7 day road trip from barcelona

The Perfect 7-Day Catalonia Road Trip Itinerary

Last Updated on January 4, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning a Catalonia road trip itinerary is one of the best ways to see this beautiful autonomous region of Spain. Though countless visitors each year flock to Barcelona, there is just so much to see and do outside of the city that spending an entire week (or more) in Catalonia is never a bad idea.

Spain is a massive country and each region is so distinct that it can be well worth dedicating an entire trip solely to one area. There is so much to take in and see that you will be able to get a great feel for the unique culture, cuisines and traditions of the region. And this is especially true when you plan a Catalonia itinerary.

Fiercely independent Catalonia can sometimes feel a world away from the rest of Spain, with a different language and culture that courses through it. So if you’re interested in spending time exploring this beautiful region beyond Barcelona, then this road trip is for you.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Catalonia?

Before you start planning your Catalonia trip, you likely need to determine how many days you should dedicate to it. While I have gone on about how it’s important to see some areas outside of Barcelona, it is also a great idea to make sure you dedicate enough time to see the city and do it justice, as well.

So how long should you spend in Catalonia? Ideally, I would recommend planning out a week to explore the region. This will give you enough time to explore Barcelona, go on a few day trips, and also visit a couple of other cities in the region as well — all without feeling too rushed.

Getting To & Around Catalonia

Catalonia is one of the most accessible regions of Spain and there are two international airports that you could arrive into.

The first and most likely airport to fly into is Barcelona, which serves countless international flights from all over the world. The second is the smaller Girona/Costa Brava airport which operated more seasonally and serves mostly budget airlines across Europe.

The Barcelona airport is located only a bit south of the city centre and it’s easy to get to the city from the airport using both public transport or simply taking a taxi.

If you happen to be flying into Girona and want to head to Barcelona to begin your Catalonia itinerary, keep in mind that it is located about an hour north of the city and you will need to catch a train or drive into Barcelona.

Once you’ve arrived in Catalonia, it’s time to discuss how to get around. The below route is meant as a road trip so it is recommended that you rent a car, however, you actually can visit all of these places using public transport – it will just not be as convenient.

You can either opt to rent a car as soon as you arrive or plan to pick a car up after you spend your first few days in Barcelona. Barcelona itself doesn’t need a car to explore – most everywhere is easily accessible by foot or by using the extensive public transit system within the city.

Ideally, you could plan to hire a car on day 3 of this itinerary to embark on a day trip or even on day 4 when you leave Barcelona altogether.

Have a look on Rentalcars.com to find deals on car hires in Catalonia to see what suits your trip best.

Keep in mind that it can be more cost-effective to rent a car for an entire week, however, you do need to account for any parking costs in Barcelona (or elsewhere) to determine if this works well for your overall Spain trip cost .

7 Days in Catalonia Itinerary

This route will take you through a diverse array of Catalonian cities along with some great day trip destinations. You’ll be able to enjoy historic sites, beautiful coastline, Roman ruins and famous art museums all within the span of one week.

Day 1: Barcelona

Start your Catalonia trip in the beautiful and historic city of Barcelona. As Spain’s second-largest city and a major European metropolis, Barcelona is one of the most popular destinations in the entire world – and for good reason; there is a ton of things to see and do.

On the first day in Barcelona, take the time to explore some of the city’s iconic sites, including the Houses of Gaudí, La Rambla, Boquería Market and the Gothic Quarter.

End your busy day taking in the seaside vibes of the Barceloneta neighbourhood and watching the sun set below the Mediterranean.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

Hotel Condado — Situated in an optimal location for sightseeing, this mid-range hotel has numerous spacious and comfortable rooms available and also includes breakfast in the nightly rate.

Room Mate Anna — This small boutique hotel is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a quaint and romantic room in Barcelona. They have countless plush, comfortable rooms available and its location in the city centre means within easy reach of all of the best attractions in Barcelona.

