hottest winter destinations in Europe with the sea warm enough to swim in!

This is also a good time for budget travelers to plan Spain trips as prices tumble and there are real bargains to be had. Avoid the north and Pyrenees though, which regularly see snow in winter.

RELATED POST: Autumn in Europe: 23 Stunning Destinations for Fall

Fiestas in Spain

Right across Spain, from the largest cities to the smallest villages, fiestas or parties, are an important annual marker and a great excuse to celebrate life.

Usually held to mark a religious day, these riotous parties are one of the greatest pleasures of traveling in Spain.

The streets are adorned with decorations, street food is prepared, wine flows, and live music is played as people come together. Everyone is welcome; to visit Spain and not join a fiesta  is to miss the ethos and spirit of this country entirely.

You can find a  fiesta calendar here  to help you plan your trip and coincide your visit with the best of them.

Driving in Spain

Car travel in Spain is easy, with a good network of Autovias (A) and Autopistas (AP). The latter were toll roads until 2020 when many (but not all) became toll-free.

Fuel and car hire are some of the cheapest in Europe making Spain a really cost-effective place to take a road trip. 

Touring Spain by car in rural and mountainous areas can take longer than you think although the standard of non-motorway roads in rural areas is generally good. Allow time to get off the beaten track and experience the real Spain as you tour this fabulous country.

Whether you’re driving your own vehicle to Spain or you’re in a rental car, follow our driving in Spain tips;

• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Spain.
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle when you roadtrip Spain.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an IDP, you can check here .
• You must carry two warning triangles for the front and rear. These warning triangles are now being phased out and from 1st July 2021, a new law requires that a V16 flashing emergency light is used, although both means of advising other traffic will be legal until the end of 2024.
• You must also carry a reflective jacket (for the driver and all passengers) a spare wheel and the tools to change a wheel or a tire repair kit.  
• If you wear glasses you must also carry a spare pair in the vehicle.
• UK cars will need headlight beam converters to be fitted (unless they adjust automatically).
• The use of winter tires in Spain is regional. Look out for traffic signs indicating that winter tires or snow chains are compulsory where you are.
• Anything with a screen (television, video, DVD, etc.) that could distract you when driving should be positioned where you can’t see it. This doesn’t apply to a sat nav but you must not touch or program your sat nav unless parked in a safe place.
• Using radar detection equipment is prohibited under Spanish law and new regulations from January 2021 mean that it will also be illegal to be in possession of such equipment .
• On roads with single carriageways, the speed limit established may not be exceeded by more than 20km/h when overtaking.
• Free parking is almost impossible to find in Spanish cities. A better way is to book a hotel or accommodation with its own parking.

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Spain Road Trip [ My Ultimate 10-Day Road Trip Itinerary ]

Table of Contents

Spain Road Trip Itinerary – Route: Barcelona, Calpe, Granada, Malaga & Madrid

Traveling through Europe by car can be an amazing experience. During the summer thousands of Europeans hit the road and travel to all kinds of exotic destinations. It can either be a family road trip on the North Coast 500 in Scotland, or a romantic journey through the Norwegian fjords . But what about a real summer road trip? Well, you have come to the right place as in this blog post we discuss the ultimate Spain Road Trip Itinerary .

Get ready to see some ancient architecture, eat delicious Spanish foods , drink famous beverages and learn all there is to know about the local culture, the beautiful traditions and some amazing hidden gems .

Vamos! Let’s go!

Road Trip in Spain Planner – The Route

The route will take you through all the major hot-spots of Spain , but also focuses on the countries hidden gems. The route starts in the famous city of Barcelona and takes you down south towards the small beach-town of Calpe.

After this you will drive south towards Granada and Malaga where you will include a day trip to Gibraltar rock, before heading towards the capital Madrid. Our Spain Road Trip Planner came up with the following route:

Distance = 1815 Km Duration = 10 days

If you are interested in a different route, make sure to check out this blog post about the best places to visit in Spain  when planning your next road trip.

How to Rent a Car in Spain? Important Tips & Tricks!

Renting a car in Spain is not complicated, but you need to follow a few basic steps. First of all, it is important that your driver’s license is a valid EU license. This can either be a European drivers license or an international drivers license if you are from the America’s or Canada.

There is always a basic insurance included, therefore an additional insurance is not mandatory. I do recommend getting an extra insurance for flat tyres as you will be driving a lot of miles and a new tyre will cost you 50 Euro’s at least. The additional insurance costs will be well worth it.

At the airport you will find all the international car rental companies . If you are departing again from Madrid, ask if you can drop of the car at their airport office. If not, you can always drive to Barcelona from Madrid and add some extra kilometers to this Spain Road Trip.

Click on the city you wish to start your road trip from and get the best car rental deals and prices: 

Barcelona , Madrid , Valencia or Granada

10 days Road Trip to Spain – The Spanish Culture

Now that you are ready to spent 10 days in Spain, it is time for a quick lesson in Spanish culture and customs! These important tips will come in handy when you are traveling through the small country-side towns and you want to meet the local people. Also keep in mind the Spanish Traffic Rules and Toll roads to make your travels as smooth as possible.

• Be late for dinner, because everybody else will!
• Use the Siesta culture to the fullest
• Never refuse an invite to a dinner party
• Tipping in restaurants

Don’ts

• Get upset about people being late. That is just the way it is!
• Speeding on the highway. They well catch you!
• Break the law.
• Complain about smoking as all of them do it. And I mean everybody
• Talk bad about their favorite football team

With these important tips in mind you are good to go and ejoy your road trip through Spain.

Are you ready for the best road trip to Spain? Vamos!

What to do in Barcelona for 2 days – Day 1 & 2

Once you arrived it is time to find out what to do in Barcelona for the next few days . I recommend you park your car close to the Plaça de Gaudí. Here you can park at  Parking Bond Krup for just 2,30 Euro per hour and you are just a 2-minute walk from the city centre. And make sure to check out this blog post on where to stay in Barcelona . It will help you find the best deals!

Exploring the City

From the parking building, you travel through the city by taxi, bus or metro. With the Barcelona Travel Card you can make unlimited travels based on a certain amount of days.

Many blog posts already discussed all the in’s and out’s of Barcelona, I would recommend visiting the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell and the Turtle Rescue Centre. The first two are your typical tourist attractions, but since they are such an iconic sight I highly recommend you visit them. It is one of the most romantic things to do in Barcelona .

Plaça de Gaudí & Sagrada Familia

Work began on creating the true symbol of Barcelona back in 1882, and the Sagrada Familia remains a work in progress even today. Gaudi’s iconic work draws hundreds of locals and visitors alike to its impressive facades and awe-inspiring interior every day, making it one of the most visited monuments in Spain.

Walk past the notorious long queues and explore the amazing basilica at your own pace; admire the facades, museums, and schools. Next to the church you will find the small park:  Plaça de Gaudí.   From this park you can make the best pictures.

As a public space, Park Güell was much appreciated by Barcelona’s inhabitants, and also became a major draw for visitors to the city. It was recognized as an artistic monument in 1969 and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. The park was designed by Eusebio Güell, who wanted to build a British residential park on Muntanya Pelada. When he died in 1918, the park was given to the municipality who turned into a public park in 1926.

Buy your administration ticket today and avoid the long queues!

Turtle Rescue Centre

CRAM Foundation is an organization dedicated to the protection of the environment and the species who life in it. Its principal activity is the clinic and rescue of the threatened marine species in danger that strand along the catalan coast, for a later reintroduction into its habitat.

The Foundation also carries out different lines of work in conservation investigation and education; that include social awareness actions about the marine environment status and its problematic.

CRAM has at his disposal a Rehabilitation Center and a technical and human team specially prepared for the marine species attention. It also has two crafts, the Vell Marí and the Pacific, that make possible to work in many field projects.

There is free parking and you need to make an appointment before you visit. You are also located right next to the beach and the airport, therefore a day relaxing on the beach do some plane-spotting is a great idea!

Sometimes there won’t be any turtles at the center, but in that case you can also consider visiting the local Barcelona Aquarium. Experience the spectacular Oceanarium as you walk along a transparent tunnel surrounded by sharks. Learn about the seabed and the importance of water to the planet.

Buy your ticket for the Barcelona aquarium here!

Things to do in Calpe – Day 3 & 4

After spending a few days in the big city, it is time to relax your mind in one of the small beach towns. Calpe is located between two popular tourist destinations Valencia and Benidorm, but is actually still one of Spain’s hidden gems. Thankfully, there are a lot of fun things to do in Calpe!

If you want the beauty of the Mediterranean Coast, but not the overcrowded beach bars and loud music, this is the place to be! Staying at the Hotel RH Ifach is an excellent choice. They provide free parking for your car, is a few hundred meters away from the beach and marina and has an excellent cuisine.

Click Here To Find The Latest Deals & Best Prices for Hotels, Campings and Apartments in Calpe!

Calpe Beach Cruise

Enjoy a sailing cruise day in Calpe aboard a modern catamaran. Admire the coastal beautiful scenery and make a stop to swim and snorkel in the clear waters before a barbecue is served on board. Later in the evening, savor a delicious dinner in the port.

Click here for more information and book your cruise today!

Hiking the Peñon de Ifach

The 322 meters high Peñon de Ifach – also known as Calpe Rock – is one of the most famous sights along the Costa Blanca. In 1987, the peninsula island was declared a natural park and is till this day one of the most popular hikes of Spain.

The rock started out as a watchtower as the height and location of the rock was perfect for spotting enemy boats. Today it is beautiful protected eco-system, which has a wide variety of Flora and Fauna (Audouin’s gull, Eleanora’s falcon and Peregrine falcons).

There are currently two routes to the top; a walking path and a more rocky road. There are several guided tours that take the walking path, but if you wish to go off-road make sure you are well prepared.

Remember to wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the season. Climbing the Calpe Rock is not recommended for children under 12 years.

Excited? Well, get ready for the southern Spain road trip part of this amazing journey!

Places to visit in Granada – Day 5 & 6

Visiting the alhambra.

If you really want to visit a unique location, I highly recommend you visit the palace and fortress: Alhambra! These beautiful place shows how the Nasrin Sultans lived in Granada during their reign from the 13th till the 15th century.

The Alhambra is the most important and captivating monument of Muslim Spain and one of the most visited attractions in the country.

Because its popularity is so big it also comes with one very big problem: Tourists! And a lot of them!

I highly recommend you book your ticket for a guided tour or private tour beforehand. I waited in line almost 2 hours before hearing that the tickets already sold out that morning.

Communication to the costumers is definitely not their strongest asset, therefore I booked my ticket online, and the next day I skipped the line and was inside the palace within 10 minutes!

Tickets include:

• Your entrance ticket is valid for the Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba Generalife, Palace of Carlos V, and the Mosque Baths • This is a small group tour, with no more than approximately 20 people • The tour is conducted in the language you choose when booking

If you are planning to stay a few days extra I highly recommend you read this blog post about best things to do in Granada !

Click Here To Find The Latest Deals & Best Prices for Hotels, Campings and Apartments in Granada!

Things to see in Malaga – Day 7

Malaga is a harbor-town located in the south of Spain. This town is actually the 5th largest city in Spain and has close to half a million inhabitants in the city alone. The beaches of Malaga are also known for its beauty.

Of course, that makes Malaga a very popular tourist destination, therefore it is a must-see when you are doing a road trip in Spain.

Malaga Marina – Plaza de La Marina

Although there are many fortresses and castle to be visited in this area, we prefer to mix things up a bit. After your visit to the Alhambra in Granada, it is now time to visit the famous Plaza De La Marina.

This beautiful marina is a popular tourist destination that offers a whole wide variety of summer activities. There are several beaches nearby that are suitable for families and youngsters.

In the marina itself you will find dozens of cozy little restaurants, which serve top quality sea-foods and local Spanish dishes.

Order a nice bottle of home-made Sangria and enjoy your afternoon siesta. You can also book family bike tours for the day and cruise along the beautiful blue waters!

Click Here To Find The Latest Deals & Best Prices for Hotels, Campings and Apartments in Malaga!

Tips for visiting “Plaza de La Marina”

• Collect a free map at tourist information desk. The office is located right at the entrance of the marina.
• Be early when visiting for lunch or diner as it can get very busy during the high season.
• Visit one of the many statues of the famous Danish author “Hans Christian Anderson”. He visited the marina in 1862.

Car Museum Malaga

The car museum Malaga is in the historic Tabacalera Building, which has been renovated for the museum. One can see about 85 cars, which show all the history of the automobile.

There are cars that were made in every decade since the car was invented. All of them have been beautifully restored. This is probably the best car museum in Spain.

The nice thing about this museum is that there is a description of each car on display, both in English and Spanish. So one can learn by reading the car descriptions about the history of each car.

Monday to Sunday from 10:00 to 19:00 hours.

Closed: 25th of December, 1st of January.

24th and 31st of December from 10:00 to 14:00 hours.

The ticket office will remain open until half an hour before the Museum will be closed.

For more information call +34 951 13 70 01

Things to do in Gibraltar – Day 8

Gibraltar is only a 1-hour drive from Malaga and is a UK-owned little peninsula in the most southern point of Spain. The whole island is just a few km’s big, but has some of the most amazing views you will encounter on your road trip.

There is a city walking tour  for just 16 Euro’s, which was well worth the money. The good thing? It is just 1 km as the island is not that big, but the guide really shows you all the hidden gems.

Crossing the border

Crossing the border in Gibraltar is not that complicated. It only takes a few seconds and you can go in and out as many times as you want. Just keep in mind that your passport needs to be valid for entering the United Kingdom, not only Spain.

Click Here To Find The Latest Deals & Best Prices for Hotels, Campings and Apartments in Gibraltar!

Europa Point Lighthouse

When you drive to the far end you will see the Europa Point Lighthouse . Here you can park your car for free and have a beautiful sight of the “Street of Gibraltar”. There are several monuments and interesting wildlife education signs present at the park.

If you are thirsty or hungry you can go to the main restaurant , which is located at next the parking lot.

If you like carefully you will be able to spot the local marine life. This area is well-know for having lots of dolphins and whales. I highly recommend you do a Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour as they are actually really cheap in this region and the tour guides provide excellent information about their behaviors, habitats and social structures.

Check out this 90-minute Dolphin & Whale watching cruise!

Rock of Gibraltar

Visiting the famous Gibraltar rock (426 meter) is a must-do. This iconic large natural wonder can be seen from miles away and has some of the most beautiful views in Europe. There is a cable transport service that will take you from a small parking lot all the way up to the top.

On the top you will find a nature reserve, which holds a large population of wild Barbary Macaques . Although they might be cute to look at, they are still wild animals, therefore you always have to be careful when you are close to them.

Do not try to touch or provoke the animals as the can bite very hard and most of them carry diseases.

Most of the Macaques arrived in the 1700’s when merchants from North-Africa arrived in Gibraltar and left them there. They have been an iconic sight of Gibraltar ever since and draw thousands of tourists each year.

Things to do in Madrid | Day 9 & 10

The final city you will visit on this road trip is of course the capital of Spain.. Welcome to Madrid! This beautiful city is together with Barcelona the most popular tourist destinations of Europe.

If you planned your trip to Madrid correctly, you will be able to drop your car off at the airport, or you can choose to drive towards Barcelona.

It really depends on where your flight departs from, but almost all international car rental companies are located at these two destinations.

But before you go, there are still a few amazing sightseeing experiences you must see when visiting Madrid! I do recommend you park your car and travel by bus when you are visiting the city center.

For just 21 Euro you can get a hop-on hop-off bus card , which is valid for 24 hours. Trust me, you will thank me later!

Click here to buy your hop-on hop-off bus card!

(Related: 72 hours in Madrid )

Madrid Zoo Aquarium

Madrid Zoo has more than 6,000 animals and over 500 species. Mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates, everything can be found in the five continents that the guests of the zoo can experience.

Ready to meet some real elephants? Or are you more interested in the gorillas? How about a close encounter with a real panda bear?

All these animals and much more can be found in one of the largest zoos in the world. It is almost 20 hectares and next to terrestrial wildlife it als includes a wide variety of aquatic mammals including a spectacular dolphin show, interesting sea lion presentation and a large aquarium.

Click Here To Find The Latest Deals & Best Prices for Hotels, Campings and Apartments in Madrid!

Food Market – Mercado de San Miguel

Right next to Plaza Mayor you can find the beautiful and historic building of  Mercado de San Miguel.   It reopened in 2009 after a 6 year renovation and is currently one of the most popular culinary hot-spots in the city.

The food market offers fresh tapas, grilled garlic prawns and variety of skewers, vegetables and of course delicious drinks. Prices are on average 1,50 to 2 Euro per item and most vendors offer their home-made alcoholic beverages.

Once you enjoyed a will deserved dinner you can get your sugar-rush going at the desert section. Here you will find art-works of chocolate, creams, sugar and much more delicious items that are of course so tasty you will never ever want to leave the market.

Opening times from Sun-Wed 10am-midnight, Thurs-Sat 10am-2am

Classic Car Museum Madrid

This unique experience allows the traveler to go back to Madrid and enjoy our magnificent collection of vintage cars with its contemporary images.

Enjoy this guided tour through our Vintage Car museum that will please everybody in the family. You will get a chance to feel like a gangster in the 20s, to learn how a Ford T from 1915 works or to be pictured inside an “Issetta” (egg car). It will be an unforgettable experience for all the family.

Final words

I hope you will enjoyed this “Road Trip Through Spain Itinerary” and that it will come in handy during your next travel. Spain is a beautiful country with very nice people, but keep in mind that most people do not speak English.

But let’s be real here.. Is that not part of the adventure?

Have fun driving in Spain!

P.s – If you are interested to explore the Spanish Canaria islands I recommend you check out my blogposts about road trippin in Fuerteventura , Gran Canaria and Lanzarote .

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12 thoughts on “ Spain Road Trip [ My Ultimate 10-Day Road Trip Itinerary ] ”

This looks like a fantastic itinerary. I love all the different choices and places that you have put on this guide and have been to a few of these places and a few that I would love to do the next time I’m visiting Spain again.

I was laughing when I read your Dos and Don’t. As an Indian, I would feel absolutely at home where people turn up late. As a Goan would be happy to have my siesta time – a perfect way to recharge batteries in warm climates.

Your drone videos are fantastic! Nice tips on renting a car. The Classic Car Museum looks and sounds like fun.

I love everything about this trip! There’s a beach, a zoo, a lighthouse, a Muslim monument, and food!!! It’s everything I want to see and do in one trip! I also love that it’s okay to be late! haha

I’d love to go on a road trip through Spain too! So many wonderful places to explore. Good to know that renting a car is easy: just need to have that international driver’s license. 🙂 I’d love that you’ve included tips/ lessons about the Spanish culture too. Makes it easier to understand the people and the basic law. Overall, great recommendations for a road trip!

This guide is incredibly helpful! I feel like I wouldn’t need to do any research if I copied this exactly. That information about renting a car is so helpful, as sometimes that holds me back because I can’t figure out how it works in certain countries.

This is perfect for me! I have been thinking of taking a road trip in Spain for a really long time, and I haven’t been able to come up with a perfect 10-day itinerary (that’s exactly the amount of time I have) and this is just what I needed! I love your tips about the Dos and Donts, and the fact that people are usually late (this is very Indian also) and that you must never say no to a dinner invite (again, very similar to our culture). I know I am going to love Barcelona, I can’t wait to get there. And I definitely want to include Al Hambra in my itinerary. This is going to help me a lot in planning my road trip, thanks!

This is pefect. We also did a road trip when we were in Spain and we loved it. We Did most of Andalucia– Madrid, Seville, Ronda, Granada and more in a car. Driving in spain is easy. I really really loved spain for the food and the things to see. One of the countries I enjoyed.

the international drivers license info is gold thank you! I never think of that when I travel and it is good to know that it is needed for Canadians who want to drive in Spain. I love the part about “don’t complain about the smoking” – just because smoking is not part of the culture in North America (anymore) does not mean we have the right to push our opinions on other cultures. It drives me insane when people complain about it (and I am not a smoker and I have kids. I just deal with it). How much did you spend in road tolls on this route ?

Less than 50 Euro, because took most of route next to the toll-roads. Those roads are great as well! 🙂

Road tripping in Spain will be like a dream come true. My husband is gonna love this out. The best thing about this itinerary is that you get to see every wonder and you can munch on the yummiest food too.We are going to follow this while planing our trip to Spain. Thanks for sharing.

Thank you! 🙂

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7 Days in Spain Itinerary: Barcelona, Madrid, Toledo

Planning to spend 7 days in Spain and looking for the best places to visit? On this 7 day Spain itinerary you’ll be starting off in Barcelona before moving onto Madrid, Spain’s capital city. It’s not all about bustling cities though, we’ve also included a trip to Toledo into this Spanish itinerary so read on and get excited for how you can spend a week in Spain. It’s the perfect introduction to the country for 1st time visitors – Get ready to sip the sangria!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Table of Contents

7 Days in Spain an Itinerary to Barcelona, Madrid and Toledo

Day one –  barcelona.

