12-Day Road Trip Itinerary Through Spain

Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

10:00 AM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive in Barcelona and check into your hotel to recharge after your journey.
Hotel booking in advance would be ideal.
EUR100, 1 hour

11:00 AM

La Sagrada Familia

Visit the iconic basilica designed by Antoni Gaudí that features stunning architecture and intricate details.
Head to La Sagrada Familia via metro line L2.
EUR26, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Cervecería Catalana

Savor a variety of delicious tapas at this popular local eatery.
A short walk from La Sagrada Familia.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Park Güell

Wander through this vibrant park also designed by Gaudí, full of colorful mosaics and playful structures.
Take bus 92 from the restaurant.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Gothic Quarter

Stroll through the atmospheric Gothic Quarter, filled with narrow streets and beautiful architecture.
Walk from Park Güell to explore the nearby district.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at La Fonda

Enjoy a traditional Spanish meal with paella and other local specialties.
A short distance from the Gothic Quarter.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Explore Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Brunch & Cake

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring fresh ingredients and stunning presentation.
Walk or take a short taxi ride.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Casa Batlló

Explore another masterpiece by Gaudí, known for its unique facade and interior design.
Take metro line L2 from the café.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

La Rambla

Walk along Barcelona's famous boulevard filled with shops, street performances, and cafes.
Head south from Casa Batlló on foot.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at La Poma

Taste local dishes in a cozy setting, ideally situated on La Rambla.
Easily accessible while strolling the boulevard.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Picasso Museum

Dive into the early works of Pablo Picasso in this dedicated museum.
Walk from La Rambla to the museum in El Born.
EUR12, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

Watch the vibrant light and music show at this stunning fountain.
Take the funicular from Parc Montjuïc.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Tickets

Experience innovative tapas at this Michelin-starred restaurant.
Make a reservation and taxi from Montjuïc.
EUR80, 2 hours
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Day 3: Valencia Bound

Valencia, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café de las Horas

Enjoy a delightful breakfast in Valencia decorated with a charming vintage style.
Head towards the train station after breakfast.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Train to Valencia

Take a high-speed train to Valencia, arriving in just 3.5 hours.
Book tickets in advance for a smooth journey.
EUR40, 3.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at La Pepica

Savor authentic paella at this seaside restaurant with views of the beach.
Taxi from the train station.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

City of Arts and Sciences

Explore this futuristic architectural complex housing a science museum, aquarium, and more.
Walk along the beach promenade to reach the location.
EUR40, 2.5 hours

5:30 PM

Turia Gardens

Relax in the lush gardens created on the former Turia riverbed, a perfect place for a stroll.
Walk through the gardens towards the city center.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Restaurant Casa Carmela

Enjoy exemplary traditional Valencian cuisine in a warm family ambiance.
Walk back to the restaurant from Turia Gardens.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 4: Trip to Albacete

Albacete, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your hotel before heading out.
Check out and prepare for departure.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Albacete

Depart for Albacete, a drive of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Rented car is essential for this journey.
Fuel cost, approximately EUR30, 2.25 hours

11:30 AM

Visit the Knife Museum

Discover the fascinating history of the knife industry in this unique museum.
Easily walked from the parking area.
EUR5, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at El Patio de la Fama

Indulge in regional specialties at a local bistro.
Close to the museum, a short walk.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Saint John's Cathedral

Visit the beautiful cathedral showcasing Gothic architecture and a peaceful ambiance.
Walk to the cathedral from the restaurant.
EUR3, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Take a Scenic Drive

Enjoy the picturesque landscapes surrounding Albacete as you continue exploring.
Drive through the scenic roads outside of town.
Fuel cost, approximately EUR15, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Taberna La Sureña

Enjoy traditional Spanish tapas and a warm atmosphere to end your day.
Return to the center of Albacete.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Drive to Granada

Granada, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Local Café

Grab a quick café con leche and toast at a local café before hitting the road.
Walk from hotel, quick and easy.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Granada

Head out towards Granada, approximately a 2-hour drive.
Set your GPS for a smooth journey.
Fuel cost, approx. EUR20, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Alhambra

Explore the stunning palaces and gardens of the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Pre-book your tickets online to avoid lines.
EUR15, 3 hours

2:30 PM

Lunch at Mirador de Morayma

Enjoy lunch with views of Alhambra in the beautiful Sacromonte neighborhood.
Take a taxi or walk from Alhambra.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore the Albaicín

Wander through the historical Moorish quarter known for its white-washed houses and narrow streets.
Walk from the restaurant while taking in the sights along the way.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Bodegas Castañeda

Taste local Andalusian dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Easily accessible, just a short taxi ride.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 6: Day in Seville

Seville, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at La Casa del Tesorero

Start your day with fresh, local pastries and coffee in a cozy café.
Travel to Seville via rental car, take around 2.5 hours.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Seville

Enjoy the scenic drive towards Seville.
Follow GPS directions for the best route.
Fuel cost, approx. EUR20, 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Visit the Alcázar of Seville

Wander through the stunning royal palace with beautiful gardens.
Pre-booking your tickets online is recommended.
EUR12, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Casa Robles

Delight in exquisite Andalusian cuisine in a lovely setting.
Walk from the Alcázar.
EUR40, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Seville Cathedral and La Giralda

Explore the grandeur of this Gothic cathedral that houses Christopher Columbus' tomb.
Short walk from the restaurant.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Stroll through María Luisa Park

Relax at this picturesque park that features beautiful gardens and fountains.
Walk from the cathedral; enjoy the ambient scenery.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at La Azotea