Fabrizzio’s Petit — This small, locally-run hostel is a great place to stay if you’re on a budget in Barcelona or travelling solo. Centrally located within easy walking distance of all of Barcelona’s main attractions, they not only have both dorm and private rooms available but also include a great breakfast in their rates.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Barcelona hotels!

Day 2: Barcelona

On your second day in Barcelona , pick up where you left off yesterday and make sure to take the time to take in more Gaudí’s famous contributions to the city — namely, the Sagrada Familia.

This is easily the most famous attraction in Barcelona — if not all of Spain — and no trip to this city would be complete without visiting this incredible cathedral. If you want to learn more about the history of this place, you can book a guided tour with skip-the-line tickets here.

After touring La Sagrada Familia, take the time to get lost in Park Güell and enjoy more Gaudí pieces along with some of the most iconic views of Barcelona. Then, end your day at the Bunkers of Carmel and gorging yourself on some local tapas.

Day 3: Montserrat Day Trip

Day 3 of your itinerary is when you can opt to begin exploring Catalonia outside of Barcelona – and that is by going on a day trip to the incredible Montserrat . Located just a bit away from the city centre of Barcelona, this gorgeous area feels a world away.

Known for its gorgeous mountain views and Benedictine monastery, this is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the entire region. Take the cable car up to the top of the mountain and enjoy the spectacular views along the way. Then, make sure to tour the monastery and learn about the history of this beautiful place.

Montserrat is one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona for a reason and no Catalonia trip would be complete without it.

If you haven’t hired a car yet for this day, you can either take public transport to Monsterrat or book a guided tour like this half-day budget option or this full-day adventure.

Day 4: Girona

Day 4 is where your Catalonia road trip really begins – and that is by driving a bit north of Barcelona to the lovely city of Girona.

This charming city is compact yet completely packed with things to do. Though we definitely recommend spending as much time as possible here, because of its small size you can see the majority of the top sites if you only have one day.

Begin your day taking in the views from the city walls before meandering down to the Arab Baths and visiting the Jewish Quarter. Visit the beautiful cathedral, head to the archaeological and Jewish museums admire the beauty of the houses hanging over the River Onyar.

Girona also has excellent restaurants where you can sample a broad array of Catalonian specialities no matter your budget. The city has everything from Michelin-starred fine dining establishments to divey tapas bars and everything in between.

There is absolutely no doubt that this is a must-visit on your Catalonia trip, even if you only have one day in Girona .

Where to Stay in Girona

Hotel Nord 1901 Superior – An excellent luxe option in Girona, then this locally-run hotel is a great choice. They have a myriad of plush rooms available, a swimming pool, garden and bar on-site, free parking, and breakfast is included.

Hotel Costabella – Another great option for those looking for something a bit more mid-range is this family-run hotel. Situated very close to Girona’s old town and all of its top sites, they have numerous great rooms available, and even a gym, sauna and swimming pool on site. Free parking is also included.

Little Home Girona – If you’d rather have an apartment in Girona than stay in a hotel, then these flats are an excellent option. You can choose from a one or two-bedroom depending on your needs and you can also enjoy a fully equipped kitchen.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Girona hotels!

Day 5: Figueres & Besalú Day Trip

Use your second day in Girona to hop in the car and visit some of the top day trip destinations in northern Catalonia. Begin your day by driving by Banyoles Lake before making it to the incredibly picturesque town of Besalú.

This village is incredibly compact and you can wander around it in under an hour, but it is well worth it. Known for its imposing bridge at the entrance, this is truly a hidden gem in the region and a truly unique spot to include on your Catalonia road trip itinerary.

Next, drive to the city of Figueres . Primarily known as the birthplace of legendary surrealist Salvador Dalí, this is the city to visit if you’re a modern art fan.

There are lots of things to see in Figueres that have to do with the artist, but you absolutely cannot miss the Dalí Theatre-Museum if you want to experience the art and mind of this iconic Catalonian figure.