Today’s the day that you arrive in Spain! Despite the tiring flight, we think you’ll be ready and raring to explore the city on your first day, but first…

Barcelona Go City Pass

A good way to save time and money is to invest in a  Barcelona Pass . With the pass, you can save up to 50% on the top Barcelona attractions.

The  Barcelona Pass  is all-inclusive and provides access to popular attractions, like:

• Casa Batlló
• Sagrada Familia Guided Tour
• Park Güell Guided Tour
• Barcelona Bus Turístic
• FC Barcelona – Immersive Tour

Click here for more information and to book your Barcelona Go City Pass.

How To Get From Barcelona Airport to the City Centre

Barcelona International Airport (El Prat Josep Tarradellas or simply El Prat Airport) is located 14km (8.5miles) southwest of the city center and is connected to the city via metro, buses, RENF train, and of course taxi or private transfer. Metro: Both terminal 1 and terminal 2 are connected to the L9 Sud (L9 South) orange metro line. To get to the city center you will need to change lines at one of the following stations depending on your destination. Torrassa Station – connection with L1 Metro red line Collblanc Station – connection with L5 Metro blue line Zona Universitària – connection with L3 green line The metro station at terminal 1 is accessible from inside the airport building and at terminal 2 the entrance is outside the building, next to the train station. Trains run every 7 minutes (more often during peak hours) from 5 am until midnight Monday-Thursday, from 5 am-2 am Friday, and 24 from 5 am Saturday to Sunday. RENFE Train : RENFE trains depart from the station outside of Terminal 2 every 30 minutes between 5.42 am-11.38 pm traveling to Clot, Passeig de Gràcia, or Barcelona Sants (Sants Estació). Each of these stations is connected to the metro to make your onward journey to your hotel easier. Note: If arriving at terminal 1 you will need to catch one of the free shuttle buses to the train station. Aero Bus : 2 express bus lines serve terminals 1 and 2 independently of each other. Both travel to Plaça Catalunya with stops at Plaça Espanya, Gran Via-Urgell, and Plaça Univsitat. Aero buses (the blue ones) run every 5-10 minutes from 5 am-12.30 pm from terminal 1 and 5.30 am-1 am from terminal 2. Tickets can be purchased on the bus (cash only) or online. Private Transfer with Welcome Pick Ups : You will find taxi stands outside all the airport terminals. Always use the official taxi services and do not take offers from drivers inside the terminal. Trip duration up to 30 minutes depending on traffic. You can also try an alternative to a taxi the Welcome Pick Ups. It costs slightly more than a regular taxi, only now you will have already prepaid for it, your driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name on it, a bottle of water and a city map. You will not have to worry at all about the language as all drivers speak English. There is a fixed price of 37 € each way. Click here for more information and to book your trip.

Where to stay in Barcelona

Petit Palace Boqueria Garden : Situated right in the Boqueria of Barcelona, one of the most important monuments of the city, the Petit Palace Opera Garden is a gorgeous hotel with all amenities needed and a central location. It’s simple, beautiful, and has a genuine atmosphere to it. You have an area with a buffet, a picturesque courtyard, and modern furniture. Click here for more information and to check the latest prices. Ciutat de Barcelona : Huge sun-lit windows, a rooftop terrace, a swimming pool, and all amenities you might need in a hotel, the Ciutat de Barcelona is a 15-minute walk from the beach and only 1 minute away from the Gothic Quarter. The perfect location and the best of both worlds. It even has a tapas-style restaurant where you can have all meals. Click here for more information and to check the latest prices. The One Barcelona : Extremely sleek, extremely modern, and super luxurious, the One is located in the prestigious Passeig de Gracia. The hotel looks directly at La Pedrera and boasts marble bathrooms, spacious rooms, a restaurant and a cocktail bar, and even a spa and limousine service. Click here for more information and to check the latest prices.

Tip: Barcelona is a big city get around comfortably with a 2, 3, 4, or 5 day public transport ticket.

Placa de Catalunya

The most central point in the city, and a favourite meeting point for both locals and travellers, Placa de Catalunya is a huge (5 hectare) bustling square that acts as the main transport hub in the city. Surrounded by monumental buildings, it contains statues and sculptures, fountains as well as a large shopping mall with department stores. It’s the place where old Barcelona meets new Barcelona.

Las Ramblas

The main street/boulevard in the city, La Ramblas is an iconic tree-lined pedestrian street that runs for 1.2km, cutting the old town in two. Enjoy the energetic vibe as you walk from top to bottom watching the street performers, admiring the ornate 18th-century architecture, and soaking up the lively atmosphere– You’ll either love it or hate it but you certainly can’t miss it!

La Boqueria

The most famous food market in the world, and the oldest one in Barcelona, step through the wrought iron gates off of Las Ramblas and experience the culture of Barcelona through its cuisine with 200 market stalls.

Gothic Quarter

Dozens of alleys with charming Medieval architecture now housing modern shops and bars lead off of Las Ramblas taking you further and further into the maze of winding backstreets that makeup Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Originally a Roman settlement, the Gothic Quarter is now a hive of activity and a delight for photographers and architecture fans – Don’t worry about where you’re walking (although you will certainly not want to miss Barcelona’s very own Bridge of Sighs aka The Bishop’s Bridge) just enjoy the amazement of what you find around every corner.

Barcelona Cathedral

Not to be confused with the famous Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, Barcelona Cathedral (aka The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia) is a Gothic masterpiece that was built between the 13 th -15 th centuries. A popular meeting place, and resting place after all that walking, be sure to step through the historical wooden doors to relish in the peace and quiet whilst discovering the story of the 12 geese.

Day Two – Barcelona

Day 2 is all about delighting your eyes with the amazing one-of-a-kind Catalan Modernism architecture of Gaudi.

Sagrada Familia 

Visit the symbol of the city, the iconic yet controversial Basilica of the Sagrada Família as early as you can in the morning as the lines to enter the church are long and the area around the church gets extremely crowded with everyone wanting to see and get photos of this still unfinished masterpiece.

Tip: A visit inside is highly recommended so a skip the line ticket or a guided tour is a must.

Alternative Option – If you simply cannot get out of bed to beat the crowds early in the morning, delay your visit until late afternoon / early evening when the sun is setting and the colours in the stained-glass windows truly dazzle.  

Casa Milà & Casa Batlló

A hop, skip, and a jump from the basilica you’ll find 2 of Gaudi’s eccentric houses. Each a masterpiece in their own right (and both UNESCO sites), Casa Batlló with its curvy walls and bright mosaics, is a remodelled Art Nouveau building that really makes your head turn. Whilst Casa Milà is the shyer of the two, a block of apartments where you have to look deeper to appreciate the unique architecture.

If you only go inside one, choose Casa Batlló as it’s like stepping into a glittering jewellery box and the carved staircase is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. If you love Gaudi’s mosaic work the interior patio will blow you away too with its shades of blue reminding you of the different depths of the ocean.

Tip – Both houses put on Summer events on the roof terraces during the Summer, admire the architecture as you sip on a drink and listen to some jazz whilst looking down on Barcelona, so why not come back one evening to step inside?

Click here to book your Casa Milà Skip-the-Line Ticket with Audio Guide.

Click here to book your skip the line tickets to Casa Batlló .

El Palau de la Música Catalana

One of the most important and certainly one of the most eye-catching concert halls in the world, El Palau de la Musica Catalana is an incredible reflection of Catalan art inside and out, architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, taking the credit for this beautiful building. Admire the bright colours and the intricate mosaics on the columns from the outside as well as the inside, and if you can afford it, don’t hesitate in getting a ticket to see a show – It’ll be a night to remember!

Click here to book your Palau de la Música self Guided Tour.

Day Three – Barcelona

There’s still plenty more to see in the city! Start the day by seeing more Gaudi architecture before heading to a museum and then the beach to relax.

You may not instantly recognise the name, but you’re sure to have seen photo’s of this stunning architectural playground that houses more of Gaudi’s cool and quirky mosaic masterpieces. As well as admiring his creativity in what was meant to be a marketplace, you’ll be able to admire the panoramic views across the city to the beach too.

Be one of the first people in when the gates open (and buy a skip the line ticket to save even more precious time ) so that you can admire the artworks without the hoards of people taking selfies!

Museo Picasso

Step inside the Picasso Museum to learn how much of an influence Barcelona had on his life and his work. Housed inside a stunning Gothic building, the museum houses one of the most complete permanent collections of his works boasting 4,251 works by the 20th-century Spanish artist.

Alternative – Love art and Picasso’s work in particular? Take the Picasso Walking Tour which includes a tour around the Picasso Museum.

La Barceloneta – The Beach

You’re probably feeling a bit weary now – Don’t worry, you’ve almost seen all the best bits of Barcelona’s historic and cultural side, now it’s time to chill for a while! Head to the seaside neighborhood of La Barceloneta and swim, sunbathe, surf, or simply relax with a beer or cocktail.

You’ll find plenty of al fresco seafood restaurants and tapas bars. After some food, wander along the beach, past the fancy yachts filling the marina, or jump on the Port Cable Car that goes up to Montjuïc hill providing panoramic views across the city.

Plaza de España and MNAC

One of the most important squares in the city, Plaza de España is a bustling transport hub containing shops and restaurants with two iconic red towers known as the Venetian Towers that lead to Montjuic Palace.

Located on the edge of the Park of Montjuic, which has great city views against the backdrop of mountains, the palace houses the Museum of National Art of Catalunya (MNAC) and has a fountain with a musical light show taking place each evening.

MNAC is open until 8pm Tuesday-Saturday between May and September so if visiting during these months it makes sense to have a lazy afternoon at the beach and then explore the palace grounds before entering the art gallery in the evening. By the time you’ve over-indulged in Catalan Art it should be nearing the start time of the fountain show – shows take place from 8pm-9pm, 9pm-10pm, or 9.30pm-10.30pm depending on the time of year.

Tip – Not a fan of art, or don’t want to do 2 art galleries in 1 day? Skip going inside MNAC but don’t skip seeing the exterior of the palace, admiring the views from the park, and staying to watch the fountain show.

Day Four – Barcelona to Madrid

It’s time to leave beautiful Barcelona behind and go explore marvellous Madrid! Whether you choose to fly, go by train, or by bus there’s a transport option to suit every type of traveller and every budget.

Madrid Go City Pass

A good way to save time and money is to invest in a  Madrid Pass . With the pass, you can save up to 50% on the top Madrid attractions.

The  Madrid Pass  is all-inclusive and provides access to popular attractions, like:

• Prado Museum guided tour
• Bernabeu Stadium Tour
• Madrid Royal Palace tour
• Madrid hop-on hop-off bus tour
• Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
• Reina Sofía Museum guided tour
• Toledo and Segovia full-day tour

Click here for more information and to book your Madrid Go City Pass.

How to get from Barcelona to Madrid

Plane: Direct flights on airlines including Vueling, Iberia, and Air Europa depart from Barcelona International Airport regularly each day, the first flight departing at 7 am and the last one departing at 8.30 pm. You may initially think that flying is easier but take into account extra costs for checked baggage and the cost/time of getting to the airport and consider the train instead. Time: 1 hour 20 minutes flight time RENFE AVE High-Speed Train: High-speed direct trains depart Barcelona for Madrid roughly every hour, the first is at 6 am and the last at 8 pm with night trains also available. Trains are modern and comfortable with overhead baggage storage for smaller suitcases and bags plus limited space for larger cases at the end of carriages. Time: 2.5 hours Express Bus: Comfortable coaches take passengers by road directly from Barcelona (Estació Nord bus station) to Madrid (Avenida de América transport hub or the Estación Sur bus station) with regular departures day and night. The coach company ALSA has 14 departures, the first bus leaving at 1am and the last at midnight. Time: 6 hours

Where to stay in Madrid

Francisco I is located 250 m from Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol. It offers simple rooms with a private bathroom, TV, and free Wi-Fi. Click here for more information and to check the latest prices. Room Mate Laura is centrally located 350 m from Puerta del Sol and the Royal Palace. It offers a range of accommodation options (double rooms, family rooms) all with satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning. Click here for more information and to check the latest prices. Hostal Central Palace Madrid is centrally located and overlooks the Sabatini Gardens in Madrid’s Plaza de Oriente. Rooms have free Wi-Fi, toiletries, and a flat-screen TV. Breakfast is served in a nearby cafe. Click here for more information and to check the latest prices.

Plaza de España

There’s only one place to start your exploration of Madrid, and that’s at the large and lively 18th century square known as the Plaza de España which marks the start/end of Gran Via. Catch your breath after your journey with a drink and snack at one of the cafe’s dotted around the square and do some people watching. Eye up the Torre de Madrid skyscraper and the Edificio Espana neo-baroque building, see the large monument dedicated to Miguel de Cervantes and the sculptures and then, once rested, make your way down Madrid’s most famous street…

Gran Via is a bustling boulevard with beautiful buildings that have Art Deco facades ensuring your eyes are always straying up to admire the architecture. When your eyes aren’t admiring the architecture, they’ll probably be eyeing up the goods in the shop windows – This famous street being a shopping hot spot containing all the top Spanish and international chains.

Palacio Real

One of the largest palaces in Western Europe, Palacio Real is a symbol of the city and is the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family though is now only used for state ceremonies. Admiring the white architecture by walking around the outside doesn’t do it justice as inside you’ll discover some of the 3,418 rooms that exude elegance. Rooms not to miss include the Hall of Columns, the Hall of Mirrors, and the King Charles’ Room. Don’t miss the landscaped neoclassical Sabatini Gardens (free entry to the gardens) where you can get an iconic selfie shot in front of the water fountain with the palace behind you. You might also want to see the 44 statues depicting the past Spanish monarchs located at Plaza Oriente, on the East side of the palace.

Tip: Consider booking the Madrid Royal Palace 90-minute Guided Tour for an in-depth understanding of the history of the Royal Palace.

Catedral de la Almudena

Opposite the main entrance gates to the palace stands the Almudena Cathedral, an impressive Catholic church that was only completed in 1993 despite construction starting in 1879. Since you’re quite literally on the doorstep when viewing the palace, you might as well take some photos on the cathedral steps and, perhaps take a quick look around inside too, revelling in the peace and quiet for a few moments as you admire the Neo-Romanesque crypt and the 16 th century image of the Almudena Virgin.

Mercado San Miguel

It must be time to stop for a drink or snack now, so call by the famous indoor market, a true gastronomic delight. Dozens of different stalls sell everything from tapas to sushi, sandwiches to sugary snacks. A real treat for the foodies though don’t expect a cheap local produce market as Mercado San Miguel has turned into a high-end tourist attraction.

Plaza Mayor

This historical portico-lined-square (the centre of Old Madrid) is a gathering place for locals and tourists alike and despite being busy, is a good place to sit and people watch as you enjoy the sounds of the street performers whilst admiring the architecture of the 4-storey Casa de la Panaderia with its angular towers and the bronze statue of King Philips III on horseback in the middle of the square.

Puerta del Sol

Make your way up to Puerta del Sol, passing shops and restaurants along the way as well as the plaque in the pavement that marks Kilometer Zero. Once in Puerta del Sol, another large square bustling with activity, take a moment to admire the red and white architecture of the Royal House of the Post House (Casa de Correos), the equestrian statue of King Carlos III, and the modern statue of a bear and a strawberry tree (El Oso y El Madroño).

Chocolateria San Gines

Ready for a calorie filled break after a busy day? Stop by the most famous churros place in the city, San Gines Chocolateria. Open 24/7, this chocolateria has been serving up churros and hot chocolate (literally a cup of hot melted chocolate – no water or milk added!) since 1894 and doesn’t look much different to this day. Sip it as a drink and/or dunk your churros (long, thin strips of fried-dough pastry) in and enjoy.

Day Five – Madrid

Retiro park.

El Retiro is so much more than ‘just’ a park containing exhibition halls palaces, monuments, sculptures, a boating lake (watch out for the turtles!), and yes, greenery where you can kick back and relax whether enjoying a picnic in Summer or a stroll in Autumn to admire all the colours of the leaves – No matter what time of year you visit, Retiro Park is ready for you.

Be sure to see:

Palacio Cristal – The iconic Crystal (Glass) Palace is a huge conservatory made of glass and iron that looks out onto a lake. Designed in the shape of a Greek cross, wander around looking at the modern art exhibitions on display from the Reina Sofia Museum as you admire the sunlight streaming through the glass panes creating fascinating patterns. Don’t let a lack of money put you off going inside, it’s free entry!  

Velazques Palace – This red-brick domed pavilion was built by the same designer as the Crystal Palace for the 1883 National Exhibition, this particular building used to house the exhibition of mining, metallurgy, ceramics, glass-making and mineral water industries. Today, is also houses temporary exhibitions from the Museo Reina Sofia.

Paseo de la Argentina – Better known as ‘The Walk of Argentina’ or ‘The Walk of Statues’, combine culture with a walk in nature as you wander down this path looking at the 18 th century statues of Spanish Royalty.

Jardines de Cecilio Rodriguez – These enclosed gardens contain peacocks and are a bit of a secret spot, easily missed if you don’t know about them.

Tip – If visiting in May, be sure to visit the nearby circular Rose Garden (La Rosaleda) to see 4,000 roses in full bloom in fairytale-like surroundings.

Madrid Museums

There are so many museums in Madrid that you won’t have enough time to visit all of them in 1 afternoon so weigh up your options on which of the 3 museums that make up the ‘Golden Triangle of Art’ you’d like to concentrate on. My personal favourite is the Prado Museum.

Museo Reina Sofia

Spain’s National Museum of 20th-century art is filled with more than 21,000 pieces from Spanish contemporary artists including Dali, Miro, Picasso, and Juan Garis. Do some research before you go and focus on 1 floor, perhaps opting to spend your time on the 2 nd floor enjoying the works of art from 1945-68. Or, pick a few highlight pieces and jump from room to room to see ‘Guernica’ by Picasso, ‘House with Palm Tree’, ‘Painting’, and ‘Man with a Pipe’ all by Miró, and ‘Face of the Great Masturbator’ by Dali.

Remember – This museum is closed Tuesday’s

Scared of missing the important things and wasting time getting lost? Book a Reina Sofia Museum Tour and be led around by an art historian.

Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza

The Thyssen art museum contains 1,000 paintings that date from the middle ages right up until the 20th century with a mix of Spanish, Italian, German, and Flemish painters. One of the largest private art collections in the world, masterpieces include ‘Venus and Cupid’ by Rubens, ‘Les Vessenots in Auvers’ by van Gogh, ‘Portrait of a Peasant’ by Cézanne, and Dali’s ‘Dream Caused by the Flight of a Bee’.

Skip the queue and Book your Museo Thyssen- Bornemisza tickets.

The National Art Museum of Spain is 200 years old and contains more than 8,00 paintings plus more than 700 neo-classical sculptures making it a true treasure trove for art fans. It includes works of art from the Spanish, Italian, and Flemish masters including ‘Las Meninas and The Triumph of Bacchus’ by Velazquez, ‘The Naked Maja’ by Goya, ‘The Garden of Delights’ by Bosch, ‘The Crucifixion’ by de Flandes, and ‘The Nobleman with his Hand on his Chest’ by El Greco.

Click here to book your skip the line tickets to the Prado museum.

Alternative Afternoon – Switch Art for Football! You could skip the art museums and visit one of the world’s most elite football stadiums instead.

El Bernabeu Stadium

Bernabeu is the home stadium of Real Madrid and is one of the most elite football stadiums in the world. Step inside to learn the history of the club and the stadium at the interactive museum before visiting the press room, the presidential box, and the changing rooms, before making your way down the tunnel and onto the benches before standing on the sidelines.

Book your Tour Bernabéu Tickets

Day Six – Day trip to Toledo

Toledo is a magnificent walled city where medieval Arab, Jewish, and Christian cultures can all be seen. Visit the historical mosque, admire the Gothic cathedral, see the Alcazar and pass through the Moorish Mudejar style city gates the separate the old town from the new.