Finish your day with Modern tapas in a contemporary restaurant space.
Taxi or a pleasant walk back to the city center.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 7: Explore Córdoba

Córdoba, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading out for more adventures.
Check out and prepare for the drive.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Córdoba

A short drive to Córdoba, taking just about 1.5 hours.
Set your GPS directions.
Fuel cost, approx. EUR15, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit the Great Mosque-Cathedral

Marvel at the unique architecture that combines both Islamic and Christian styles.
Easy access in the city center.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Bodegas Campos

Experience traditional plates at this well-respected restaurant in Córdoba.
Short walk from the mosque-cathedral.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore the Jewish Quarter

Stroll through the charming narrow streets filled with historical significance.
Near the restaurant, easy to reach.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Córdoba Synagogue

Visit this small museum that highlights the history and culture of Jews in Córdoba.
A simple walk from the Jewish Quarter.
EUR4, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Taberna Salinas

Enjoy a taste of local specialties in a lovely and friendly atmosphere.
Return to the center for dinner.
EUR25, 2 hours
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Day 8: Seaside Relaxation in Málaga

Málaga, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoying breakfast in your hotel with a view of the sea.
Check out of your Córdoba hotel early.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Málaga

A short drive to Málaga, which takes about 2 hours.
Follow the road signs from Córdoba to Málaga.
Fuel cost, approx. EUR20, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Relax at La Malagueta Beach

Spend some time soaking up the sun and enjoying the beach atmosphere.
Easily accessible from the city center.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Chiringuito Tropicana

Indulge in fresh seafood right by the beach.
A quick walk from the beach.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Picasso Museum

Explore a collection dedicated to the famed artist Pablo Picasso.
Walk from the lunch spot to the museum.
EUR9, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Stroll around the Alcazaba

Visit this historical Moorish fortress with impressive views of Málaga.
Short walking distance from the museum.
EUR3, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at El Pimpi

Taste traditional Andalusian dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
Located near the Alcazaba.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 9: Trip to Ronda

Ronda, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel while admiring the beautiful scenery.
Check out and prepare for departure.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Ronda

A picturesque drive to Ronda takes about 1.5 hours.
Follow the road signs toward Ronda.
Fuel cost, approx. EUR15, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Visit Puente Nuevo

Marvel at the breathtaking views from Spain's most iconic bridge.
Walk from parking to the viewpoint.
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Stroll through the old town

Explore Ronda's charming old town, filled with historical buildings.
Easy access walking around.
Free, 2 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Restaurante Pedro Romero

Sample traditional Spanish cuisine in a warm atmosphere.
Close by in the old town.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Visit Plaza de Toros

Discover one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, an important part of Spanish culture.
Just a short walk from the restaurant.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Restaurante Almocadén

Enjoy a meal with incredible views of the gorge.
Walk to the restaurant from the bullring.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 10: Journey to Cádiz

Cádiz, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departing for Cádiz.
Check out and prepare for travel.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Cádiz

Depart for Cádiz, taking about 2 hours.
Using GPS will provide the best route.
Fuel cost, approx. EUR20, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Explore the Cádiz Cathedral

Admire the unique baroque architecture of this iconic landmark.
A short drive from parking.
EUR5, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at La Tapería de Columela

Indulge in a variety of traditional tapas in a charming ambiance.
Located nearby the cathedral.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Relax at La Caleta Beach

Spend some time enjoying the sun on this stunning beach.
Walk from the restaurant to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Visit the Torre Tavira

Climb to the top of this tower for panoramic views of the city.
A short walk from the beach area.
EUR6, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Restaurante El Faro

Enjoy a seafood-focused dinner at one of Cádiz's best.
Return towards the city center for dinner.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 11: Explore Historic Salamanca

Salamanca, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before embarking on your journey to Salamanca.
Get ready and check out.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Salamanca

Drive to Salamanca, which takes around 3 hours.
Enter the A-66 highway from Cádiz.
Fuel cost, approx. EUR25, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Visit the University of Salamanca

Explore Spain's oldest university, a historic site filled with beauty.
Take a short walk from parking.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at La Tahona

Indulge in local cuisine in a rustic setting.
Just a short walk from the university.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Casa de las Conchas

Visit this historic building adorned with hundreds of shell motifs.
Walk from La Tahona to the nearby casa.
Free, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Salamanca Cathedral

Marvel at the stunning dual cathedrals that dominate the skyline.
Very close, just a short walk.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at La Mejor Tapa

Savor tapas and traditional dishes in a rustic, local setting.
Head back into the main square.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 12: Final Day in Madrid

Madrid, Spain

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and prepare to head to Madrid.
Check out and get ready for the journey.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Madrid

Drive to Madrid with an estimated travel time of approximately 2.5 hours.
Navigate via the A-50 highway.
Fuel cost, approx. EUR25, 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Visit the Prado Museum

Marvel at the impressive collection of European art from the 12th to early 20th centuries.
Easy access via the city metro.
EUR15, 2.5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Experience a variety of Spanish cuisines and tapas at this vibrant market.
Short walk from the museum.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Retiro Park

Take a leisurely stroll or boat ride in the picturesque Retiro Park.
Walk from the market towards the park entrance.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Visit Royal Palace

Explore the official residence of the Spanish royal family with lavish rooms and beautiful gardens.
Easily accessible by foot from Retiro Park.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Sobrino de Botín

Conclude your journey with delicious traditional Spanish roast at the oldest restaurant in the world.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to the restaurant.
EUR50, 2 hours
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