Figueres is also home to the fascinating Castell de Sant Ferran, an 18th-century fortress that is super interesting to explore.

Day 6: Coastal Drive

Day six of this road trip includes a great route along the Mediterranean. Though this isn’t necessarily a Costa Brava itinerary, you can head east from Girona and stop by several towns along the coast before making it to your final destination, Tarragona.

A lot of the coast is quite built up and full of seaside high-rises that are there to cater for the hordes of tourist crowds that descend on the area in the warmer months, but there are also towns and cities that are worth visiting along the way.

Make sure to make a stop in the gorgeous Tossa de Mar before continuing on south. The city of Blanes is also worth a stop, with a great seaside promenade and botanical garden to explore.

Of course, no stop on a coastal itinerary would be complete without visiting the beautiful town of Sitges, located just a bit south of Barcelona. This whitewashed town is home to lovely beaches, beautiful side streets and some incredible restaurants.

Spend the night in Tarragona so you have the full day to explore this city the following day.

Where to Stay in Tarragona

B&B Hotel Tarragona – This plush, boutique hotel located in the centre of Tarragona is an excellent choice if you’re after a bit of luxury. They have wonderful rooms available, a fantastic location, an on-site bar and breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Placa de la Font – If you’re looking for a more budget to mid-range accommodation option, then this hotel is a great choice. Located in the Old Town of Tarragona, they have a range of basic yet clean and comfortable rooms available (all ensuite), a restaurant and bar on site and even a terrace to enjoy the warm evenings on!

Apartamentos Astoria – If you’d rather have your own apartment in Tarragona than stay in a hotel, then these apartments are an excellent choice. There are numerous different options to choose from that can suit any budget in a central location.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Tarragona hotels!

Day 7: Tarragona

End your 7-day Catalonia trip in the wonderful coastal city of Tarragona . In fact, this itinerary is ideal if you can’t decide whether to visit Girona or Sitges or Tarragona!

Located about an hour and a half south of Barcelona, this city is well-known for its plethora of Roman ruins, however, it has a lot more to offer beyond that.

Spend your day taking in the Roman antiquities including the amphitheatre, circus, and Roman walls. Of course, you cannot miss the Mercat de Tarragona — the city’s central market where you can sample local specialities and see an integral part of Tarragona’s culture.

If you’re visiting in the warmer months, make sure to hit the sand on one of Tarragona’s many beautiful beaches. If you’re interested in driving a few kilometres outside of the city, then head to the Puente del Diablo — an excellently-preserved Roman aqueduct that you can even walk across.

End your day in the lovely Seralló neighbourhood. This fishing area of Tarragona has countless seaside cafes and a number of wonderful restaurants serving up local seafood specialities.

This 7-day Catalonia road trip itinerary will take you by a number of the highlights that this incredible region has to offer. Taking you to massive metropolises, beautiful coastal areas, and wonderful medieval towns, you’re sure to have an amazing experience following this route.

Are you planning a trip to Catalonia? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Planning a Jerez or Cadiz Day Trip From Seville

Is Madrid Expensive? A Madrid Trip Cost Guide

How to Plan a Granada Day Trip from Malaga or Seville

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Have you been to any wineries in or near Barcelona that you would highly recommend?

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7-Day Road-Trip Across Barcelona & Southern Spain

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Spain is my favorite destination and I'm excited to share this itinerary with you from a trip I took with my then-boyfriend in February 2020 (yes - we went just in time!). Expore a great variety of Spain destinations with this 7-8 night itinerary and partial road-trip. You'll hit Barcelona, Costa del Sol (Malaga/Estepona), Gibraltar, Jerez, Sevilla and Ronda. I promise there will also be a lot of down time to relax! Try the best food and wine and personalize this experience to your interests. It can be very active with several hiking areas along the way, or more focused on relaxation along the way - it's up to you!