How to get to Toledo from Madrid

You have 2 options: Make your own way to Toledo by train, or book a day trip by coach with a tour guide, the guided tour option could also allow you to visit Segovia too. Independently By Train: Taking the train is a fast and convenient way to reach Toledo from Madrid’s Atocha train station with all trains direct so you don’t have to worry about changing. Trains depart every two and a half hours from 6.50 am. As a bonus (that the coach people miss out on!) Toledo train station is absolutely stunning with its Moorish tiles and stained glass windows, it’s worth waiting for the train passengers to go through the doors ahead of you so that you can linger and get photos of the waiting room! Guided Tour: Toledo & Segovia Guided Tour from Madrid : Want to fully maximize your time in Spain and see not one UNESCO world heritage city but 2? This could be the tour for you, especially if you like the safety of moving around a new city with a guide to ensure you don’t get lost! See the top attractions of both cities on a guided tour with a bilingual guide. In Toledo, you will visit the Cathedral, the Monastery of San Juan de Los Reyes, and the San Martin Bridge before stopping to admire the iconic view from the Mirador del Valle. You’ll then jump back on the coach and travel to Segovia where you’ll visit the historical aqueduct, the Alcazar, and the Cathedral. Book the Toledo & Segovia Tour from Madrid with Alcázar Ticket

Mirador del Valle

This is the viewing point where you can take in the iconic panoramic views of Toledo. Look down to admire the curving river Tagus, look straight ahead to see the spire of the cathedral and the mighty Alcazar rising up over the picturesque old town. Picturesque in the daytime, the view is even more magical at sunset and once the city lights have been turned on so you might want to get a late train back to Madrid.

Toledo Cathedral

Considered the epitome and personification of Gothic architecture in Spain, this 13th century cathedral took 286 years to build and towers 100 metres into the clouds. Don’t just admire the fine architecture and carvings from the outside, step inside to see the Chapter house, Choir, Treasury, and Sacristy.

Alcazar de Toledo

Originally a fort, and then a Roman Palace, Toledo Alcazar has been remodelled many times and blends Islamic and Christian architecture into one. Today the Alcazar houses the army museum with displays of military artefacts including medals and uniforms.

Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes

Built by the Catholic Monarchs in the Isabelline/Franciscan style, this stunning 15th century monastery combines Mudejar architecture on the upper level and Gothic architecture on the lower level. It’s a must-see with its beautiful two-level cloisters with stone carvings and wooden ceiling and orange trees in the central courtyard.

Museum of El Greco

Located in a historical Gothic house in the Jewish quarter, this museum not only contains works by El Greco but includes other artworks from the masters of the Spanish Golden Age along with ceramics, furniture, and other items from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Toledo Road Train

Allow your legs to rest and hop on the little road train that takes passengers on a fun commentated tour around most areas of the city. If you don’t want to hop on and off, the tour takes 40 minutes.

Day Seven – Flight Home

How to get to madrid airport from the city.

Madrid International Airport (Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas, or Madrid-Barahas Airport as it was formally known) is located 12km (7.5miles) from the city centre and is the largest airport in Spain with 4 terminals that are linked by a free 24-hour bus service. Find out how you can get to the airport from the city for your flight home.

Express Buses : The yellow 203 airport bus (Exprés Aeropuerto) leaves from  O’Donnell and Doctor Esquerdo, Plaza de Cibeles, and Atocha train station and stops at terminals 1, 2, and 4 at Madrid airport. Buses depart every 15-20 minutes running between 6 am and 11.30 pm, 365 days a year.

A night bus, N27  Exprés Aeropuerto operates between 11.30pm and 6am with buses departing every 35 minutes from Plaza de Cibeles.

Another express bus, number 200 departs from the main transport hub; Avenida de America. Buses run every 10-20 minutes from 5 am until 11.30 pm stopping at terminals, 1, 2, 3, and 4.

Metro : Make your way to Nuevos Ministerios, Colombia, Piar del Rey, Mar de Cristal, or Campo de las Naciones and get onto line 8 which goes to the airport. The airport has 2 metro stations, one serving terminals 1-3 and another serving terminal 4. Trains run from 6 am until 2 am daily.

Beware! There is an additional stop between terminals 1-3 and terminal 4, this is called Barajas and is the town metro station, not the airport – Do not exit here by mistake!

RENFE Train : The “Cercanías” C1 and C10 lines connect the city center (ground floor of Atocha train station) with terminal 4 of the airport. Trains run every 15-20 minutes between 5.30 am and 11.30 pm.

Private Transfer with Welcome Pick Ups : Welcome Pick Ups allow you to book a taxi and online and pre-pay so that you don’t have to worry about getting ripped off or not having enough cash at the end of your travels! Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and put your luggage in the car.

Click here for more information and to book your trip.

7 days in Spain is a great introduction to the country but don’t by any means think you’ve seen it all since you’ve visited both Barcelona and Madrid on this itinerary! You haven’t even started to scratch the surface with all of Andalusia still to explore, the coastline, not to mention the Northern cities. It’s safe to say you’ll be back so until then, Buen Viaje!

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Spain Road Trip - The Ultimate 2 Week Itinerary

Start your road trip from barcelona.

With this road trip spanning the length of Spain, you can start at either end, but we often find ending in a hotter place more sun and sea works better.

The first few days you can take a bit more history and culture, visit sights and museums before heading for more relaxed scenery driving along the Costa del Sol towards the end of your trip.

Day 1: Barcelona - Fly in, sightseeing & seafood dinner

This epic Spanish road trip starts in the Catalan capital - Barcelona.

One of the best things about going on a road trip to Spain is the weather - check out the best time to visit Spain to pick your month of travel. Catalonia is beautiful and captivating all year round - so get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

If you've arrived with your own car, our advice is to park it up for a few days at the nearest underground car park as you won't be needing it around town.

If you plan to hire a car, don't bother picking one up until day 3. While there is ample parking around the city, much like most of Spain, getting around on foot or using the relatively cheap metro system is a lot more convenient and relaxing.

Where to stay in Barcelona

There's a huge choice of hotels and villas to stay in when visiting Barcelona, some of them considerably more expensive than others.

A top tip is to stay somewhere within a short walk of the main sights such as La Rambla and La Plaza Real and near the old port - this is where you'll be spending a lot of your time and where the best restaurants in town are.

I would highly recommend the Onix Liceo - it's located in the Gothic Quarter, right near Las Ramblas, the city centre and the Old Port. It's really good value for money too - especially for somewhere so central. If you're looking for the perfect hotel to stay at in Barcelona, this is it.

The majority of car rentals are really close at the Placa dels Paisos Catalans so this is handy for getting your Spain road trip underway on day 3 as you can just walk across with your bags.

Having checked into your hotel and dropped your bags off, it's time to go see what this crazy (in a good way) city has to offer, so head on down towards the Plaça de Catalunya at the top end of Las Ramblas.

Walk along Las Ramblas and explore the Gothic Quarter

The two streets and the wide promenade in-between are the true heart of Barcelona. Street artists line the pavement, eager to do a caricature of you, while street dancers, human statues and various other forms of entertainment vie for tourists' attention.

The first day is always a great opportunity to relax before your Spanish road trip really gets underway so take your time as you stroll around.

Walk halfway down Las Ramblas until you get to the Liceu metro station and turn left into the Gothic Quarter, the ancient part of the city which forms the main part of the Old Town.

One of the first things you'll see is the Barcelona Cathedral. This majestic dark stone structure is a beautiful example of fine Gothic architecture and - miraculously - seems to be somewhat off the tourist radar, making the visit that much more peaceful.

As you wander around the twisting streets of the area, head towards the sea until you reach Port Vell. This marina used to be the busiest trade port of the region and today serves as a yacht harbour.

Here you'll see a large brick building which houses the Museu d'Història de Catalunya, which gives a somewhat unique perspective on the region's continuing fight for independence as well as the history of the Catalonia's relationship with other parts of Spain.

For a spot of late lunch just before you go into the museum, you can't do much better than walk into the small Barceloneta district right behind the building.

Here you'll find a large number of bars and restaurants with all manner of Catalan tapas on offer.

Grab dinner in Barcelona's Port Vell

Barcelona has a famously fabulous dining scene, and there's a multitude of outstanding restaurants dotted around the city to choose.

The majority of these are located within walking distance of Las Ramblas, with a few further afield.

If you fancy some fish and a romantic table in the cool evening sea breeze then return to Port Vell and pick one of the dozen restaurants serving the freshest seafood in town.

Day 2: Barcelona - More sightseeing, tapas & hiking

Visit the gaudi's buildings and sights.

I know you're probably thinking that it's time to get going on your Spain road trip, but Barcelona is worth spending a full day after your arrival - you'll be very glad you did!

Your second day in Barcelona is perfect for a stroll around town taking in some of Gaudi's most famous sights. The key sights are relatively close to each other and all of them are not too far from your hotel, so it will be an easy walk!

Begin the morning in style and find a traditional café on your way to Passeig de Gràcia.

As you make your way through town, you will notice that most street crossings in Barcelona form octagonal squares and these are the best place to equip yourself with some bakery produce and fresh orange juice. If you're feeling peckish, you can indulge in one of the famous crêperies.

The first stop on your route will be the Casa Milà on Passeig de Gràcia. This famous apartment building was designed and built by Gaudi.

Just as impressive on the inside as the outside, it's worth going in to see the layout of the skeleton-like structure and get a good view of Barcelona from the wavy rooftop.

Once you're back outside, head north east on Carrer de Provença. Keep going in a straight line over the Avinguda Diagonal and you will very soon see the Sagrada Familia.

This truly unique Gothic Cathedral is still under construction, with decades of work yet to be completed; nevertheless, it's one of the most unique and jaw-dropping cathedrals in the world.

The amount of detail on the facades is astonishing, and everything from the interior decoration to the columns, towers and the naves is unlike any other in the world. You won't see another cathedral like it on your road trip through Spain... or anywhere in the world.

It's worth sitting down in one of the nearby coffee shops for a moment or two to take in the magnificent sight and do a spot of people watching before carrying on with your Barcelona tour.

Your next stop is the famous Park Güell, which is just a short walk up the Carrer de Sardenya. It's free to enter, so be prepared for crowds if you plan to visit over the weekend.

Once you're inside, have a wander and explore all the bizarre ins and outs of the park. Everything from the asymmetrical houses by the main entrance through to a large pagoda inside was born in the mysterious depths of Gaudi's brain.

Indeed, he used to live in one of the houses on the Park's grounds and frequently relaxed here himself. Be sure to walk to the highest point for fabulous views over the city.

Lunch in Barcelona the Spanish way

You could spend hours discovering new bizarre things in Park Guell, but at some point your appetite is sure to kick in.

Lunch options are fairly broad around the area, with a number of great restaurants located nearby the park.

Alternatively, you can learn from the locals and stock up on some local Iberico ham, bread, olives and cheese and have a picnic in the warm sunshine somewhere within the park. Remember that Day 3 is when the Spain road trip properly starts and if you are going to stop for a picnic on the way to Valencia, plan ahead to not eat the same packed lunch two days running!

Walk up Mount Montjuïc

As the afternoon passes by and dusk approaches, it's time to head over to the last sight of the day - Mount Montjuïc, right across the other side of town.

The walk will take about an hour and a half, although the metro option is fairly straight-forward with a direct line from the Lesseps stop nearby to Poble-sec at the foot of the Montjuïc Park.

Take your time to climb to the top of the hill, where a number of monuments built for the Olympics are dotted around the green park.

The views over the city of Barcelona are spectacular from here, so spend a few minutes figuring out where you've walked and finding your hotel roof. If you walk on a little further, you can see past the Barcelona bowl and map out the route for your Spain road trip first leg towards the mountains in the distance.

On your way down, make sure you pass the Montjuïc Fountain to watch the water and light display that takes place every half hour starting from 7pm - it's worth it. Note that the shows don't happen Monday to Wednesday, so plan your route accordingly.

By the end of the display you will be ready for a hard-earned spot of relaxation before freshening up and heading out to town for food. Perhaps a hearty steak dinner?

Drive from Barcelona to Valencia

First stop on the way is Valencia - a historic trade city on the Costa Blanca.

Day 3: Drive from Barcelona to Montserrat to Valencia

Distance: 265 miles

Visit Montserrat Monastery to kick-start your Spain road trip

Wake up, have some breakfast and check out of your hotel. This is a road trip after all, and it's time to hit the road!

Once you've loaded your luggage and set up the GPS, drive inland. The first stop on your Spain road trip itinerary is the majestic Montserrat Monastery.

This unbelievably beautiful secluded establishment - home to Benedictine Monks - is perched atop a picturesque mountain in-between two peaks.

Here, you will see stunning interior decorations and a number of highly prized religious relics.

Driving-wise, you have a choice of going up the mountain and parking close to the Monastery, or parking at the bottom and taking the train.

The train provides great views down the mountain and of the Monastery itself, so that's our preferred option.

Beware that if you choose to park at the top, you will still have to walk a fair bit uphill to get to the monastery.

The drive from Barcelona to Valencia along the coast

The drive to Valencia along a toll road will get you there in around 3 and a half hours and is a perfect way to kick off the driving on your Spain road trip. If you want to stop for lunch along the way, your best bet is to stop in Tarragona soon after you get to the coast on your way south.

The majority of other towns along the route are fairly uninteresting, with a score of high-rise hotels lining the shore and a distinct lack of restaurants and views.

Tarragona, however, is an ancient city rich in history and culture. A decent range of restaurants in the town centre will offer plenty of choice before you jump back on the AP-7 on your way to Valencia.

If you have time for a detour, hop off the motorway (remember - you'll have to pay the toll!) and check out the Pont del Diable - the Les Ferreres Aqueduct is right by the Tarragona junction. If you head into the city, there is a large amphitheatre and ruins of a Roman Forum to see.

As you arrive in Valencia, you will notice that the city's Old Town is strikingly different to the rest of the city. The city centre is confined by a river to the west and a long green park that also used to be a riverbed before the river was diverted in the fifties.

As with most Spanish cities, vast numbers of affordable underground car parks are provided, so find one near your hotel and dump the car for two days as you won't be needing it to get around.

Where to stay in Valencia

Now that you're travelling by car, you'll want to pick a hotel with parking or somewhere nearby a car park.

Silken Puerta Valencia is a sleek and modern hotel with super comfortable rooms and the perfect location on the east side of Jardin del Turia. It is easy to drive to from the V-21 and it has FREE on-site parking, which is ideal for road trippers.

The rooms are super reasonably priced (especially compared to other hotels nearby) and the breakfast is truly outstanding.

Day 4: Valencia - Market, Old Town and aquarium visit

Explore valencia old town and visit the market.

With only one full day to be spent in Valencia, you really ought to get yourself out of bed at a reasonable hour and head into town for some traditional Valencian breakfast.

Make your way towards the Mercado Central in the heart of the city (it's a 30 minute walk or a 25-minute bus ride) and stop in a cafe along the way for a couple of churros (traditional doughnut-like treats) and a coffee or a large glass of blood orange juice.

The town of Valencia is miraculously unpopular with tourists - which makes it a very appealing Spanish road trip destination!

Compared to most other Spanish cities, you will rarely see a tour guide leading a stampede of visitors here.

The only ones who make it this far away from Granada and Barcelona can typically be found in a queue outside the Oceanogràfic first thing in the morning, which is exactly why the best time to go is later on in the day.

Despite its somewhat under-the-radar status, Valencia is one of the most beautiful Spanish cities. Its Old Town is full of narrow streets criss-crossing through a mix of architecture from across the centuries.

The market, one of the oldest in the country, sells a wide range of fresh produce and local delicacies. Our top tip is to try the dozens of varieties of ham and stock up on your favourite snacks for a picnic later on in the day.

Once you've purchased everything you want and are ready to move on, exit onto the Plaça del Merkat and pay a visit to the UNESCO-listed Lonja de la Seda across the street, which is free to enter.

This grand Gothic building once functioned as a Silk Exchange. Inside you'll see beautifully decorated walls, floors, ceilings and carved columns indicating the power and wealth of Valencia in the 15th and 16th centuries.

It's fascinating to see the sheer difference between the two historic trading hubs only yards away from each other.

To round off the morning, walk the short distance towards the Valencia Cathedral. This beautiful and - to a degree - austere structure can be somewhat tricky to find, as it's closely surrounded by buildings on all sides.

The Cathedral is known for holding the most likely true Holy Grail - the cup from which Jesus drank at the Last Supper.

We'd highly recommend you pay the €2 to climb up the Cathedral's tower, as the views that open up over the city and the busy harbour are truly stunning. It's quite a walk to the top (205 steps), so make sure you've done your stretches before you make the attempt. You can even plan the next leg of your road trip through Spain as you look towards the hills in the distance!

Have a picnic in the Jardín del Turia

The Cathedral is only a stone's throw away from the Jardín del Turia. This vast green belt around Valencia's Old Town used to be a river until the source was diverted following a flood in 1957.

Today this park has everything from a roller skating park to football pitches and large chess sets. This is exactly why you bought the picnic ingredients at the market earlier on in the day.

Not every part of our Spain road trip has to involve driving, so a stroll is in order. The gentle walk down to the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències will take you around 45 minutes, so you'll be able to pick the best spot for lunch on your way.

The park's chilled out vibe, away from the humdrum of the city, combined with the smouldering Valencian sunshine will make for a great meal alfresco.

Mingle with sharks at the Oceanogràfic

The Oceanarium is located on a large and relatively new site called the City of Arts and Sciences. The entrance is easy to miss as it is relatively small, with almost the entire structure buried beneath the ground.

Tickets are expensive but well worth it, as this is one of the best and largest marine parks in the world.

A major highlight of the attraction is a long tunnel that takes you through a tank, with various species of shark swimming alongside swarms of multicoloured fish. Dolphin shows are held regularly, so check the schedule when purchasing your ticket.

Closing times vary, with doors shutting at 6pm during the winter and as late as midnight during the summer months.

Where to go for dinner in Valencia

Once you've haddock a whale of a time, it's time to find a plaice for dinner (just couldn't resist the op-perch-tuna-ty for a fish pun!)

Your best bet is to head back into town and go towards the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. There is a very broad selection of restaurants in that part of the Old Town, with a large number of them specialising in the local specialty - fresh fish.

Of course there are other options around, but you would be doing yourself a real disservice if you do not try a good fish restaurant in Valencia.

Spain road trip arrives in Granada

Having seen the best of Valencia, it's time to scale some mountains and head towards the sunny province of Andalucia with its endless beaches and beautiful white villages.

First stop on the way is Granada - one of our favourite Spanish cities that just feels great on every single visit.

Day 5: Drive Valencia to Granada via the Sierra Nevada

The drive down from Valencia to Granada is almost a mini Spain road trip in itself. It involves following the coast south to Alicante, before heading west and going over the snowy peaks of Sierra Nevada to Granada on the other side. This may sound like an ominous route, but it's actually easy and relaxed.

Once you leave Benidorm in your rear view mirror (it's really not worth stopping for), and head past Murcia, you will suddenly notice an eerie silence.

Given that the next 70 odd miles are pretty much an empty desert on a mountain plateau, nobody other than you seems keen to drive along this route.

This complete absence of other people is perfect for a relaxing drive in some of Spain's most fantastic scenery. Contrary to any fears you may have had, the road is straight and great for driving. The snow-covered mountain peaks form a gorgeous backdrop, and you're likely to have the road almost to yourself all the way there.

Going on a Spain road trip and spectacular mountain views was maybe not the obvious association, but there are few things better for a relaxing drive.

Now we obviously do not condone speeding, but you're guaranteed to be pleasantly surprised by how quickly you get to Granada - just be careful to stay within the speed limit for the two speed cameras on the way. They're clearly marked by three separate signs, each indicating exactly how many metres separate you from a €400 speeding ticket.

We know that you might have already had more picnics on this trip than you did over the course of the last decade, but we promise that this is the last one.

Every now and then you'll come across a rest area by the side of the road which often coincides with a Mirador - a great view of some beautiful landscape.

Take your pick of the pit stops and park up to have your lunch at one of the wooden tables designed exactly for this purpose.

Where to stay in Granada

If you want to stay in central Granada, at the heart of the action, head to the boutique Hotel Palacio Santa Ines.

Tucked away in a narrow street in the historic centre, the Hotel Palacio de Santa Ines consists of two revamped 16th-century buildings designed in the traditional Mudejar style.

With its tranquil inner courtyards, lovely spacious rooms and super convenient proximity to the Alhambra fortress and the Granada Cathedral, it's the perfect place to rest for a few nights.

The only issue with staying in central Granada is parking.

Luckily, the hotel has thought about your Spanish road trip needs and has partnered up with two nearby public car parks, who offer a special rate just for their guests. Simply park your car and bring your parking ticket to the hotel (they'll even reimburse you for a cab ride if the car park is too far to walk).

The hotel will stamp your ticket with a lower daily rate (€19.50 for 24 hours). Simple as that!

Head out to enjoy a tapas dinner in Granada

After dropping off your bags, go out to enjoy the evening in this awe-inspiring city. We recommend a walk around the compact town centre, which is rife with cheap and cheerful tapas restaurants.

For a cosy, relaxed option, head towards Plaza de las Pasiegas. Here you will find a quaint and unassuming little restaurant called Rollo offering a number of quirky dishes.

Our tip? Try the crunchy pancakes made with tiny prawns... delicioso!

Day 6: Granada - Visit the Alhambra fortress

Spain has culture in abundance, so you simply can't ignore it! As one of the most famous and recognisable tourist attractions in Spain, the sprawling Alhambra palace is a symbolic icon of the country. It's positively enormous, so you'll need almost an entire day to see all the various sites around this old Moorish palace complex.

Spain road trip top tip : Be sure to book your tickets ahead of time (see the official Alhambra website for details) as during peak season the limited daily allowance can be sold out weeks in advance. You can't miss out on visiting the Alhambra.

There are buses that can take you to the Alhambra entrance, but the walk up the hill is not strenuous and will make for a pleasant 20-minute stroll.

Start at buy buying an ice cream on the corner of Plaza Santa Ana, where you'll find flavours ranging from marshmallow to kiwi fruit, and head up the Cuesta de Goméres through the park at the foot of the Alhambra walls.

Once you've made your way to the Alhambra's main entrance at the far side of the complex, head right past the queue of ticket hopefuls to one of the yellow machines, insert the card used in pre-booking, and walk straight in.

Pay attention to the time you selected for entering the Nasrid Palaces and be there around 25 minutes early to join the queue.

Other than that, take your time to explore the various sights and take pictures of the sprawl of Granada below you, with the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains in the background.

Enjoy (free) tapas for dinner

Spend your time relaxing in the evening. If you want a taste of typical local food, head for Calle Navas, right in the centre of the Old Town. This narrow street is home to dozens of small family-owned restaurants serving all manner of Andalucian and general Spanish cuisine. The tables in the street are great as the cool breeze and night sky will are a perfect compliment to your bottle of Rioja.

You will probably have tried a lot of tapas on this road trip through Spain, but Granada is known as the city of free tapas. This means you can eat very cheaply if you play your cards right. Most restaurants will give you a free tapa for each drink you order, with each tapa increasing in size as you go on.

To get the most bang for your buck, order a ca ñ a of beer (small glass) as opposed to a tubo (big glass). You'll finish the beer quicker, which means more tapas!

Day 7: Granada - Explore Old Town & Albayzin

Your second day in the city can be spent wandering around the medieval streets and seeing more of the 'real' Granada.

There are a number of distinct areas, with the west part predominantly devoted to typical high street shops. The area around the Cathedral has a large number of restaurants, so study the menus on your way around to pick out your evening meal.

Visit the Cathedral and Capilla Real

The north side of the Cathedral has a large spice stall offering every spice you've ever heard of and then some - this can be an attraction in its own right!

Once you're done smelling the various beans and roots, visit the Cathedral itself and the adjacent Capilla Real. These grand buildings are an archetypal example of southern Spanish church buildings - rich in history, with elements of the Moorish culture making their way into traditional European architecture.

Once you've done your sightseeing, head up the Calle Reyes Católicos towards Plaza Santa Ana - the town's main square, located directly beneath the Alhambra's walls.

Pay attention to one of the city's highlights: the green man traffic light at all pedestrian crossings. This green man is like no other, with a very unique moonwalk impression indicating when it's safe to cross the road.

Walk through the Albayzín neighbourhood

From Plaza Santa Ana, walk past the Church onto the Carrera del Darro. This street runs next to the river Darro, which is home to a large feline colony that spends its time roaming through the shrubs.

A little further along is a small square to your right lined with restaurants that offer a great opportunity for lunch. Take a break from tapas by ordering the fritto misto - a selection of various battered fish and seafood.

Next stop: the Albayzín, the quarter that runs uphill from this street on the opposite bank to the Alhambra.

Take your time to wander through this ancient part of Granada, which is home to a vast number of small artisan shops selling everything from unusual metal work to traditional Moorish clothing.

If you head all the way to the top, the Mirador de San Nicholas is a great place to take in the views and snap some stunning shots of the Alhambra.

Day trips along the Costa del Sol

This might just be the best bit of the entire road trip through Spain. Yes - you'll be visiting some of the most amazing cathedrals and historic cities in the world, but there are few things that put as wide a smile on your face as cruising along the Costa del Sol.

The majority of the Costa has two roads running along - the free slower road along the shoreline and the fast toll road further inland.

Unless you're in a hurry or driving back to the airport, I'd stick with the coastal road for the views.

First stop is Benahavis via Malaga.

Day 8: Spain road trip continues from Granada to Benahavis

Once you have retrieved your car after breakfast, it is time to plough on with the Spanish road trip and make the short journey towards Malaga.

Once again, you will find mostly empty roads until you get close to the costas. You will know you're close to the city once the road suddenly dives down at a steep angle, and lush green vegetation appears in place of the arid rocky landscape.

As you descend towards the sea, you'll notice that the weather on the coast is mild in comparison to the hot inland Andalucia. If you don't notice this the first time round, you definitely will when you visit Cordoba.

Have a wander around Malaga

As you're passing right through Malaga, you might as well stop and have a wander.

The two forts overlooking the city are the best place for a quick break. The Alcazaba is the best preserved Moorish fort in all of Spain, and it sort of feels like the Alhambra's little cousin. The Castillo de Gibralfaro is set slightly higher and also offers brilliant views of the city and the Costa del Sol.

Spend a few hours in the city of Malaga itself. It may have a reputation as stag do-central, but this historic settlement is worth seeing in its own right.

The city centre is a tangle of cobbled streets, secret nooks and crannies and countless restaurants surrounding the Malaga Cathedral.

With tourists often passing Malaga by in favour of the Costa del Sol's many other attractions, take advantage of the atmosphere and treat yourself to lunch overlooking the marina, with the sun shining above you.

Spend the night in the white village of Benahavis

Getting to Benahavis is relatively straight-forward. You have a choice of the toll road AP-7 and the free A-7. The free road is more than good enough and takes a much more scenic route once the two split at Mijas. It also benefits from frequent exits, allowing you to stop along the way when you see a spot you like the look of.

The village of Benahavis is set in the Sierra de las Nieves mountains rising up from Marbella.

With only a 10-minute drive separating you from the beach, you benefit from staying in the culinary capital of the Costa del Sol, while also getting away from the huge package holiday hotels in the large resorts down below.

The peace and tranquillity will make for an enjoyable few evenings, and the choice of great food will make you want to come back time and again.

Where to stay in Benahavis

The best hotel to stay in the quirky Amanhavis right in the centre of Benahavis .

Set around a traditionally designed courtyard, each room has a unique theme around medieval Christian and Moorish influences. There are a lot of steps in-between the rooms and you can have dinner in the best restaurant in town in the court yard by the pool!

You can park your car for free along a couple of streets 50 yards down the hill from the hotel.

Day 9: Day trip from Benahavis - Visit Nerja and Marbella

Day 9 is perfect for seeing what the Costa del Sol is all about so this is the day your Spanish road trip takes you up and down the coast.

After a late lie-in, get in the car, put your windows down (and roof if you've got a convertible) and head down towards the sea.

Turn east along the coast and make your way past Malaga to the town of Nerja. This beautiful town takes a prime spot on the Andalucian coast and is steeped in history dating back to pre-Roman times.

Wander inside the ancient caves.

One of the main sights is a set of caves discovered in 1959.

The Nerja Caves were home to some early humans and neanderthals, with skeletal remains found throughout the linked caverns. Visitors can observe archaeological finds inside ranging from natural rock formations to prehistoric fossils and paintings.

The town of Nerja itself is a charming spot to get out and explore. Be sure to head to the elevated Balcon de Europa - a viewing platform built on top of the Nerja cliffs - for sensational views of the coast.

Two old cannons standing here remind you of the town's historical past, and the benches are a great place to enjoy an ice cream.

Drive to Marbella: the playground of the rich and famous

A late lunch is a good idea in Andalucia, as dinner is traditionally eaten later on in the evening.

Once you've seen enough of Nerja, hop back in the car and make the return trip down the coast to Marbella. No road trip in Spain is complete without driving up and down the Costa del Sol so head on right back along the beachfront.

Getting back to Marbella will take around an hour and a half. This famous resort is well-known for its beaches and countless hotels, but the Old Town is great for a midday stroll.

Park up underneath Paseo de la Alameda and cross the road to get into the historic part of town. There is a broad selection of restaurants with tables on every square, so take your pick and have some lunch here. Some of the restaurants do amazing sizzling prawns if you fancy a bit of seafood.

A number of shops sell everything from furs (no, really) to beach accessories.

After having passed through Marbella, it's time to head to Puerto Banus only minutes away up the coast.

This is Costa del Sol's playground of the rich, with ridiculously expensive yachts in the harbour and an equally elaborate display of supercars parked next to them.

Top tip: Restaurants and shops here will sting your wallet, and the parking charges are insane. If you do want to grab some lunch, head to the west end of the marina (the one with the biggest boats) - there are a couple of spots that are less busy with reasonably priced menus.

Here's another insider tip for your road trip in Spain - park up for free at La Playa Fantastica - the closest beach to Puerto Banus.

Come back out of Puerto Banus and turn right onto the A-7 motorway towards Malaga. Stay right and take the right turn onto the N-340 towards Marbella.

As you come off onto the N-340, take the first turning right onto a narrow lane running towards the sea, then take the second street on the right and follow it down to the beach. You can park your car here for free for as long as you like and have access to one of the best beaches in the area with a great beach bar.

Puerto Banus is a mere 200 metres away, so you can stroll along at your leisure to have a closer look at how the other half live and inspect the exotic automobiles.

Spend the afternoon and early evening relaxing on the beach with the odd cocktail thrown in before making the 10-minute trip back up into the seclusion of Benahavis.

Enjoy dinner back in Benahavis

Freshen up in your hotel room before making your way through the narrow streets to select your restaurant for dinner.

Note that with many visitors coming from resorts up and down the coast, going out a little later can mean a less busy and more relaxed atmosphere.

Day 10: Road trip along the Costa del Sol to Casares and Ronda

Drive to casares - one of the most beautiful 'pueblos blancos' in spain.

Today shall be the day of the Mirador . This Spanish word encompasses everything we like about driving up into the Andalucian mountains, as there are frequent labelled roadside stops allowing you to take in the magical views.

You could break tradition and set off on this leg of your Spain road trip before having breakfast to get down to Estepona.

This relatively quiet resort town has a number of cafés and bars on the seafront where you can pause and indulge in a couple of waffles covered in chocolate sauce.

Be sure to fill up the car before heading off the main road and up towards Casares, as petrol stations off the coast are few and far between.

Casares is pretty much postcard-perfect, with neat white houses built into the mountains.

With a population of just a few thousand people, the town is definitely small, but it has a surprising number of nice restaurants and hotels to choose from.

When you arrive in Casares, park your car and head towards Plaza de España, which is the focal point of this small community.

To get some great views, make your way up the narrow street next to the Virgin del Rosario Chapel and keep heading uphill until you reach an old fort at the top.

If you walk a bit further along, you will come to a viewing platform set above a sheer cliff face. From here you'll likely see a number of falcons and kestrels up close and personal - and the views of the town below are simply spectacular.

Head to Ronda and walk along the bridge

Once you've got your snaps and feel that you've seen all there is to see in Casares, it's time to hop back in the car and make your way further inland to the majestic town of Ronda.

This unique Andalucian town is placed on top of two plateaus with sheer rock cliffs down to a river valley below. The scenery is incredible from every angle and the town itself is a real marvel too.

Parking can be troublesome, so grab any spot you see once you get near the centre. Large underground car parks are available further out, but are a fair walk from the centre - we like the Parking Martinez Astein - it's about 10 minutes' walk down the main shopping street, but easy to get in and out of.

The main attraction of the city is the Puente Nuevo - the newest and most striking of the town's three bridges across the Guadalevín gorge.

This unbelievably beautiful structure took 42 years to complete and is one of Spain's most famous sights. The view that opens up from the top of the bridge is impossible to describe and pictures do not do it justice - it's just one of those places that you have to see for yourself. If there's one place that makes your Spain road trip worth it, this is it.

Once you've gotten over the quiet gurgle of the river below and the amazing views, it's time to pay attention to the rest of the historic town and there's definitely a lot to see.

The ancient cobbled streets are home to a number of museums and a bullfighting ring which you can visit. There are also plenty restaurants that are perfect for a late lunch.

A few restaurants on the south side have rooftop or terrace seats with views over the gorge and the bridge, which can make your meal a lot more romantic.

Once you feel the need to get back and relax by the pool through the late afternoon, it's a comfortable drive along a stunning road through the mountains, which comes out almost directly at Benahavis.

Your last night on the Costa del Sol ought to be celebrated with a couple of cocktails and a fabulous dinner in the calming sea breeze.

Spanish road trip ends with Cadiz, Seville and Cordoba

The last stint of this journey will take you inland as you drive up to Seville and Cordoba via Cadiz.

Don't be fooled by driving north - this is going to be the hottest part of the drive so get some water in the car. Seville and Cordoba are only an hour apart but could not be more different. You'll see how Seville's grand wide avenues with a distinctly European feel compare to Cordoba's narrow winding streets and a Moorish style.

Day 11: Drive from Benahavis to Gibraltar, Cadiz and Seville

First on the menu is a spectacular drive along the coast, a quick detour into Gibraltar and a day full of amazing views.

Driving from Benahavis to Gibraltar is fairly straight-forward until you get to the narrow streets of La Linea de la Conceptión on the Spanish side of the border. Here, you will undoubtedly join a huge queue waiting to enter.

Many people choose to park up and walk in, but with the main part of town fairly far down, we'd recommend waiting in the queue which moves along swiftly enough and driving through.

Make sure that your passports allow you visa-free entry to Gibraltar as it is outside the Schengen zone.

Climb up the famous Gibraltar Rock

There are two distinct parts to Gibraltar and you can choose how to split up your morning.

The main town is a throwback to England of a few decades ago, which is a very unique cultural experience. You will notice a lot of expensive cars and shops selling watches and jewellery for the wealthy beneficiaries of Gibraltar's favourable tax system.

The town itself, however, is more shabby chic than flamboyant, complete with iconic British red phone boxes dotted around.

For the more adventurous types, the Gibraltar Rock is a popular destination, with a cable car taking you to the top.

At the highest point you'll find the remains of an ancient Moorish castle, with a series of linked tunnels below called the Galleries. Look out for the enterprising monkeys that populate the area and are particularly keen on anything shiny they can get their hands on.

Visit the ancient city of Cadiz

On your way up to Seville, you absolutely must stop off at Cadiz.

This radiant city is the oldest in modern Europe, with history going far back into pre-Roman times. The main part of the city is located on a thin strip of land stretching out to sea, with a stunning yellow stone Old Town centred around a Cathedral.

Oddly enough, Cadiz attracts virtually no tourists whatsoever, so you are free to roam at your own leisure and visit some genuine Andalucian shops and cafés without having to distinguish them from tourist traps.

Enjoy the views from the top of Cadiz Cathedral

We highly recommend visiting the Cathedral and climbing up the tower to get a great view over the town and surrounding water. Spanish road trips tend to involve climbing huge cathedral towers in every city you visit, but it's really worth it!

The Panorama from the top of the Poniente will leave you breathless and also give you the opportunity to plan your route towards the Santa Catalina castle.

The walk there is along a narrow route that comes off the beach and heads several hundred metres into the sea, towards the fort built to protect the city from English attacks.

While you can't enter the venue, which is used exclusively for social events and concerts, the walk itself is a great way to chill out in the cool of the Atlantic waves, get a great view of the city, and have a swim in the locals' favourite relaxation spot.

Drive to Seville in time for dinner

The final stint of day 11 of your Spain road trip is getting to Seville. This will take you just over an hour and you should comfortably arrive in time to unpack, find a place to park your car and scour the surroundings for a great restaurant.

We would highly recommend finding Calle Mesón del Moro for some of the best restaurants in town, although beware that some of these may be fully booked on Friday and Saturday nights.

Where to stay in Seville

Our pick for the very best place to stay in Seville is Posada del Lucero - an elegant 16th-century inn that's been refurbished with all the modern amenities you could possibly want.

This hotel is situated near all the best shopping streets, just north of the historic sights and right next door to Metropol Parasol - the iconic massive wooden structure that locals have nicknamed "the Mushrooms".

The stylish minimal exterior of the hotel contrasts with what you'll find inside: two beautiful courtyards flanked by marble columns and sleek arched doorways.

There's also an amazing roof terrace with a plunge pool and a bar where you can enjoy drinks with a view.

Navigating the streets of central Seville can be the toughest of this Spanish road trip The hotel doesn't have its own parking, but there is a decent public car park nearby just one block up the road so head there as you drive in.

Day 12: Seville - Walking tour of all the best sights

First stop: plaza de españa.

The grand architecture and wide streets of Seville are more reminiscent of major European capitals than Andalucia, giving the city a distinct allure.

There is a lot to see around town, so get yourself out of bed at reasonable time and head down to Plaza de España. This vast open space was built in the 1920s in the middle of the Parque de María Luisa in time for the 1929 World Fair.

The large exposition building is now chiefly used for Governmental functions, but you can still go up the grand stairs for a better view.

The square itself is a semi-circle with fountains in the centre of a large paved area. Be sure to check out the perimeter of the Renaissance-style square, which is lined with Province Alcoves named after each of Spain's regions, complete with a mosaic depiction of each province.

Visit Seville's Real Alcazar

The Alcazar is probably Seville's best-known attraction, famed for its unique fusion of Moorish and Christian architecture.

Originally built as a mudejar fort, it has been converted into a Royal Palace and comes complete with stunning internal courtyards, romantic baths and grandiose apartments.

Along with the Jardines Reales Alcazares gardens around the back, this palace is guaranteed to leave you speechless.

See the largest Gothic church in the world

Last but not least on your long excursion around the city is the Seville Cathedral.

As it's only a few yards away from the Alcazar, you might want to have a spot of lunch before going inside. We would recommend crossing to the other side of the Cathedral square and stocking up on traditional local black squid paella on Calle Argote de Molina.

The cathedral itself is a masterful example of Spanish Gothic architecture and is the third largest church building in the world.

The interior's opulence has traditionally been a symbol of the wealth and power of the Catholic church, so you simply must go in and take in the sight for yourself.

Note that much of the altar and surrounding parts were completely rebuilt at the turn of the 20th century after the main dome collapsed in the 1888 earthquake, but despite this, the Cathedral remains staggeringly beautiful.

Be sure to climb up the cathedral's famous main tower, the Giralda.

Day 13: Last full day of the Spain road trip - day trip to Cordoba

On we go with the last leg of our Spain road trip.

If you thought that Seville is hot during the summer months, wait until you get to Cordoba. The city boasts Europe's hottest summer climate, and you can expect to feel it hitting you square in the face as you get out of your air-conditioned car.

The city centre is fairly compact, so your best bet is to drive towards Avenida de la República Argentina/Paseo de la Victoria and park on the street.

Explore Cordoba's top attractions

The first stop on your Cordoba tour is the Cathedral of Cordoba - aka La Mezquita. This stunning piece of architecture is probably the most impressive sight on this road trip through Spain.

This unique cathedral in the centre of the city was built on the site of a grand Moorish mosque. When it was constructed, La Mezquita defied tradition, incorporating much of the Mosque's design into the Cathedral structure.

This melange of cultures reflects the history of Cordoba, which has been characterised by two religions living side by side for centuries.

The ancient city of Cordoba is surprisingly unlike any of the other major cities in Andalucia.

The ancient Moorish influences are considerably more evident here, the narrow streets, low-rise buildings and shops looking more like northern Africa than Spain.

Be sure to pass through the Jewish Quarter to see beautiful white-washed houses set out in an impossible maze.

Cordoba used to be Europe's biggest city in the early medieval period, and it was Spain's capital during the days of the Roman Empire.

This vast historical importance means there are dozens of sights and museums to visit all around town. Many of these focus on archaeology, although there are other culture-based ones such as the Casa de Sefarad in the Jewish Quarter, where you can learn about Cordoba's Jewish community throughout history.

How to spend your evening in Seville

At the end of your day out, hop back into the car and return to Seville for the last night of your road trip - Spain has been well and truly conquered.

If you feel like treating yourself, Seville has plenty of outstanding restaurants.

If you fancy some traditional local cuisine, look no further than the Eslava in San Lorenzo, which has the town's best choice of tapas. For something a little bit more exotic, try the Az-Zait - the food here is fantastic, but it is also one of the pricier options around.

Day 14: Seville - Eat a meal at the market & fly home

The last day of your stay is likely to be cut short by the need to get to the airport or get started on your drive back home.

Malaga airport offers the most flight options out of Andalucia so consider options from there. Madrid airport is over 5 hours away so it's not a great option.

If you've hired your car in Barcelona, all major car hire firms have depots right by the airport, so make your way straight there.

If you have a bit of time to kill before leaving, make sure you go and wander through Calle San Pablo and the surrounding streets for a bit of shopping and some great cafes.

For one last taste of authentic Spanish life, walk across the Puente de Isabel II bridge and head to the large market on the right. Here you'll find a great choice of cured meats and other traditional produce.