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Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona

You're likely to land in Barcelona in the morning. Take the train or bus downtown and check into your hotel. If your room is ready you may want a nap, if not, I recommend wandering over to a tapas bar in Barrio Gotico - Tosca Tapas y Vino or Zona d'Ombra are both excellent. Make sure to try pan con tomate (tomato bread) and torta espanola (like a potato quiche). If you have time, check out the Barceloneta beach or a Gaudi attraction (Casa Mila, Casa Battlo or Parque Guell).

Day 2: Enjoy the beach or explore the city

Depending on your preferences, enjoy a beach day, wander around Parque de la Ciutadella or head to the Sagrada Familia. It's a great city for walking, but also has an extensive bus and metro system. At sunset, head to a favorite spot for locals, MUHBA Turó de la Rovira for an amazing panoramic view (it is a bit of a hike). Alternatively, head to Blai Street for pintxos, a small snack typically consisting of a delightful topping on bread.

Day 3: Fly to Malaga

Either spend an extra day in Barcelona or fly to Malaga on this day. In Malaga, you'll rent a car and drive along the Costa del Sol to Estepona, a quieter beach resort town. Check into your hotel and lounge by the pool. For a late afternoon drink and bite to eat, head to Chiringuito Lolailo .

Day 4: Spend the in Estepona

Spend a relaxing day on the beach, or wandering around the small town of Estepona.

Day 5: Travel to Gibraltar

Say goodbye to Estepona and head to Gibraltar. Spend the afternoon taking the tram to the top of the rock and saying hello to the monkeys! Get some fish and chips in an English pub. Look out and see Africa across the sea. Then make the scenic drive to Jerez with an optional stop in Tarifa to check out the southernmost point of Continental Europe.

Day 6: Day trip from Jerez to Sevilla

On day 6, take a day trip from Jerez to Sevilla. Do a cooking class at Taller Andaluz de Cocina and make paella. This was a highlight for us! Explore the city and stop by Plaza de Espana. Head back to Jerez for the evening.

Day 7: Road trip back to Malaga

On your last day, take a road trip from Jerez back to Malaga, stopping at Arcos de la Frontera and Ronda on the way. Ronda is a top small town in Europe to visit with a dramatic gorge and historic bridge! Return the rental car in Malaga and fly back home via Barcelona on an overnight flight.

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For more Barcelona travel tips, check out this guide by Fora Advisor Arlette Diederiks: City Guide to Barcelona, Spain .

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8 Best Road Trips From Barcelona [2024]: Best Of Catalonia

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 50 mins read
• Post last modified: February 8, 2024
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Whether you’re visiting Barcelona and want to  explore more of Catalunya , or you’re an ex-pat living in Barcelona now and want to have some fun with  weekend trips from Barcelona , keep reading. I lived in Barcelona for 2 years and had a lot of time exploring all these Catalonia places. We went on a road trip with my friends and it was one of the best trips of my life.

Thanks to my experience , I’ve compiled the top 8 road trips from Barcelona. All of them can be done in a day. The list includes  history ,  cities , beach relaxation,  interesting facts , and fantastic  hiking trails . Everyone can find a perfect trip from Barcelona, depending on your interests.

Let’s explore Catalunya together!

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

List Of The 8 Best Road Trips From Barcelona & Map

Visit another country not so far from Barcelona. Yes, a real country is close to Barcelona, and it’s not France. Andorra belongs to the smallest countries in the world (it’s the smallest in Europe). 

From the political point of view , it’s a co-principality ruled by 2 princes. Interestingly, none of them comes from Andorra. One of them is the current President of France, and the co-prince is Bishop of Urgell.