Pick up a couple of snacks and souvenirs to remind you of your lazy trip along Spain's Mediterranean coast!

Tips for your Spanish Road Trip

Almost all cities in Spain have a network of underground car parks right in the centre - don't be afraid to follow signs for the centre of the city and dip into one of the car parks to check out the sights.

The motorways and dual carriageways in Spain are some of the best in Europe - the surfaces are typically very good, traffic is generally sparse and you can literally pay to go faster (speed limits are higher on toll roads)!

To get all the details, read our Driving in Spain guide with a lot more about local rules, speed limits and general quirks.

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The Ultimate Southern Spain Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the historic cities of Seville and Cordoba, to the natural beauty of Ronda and the spectacular beaches of Cadiz and Valencia, this southern Spain road trip offers something for everyone.

Grab your keys, we’re going on a road trip! Is there any better way to get to grips with a country than driving around it? I love having the freedom to explore at my own pace! If this is your favourite way to travel too, then I’d definitely recommend a road trip through the south of Spain.

It’s a region I’ve visited on numerous trips, but only now am I piecing all the destinations together into one amazing road trip. This southern Spain itinerary offers so much. You’ll kick off in Madrid (lots of rental car options!) and spend your time visiting the museums and galleries, before travelling to the coast and enjoying the vibrant city of Valencia and the region of Murcia.

Then it’s time to kick off the next section – the Andalusia road trip! You’ll visit the peaks of Spain’s impressive Sierra Nevada mountains before immersing yourself in Andalusia’s fascinating history with trips to cities including Granada, Sevilla, Cadiz and Cordoba.

If you’re short on time, you could pick one section of this trip, and then return to do another section on a future visit.

If you love art, be sure to visit Madrid’s Prado Museum and Malaga’s Pompidou Centre. Meanwhile, nature lovers will enjoy Murcia’s natural rock formations in Bolnuevo and Ronda’s spectacular gorge.

Southern Spain is also one of the best areas in the world for history, with sights including Granada’s Alhambra, Cordoba’s Mezquita and Cadiz’s roman ruins.

And if you’re a foodie at heart you’re guaranteed to fall in love with Spanish cuisine on this trip. Feast on tapas, sample horchata in Valencia and enjoy the simple pleasures as you bar-hop around the ancient towns and cities.

So, whether you’re looking for a bit of inspiration or you’re already planning your itinerary, this guide will cover all of the best places to visit in Southern Spain on a road trip.

Weather in southern Spain

This region of Europe has warm summers and mild winters. While the summer holidays are a popular time to visit southern Spain, it’s also a great option in the colder months, when it offers some of the warmest winter temperatures in Europe.

The warmest and sunniest month of the year is July, with average temperatures around 28°C (82°F). The coldest temperatures are in December and January, with averages of 11°C (52°F).

However, some years the temperatures have reached 18°C in these months, so it can be a lovely place to escape the cold in northern Europe. The wettest month is March, so you may want to avoid visiting then.

Southern Spain Road Trip Map

If you’re happy to travel at a pretty moderate pace, moving on every single day, you could just about fit this itinerary into ten days. However, I’d recommend moving a little slower so you can soak up all the little details in each destination.

This is one of the most scenic drives in southern Spain, so even the journeys between destinations are enjoyable.

Here’s a handy map to go with this southern Spain road trip itinerary, which you can save to make your planning stress-free.

What to pack for your road trip

If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, this guide to road trip essentials has you covered. From portable chargers to ways to stay entertained on long journeys, it’ll help you create your road trip packing list.

Southern Spain Road Trip Itinerary – Places To Visit In Southern Spain

Southern spain road trip: stop 1 – madrid.

Kick off your trip in Spain’s amazing capital city. Madrid is somewhere I often think is underrated as it gets pigeon-holed as the business hub of the country. However, it has a lot of charm and some incredible places to visit too.

Be sure to visit the oldest monument in the city, the Temple of Debod. The series of gateways here make up an ancient Egyptian temple that was presented to Spain by the Egyptian state. It was originally located close to Aswan and dates back to 200BC! It’s an amazing place for photography, with beautiful reflections in the pool of water.

Art lovers simply must pay a visit to one of Madrid’s most famous attractions and one of the best museums in Europe – the Prado Museum . This enormous museum is considered as one of the greatest art museums in the world, and it’s not hard to see why!

The museum contains one of the largest collections of European art, with more than 15,000 paintings, drawings and prints, as well as over 1,000 sculptures. There are notable artworks by Goya, El Greco and  Rubens and Titians.

One of the key pieces to see is Las Meninas by Velázquez. You could spend all day here, but remember there’s plenty more to see in the city! If you do decide to visit, I’d recommend booking a ‘skip the line’ ticket so you don’t waste hours queueing.

History lovers will also enjoy visiting the Palacio Real de Madrid (the Royal Palace). This palace takes the trophy for being the largest palace in Europe and it’s open to the public so you can have a nosy around!

For an escape from the busy streets of Gran Via and Puerta Del Sol, I’d recommend wandering around Retiro Park. This is a stunning and vast park with a large lake. It’s a serene place to take a picnic or grab an ice cream.

Are you someone who travels for food? Then you’ll definitely enjoy your time in Madrid. I’d recommend eating your way around Mercado San Miguel where you’ll find stalls selling everything from popular tapas dishes to sushi and ice cream. I love the food here – there is so much choice and the market has a great atmosphere.

For a sweet treat, pick up some churros from Chocolateria San Ginés . This café has been serving these delicious crispy sticks of fried batter with its signature hot chocolate sauce for well over 100 years. It’s something of an institution!

There’s a cool bar culture in Madrid too. I’d recommend checking out the likes of El Imperfecto and Café Central where there’s often live music. For a cheap meal, enjoy the aperitivo culture at El Tigre. Just order a drink and a plate of tapas will arrive too. It’s one of the most budget-friendly ways to eat out in Madrid.

If you’re deciding where to stay in the city, check out my guide to the best hotels in Madrid . There’s something for every budget. 

Madrid to Valencia: 360 km / 3 hr 45 mins approx.

Southern Spain Road Trip: Stop 2 – Valencia

The second stop on this southern Spain itinerary is Valencia, one of my favourite cities in Spain. With its historic old town, modern museums and gorgeous beach, it’s a really varied destination. I’ve written lots of detailed Valencia travel guides so definitely take a look at those for more info on the city.

If you’ve only got one day on your southern Spain road trip, I’d recommend starting in Valencia’s old town. Here you can visit Valencia’s impressive cathedral, which is the most prominent landmark here. Its origins go back to the 13th Century, but you’ll find an interesting mix of architecture added at various times in history. Plus, if you’re looking for an amazing view of Valencia, definitely climb El Miguelete – the 167 ft baroque bell tower.

If you’ve found the old town a little hectic, take a breather with a leisurely stroll or bike ride through Turia Gardens. These amazing gardens span 9 km and feature landscaped gardens, natural parks, playgrounds, sports grounds and more.

Modern art lovers will adore the Ciudad de les Artes y Les Ciences. This complex of futuristic architecture is absolutely spectacular! There’s a concert hall, science museum, gardens and aquarium all within this area.

To complete your sightseeing trip around Valencia, finish your day at the beach. There are lots of bars and restaurants lining the sand here, it’s a lovely place to round off a busy day of sightseeing.

There are plenty of great delicacies to try in this city. If you haven’t tried it before, order a traditional Valencian paella down on the beach. After all, this city is considered to be the birthplace of this famous Spanish dish!

Horchata is another Valencian delicacy. This drink is often served with fartons, which are long sugar-dusted pastries, perfect for dunking! Horchatería Santa Catalina, a 200+ year old café in the heart of the old town is THE place to go for these! For a modern dining experience, I really enjoyed the food and atmosphere at La Manera, a modern restaurant serving tasty sharing plates.

Or if you want someone else to do the hard work and order for you, you could book onto a food tour of the city. I really enjoyed this experience as it allowed me to hear all about the city from a local, while tasting some really authentic cuisine. I wrote about my tapas tour of Valencia so you can have a read and decide if it’s something you’d like to try.

Valencia to Murcia: 225 km / 2 hr 25 mins approx.

Southern Spain Road Trip: Stop 3 – Murcia

While I’d recommend you stay in the city of Murcia, this is also the name of the region and it’s worth getting out to see as much as possible.

Murcia is one of the best parts of Spain for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. Not only is there the fabulous 250km Costa Cálida, there are also beautiful rivers, trails and caves.

If you love hiking, drive to the Segura River and explore some of the trails. Whether you fancy a gentle wander along the cliffs, or you want to spend a whole day out, there are trails for all fitness levels. If you want to challenge your adrenaline, you could go rafting on the river here too.

Another unique experience in Murcia is seeing the incredible rock formations on the beach at Bolnuevo. These natural sandstone wonders have been weathered by wind, rain and the ocean. They’re really eerie but definitely something special!

There are some impressive caves in Murcia too. Cueva de la Serreta in particular has cave paintings dating back a whopping 7,000 years!

The city of Murcia is pretty underrated. It’s striking with its wide plazas,  pedestrianised areas and ancient buildings. Santa María Cathedral is a must-see, dating back to 1385. There’s also a popular archaeology museum and theatre nearby.

Murcia to Sierra Nevada: 325 km / 3 hr 23 mins approx.

Southern Spain Road Trip: Stop 4 – Sierra Nevada

How about adding in a ski stop to your southern Spain road trip?!

First though, did you know you can ski in southern Spain? It might come as a surprise to many… I mean it surprised me when I found out! A country I associate with beaches and summer holidays actually has a great ski resort too.

The Sierra Nevada mountain range in Andalusia is very popular with snow bunnies from November to March. It’s a magical place to visit in the winter months right up until early spring. In fact, there can be snow on the highest peaks right up until June!

You can literally be on the ski slopes in the morning and sunbathing on the beach by the afternoon. How amazing is that?

The ski resort at Pradollano is home to over 130 slopes, and has peaks over 3,000m. It’s ideal for skiing, snowboarding and other fun snow activities, and has ski runs to suit all levels. There’s plenty of accommodation in the main town too.

If you’re driving in southern Spain in the summer months, there’s plenty to see and do in Sierra Nevada. You could visit Capileira or Las Alpujarras, two charming whitewashed mountain villages with some of the best views in the region.

You can also catch the gondola and chair lift up to the peaks in July and August. When not covered in snow, the mountain trails are popular with e-bikers, who love to take in the view without the effort of cycling up the steep slopes!

If you’re travelling with kids, how about taking a ride on Trineo Ruso , a fun alpine coaster that’s open in the summer. This is also an incredible place for stargazing, so don’t forget to look up once the sun goes down.

Sierra Nevada to Granada: 40 km / 55 mins approx.

Southern Spain Road Trip: Stop 5 – Granada

Granada is one of the best places to visit in Spain to see Moorish architecture. This is a walkable city at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountain range you’ve just visited. It’s absolutely jam-packed full of history with its spectacular cathedral, monasteries and historic markets.

Visit the Albaicín neighbourhood to see some of the best examples in the world of Medieval streets. You’ll quickly see why this has earned its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

The lanes are really skinny, with pretty houses, bars and restaurants scattered throughout. I remember finding a lovely Middle-Eastern café on one of the streets and sitting outside with a cup of mint tea, feeling like I was world’s away from Spain. It reminded me of towns I’d visited in Morocco and Jordan. Carrera del Darro is one of the best streets to really soak up the atmosphere of this neighbourhood.

Meanwhile, looking down on the streets is one of the most famous landmarks in Spain: the Alhambra. Translating as ‘red palace’ this ancient palace and fortress dates back to the 8 th century. It’s one of the best-preserved Muslim medieval cities in the world.

I’d recommend booking a fast-track ticket so you don’t waste time queuing. A guided tour is a great idea too as there is not only a lot to see here, but also so much history to learn. This building really has seen it all – a lot of change!

In terms of food, Granada is one of the best places for the whole ‘free tapas’ with a drink culture! Just order a glass of wine, beer or cider and you’ll be rewarded with a dish of something tasty on the house. I’d recommend bar-hopping over an evening, trying lots of delicacies as you go.

Some of my favourite spots include El Bar de Fede, Los Diamantes and La Blanca Paloma. To be honest though, most are great and it’s partly about the atmosphere too! Consider it your very own Granada food tour!

Granada to Malaga: 125 km / 1 hr 25 mins approx.

Southern Spain Road Trip: Stop 6 – Malaga

Can you believe we’re over half way through this amazing south of Spain itinerary now? With over 300 sunny days a year, hot summers and warm winters, Malaga on Spain’s Costa Del Sol is a great destination to visit all year round.

While it may not have the vast history of somewhere like Granada, the museums of Madrid or the natural beauty of Murcia, I’ve always had great times in the city and would definitely recommend stopping here on your southern Spain road trip.

I’ve been thoroughly impressed with its cultural offerings and food scene. It’s a city that feels like it’s going through some regeneration right now too.

It’s somewhere you’ll find trendy bars and food markets right next to Gothic cathedrals and Roman ruins. I always love places with that mix of old and new, so I think that’s what drew me to Malaga.

One of the biggest attractions in Malaga is the Pompidou Centre . The entrance is via the colourful cube structure from which you descend underground to the main galleries. If you want to avoid queuing, I’d recommend booking a ‘skip the line’ ticket here.

Food lovers will enjoy the city’s markets. There’s Mercado Central de Atarazanas with its amazing stained-glass window. Shop for fresh ingredients such as fruit and vegetables, fish, cheese, meats and olives. If you’re self-catering on your trip, you can stock up on supplies.

For more substantial food options visit Mercado Merced, which sells tasty tapas and alcoholic drinks. Be sure to order a dish of Malaga’s famous fried fish to croquetas while you’re there!

If you’re looking to shop in the city, wander down Larios, Malaga’s chic shopping street which is often compared to Paris’ Champs Elysee. Alternatively, take a stroll along Muelle Uno, the promenade which snakes around the port, or take a spin on Malaga’s observation wheel for some great views.

If you simply want to have a day to relax on this road trip, you could spend a day at one of the nearby beaches. There really is so much to do in this city, and I’ve got plenty more tips for visiting in my Malaga travel guide .

Malaga to Ronda: 100 km / 1 hr 20 mins approx.

Southern Spain Road Trip: Stop 7 – Ronda

The 7 th stop on this south Spain itinerary is somewhere I absolutely fell in love with! So much so, I’ve returned several times now. I think Ronda is one of the most magical towns in southern Spain, built across the deep El Tajo gorge.

This isn’t a big town so you could spend a half day here if you’re pushed for time, or just visit as a day trip from Seville. If time is on your side though, I’d totally recommend a bit longer because it’s the kind of place you’ll enjoy seeing at a leisurely pace.

The key attraction in Ronda is Puente Nuevo. This 18th Century bridge spectacularly joins the two sections of the city across the huge gorge. The bridge is 100m tall with its base down below in the gorge and Guadalquivir River.

There are lots of angles you can view it from, but I’d recommend strolling through the Jardines De Cuenca – a series of terraced gardens.

Another big attraction in Ronda is the Plaza Del Toros a.k.a. the bullring. It’s one of the oldest in Spain and is a pretty magnificent to see inside. I don’t condone  bullfighting though, so this is somewhere I’d visit for the architecture alone!

If you’re partial to a glass of vino, you could visit Bodega Joaquin Fernandez for a wine-tasting session. This winery is in a picturesque location with vineyards rolling down the hill area.

From Ronda you could also drive over to Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park where you can explore the spectacular mountain ranges, caves, gorges and fir tree forests.

Ronda to Cadiz: 145 km / 1 hr 40 mins approx.

Southern Spain Road Trip: Stop 8 – Cadiz

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know what a fan I am of this pretty city in southern Spain. I’d go as far as to say Cadiz is my favourite place in Spain. Yet I’ve mentioned the city to friends and they’ve never heard of it… so, what’s so special about Cadiz?

Well, where to start! If you’re into history, you’ll be in your element here! Founded by the Phoenicians 3,000 years ago, Cadiz is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe. The Romans also settled there, building an impressive city (some of which is still in existence today).

But you don’t need to be history nerd to appreciate Cadiz. It’s home to several beautiful beaches, including La Caleta right in the city centre. Set back from the water is the medieval city filled with narrow streets, beautiful tree-lined plazas, fountains and great restaurants.

There’s also a port scattered with fishing boats and lots of pretty buildings all painted in white.

One of my favourite activities was the food tour I did. It was a fantastic way to learn how the locals eat, what produce is local and discover a few tapas bars to revisit during my trip.

I’d also recommend climbing either the Tavira Tower or the Cathedral Tower for the best views of the city. Personally, I preferred the views from the Cathedral Tower as I liked being nearer the water as well as seeing the bells up close!

Other things to do in Cadiz include visiting the castles Castillo De San Sebastian and Santa Catalina, as well as touring the underground caves and catacombs.

To be honest though, I loved mooching around Cadiz. Just set off and get a bit lost, stop for tapas at one of the many little bars dotted around the city, and see what you find along the way. It’s a place that is guaranteed to take your breath away .

Cadiz to Seville: 120 km / 1 hr 20 mins approx.

Southern Spain Road Trip: Stop 9 – Seville

If I was asked to describe Seville, I’d probably say it’s the most quintessentially Spanish city in Spain. It’s one of my favourite city breaks in the world as it offers so much.

It has that feisty Spanish lust for life, with flamenco shows, live music and buzzy tapas bars. You’ll see sunshine and blue skies almost all year round. It’s also packed full of historic sites.

You simply have to visit Seville Cathedral and climb the Giralda Tower. From there you’ll have the best view of the city. I’d recommend doing this at the start of your day before it gets too hot. It’s a great way to get your bearings too.

Also, squeeze in a trip to the Real Alcazar de Sevilla . This royal palace is absolutely stunning inside, with decorative courtyards, pristine landscape gardens and plenty of artefacts to admire. It can get really busy, especially in the holidays, so you might want to book a ‘skip the line’ ticket to save queueing.

My favourite building in Seville is Plaza de Espana. Built for the Ibero-American exposition of 1929, it’s an architectural masterpiece with its curved shape and beautiful water features. For a bit of fun, you could hire a rowing boat and view the building from a unique angle!

Seville isn’t stuck in the past though. If you love modern architecture, stroll under the Metropol Parasol. Consisting of six wooden parasols, this unusual structure is often referred to as the mushroom!

Plus, Seville is one Spain’s finest cities for food, particularly if you like the flavours of Andalucia. I’d recommend eating your way around gourmet food market Mercado Lonja Del Barranco or trying some local, authentic tapas at El Rinconcillo – the city’s oldest bar.

One little tip, park outside of the city centre. The streets are narrow and you don’t want to scratch your rental car!

Seville to Cordoba: 140 km / 1 hr 30 mins approx.

Southern Spain Road Trip: Stop 10 – Córdoba

Time for the final stop on this amazing road trip through the south of Spain!

It’s hard to believe that Córdoba was once the largest city in the world with around 1 million people living there… but that was 1,000 years ago! This is another city famed for its history, with four amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The most famous place to visit is the Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba (I’d recommend booking a skip the line ticket to save queuing). Starting its life as a mosque, it was later converted into a cathedral. It’s the most amazing blend of Christian and Muslim architecture. This story alone is fascinating and a good indication into the melting point that this city is.

Just wandering Cordoba on foot is a delight. You’ll notice some differences in architecture here compared to some of other places you’ve visited so far on this itinerary. In particular, keep an eye out for the beautiful patios and courtyards in the centre of many of the buildings.

If you visit in May, you might get the chance to see some of these hidden gems up close! At this time of year there’s a special festival known as the Fiesta de los Patios where locals open their doors to show off their courtyards. It can get quite competitive, with pretty displays of flowers and art too!

You’ve seen the traditional blue pots filled with flowers, mounted on whitewashed walls before, right? Well, that’s a signature style of Cordoba (and Andalucía as a whole), so keep your eyes peeled as you wander the city.

There’s plenty more to keep you busy in Cordoba, including walking the Roman Bridge over the Guadalquivir River, feasting on plates of tapas in local bars and enjoying some nightlife too. What better place to end an amazing adventure through southern Spain!

Cordoba to Madrid: 395 km / 4 hours approx.

Where To Stay On A Southern Spain Road Trip

If you’re wondering where to stay in southern Spain, here are a few of my top choices along this route.

Dear Hotel Madrid

Dear Hotel boasts one of the best hotel views in the whole of Madrid. What better way to relax after a hard day’s sightseeing than by sipping a cocktail from the stunning (but compact!) rooftop pool? It’s enough to make you feel as though you were swimming right over the city itself, and it’s a lovely place to take in the glittering city lights at night.

Located directly on the Calle Gran Via, Dear Hotel offers everything you need for a luxury stay in Madrid – so why not travel in style and treat yourself to a slice of opulence during your trip?