Interesting Facts About Andorra

Here are some interesting facts about Andorra:

✅ Capital City: Andora La Vella – highest capital city in Europe (1023m/3356feet) ✅ Official Currency: EURO ✅ Hasn’t been part of any conflict & it remained neutral in WWII. (lack of natural resources, location in the Pyrenees mountains) ✅ Tax Heaven : thanks to its mass production of tobacco ✅ Official Language: Catalan; locals also speak Spanish and English

Best Things To Do In Andorra

🔅 Go Hiking 🔅 Drive through Andorra with breathtaking views 🔅 Enjoy natural baths & spa 🔅 Explore Andorra La Vella 🔅 Visit Romanesque churches 🔅 Taste local food

🔅 Go Hiking In Andorra

Andorra is home to 3 natural parks : Valle de Sorteny, Madriu-Perafita-Claror, Valls de Comapedrosa. Enjoy its beautiful hiking trails and the atmosphere of the Pyrenees mountains.

🔅 Drive Through Andorra With Breathtaking Views

Drive through and enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and valley – honestly, Andorra is  worth driving through with a car . Tiny, curvy roads will lead you to the mountains with amazing views. 

Then back to stunning  valleys full of stone bridges  and houses with Romanesque style… the entire country is incredible, so spend some time driving there.

We did it with my friends during our road trip, and it was, after hiking, the  best activity of all .

🔅 Enjoy Natural Baths & Spas

Andorra is pretty famous for its spa. One of the best spas is Caldea . Check it out and have a nice relaxation after your hiking experience. 

🔅 Explore Andorra la Vella

Go duty-free shopping in the capital of Andorra. After, visit some of the highlights in the city:

• Casa de la Vall – the building was constructed in 1580 and is now home to the parliament.
• Tobacco Museum – Andorra is known for its tobacco production, so stop by and learn about its history

🔅 Visit Romanesque Churches

Find Romanesque churches and admire their architecture, such as  the Church of Sant Joan de Caselles ,  Sant Esteve , or  Santa Coloma .

🔅 Taste Local Food

The most typical Andorran dish is  Esudella  – a stew made with meat and pasta shells. Another typical dish is  Trinxat , a side dish made of cabbage leeks, potato, and pork.

You’ll often find  trout  on the menu in Andorra, coming for its  fresh waters .

How To Get From Barcelona To Andorra?

Andorra is located 190 km/118 miles from Barcelona . It’ll take you around 2 hours and 30 minutes to get there by car.  Just follow the highway until you reach Andorra la Vella, the capital city.

Is Andorra Worth A Day Trip From Barcelona?

Yes, Andorra is  worth a day trip from Barcelona . It’s a must-visit place if you’re in Barcelona. If you  plan your day well , you can do a scenic drive through the Andorras mountains and visit Andorra La Vella in the afternoon.

One day is fine for Andorra if you don’t have more time. However, I highly recommend spending at least  2 to 3 days in Andorra  to experience its mountains and natural spas fully.

👉 READ ALSO: Barcelona Itinerary 3 Days: Explore The Highlights

2. MONTSERRAT

The Montserrat monastery is almost 1000 years old . About 80 monks live in the monastery nowadays.

Montserrat is a Catalan word and translates to English as  ‘saw a mountain.’  The main attraction you come to admire here is the monastery, Benedictine Abbey , with the Montserrat Sanctuary carved right into the massive rocks of Montserrat.

It’s also a popular destination for hiking and climbing enthusiasts . 

Best Things To Do In Montserrat

🔅 Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey 🔅 The Black Madonna 🔅 La Botiga 🔅 Hike to the Cross

Suggested Itinerary For Montserrat

First, go to the Abbey and its Basilica to see ‘La Moreneta’. The Black Madonna , The Virgin of Montserrat, and saint patron of Catalonia. Her statue represents Romanesque Art.

FUN FACT: Some claim the reason for the Madonna to be black is that some shepherds found the statue in a dark cave , and others claim it is made from dark wood , and the candles darkened the statue even more.

After, go to the main shop La Botiga and taste cookies and coques made by the nuns. Outside are usually markets , where you can taste local food . They sell things like local cheese, honey, sweets, chorizo, and a lot more.