The Westin Valencia

Of all the 5-star hotels in Valencia, the Westin Valencia is arguably the most impressive. It’s an Art Deco dream, filled with glittering chandeliers, exquisite marble, and elegant artistic touches.  It occupies a great location next to the Turia Gardens, just a short walk from the city centre and all of the charms of the historic old town.

The Westin offers the best in comfort and luxury with exceptional service, a world-class spa, and the fabulous Komori Restaurant, which serves up Japanese-European fusion cuisine. This chic hotel is one of the best places to stay in Valencia for couples, offering romantic surroundings to unwind in, after a busy day of sightseeing.

Parador de Cadiz

If you’re looking for a modern and stylish place to stay in Cadiz, where you can catch a glimpse of the sea from every room and balcony, check out Parador de Cadiz. With incredible views of the bay as well as a relaxing spa and wellness centre, this is one of the best equipped hotels in the city.

After a busy day of exploring you can head back to your hotel and unwind in the spa or swimming pool. If you fancy a culinary treat, the hotel’s tapas bar and restaurant serve a variety of traditional Spanish delicacies.

EME Catedrale Hotel , Seville

With Moorish-inspired interiors and luxurious contemporary rooms, EME Catedrale Hotel is one of the most popular 5-star hotels in Seville’s old town. As the name suggests, it’s just a stone’s throw from the cathedral, and offers one of the best views of any hotel in the city from its rooftop pool terrace.

It’s also an ideal base from which to explore the Jewish quarter and all the main sights and sounds of the city. Along with the pool, another great feature is the hotel’s cocktail bar, which has a glass floor showing the subterranean Roman ruins below. Definitely a great spot for an atmospheric pre-dinner drink!

I hope you enjoy your south Spain road trip – let me know if there’s anywhere you’d add to the itinerary! I think you’ll agree, this is one of the best road trips in Spain. It just offers so much variety.

My best advice is to use this guide as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to add some extra spots along the way too. If you’re wondering where else to visit in Spain, have a read of my northern Spain road trip itinerary ! I hope you have the trip of a lifetime. Happy driving!

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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The Ultimate Spanish Road Trip Itinerary: Barcelona to Seville

Plan your dream road trip through Spain with this epic Spanish road trip itinerary! I’ll show you how to spend a perfect 3 weeks in Spain travelling from Barcelona to Seville, plus everything you need to know about renting a car to self drive in Spain.

I was part-way through planning a six-week Eurotrip with my partner when I became fixated on visiting Spain.

Spain had never really factored into my travel plans. But as soon as I realised just how much variety the country has to offer – from majestic mountain villages and enthralling cities to romantic small towns and a postcard-perfect coastline – not to mention the sheer number of historical and UNESCO sites held within its borders – I decided we should spend a whole three weeks in Spain.

Wanting to pack as much into our short stay as possible, we thought renting a car for a Spanish road trip would be the best way to see the main sights plus a few smaller towns.

We were right – the action-packed Spain itinerary we devised saw us criss-cross the country from north to south, taking in most of the country’s top attractions .

Spain is one of the top places for a self drive holiday in Europe. Both rental cars and petrol are relatively affordable. Travelling in shoulder season (November), we were often the only car on the road. For the most part, parking is cheap, even in hot spots like San Sebastian.

Best of all, having our own transport opened up a lot of opportunities to visit smaller towns and squeeze more into each day than our slow travel style would normally permit. Our trip was certainly fast-paced, but it was worth it to get a good overview of Spain in a short period.

This tried-and-tested itinerary for a three week self drive road trip across Spain includes my top recommended activities for key cities, ideas for where to break the journey, some handy Spain driving tips, and much more.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Where to hire a car in Spain

Hiring a car in Spain is an efficient and affordable way to see a large part of the country in a short period of time. Since a lot of visitors drive in Spain, the market for rental cars is competitive, meaning you can usually get a pretty good deal.

We planned our Spain road trip from Barcelona, so we decided to rent our car on our last day in the city. I recommend collecting your car from Barcelona-Sants train station because it’s easy to get to using public transport, and easy to leave from to get to the highway.

There are two main things to consider when choosing a hire car: transmission type, and size of the vehicle. Manual cars are much more ubiquitous in Spain so it can be harder to find an automatic car to rent. In addition, you should prioritise hiring a small car that will be easier to park on the street and can better navigate narrow village roads (these were our two biggest qualms about driving in Spain!).

Discover Cars lets you easily browse and compare different rentals cars from a variety of international and local agents. It lets you choose the exact features you want, and offers a full range of price and date options so you can find the best value for money. Visit Discover Cars and plug in your dates to see what’s available .

At the end of the itinerary, I’ve included a few driving tips for Spain.

About this Spain itinerary

Looking back over our itinerary makes my head spin a little! We drove almost every day and covered a lot of ground, but by splitting the long drives up into smaller journeys, we still got to visit some interesting local towns.

Spanish highways are incredibly easy to drive on and the scenery is invariably stunning no matter where in the country you are. Because of this, driving never really feels like a drag – it’s all part of the experience.

We started our road trip in Spain from Barcelona and finished up in Seville. From there, we continued on to Tarifa by bus and caught the ferry to Tangier, Morocco. You can adapt this itinerary to create a loop, but I recommend paying the one-way car rental fee so you don’t have to backtrack. If your Spain trip ends there and you’re not continuing on to Morocco , you can fly straight out of Seville.

There are endless options and itinerary combinations for seeing Spain by car. I’m not saying mine is the best road trip in Spain – but I can tell you that it’s tried and tested. Of course there are some things missing (you can’t possibly see all of Spain in 3 weeks), but after I did this road trip, I felt like I’d seen the main highlights.

If I had my time again, I would extend our stay in Madrid by a few days.

A good way to save time is by taking advantage of the Spain day trips and tours mentioned in this itinerary. If you think there’s too much packed in, you can easily take out a few places and stay in certain locations for longer (Madrid and Granada would both be ideal places to extend your time).

How much time do you need to drive across Spain?

A Spain road trip can be as long or as short as you want it to be. As you’ll see from the map, we covered most of the country (apart from the north-west) in 21 days touring Spain by car.

Remember you don’t want to rush driving across Spain too much. Three weeks is the absolute minimum amount of time you need for a Spain road trip like this one – unless you’re prepared to seriously cut down on the number of places you visit.

This 3-week self drive Spain itinerary is fast-paced, but if it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Spain that you’re planning, you probably won’t mind hustling to see as much of this beautiful country as humanly possible.

If you have less time in Spain, you can do a shorter itinerary that focuses on the North of Spain (Basque Country) or the South of Spain (Andalusia).

Spanish road trip route overview & drive times

Let’s start with a basic overview of our Spain road trip itinerary and the 17 cities, towns and villages we visited in Spain in 3 weeks.

Remember you don’t have to follow this itinerary exactly – you can use it as a Spanish road trip planner to pick and choose the destinations that most appeal to you.

• Days 1-3: Barcelona
• Day 4: Barcelona to Sos del Rey Católico via Zaragoza (400km; 4.5 hours of driving)
• Day 5: Sos del Rey Católico to Bilbao via Pamplona and San Sebastián (217km; 2 hours of driving)
• Day 6: Bilbao
• Day 7: Bilbao to Madrid via Segovia (400km; 4 hours of driving)
• Day 8: Madrid
• Day 9: Madrid to Toledo (72km; 1 hour of driving)
• Day 10: Toledo to Valencia via La Mancha (270km; 4 hours of driving)
• Day 11: Valencia
• Day 12: Valencia to Cartagena (270km; 3 hours of driving)
• Day 13: Cartagena to Lanjarón (330km; 3.5 hours of driving)
• Day 14: White Villages and the Sierra Nevada
• Day 15: Lanjarón to Granada (46km; 45 minutes of driving)
• Day 16: Granada to Córdoba (200km; 2.5 hours of driving)
• Day 17: Córdoba
• Day 18: Córdoba to Seville (145km; 1.75 hours of driving)
• Days 19-20: Seville
• Day 21: Depart Seville – or Seville to Tangier via Tarifa

This Spain itinerary covers a whopping 2,450km (1,523 miles). Remember that not all the driving is back-to-back, there are some rest days in between!

Spanish road trip map

Detailed self drive Spain itinerary

This section includes a detailed day-by-day breakdown of our 3 weeks in Spain, including the best things to do in each city, where to stay, and where to break up longer drives.

Vivacious Barcelona is the perfect place to start your Spain road trip itinerary. Capital of the autonomous Catalonia region and the second-largest city behind Madrid, Barcelona is quintessentially Spanish and offers a perfect introduction to many of the things that make Spain so great – incredible architecture, beautiful beaches, and fabulous cuisine.

On top of that, Barcelona is logistically the best place to start a trip through Spain. It’s home to an international airport, a train station with services from most other countries in the region (we arrived by night train from Geneva), and a ferry terminal.

I recommend spending at least 3 days in Barcelona to get a good feel for the city and see the main highlights. The city has a great public transport system, so you don’t need a car here – in fact, it would be a major burden.

I highly recommend picking your car up on the day you leave Barcelona. Most rental companies have offices at Barcelona-Sants, the city’s main train station. This is a good place to start as the traffic isn’t too hectic and you can easily get to the highway.

Where to stay in Barcelona

Barcelona is huge – where you stay can make or break your trip. Take some time to familiarise yourself with Barcelona’s inner-city neighbourhoods so you can make an informed decision.

Here are a few recommendations for where to stay in Barcelona – car or no car.

• Ayre Hotel Rosellón . Located in the shadow of the Sagrada Familia, you won’t find a better patio view anywhere else in Barcelona (just look at the pictures if you don’t believe me!). Parking at the hotel is guaranteed and only costs a modest 16 Euros extra per night.
• Barcelona Catedral Hotel . This modern boutique hotel has light-filled, spacious suites, a rooftop pool and patio, and offers free walking tours for guests. Note that secure parking costs a bit extra, and you’ll need to reserve a spot in advance.
• Motel One Barcelona-Ciutadella . Don’t let the name ‘motel’ fool you – this is a boutique hotel through and through. If you can tear yourself away from the trendy lounge-bar and rooftop terrace overlooking the city, it’s a short 20-minute walk to Las Ramblas. Private parking is offered at a nearby location and costs an extra 20 Euros.
• Unite Hostel Barcelona . My top budget choice in Barcelona, this boutique hostel offers dorms and private rooms, all bright, clean and minimally furnished. The yoga studio and co-working spaces are the cherry on top. Reserve on-site parking in advance for 18 Euros/night.

Things to do in Barcelona

In all honesty, planning a Barcelona itinerary can be a bit overwhelming. There’s just so much to see and do. I’m only recommending a few select activities and restaurants that we really enjoyed – know that there is a lot more out there!

Start by pounding the pavement on Sandeman ‘s free city walking tour . This will help you get your bearings while introducing you to some of Barcelona’s must-sees, including the Gothic Quarter and Barcelona Cathedral.

La Sagrada Familia , the grand cathedral designed by Gaudi, is the symbol of Barcelona. You should prioritise visiting on your first or second morning. Skip-the-queue tickets are essential – or else you risk spending hours waiting in line. Pre-buy your skip-the-line tickets for the Sagrada Familia online.

Gaudi’s other works in Barcelona, including the iconic Park Güell Monumental Zone (buy fast-track tickets here ) and Casa Batlló are absolutely worth a visit as well. Even if you’re not that interested in architecture, these buildings all capture the spirit of Barcelona and tell a fascinating story of Spanish and Catalonian history. The experience is even richer if you’re accompanied by a guide who can illuminate the symbology.

Ride an e-bike around the gorgeous Gothic Quarter to explore one of Barcelona’s most charming neighbourhoods. For a break from the hubbub, head for the hills and spend an afternoon wandering around the cactus gardens at Montjuïc . Take the cable car over La Barceloneta beach for fantastic views, and visit the beach itself if the weather is right.

Don’t skimp on the food, either! Barcelona is packed with incredible restaurants . We especially loved eating Spanish ‘ hamburguesas ‘ at Hamburguesería Bacoa and pigging out on homemade churros at Bar Churrería Layetana . If you’re a foodie, this market to table tour of Mercado de La Boqueria , Barcelona’s biggest produce market, is a must-do.

Take advantage of the free entry to Museu Picasso every Friday night – it’s busy, but it’s a wonderful experience. And for something truly memorable, try to see a gig at the Palau de la Música Catalana (we watched an unforgettable performance by the late, great Sharon Jones). If there’s nothing on, I highly recommend booking in for a short guided tour – it’s truly one of the most majestic buildings I’ve ever been in (aside from Sagrada Familia!).

Recommended day trips from Barcelona

If you decide to extend your stay in Barcelona, there are lots of fantastic day trip opportunities within a few hours’ drive of the city.

• Get your Game of Thrones on in charming Girona
• Visit family run wineries and taste tapas in the Penedès region
• Discover the mysteries of Montserrat solo or with a guide

No car? This 12-day journey around Spain by train , starting from Barcelona, takes in some of the country’s best cities and beaches.

It’s time to hit the road! After collecting your car in Barcelona, start heading due west towards the Bay of Biscay. The drive to Zaragoza takes 3 hours. If you want to make it in time for lunch, try to leave the city as early as possible (by 8am at the latest). That way you’ll also beat most of the traffic.

Zaragoza lies smack-bang in the middle of northern Spain. Capital of the autonomous Aragon region, it’s one of the country’s most underrated cities and an ideal place to break for lunch and a short walk.

On reaching Zaragoza, we stopped at a small tavern in the shadow of the Aljafería Palace and ate a bowl of fideos negros (black noodles simmered in fish stock). There are plenty of restaurants and gastrobars around the river, close to the historic centre. However, it might be tricky to find a car park, so I recommend heading to the city’s western fringe like we did.

Sos del Rey Católico

When I picture an archetypal Spanish town, the Sos is what comes to mind. This little village on the frontier of the Pyrenees is located another 1.5 hours’ drive north of Zaragoza, so I recommend leaving after lunch no later than 1pm to maximise your time in Sos.

Ferdinand II of Aragón, husband of Isabel I of Castilla and one-half of the most influential royal couple in Spanish history, was born here in Sos. The little town is loaded with history and packed with charm.

The town is petite and easily navigated during an evening or early morning stroll ; admire the flower boxes, pop in and out of charcuterie shops, and listen to the church bells toll.

We stayed a night at the Parador de Sos del Rey , which sits on a low rise overlooking the Sos’ ancient cobbled streets (you might recognise it from the 2017 film The Trip to Spain ) and had a very memorable meal at the Parador’s Cinco Villas-themed restaurant.

Where to stay in Sos del Rey: Hotels with parking

• Parador de Sos del Rey Catolico . It’s honestly worth the splurge to stay at this Parador. Set in a historic Aragonese mansion that overhangs Sos’s winding streets, it’s one of the most romantic hotels I’ve ever had the pleasure of spending a night in. Rooms are plush as, and the set dinner at the on-site restaurant is a must-try (I’ve never eaten so much food in my life). Parking on the grounds is free and easy.
• El Peiron . For a budget-friendly alternative, this hotel has a similar 17th century ambiance. Cozy rooms feature large beds and exposed stone walls. The location on Sos’s main street, close to some of the village’s best tapas bars, will make you feel like you’re part of the city (unlike the Parador, which makes you feel like absolute royalty). Free street parking is available near the hotel.

On your next full day of driving, break the 2-hour journey to the Bay of Biscay by stopping off in Pamplona for lunch. This will be your first taste of Basque Country tapas ! Pamplona is the perfect place to practice the art of ordering ahead of your arrival in San Sebastián.

Outside of the famous San Fermin (Running of the Bulls) cultural festival , which takes place in Pamplona every July, the streets are surprisingly peaceful and sparse. Bakeries and boutiques run the length of the main pedestrian drag and are well worth a browse.

San Sebastián

Most people head straight for San Sebastián’s pintxos bars , but don’t forget to take a stroll along the waterfront promenade , too. After a day’s drive, this is exactly what you need to stretch your legs and re-fuel.

We spent a few early evening hours in San Sebastián, and while I didn’t really fall head over heels for the town like I’ve known other people to do, it’s a worthwhile stopover on the way to Bilbao. If food is in your wheelhouse, you can easily switch your itinerary and stay in San Sebastián instead of Bilbao.

Bilbao and San Sebastián are only an hour’s drive apart, so you can plausibly stay in one city and visit the other as a day trip. If I had my time again, I would probably stay in San Sebastián instead.

The futuristic Guggenheim Museum is Bilbao’s main attraction, but I found the rest of the city a little bland. One full day is ample time to see the museum and explore Bilbao’s riverfront.

In 24 hours, you can discover the city by bicycle and tour a few of the key Game of Thrones filming locations around Bilbao. An in-depth Basque County gastronomy tour is worth considering if you’re particularly interested in food and wine (let’s face it, if you’re planning a trip around Spain, you probably are!).

Where to stay in Bilbao: Hotels with parking

• Hesperia Bilbao . These trendy self-contained apartments are a 10-minute walk from the city centre (just across the river from the Guggenheim) and feature everything you need for a comfortable stay in Bilbao. There’s even a Japanese restaurant and a rooftop terrace bar – because both those things are basically travel essentials nowadays. Secure parking can’t be reserved but is available at an extra charge.
• Ercilla Hotel . For something with a touch more old-world charm, this boutique hotel offers pretty rooms with herringbone floors and chequerboard tiles. The restaurant serves traditional Basque food, and there’s a panoramic bar here as well. Park on-site for 20 Euros (reservations essential).
• Parador de Limpias . If you don’t mind staying outside the city, this Parador is a 50-minute drive from Bilbao. The former summer residence of King Alfonso, the setting amongst private gardens and a protected woodland is just divine. Free parking is plentiful.

After a short but sweet introduction to Basque Country, it’s time to leave the coast and start driving inland towards Madrid.

Segovia is 100km shy of Spain’s capital city. Coming from Bilbao, you’ll naturally pass through it – so there’s no reason not to stop off and check out two of Central Spain’s most impressive historical sights.

Aqueduct versus alcazar – when an urban landscape is a battle between the most important Roman civil engineering work in Spain and a Moorish palace so beautiful that it’s instantly recognisable from pop-culture, you know you’re in for a treat.

Segovia is a complete contrast to Madrid. Park your car on the hill leading up to the aqueduct and ease your way into the capital by wandering around this charming town for a few hours first.

Climb the concealed staircase to the right of Segovia’s UNESCO-listed aqueduct for a different perspective on this feat of engineering. Visit The Alcazar , apparently Walt Disney’s architectural inspiration when creating Cinderella’s castle.

Between 10.30am and 4.30pm you can join a 60-minute guided tour of Segovia Cathedral , another of the city’s landmarks. This particular tour also allows you to climb the 500-year-old bell tower for a panoramic view of Segovia.

And as a reward for all that walking, treat yourself to a Pasteleria Limon y Menta , Segovia’s signature pastry. It’s lemony, it’s minty, and it’s wrapped in caramelised marzipan. Yum!

If you opt to drive straight into Madrid, you can always visit Segovia on a day trip.

Our first experience of Madrid was the nightmarish drive through the city at peak hour. Don’t make the same mistake we did – try to arrive in Madrid before nightfall!

Where to stay in Madrid: Hotels with parking

• Only YOU Hotel Atocha . The design of this jaw-droppingly beautiful hotel draws on the 19th-century building its housed inside. Deluxe rooms face onto an inner courtyard and are bright and airy as a result while still feeling private. There’s a cafe, bakery and lounge, and breakfast is served on the 7th floor with city views. The Prado Museum is only 900m away, making this a great choice for museum and culture lovers. Parking on-site is guaranteed and costs extra.
• Hostal Patria Madrid . Coming in at under $100 a night, this hotel is excellent value for money in Madrid. Rooms are basic but comfortable with Scandi-style furnishings, and the location on a popular cafe strip is perfect for hungry travellers. Parking (reservation required) costs a very reasonable 17 Euros.
• Parador de Alcala de Henares . If you want to avoid driving into Madrid (smart choice!), this Parador is 45 minutes outside of Madrid. The 16th-century convent building reminds me of a Silk Road Caravanserai. There’s an outdoor pool, and parking on the grounds costs a little bit extra.

Things to do in Madrid

An easy walk or cycling tour through the city is the best way to see central Madrid. Make sure you explore the gorgeous Real Jardín Botánico , wander through the bookstalls that line Cuesta del Moyano , and top it off with sunset at the Temple of Debod , an ancient Egyptian temple that was dismantled, shipped to Spain, and reassembled in all its glory on a hill in the city centre. A live flamenco performance is the perfect way to end your first day in Spain’s capital.

For a dose of history and culture, visit Madrid’s four most iconic landmarks: The Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas , the Royal Palace , the Plaza Major , and of course the Prado Museum .