Enjoy the stunning views from Montserrat and soak up the atmosphere.

Montserrat is also famous for its beautiful hiking paths . Hike up to the cross on the other side and get the best views of Montserrat and its monastery.

How To Get From Barcelona To Montserrat

Traveling to Montserrat is one of the most iconic road trips in Catalonia . It’s a beautiful, curvy road leading up to the mountain where the monastery is built. You’ll love the views and the entire scenery, I’m sure.

Montserrat is 58 km/36 miles away from Barcelona, and it’ll take you about an hour to get there by car.

Is Montserrat Worth A Day Trip From Barcelona?

Yes, Montserrat is  worth the day trip from Barcelona . It’s one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona. You can drive there by yourself or even take an organized tour.

Montserrat is situated  57km away from Barcelona  center, around  50 minutes drive  by car.

You can also join this organized tour from Barcelona to Montserrat . It’s a great way to travel if you want to skip the planning.

Organized Tour To Montserrat

You can also join this organized tour from Barcelona to Montserrat if you don’t want to plan and enjoy the trip with a group.

3. TARRAGONA

The city was founded before the 5th century BC. Tarragona was inhabited by several cultures and nations in the past, including the settlement of  Hispanic tribes  after being captured by the  Roman forces , then ruled by  Muslim Caliphs  and  Christian Kings . Today, it’s home to many Catalans and ex-pats.

In the past, Tarragona hosted a  Roman colony , and that’s the reason why you’ll find many  Roman archaeological sites , including the Roman Amphitheatre, which is one of the main attractions here. Also, check out the  old aqueduct , which transported fresh water back in Roman times.

Thanks to its petrochemical industry, it’s the second most important  financial center of Catalonia . The city also has a busy seaport with a lot of importance.

Tarragona is also a great place to see Castell , Catalan tradition. The point is that people climb on top of each other, creating a giant statue named Castell. It’s very impressive.

Tarragona Guided Tour

Book this guided walking tour of Tarragona if you want to learn more about the history and culture with a local guide.

How To Get From Barcelona To Tarragona?

Tarragona is 96 km/59 miles away from Barcelona. It’ll take you about 1 hour and 10 minutes to get there by car.

Welcome to the  hotspot of Game of Thrones  fans. Many parts of the movie (season 6) were shot in several locations here in Girona, including the Jewish Quarter , Cathedral , and the River Onyar .

Sightseeing In Girona

You can look forward to ancient history, colorful architecture, and great food in Girona:

🔅 Jewish Quarter  – between 982 and 1492, Jews lived in Girona, and this is one of the best-preserved Jewish Quarters in the world. You can also visit the Jewish Museum if you’re interested.

🔅 Girona Cathedral  – walk through the famous staircase where Game of Thrones was shot.

🔅 Roman Arabis-style baths

🔅 Eiffel Bridge  – Gustav Eiffel built this bridge before his masterpiece, the Eiffel Tower. He proposed constructing the Eiffel Tower in Barcelona, but local authorities refused. So he at least built this small bridge in Girona before heading to Paris.

🔅 Onyar River

🔅 Placa Independencia  – the square is a great place to get food or sit for a café and have a break.

If you are more interested in this city’s history, visit the  city history museum .

Try to catch some  Catalan words , as the locals speak mostly Catalan, no Spanish. But, of course, if you speak Spanish, then do so, and they’ll reply. But Catalan is far more important here.

Girona Guided Walking Tour

Book this guided walking tour of Girona , see the Game of Throne spots, and learn about its interesting history with a local.

How To Get From Barcelona To Girona?

Girona is located  106 km/65 miles from Barcelona . Girona takes about  1 hour and 20 minutes  from the Barcelona center.

You’ll be driving near the stunning  Costa Brava  in Spain, which has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. So, on the way back, you can stop by, relax, and swim in the sea.