Here are my top tips for exploring historic Madrid:

• Join a tour of Las Ventas to access some of the building’s hidden nooks and crannies.
• Take in the scale of the magnificent Plaza Major on a bicycle. This 3-hour small group tour takes in many of the city’s highlights.
• Let a professional guide show you around the Throne Room, Banquet Hall and Private Royal Apartments inside the Royal Palace. This 2-hour tour is excellent value for money.
• Skip the line by buying your Prado tickets online in advance through Get Your Guide .

Recommended day trips from Madrid

• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cuenca , and its amazing ‘hanging houses’
• See the ‘three cities’, Segovia, Avila and Toledo, on a day trip (a good option if you want to condense your Spain road trip itinerary and stay longer in Madrid)
• Tour the wineries around Madrid and taste the local drop
• Cast your eyes on the surreal landscape of El Escorial and the Valley of the Fallen

Leaving Madrid, start your journey to Southern Spain’s enchanting Andalusia region. Over the next 12 days, you’ll be driving from Madrid to Granada and Cordoba via some of the loveliest small towns and historical villages in the country.

The first of these, Toledo , is just an hour outside Madrid. After the chaos of the capital, it’s a salve. Toledo’s mix of old-world charm, literary heritage and multicultural influences makes it one of my favourite places in all of Spain. I highly recommend staying for at least one night.

Toledo is the first place where you can see, hear and smell the Middle Eastern/North African influence that becomes more and more pronounced the further south you travel. We had a wonderful introduction to Syrian and Turkish food in Toledo, which became our go-to cuisine for the remainder of our trip.

Where to stay in Toledo: Hotels with parking

• Hotel Santa Isabel . A great budget choice at under $40 per night, this charming guesthouse is right in the heart of Toledo. Private balconies overlooking the town rooftops and a central courtyard are terribly quaint. Rooms are a bit boxy, but nicely finished and clean. Reserve parking in advance for 12 Euros per night.
• Parador de Toledo . This is another great candidate for a little splurge. Set 4km from the centre of Toledo in a low-set historic building, rooms here are a bit more outdated than at other Paradors, but the outdoor pool and panoramic terrace are lovely. Parking is free.

Toledo is the spiritual home of Don Quixote , Spain’s literary legend. A great way to see the old town is by walking the Don Quixote Trail . Alternatively, let a Toledo local show you around on a private walking tour .

Fall in love with Syrian food at Posada El Cristo de la Luz , then down a sampler box of marzipan from Santo Tome (the signature sweets of Toledo).

For more Toledo inspiration, see this list of the top 10 things to do in Toledo .

Consuegra, La Mancha

I’m a huge fan of Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote , but even if you’ve never read the book, a quick detour through Spain’s iconic La Mancha landscape, with its towering windmills and patchwork fields, is an absolute delight.

Leaving Toledo and driving east, aim to arrive in the small town of Consuegra in the early morning before the tour buses pull in at around 10am.

Stop at one of the provincial bakeries for a quick bite. You can then drive all the way to the top of the hill and explore the windmills on foot.

Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia has all the charm of Barcelona and all the amenities of Madrid with a laid back, beach-town feel. This is the Orange Blossom Coast , and the streets of Valencia are lined with citrus trees (which you must pick and sample – luckily our Airbnb came with a juicer!).

Valencia is also the traditional home of paella and Spain’s signature beverage, horchata. While we weren’t all that impressed with the City of Arts and Sciences , we loved cycling through the elongated Cabecera Park that runs through the heart of the city. (Perhaps we should have opted for the rooftop wine and tapas tour instead!) If you’re an outdoorsy type, you’ll adore Valencia.

Driving in Valencia is relatively easy compared to Barcelona or Madrid, so you can stay in the city centre without having to worry too much about traffic or navigating the roads.

Where to stay in Valencia: Hotels with parking

• HQ Rooms Apartments San Vincente . Spacious and featuring all the mod-cons, this self-containted apartment sleeps up to 8 people and comes with a large private balcony. It’s 1.5km from the centre of the city, and there are bicycles available to rent for a small fee. Parking costs an extra 15 Euros.
• Palacio de Rojas . 350m from Valencia’s Central Market, it doesn’t get much more inner-city than this. The canary yellow facade, the indoor-outdoor living spaces, the high ceilings and the heavy doors… This must be one of the most beautiful hotels in all of Spain. Seriously. Palacial apartments sleep up to 9 people and all feature a full kitchenette. Underground parking is available for an additional 15 Euros.

Things to do in Valencia

You’ll probably be quite content hiring a bicycle and exploring Valencia at your own pace. If you want a deeper look, try joining a private walking tour with a local .

For a hands-on activity, I highly recommend taking a paella cooking class and learning just why Valencia is the birthplace of Spain’s most famous dish. Head to the Plaça de Santa Caterina to try a glass or horchata (or two) at one of the open-air cafes. Horchateria Santa Catalina is my personal favourite.

Three hours’ drive down the coast from Valencia, Cartagena is another of Spain’s most underrated cities. We rolled into the sleepy historic centre in the early afternoon and were greeted by a medieval festival, the annual Mercado Medieval (how’s that for timing!).

Catagena’s Roman amphitheater is one of the best-preserved in all of Europe, and exploring the state-of-the-art museum was honestly one of the most enjoyable ‘historical’ experiences I had in Spain. It’s fascinating to see how the city has been built-up around the ruins.

Cartagena is small so you only need a day or two at the most. Start by getting your bearings with a walk around the inner city. The food scene here is great, so I also recommend doing a gourmet tapas tour .

Where to stay in Cartagena: Hotels with parking

• NH Cartagena . Elegant rooms with a view of Cartagena port are the stand-out feature of this efficient hotel. It’s only 200m from the Roman Theatre but in a quiet corner of town, so you can still get a good night’s sleep. Reserve paid on-site parking at the time of booking.

The Sierra Nevada: Lanjarón and the White Villages

Leaving Cartagena behind, you’ll next be driving the coast of Spain (at least a portion of it) and dipping inland to visit one of Spain’s most beautiful natural landscapes, the Sierra Nevada.

Once you hit the mountainous Las Alpujarras region, you’ll realise what a blessing your hire car truly is. Navigating the windy, steep, narrow roads around the white villages was nail-biting at times, but I can’t imagine trying to get around any other way.

Base yourself in Lanjarón , the area’s most populous village and home to a number of quirky accommodations, including the healing retreat/yurt we stayed in.

Once a hippie mecca and still famed for its spring water and olives , Lanjarón is a gateway to the smaller villages of Pampaneira, Bubio and Capileira . If you can brave the altitude, add Trevélez (Spain’s highest settlement) to your driving itinerary.

Some of the villages take a good few hours to get between, especially in inclement weather, so I recommend setting aside at least two days to explore the area, more if you intend on hiking between the villages .

Where to stay in Sierra Nevada: Hotels with parking

• Hotel Alcadima (Lanjarón). Homely suites at this quaint little hotel are excellent value for money. Indoor and outdoor pools, plus a kids’ play area, make it a great choice for families. The restaurant specialises in roast lamb with cinnamon. Need I say more? Parking costs an extra 10 Euros.
• Enchanting Yurt (Lanjarón). One of the coolest Airbnbs we’ve ever stayed at, this whimsical yurt is set in an olive grove at the foot of the mountains. It’s absolutely magical, and the Israeli hosts are very kind and welcoming. Free parking is plentiful.
• Parador de Nerja (Nerja). Another town, another Parador! This one is a bit different because it’s set inside a modern building on a cliff top overlooking the ocean. An elevator ferries guests down to the nearby beach (how cool!). Private parking is available for an additional charge. Note that it’s a 60-minute drive to Lanjarón.

Granada boats a quixotic mix of Spanish and Moorish cultures. The Alhambra is an architectural triumph – if it’s not on your itinerary, you’re doing Spain wrong!

You need to buy tickets to the Alhambra and Generalife Palace and Gardens a day or two ahead of your visit (or a week in advance if you’re travelling in summer). The easiest way to do that is by booking online through Get Your Guide .

On the day of your visit, make sure you leave early to account for the time it takes to access the complex (which includes a long, beautiful walk through the forest if you’re using public transport).

Where to stay: Granada hotels with parking

• Eurostars Catedral . The exception location 70m from Granada Cathedral is only topped by the traditional coffered wooden ceilings inside some of the suites. Rooms are otherwise modern and luxurious with more subtle nods to the building’s history sprinkled throughout. Parking costs an extra 22 Euros per day.
• Anacapri . This 18th-century house turned boutique hotel wears its heart (and its history) on its sleeve. The inner courtyard is outstanding, and rooms are very comfortable. It’s even closer to the cathedral and just 20 minutes’ walk from the Alhambra, right next to the start of the pathway. No reservation is required for the off-site parking (an extra 20 Euros per day).
• Alhambra Palace . Just shy of the city walls to Granada’s iconic UNESCO attraction, this hillside hotel has spectacular views, Moorish-inspired decor, and of course, quick access to the Alhambra. Secure parking is off-site and costs 22 Euros.

Things to do in Granada

After the once-in-a-lifetime experience of The Alhambra, everything else pales in comparison! However, Granada has a lot more to offer, which is why I suggest staying an extra night (or even longer, if you can).

Discover the city’s most charming neighbourhoods , Albaicín and Sacromonte, on foot with a walking tour. Watch a traditional flamenco performance inside Albaycin, and treat yourself to an authentic Arabian hammam bath .

There is a secret sunset spot in the hills above Granada where you can watch the warm light bathe the entire Alhambra complex before someone flicks the switch and it lights up like a beacon on the hill. Don’t miss it!

From The Alhambra to Códoba’s Mezquita, a fascinating mosque-cum-church that is home to a set of much-photographed candy cane archways. Córdoba is an archetypal Andalusian city (my favourite in the region) and has many other offerings, including a pleasant waterfront and some incredible vegetarian restaurants.

Every year, Córdoba hosts the Patio Festival , which showcases the amazing indoor gardens that are a traditional part of every home here. Make sure you peek inside a few doorways as you’re wandering the town’s lanes. This is also a good place to catch a Flamenco/equestrian show – our pick is the Royal Stables of Córdoba .

Where to stay: Córdoba hotels with parking

• Hotel Boutique Patio del Posadero . This intriguing little hotel features bespoke rooms and a beautiful patio (as is the style in Cordoba). The outdoor swimming pool and terrace lounge are perfect for summer. Reserved parking costs extra.
• Hotel Cordoba Center . A bit further from the mosque, this ultra modern hotel sits on the city’s Golden Block next to the AVE Train Station. The 7th floor pool and Jacuzzi are particularly noteworthy, but it lacks the charm of some other Cordoba hotels. Non-reserved parking is located on site.
• Parador de Cordoba . It’s almost your last chance to stay in a Parador! Cordoba’s is a fine choice – another renovated summer palace, it’s located north of the centre and boasts a massive pool plus sprawling gardens (the grounds, Los Naranjos, are where the first palms brought to Europe were planted.) Rooms are extremely spacious and well-appointed. Parking is free.

Things to do in Córdoba

Join the official Mezquita tour (price includes entry) and see this incredible UNESCO mosque-cathedral up close. In the summer, cycle the waterfront on a bicycle tour , or visit seven of Cordoba’s most impressive patio gardens and learn about the history of the city’s courtyard tradition.

If you have an extra day, venture outside the city to see the impressive Azahara Medina .

An entire day can easily be spent inside Seville’s Alcazar complex , another incredible palace – this time in the Andalucian style – that mirrors The Alhambra in its layout and design. GoT fans will recognise the Alcazar as the setting for the Water Gardens of Dorne.

Seville is a sun-bathed walking city, and the Plaza de Espana , Barrio Santa Cruz and Parque de Maria Luisa are all worth a wander.

I found Seville a lot grungier than other places in Spain. The streets are filled with cool v intage stores and hip cafes , and the city has a great vibe.

We returned our rental car in Seville and got around the city very easily using public transport. I recommend you do the same.

Where to stay in Seville: Hotels with parking

• Hotel Las Casas de la Judería . If it’s atmosphere you want, look no further. This charming hotel is set with 27 traditional houses (yes, it’s big), all connected by courtyards and internal passageways. Traditional decor including antique furniture and French windows is straight from the history books, while the rooftop pool brings the property up to date. Some of the rooms are just spectacular – I couldn’t imagine a better way to end your Spain road trip than with a few nights here. The location in the old Jewish Quarter means there’s lots to be explored nearby, including the cathedral, which is just a 7-minute walk away. Off-site parking costs 24 Euros.
• Melia Sevilla . Modern, minimal and a complete contrast to the previous property, this hotel is centrally positioned off Plaza España. Twin hot tubs and a hamman round-out the ample services. Public parking near the hotel costs 24 Euro. Staff can help you coordinate, but I recommend you return your hire car before you check in.
• Hotel Rey Alfonso X . This trendy hotel features a summer pool that overlooks Seville’s oldest church. Business-like rooms are smart if not a little soulless. On-site parking costs extra (enquire at the time of booking).

Things to do in Seville

The Alcazar should be top of your list for things to do in Seville. This skip-the-line ticket includes a guided tour.

Marvel at Seville’s Cathedral and Giralda Tower , watch a flamenco show at Museo del Baile Flamenco (the birthplace of this Intangible Heritage icon), and walk through the gorgeous Santa Cruz Jewish Quarter (don’t forget your camera!).

If you want to get even further off the beaten path in Seville , I highly recommend this alternative market and walking tour .

Seville is a great place for a Spanish cooking class . This one shows you how to prep several popular Seville-style tapas , and includes bottomless sangria.

Recommended day trips from Seville

• The British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar is just a short drive from Seville
• See Ronda , a small town set on a dramatic gorge
• Village hop through the Andalusian countryside
• Visit the port city of Cadiz and the Moorish Jerez, two of Southern Spain’s most stunning cities
• Get another stamp in that passport! – take a full day trip from Seville to Tangier, Morocco

Quick tips for driving in Spain

Here are a few pointers to make your Spain road trip as smooth as possible.

Things to remember when renting a car in Spain

Obtain an International Driving Permit before you leave home. Most rental car companies require an IDP by law (you also have to carry your regular driver’s license).

Book your rental car well ahead of time , especially if you want an automatic transmission as they are in short supply. We could only find a few automatic cars available in Barcelona, and they were more expensive than manual. I highly recommend using Discover Cars to compare rental prices and reserve your car in advance .

Choose the smallest car possible. In between the narrow village streets and tight street parking spaces, you’ll want to go with the smallest car you feel comfortable with. Driving around Spain in a small car (a Hyundai or a Corolla, for example) is perfectly safe provided you stick to the highways and don’t go off-road.

Bring your own GPS (with maps for Spain and Portugal pre-loaded) to avoid the GPS rental fee. Alternatively, use your phone to navigate with Google Maps or Maps.Me – it works just fine, provided you have the map pre-downloaded for offline use or you have a Spanish sim card with plenty of data.

General driving tips & Spain road rules

Plan your route to avoid toll roads. Some tolls are very expensive – up to 20 Euros – but we managed to avoid most of these by taking indirect roads and alternate highways.

Avoid driving in the bigger cities , especially Madrid. Pick up and drop off your hire car from an office in the outer suburbs or the airport to avoid inner-city congestion.

Note the blood alcohol limit. If you plan on visiting any wineries while you’re driving across Spain, remember that the blood alcohol limit in Spain is 0.05% (or 0.01% if you’ve had your license for 24 months or less).

Tips for parking in Spain

Look for ‘Blue Zones’. If you’re visiting cities and towns for the day and need a place to leave your car away from your accommodation, you’ll need to get a grasp on how the street parking works in Spain. Blue Zones (portions of curb marked with a blue line) designate paid parking spots. Wherever you see Blue Zones, you’ll see a meter or automatic machine nearby where you need to register your car. Take the ticket and display it prominently on the dash, with the date and times face-up.

Yellow lines designate disable parking spots. You’ll need a displayed permit to park here. Other coloured zones vary from city to city but usually indicate Resident Zones. If you’re not registered to a nearby address, you obviously can’t park here.

Park during siesta hours. Depending on the city, metered parking is sometimes free between 2pm and 4pm Monday to Friday and after 2pm on Saturdays. If you want to save a buck, try finding a car park during siesta hours.

What to pack for your Spain road trip

A few of my favourite must-pack essentials to make your road trip around Spain comfortable, safe and hassle-free.

Travel insurance for Spain

The one thing I never travel without. When it comes to medical expenses, accidents, travel delays and the like, preferred partner for long-term travel insurance is SafetyWing .

When renting a car, make sure you read the PDS to see what you’re already covered for. I always recommend purchasing extra insurance just in case, either via the rental agent or through a provider such as Insurance4CarHire.

Handy gadgets

Travel adapters. If you carry a universal adapter, you’ll never get caught out with the wrong plug. This portable travel plug works in more than 150 countries (including Spain and the rest of the EU) and features 4 USB ports for charging multiple phones/iPads at once.

USB phone charger. Don’t let your phone run flat while you’re in the car. You can plug your regular charging cable directly into this Anker USB car charger . It works with most phones and iPads.

Car mount phone holder. Using a phone while driving is illegal in Spain. If you plan on using your phone to navigate around, you’ll need to use a mobile phone mount. This travel-friendly phone holder fits any phone or phone case, and has a 360-degree rotating cradle.

Lightweight cooler bag. An insulated bag to keep your drinks and road trip snacks cool is especially useful in summer. This simple family-size cool bag packs down into a neat, flat little bundle that you can easily squeeze into your suitcase.

Wine Wings. Whether you’re road tripping or not, these handy non-leak wine bottle protectors are one of my favourite travel items for Europe. Essential if you want to bring a few bottles of Spanish vino home with you!

Eco travel essentials

Refillable water bottle. It’s crucial to stay hydrated in Spain, especially in the warmer months. Tap water in most cities and towns is potable. As you drive through the mountains around the Sierra Nevada you’ll see fresh-water springs by the side of the road where you can fill up your water bottle (this was one of my favourite things about road tripping in Spain!). I highly recommend S’Well insulated bottles because they look good, stay cool for up to 12 hours, and they don’t sweat.

Reusable coffee cup. You’ll probably be drinking a lot of coffee in Spain. It’s always a good idea to bring a reusable cup that you can take with you in the car. This gorgeous gold barista-friendly travel mug is vacuum sealed (zero chance of a spill!) and will allow you to cut down on plastic and paper waste.

What to wear in Spain

Good walking shoes. Even if you’re on a Spain road trip, you’re still going to be spending a lot of time pounding the pavement (and cobblestone streets!). Comfortable walking shoes are absolutely essential. To cut down on luggage, we carry ‘stylish’ walking shoes in Europe that we can also wear out at night.

Sunglasses. Some highways in Spain are quite exposed – I guarantee you’ll be reaching for your sunglasses on the first day. Bring your favourite pair of polarized lenses, or pick up a pair of foldable travel sunglasses .

Loose, comfortable clothing. There’s nothing worse than feeling uncomfortable in the car. Pack a pair of travel leggings or yoga pants plus a few comfy t-shirts for longer driving days. A comfy travel cardigan like this one is a must-pack for winter in Spain.

Essential reading

A copy of Lonely Planet Spain. This essential guidebook for Spain is the perfect Spain road trip companion. As well as planning and logistics, it includes useful Spanish phrases and detailed information about Spain’s top tourist sites.

A copy of Back Roads Spain. This little book is a bit light on practical information, but it does contain some beautiful photos. Great inspiration for getting off the beaten track in Spain.

Spain paper map. Good for peace of mind if your sat nav fails you. Even if you don’t use it for navigating, you can still plot out your route and hold onto the map for a nice souvenir! This map is current for this year and covers both Spain and Portugal.

I hope you’ll agree that this is one of the best routes through Spain by car for first-time visitors who want to pack everything in. Are you planning a self drive Spain itinerary for your next road trip? Leave your questions in the comments!

Spanish road trip itinerary: Pin it!

50 Comments

This is such a great post, we did a very similar route over three months! We didn’t realise just how much we would fall in love with Spain.

Whilst in Spain, we were crashed into TWICE!!! both times when we were parked!! Although there is nothing we could have done to prevent this – I thought I would let you guys know! Spanish drivers can be crazy – even in a parking lot!!

Sorry to hear that Christie! Hope you still had a fun time!

Really love your post on spain. Just wondering if this will work also in winter in dec?

Hi Jaime, I don’t see why not – I was there at the start of winter and the weather was nice, roads quiet, etc. You might have to make some small adjustments for the mountain roads. Happy travels!

I travelled around Spain in a campervan from January to March this year and the weather was great. Even on the coldest days, the temperature was really mild and completely manageable. Bilbao was the only place that even felt remotely “wintery”, but with that being said, I’d take a Spanish winter over a Scottish winter any day!! I would 100% recommend visiting Spain over winter as it is not overcrowded with tourists and the weather is still good enough to do most outdoor excursions!