👉 READ ALSO: Best Of Spain Itinerary: 14 Days In Spain

5. FIGUERES & BESALÚ

Come and explore the birthplace of Salvador Dalí , the surrealist artist born and raised in Spain here in Figueres. See his bizarre images and unique architecture. 

Best Things To Do In Figueres

🔅  The Teatro Museum –  Dalí’s main museum, hosted in a red theatre he renovated. Admire its white eggs, local yellow bread, and golden statues. He is also buried in this building.

🔅  Dalí Jewels Collection  – admire Dalí’s collection of jewels, paintings, and drawings here.

🔅  Casa Natal de Salvador Dalí  – visit the birthplace and house where he was born and grew up.

🔅  Castle of San Ferran  – is one of the largest fortresses in Europe, dating back to the 18th century.

🔅  La Rambla de Figueres  – I get you if you didn’t enjoy La Rambla in Barcelona. But don’t worry, the street in Figueres is much less touristy and quieter. So get some food, stop for a coffee, and watch people.

🔅  The Toy Museum of Catalonia  (Museu del Jouget de Catalunya) – a great place to visit with kids.

🔅  The Technology Museum of Emporda  – showcases technology exemplars from the 28th and 19th centuries. 

Figueres Guided Tour

Explore Figueres with a local guide, join this guided tour , learn about Dali’s life, and hear interesting stories.

On the way back to Barcelona, you can stop and visit Besalú.

Besalú was the  country’s capital of Besalú , the large  French region  extending to these areas, which are now part of Spain.

The town is worth visiting and going through. You don’t have to visit museums or monuments; walk in and soak up the unique  medieval atmosphere .

Best Things To Do In Besalú

🔅 Puente de Besalú  – walk through the bridge to access the old town. It was built in the 11th century and will take you back to medieval times.

🔅 Old Town  – enjoy the old town, stroll through its streets, observe locals, and have a good café in the center.

🔅 The monastery at Sant Pere  – many monasteries didn’t survive until today, and this is one of those that have been standing here for ages.

🔅 Jews Baths  – Jews settled here in the 9th century, as in many other parts of Spain, and have left beautiful architecture and important landmarks throughout Catalonia. These baths are one of them, so check them out.

How To Get From Barcelona To Figueres & Besalú

Figueres is located  150 km/93 miles from Barcelona  center, so it’ll take you around  1 hour and 10 minutes  by car to get there. 

I recommend stopping at some  beaches of Costa Brava  on the way back to Barcelona. Costa Brava has some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, so you can’t miss them.

After, continue to Besalú , just 24km away from Figueres (20-minute drive). Then you can head back to Barcelona.

6. TOSSA DE MAR

Tossa de Mar was one of the  highlights for me  personally when I was making a road trip through Catalunya. It has its  charm and special atmosphere , despite being sometimes crowded with holidaymakers and travelers. It’s the top place to visit on  Costa Brava .

Stroll through the streets of the old town and get to the  beach . Have a nice café and continue to the Castle  (Castillo de Tossa de Mar) . You’ll get stunning views of the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea and the town from above.

Tossa de Mar is also the first place that banned  bullfighting globally .

This road trip from Barcelona is worth it for those who like relaxing  on a beach  and seeing a few  historical monuments  and a nice  medieval old town .

How To Get To Tossa De Mar From Barcelona

Tossa de Mar is  107 km/66 miles away from the center of Barcelona . It’ll take you around  1 hour and 20 minutes  of driving.

You’ll drive through the E-15 highway from Barcelona . After the town of Santa Seclina, you’ll turn right at the roundabout and drive directly towards the sea, Tossa de Mar.

👉 READ ALSO: Best Of Southern Spain Itinerary 10 Days

7. EMPURIABRAVA

Venice in Spain?  Yes, it also  exists . Come and explore this unusual town in Costa Brava – Empuriabrava. It’s the largest residential marina worldwide. It has  24 canals and nearly 5,000 jetboats .