Looks wonderful! I recommend renting a car and driving off the road to get to know the culture and customs of people in the provinces. It is such a cultural and spiritual journey.

Amazing road trip! In Spain there is so many places to visit from the north with beautiful nature to the south with cultural impact. Love your style of writing.

Dear Emily, thanks for sharing your invaluable experience and tips. I’ve never been to Spain (but I will soon), except for the Canary Islands, so this thorough guide is just priceless while planning a trip. After seeing the super narrow streets on Tenerife, I can totally vouch for hiring the smallest car. We were lucky enough to hire a really small one while traveling around Tenerife. Otherwise, it would have been impossible to pass some of the roads, especially when there was a bus in our way.

Absolutely! We had a terrible (but also hilarious) experience with our car in Bilbao… Smaller is definitely the way to go in Spain!

Enjoy your trip!

Dear Emily, Thank you so much for sharing with us your great experience in spain, I’m very glad to read your trip report and happy to hear that you enjoyed it.

Regards, Hamid

Hey Emily, Love your travel blog. I was just wondering about the language barrier? My partner and I only speak English. Was it hard to communicate with people? Thanks!

You have nothing to worry about – English is widely spoken, even in small towns. For extra peace of mind, you could download Google Translate’s Spain module to use offline when you’re travelling.

I hope you have a wonderful trip!

Oh & We are planning to spend 2 days in Madrid and 2 in barcelona , which leaves us with 5 days for driving and moving around from madrid , throughout these Andalusian cities and reacb to barcelona. At what point do u think a train would be more convenient? Thanks again Emily 🙂

Wow your post was so helpful and informative! We are planning a 9-day trip to Spain. We will arrive in madrid and depart from barcelona. Starting in madrid , driving south (rent Car) to Toledo , Cordoba , Seville , Granada. We are not sure if we should continue driving from Granada towards Valencia then off to barcelona for the last 2 days. OR skip Valnecia all together, drop the car in granada and take a train to Barcelona. Do you habe any advice as to the best way to accommodate this itinerary? (In terms of making use of the beautiful towns and scenary, but not waste too much time on tje road!) thanks a lot , your input is appreciated.

Hi Marco, sorry for the late reply. I really enjoyed Valencia – don’t skip it! You can easily do the whole route by car and drop off your rental in Barcelona.

Enjoy Spain!

Your post information is very unique and useful for all readers.

Hi Emily! This is great! Thanks for putting so much effort !! What was you guys process for mapping the road and avoiding the tolls?

Hi John—if you Google ‘Spain toll map’ you’ll find a good road map with no toll roads marked out. We just planned our route according to that!

Hope that helps!

Great thank you! We have been traveling Europe for a little over a month now and going to finish the trip with a 10 day drive from Seville to Barcelona stopping a lot along the way! Will definitely use your post to help!

Sounds incredible! I’m very jealous. Enjoy—and please don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s anything else I can help with.

Great article! Thank you for sharing!

Hi Emily – thanks for this super helpful feature ! Just wondering what car hire company you used and if you have any recommendations on type of car Thanks 🙂

Hi Jess! Thanks so much for reading. I’m glad you found the itinerary helpful.

We were advised to go through Sixt—but unfortunately they didn’t have an automatic car available for our dates. We used Hertz in the end. We rented a regular sedan—we didn’t go off road at all, so it was fine. Even in the Sierra Nevada, you won’t need a 4WD as long as you’re sticking to the path.

I hope this helps! Emily

Thank you for your suggestion Emily!

Wonderful!road trip advice for Spain. Would you suggest me how much total cost to travel so that I would manage my budget accordingly. I would be grateful.

Depending on your travel style, I would recommend budgeting 50-120 USD/day.

I love your blog, I am traveling to Spain early May and currently preparing itinerary for a 16 day road trip. I will be travelling with my husband, we love to explore culture, local food and love nature and seneic places. As we will be little tight on schedule, we want to plan properly so that we can cover the most in 16 days. Please help me with your suggestions on the itinerary, we were planning to spend 5 days in San Sebastian + Bilbao. I am having second thoughts after reading your blog. We will fly in at Barcelona and fly out from Madrid. Below is the itinerary, let me know your thoughts

Night 1 : Barcelona – we will fly in late so not planing anything Day 1 : Roam around Barcelona Day 2: Leave for San Sebastein – stop over at Pamplona – night at San Sebstein Day 3: Explore San sebastein Day 4 : Leave for Bilbao, night at Bilbao Day 5 – Day 6 : Explore Bilbao and nearby. Is this too much for Bilbao? I found POIs that appeared seneic.. I am unsure if 3 nights is way too much for Bilbao Day 7 : Leave for Leon and stay there for a night Day 8 : Plan to spend 5 days in south to cover Seville, Gibraltar, Granda and fly out from Madrid

We are not very keen on Barcelona and Madrid. After reading your blog I am tempted to add Cordoba and Lanjaron to our plan..

I will be glad if you can help me here .. 🙂

Hi Namrata! Thanks so much for your message. Your trip sounds wonderful!

I personally thought Bilbao and SS were overrated—I much preferred Cordoba, and Lanjaron was absolutely beautiful. If you like scenery, you will love Lanjaron. I am less of a foodie so you will probably appreciate San Sebastian more than I did! I would spend less time in Bilbao, but that would just be my personal preference. I really encourage you to check out Cordoba—it was definitely a highlight of Spain for me.

I hope this helps! Have a wonderful time in Spain!

Wow! What a nice roadtrip, Emily. You did covered a large area of Spain and included areas that many travellers overlook. If you ever decide to do another Spanish roadtrip, I would recommend including Extremadura in your trip. It is the most unknown of all Spanish regions, totally overlooked by most foreign tourist, yet a fascinating area full of history, Unesco sites, the best ‘jamón’, castles, vast open spaces and empty roads. Cheers, Irene

Thanks, Irene! I just did a quick Google and Extremadura looks gorgeous! I will definitely keep it in mind for next time.

Cheers, Emily

We’re planning a 3-week trip to Spain this summer probably starting in early June. We are thinking of “winging it”. Flying into Barcelona, renting a car and just driving with an itinerary similar to yours. Do you think winging will be OK? We don’t want to plan staying in any one place for a specific number of days. If we come across a place we like we want to be able to stay there for as long as we want without affecting any reservations that otherwise would have been had. Do you think booking AirBnB’s on the fly will be an issue? With respect to car rentals, are we able to rent in Barcelona and return in Malaga for example? Thank you for posting your article. It’s a great help.

Hi Richard,

Thanks very much for your comment! Your trip sounds great. I wish we had more flexibility with our itinerary as there are spots we would have spent less time (Bilbao) and places where we would have loved to stay longer (Valencia, Granada).

I haven’t travelled in Spain during summer, but I would guess that things are a tad busier! With Airbnb, you should always be able to find something, even at short notice. The only restrictions will be your budget and the availability of car parking. We were on a tight budget, which is why we preferred to book in advance and secure rooms at a lower price. I have booked Airbnbs on the fly in other countries before without any issue—so it’s definitely possible. You may have to compromise on price and location, though.

We rented our car in Barcelona and dropped it off in Seville. There was no issue. We just had to pay a small premium for returning it in a different city, as is standard with most rental places around the world. So you shouldn’t have any problem with returning the car in Malaga.

I hope you have a wonderful trip! Please do let me know if there’s anything else I can help with.

Oh I keep rereading your report and seeing more each time. Thank you so much! We are going to Spain from 21st Sept until 17th Oct and driving three weeks of that. We’ve been to the major cities before (Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Granada) so we are concentrating on smaller places, Jerez, Cordoba, Toledo, Salamanca, Zaragoza (where we’ll catch the annual festival!) etc. Still a little concerned about parking though. How did you manage? We also love apartments so we can visit the local markets and cook some of our meals at home so we’d love you to share your advice about really good airbnb’s. We have one in Jerez so far – haven’t got very far as you can see – and have fortunately found a hotel in Zaragoza with free parking during the festival. We’d really appreciate any other advice along the way. Here’s the general order: start Jerez, check out the white villages from there, Cordoba, Ubeda, Toledo, Salamanca, Burgos, Zaragoza… then somewhere in between and end at Barcelona airport to fly home. Lots of other little places to check out close to these towns but I think they will be our main stops (think…). Would LOVE your comments.

Hi Kathryn, your trip sounds great! We had a few parking dramas in the bigger cities but nothing too bad. I’ve just posted a list of the Airbnbs/hotels we chose to stay at in Spain – some are no longer listed, but there are a few still going. I hope this helps!

https://wander-lush.org/spain-best-airbnb-where-to-stay-road-trip/

Safe travels! Emily

Hey Emily, I plan to make the same road trip you have done in Spain with my wife in January. In which month you did yours ? I am not sure if the weather January is not very convenient for such trip !?

thank you so much in advance

BR Redouane

Hi Redouane! Thanks for your comment. That’s very exciting – I hope you love it as much as we did!

We did our road trip in November. I’ve never been to Western Europe in January, but I can’t imagine the weather would be too drastically different. We prefer the cooler weather, which is why we chose that month. Everything was a touch cheaper as well given that it’s shoulder season.

I hope this helps with your planning! Enjoy!

Hi there! Thanks for a great blog! This is what I love – discovering places off the beaten track. We are doing a 5 week trip with 3 kids taking our own car by ferry in July! The only thing I have planned as yet is that we arrive in Santander….! Would welcome air bnb recommendations but will touch base wth you as I get planning to see what you recommend. Have noted your recommendation for Córdoba. X

Thanks Aabida! Your trip sounds great. Please do get in touch if you want specific recommendations for Airbnb – we stayed at some great places.

Hi Emily, I’m traveling in southern Spain at the end of July and have booked a rental car. I’m concerned about parking in Granada and Cordoba (Granada especially as I’ll be there for a few nights. Any parking recommendations? Thank you!

Thanks so much for your comment. Your trip sounds wonderful!

We stayed at Airbnb apartments with private parking in both Granada and Cordoba. From memory, Cordoba was a bit tricky because the streets there are quite narrow so I would definitely check with your accommodation in advance.

Granada, however, had plenty of street parking. We parked and took public transport to/from town and the Alhambra. I dug up the link to the Airbnb apartment we rented – there was a lot of street parking in this part of town: https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/726540

Best of luck with the rest of your planning! Please let me know if there’s anything else I can help with.

wow amazing road trip! and the photos you’ve taken are really incredible.

Hello Emily I’m thinking of travelling to Spain in May 2017. Thanks for all your information. I like your intinery and will probably follow some of your guides. Did you book your airbnb before you commenced your trip and further did you do it online? Any tips or websites would help? Thanks for any help. Peter

Hi Peter! Thanks for reading.

Yes, we booked all our Airbnb accommodation online before we started the drive. Some places were excellent – others weren’t so good. If you go to Cordoba (which you absolutely should), please stay with Maria and Xavier. They are probably the best hosts we’ve ever had, and their place is incredible: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/929791

We also stayed in one Paradore, which I highly recommend!

Have fun planning your trip and please let me know if there’s anything else I can help with!

Hi Emily We tried to contact these people on the AirBNB link and it says no longer available. do you know what happened ? Is there a way to contact then direct?

Hi Tom, which listing was it? I’ve recommended a few. If it’s not available, they may have taken the listing down. I don’t have direct contacts but if you let me know which one you were after, I can tell you the area and you can try searching for other properties nearby.

Oh my God! Spain is my dream. Soon I’ll visit this country. I’m really grateful for all this information. Unfortunately, I can’t be there all 21 days to explore everything you’ve write. But it’s an awesome purpose to return as soon as possible again. Thanks for sharing

Lovely photos. I stumbled upon your blog while researching itineraries for my next trip to Spain. My boyfriend is a huge fan of road trips and would very much like to drive down the coast, starting Barcelona and ending in Lisbon. I was just wondering whether or not you felt there was a significance cost difference between renting a car and taking local trains. Can you share your main reasons for choosing to drive through Spain? Also, I guess you were able to leave the car in a different city from where you began? Thanks 🙂

Thanks so much for your comment. I’m a huge fan of both trains and road trips – but I felt that having a car would be better for us because we wanted to check out some of the smaller towns and travel at our own pace. Spain is a perfect place to drive since the roads are very well kept and safe, and hiring a car was within our budget. I definitely recommend it!

Have an awesome trip, Emily

What a whirlwind trip to Spain. I’ve been to Madrid/Toledo/Segovia and Sevilla a couple of times. My husband and I are heading to Barcelona then Girona and small towns along the coast. I’m hoping to rent a car outside of Barcelona but am having a difficult time finding a reputable car rental company. Do you remember which one you used and were you happy with it? I’ve come across many complaints/scams.

Toledo is my favorite so far. Can you recommend any towns similar (southeastern Spain)? Thank you.

Hi Cindy, thanks so much for your comment!

A friend recommended Sixt – they have good rates and are reliable. But we had a bit of trouble finding a car at Sixt, because neither of us have a manual license (it’s difficult and more expensive to get an auto). So if you need auto, book ahead of time online. We went with Hertz in the end, and they were fantastic. We took our own GPS but the car had a built-in system as well.

As for towns in the southeast, Cordoba was my personal favourite. Don’t miss it! I would also recommend spending a night in Cartagena. There is plenty to do in Valencia – it’s a little bigger, but also lovely – and of course Granada.

Happy travels!

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Barcelona to Madrid drive

Barcelona to madrid road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Barcelona to Madrid. If you're planning a road trip to Madrid, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

8:00 am  start in Barcelona drive for about 13 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 13 hours find more stops

11:00 am  leave from El Priorat drive for about 1 hour

day 2 driving ≈ 1 hour

10:00 am  leave from Bar El Tubo drive for about 55 minutes

10:55 am   Saragoça stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:55 am drive for about 1.5 hours

1:14 pm   Alhama de Aragon stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:14 pm drive for about 50 minutes

3:04 pm   Alcolea del Pinar stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:04 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

5:25 pm  stay at Parador de Alcalá de Henares stay for about 1 hour and leave at 6:25 pm drive for about 30 minutes

6:55 pm  arrive in Madrid eat at Mercado de San Miguel stay at Radisson Blu Hotel, Madrid Prado

day 3 driving ≈ 5 hours

Barcelona to Madrid questions

Where should I stop along the way?

El Priorat Bar El Tubo Saragoça   (6 answers)     questions about Saragoça:         What is your favorite restaurant in Saragoça?         What's the best neighborhood in Saragoça for a first time visitor? Alhama de Aragon Alcolea del Pinar Parador de Alcalá de Henares   (2 mentions)

Where's the best place to stay in Madrid?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in Madrid .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Radisson Blu Hotel, Madrid Prado , which was mentioned 2 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in Madrid? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in Madrid?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Mercado de San Miguel , which was mentioned 23 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Madrid? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Madrid?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Madrid. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Madrid.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Madrid to Barcelona drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Barcelona to Madrid . Or get a full Barcelona to Madrid flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Barcelona well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Barcelona!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Barcelona to Madrid

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Spain Trip Itinerary: Barcelona to Malaga, Seville, and Madrid

Finally! After 18 months, we were able to travel. Our preference was to travel to India first to see family. However, given the border restrictions due to Covid-19, we couldn’t and so our first stop was in Dubai where some family members also flew in and we had a re-union there. Here’s what our first flight during the Pandemic and our very first one with our 4 month old was like. From there on, we flew to Spain.

In the past, our trips to Europe were a hopscotch between different countries. This time though, we decided to take it slow and immerse ourselves in the sights, food and culture of one country. As we were travelling in November , Spain to us was a good choice as the cold weather is milder compared to some other European nations at this time of the year.

Here is a summarised version of our two weeks in Spain:

Barcelona (day 1-4).

Getting to Barcelona: we took an Emirates flight from Dubai to Barcelona and arrived at the Barcelona-El Prat airport. From here we took the public taxi to get to our stay.

Accommodation: we stayed at a friend’s place which was in the outskirts but connectivity via metro was alright. Our suggestion though would be to stay in the city center so you can spend more time exploring. On our previous visit, we stayed in this hotel .

Commuting: Spain overall is child-friendly so most of our commuting was on their metro and the rest was on-foot. 

Things to do:

We had been to Barcelona before so we had already visited the top sights here namely, Sagrada Familia, Gothic Quarters and Cathedral , La Ramblas, Mt. Tibidabo and Barceloneta beach . This time around we spent more time exploring La Boqueria Market ( see our Barcelona food vlog here ) and additionally made a quick visit to Park Guell . Of course we revisited certain places because one time is never enough.

Malaga (Day 5-7)

Getting to Malaga: We took the Ouigo (high speed train) from Barcelona to Madrid and then interchanged at Madrid to get to Malaga. The total train journey took about 6 hours. We arrived at the Málaga María Zambrano railway station and from here our stay was a short taxi ride away.

Accommodation and Commuting: In Malaga we stayed at this Airbnb in old town from where we could walk to most of the places of our interest. 

Malaga is a laid-back charming port town that is perhaps not on the typical tourist map. We chose to go here because it’s in the south of Spain and the weather is great in November. 

In the old town we roamed in the alleys and indulged in their food, churros and coffee ( see our Malaga food vlog here ).

On a sunny morning we visited the Alcazaba , a citadel built by the Arabs which is well-preserved and provides sweeping views of the old town and harbour from the top of the hill on which it is perched. The Malaga Cathedral is really beautiful as well with the high arches and stained glass windows. On another beautiful late morning, we walked to La Malagueta beach and relaxed there for a couple of hours.

For those interested, shopping is also an option with both branded and boutique stores located in the centre of old town. And for the history buffs, there are several museums to explore most notable of which is the Picasso museum. See our things-to-do in Malaga vlog here .

Seville (Day 8-10)

Getting to Seville: we took the Renfe (high speed train) from Malaga to Seville that took about 3 hours. We arrived at Sevilla Santa Justa railway station and from here our stay was a short taxi ride away.

Accommodation and Commuting: We stayed at a great location in this Airbnb from where we could explore most places of our interest on foot. 

Sevilla, as locals call it is one of the most magnificent towns in Spain with plenty of things to see and do here. Our favourite to-do of course was roaming in the alleyways and enjoying the tapas and vino. Other than that, here are some of the sights we did visit and highly recommend:

The Real Alcazar is a Royal Palace that is still in use. The palace is exquisite where the architecture is a mash-up of muslim and byzantine styles making it really unique than most other palaces in Europe. For Game of Thrones fans, it’s the filming location of Dorne and the water gardens of Dorne. We suggest buying tickets online to skip the queue and going as soon as it opens to avoid crowds.

Plaza de Espana here is gorgeous as well and one of the most impressive plazas we’ve been to. Here you can admire the architecture, climb up the balcony to get some panorama views, enjoy some boating, it’s one of the best photo spots and if you’re lucky you might catch a free flamenco dance performance. For those interested, there are plenty of flamenco dance performances you can book in Sevilla. The typical length is around 1/1.5 hours.

Spain Cathedral (+Giralda tower) again is really stunning and beautiful from both the outside and the inside. You can also take the rooftop tour to enjoy sweeping city views. Again, we suggest buying tickets online to skip the queue as it can get really busy.

Other than the above, there are plenty of museums to explore for those interested.

Madrid (Day 11-14)

Getting to Madrid: From Seville to Madrid we took the Renfe (high speed train) which took us about 2.5 hours. We arrived at the Madrid Atocha railway station and from here, our stay in the city center was a short taxi ride away.

Accommodation and Commuting: We stayed very close to Sol metro station at this Airbnb , from where we could simply walk to several spots.

As Madrid was the last stop on our trip, we only did a few things here. By now we had already visited many plazas, cathedrals and palaces so we chose to skip the same here. 

In the days we were there, we explored a food market known as Mercado San Miguel and some bars where vegetarian tapas were available. We enjoyed delicious Churros with Hot Chocolate and good Coffee at a century old chocolateria called San Gines. We walked around and stopped at the Mayor Plaza which already had some pop-up Christmas stores setup. We also spent some time at the El Retiro Park where we enjoyed the fall/autumn colours all around us. 

From Madrid we flew out from Madrid Barajas airport and to get there, we took a taxi as well.

Here a few more Tips to help you plan better:

• Stores are usually closed on Sundays all over Spain so do not plan any shopping on a Sunday.
• Restaurants usually open late for lunch, around 1:00pm and close around 4:00pm. Restaurants / bars usually open late in the evening around 7:00pm onwards.
• Paywave / Digital Payments like Apple Pay work in most stores so you do not need to carry too much cash with you.
• For trains and attractions, e-tickets/digital tickets are acceptable. At train stations, you can print your tickets if you wish from their self-serve kiosks.
• Spain is a cycle / scooter friendly country and several places offer cycles / e-scooter sharing at several spots around towns. 

Hopefully this post gives you a starting point when planning your own trip. Happy travels folks! And if you have any questions, leave them in the comments.

Wander Bunnies

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