Take a boat trip  through the canals of Empuriabrava and drive yourself. It feels like being in Venice, except on an electric boat. Canals have no particular order or direction, so stay aware of how to return to the dock where you started.

You can  rent the boats on the spot ; there is no need to book anything in advance.

How To Get From Barcelona To Empuriabrava

Empuriabrava is located  157 km/97 miles from Barcelona  center. It’ll take you almost  2 hours  to get there. It’s close to  Figueres , so you can also visit the place on the way back to Barcelona.

8. PORTAVENTURA

Are you ready to have some fun?  Plan the entire day and even a night for this road trip from Barcelona. It’ll take you back to your childhood, scare a * out of you, and the adrenaline will pump inside you.

PortAventura is an  amusement park  with hundreds of  roller coasters ,  theme parks , and fun stalls in the southern part of Catalonia, Spain.

It’s  Europe’s leading theme park , and you’ll surely have an unforgettable experience.

PortAventura: 6 Themed Areas With World Parts

It’s made out of  6 themed areas , of which 5 represent different parts of the world, including Asia , the American Far West , imperial China , Mayan Mexico , Polynesia , and fishing villages in the Mediterranean .

Recently, they added the  Ferrari park , which is dedicated to the legendary Italian team. The most famous attraction is the Red Force , 112 meters high, accelerating from 0 to 185 km/h in just 5 seconds. Crazy, right?

Enjoy the roller coasters and water parks , and get lost in the  Selva del Miedo  in the evening. Waiting for the selva del miedo  (scary forest experience)  is worth waiting for. I was part of it, and it was a unique experience.

PortAventura Tickets

Get skip-the-line tickets for PortAventura by clicking this link or the image on the left.

How Do You Get From Barcelona To PortAventura

PortAventura is  120 km/74 miles away  from the center of Barcelona. The drive takes around  1 hour and 30 minutes .

PortAventura is a great day trip from Barcelona. However, you can easily  spend 2 full days , which I also recommend. In this case, it’s also a  perfect weekend trip from Barcelona .

You can stay overnight at the PortAventura Hotel . If you have more time, don’t miss the  Scary forest Experience  (Selva de Miedo).

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

Tips for renting a car in barcelona.

All of these trips are self-drive road trips from Barcelona . So you’ll need a rental car. It’s possible to take a bus or a train from Barcelona to explore these places. Still, you won’t have as much flexibility.

So rent a car for these road trips. The best way to do so is online . Thanks to online aggregators, you’ll get a selection of different cars with various prices and from distinct companies . So you can choose the right one now and only pick it up afterward.

Discover Cars offers the best prices for rental cars. The only disadvantage is that sometimes the company ratings don’t match . So first, choose your car, then look at the company rating on Google, and if the rating is good, then book your car and pick it up in Barcelona.

RENT A CAR FOR YOUR ITINERARY

Rent A Car Via Discover Cars – best prices and big selection of car rentals. PRO TIP: Check ratings of the company you choose before booking ( ratings can be off ). Go on Google, see ratings of the car rental company, then book on Discover Cars.

How To Choose The Right Road Trip From Barcelona

To make navigating through this list easier, I’ve divided it into  3 sections .

The  first section  contains road trips where you can see  beautiful nature,   go hiking , and even explore a new, exciting country. The  second section  is full of  cities and exciting history . The  third section  has places on  Costa Brava  to choose if you want a more relaxed day trip on a beach.

The  last road trip from Barcelona  on this list is an  amusement park , which is great if you travel with kids. But believe me; it’s so great that even for adults.

3-Day  Road  Trip  From Barcelona

Here is my suggestion for a 3-day road trip from Barcelona that you can follow:

5-Day Road Trip From Barcelona

If you have 5 days and want to spend it road-tripping through Catalonia, this is my itinerary for you:

BONUS: 3-Day Barcelona Itinerary

If you’re also visiting Barcelona, check out my itinerary for 3 days . It’ll show you the highlights, suggest the best activities, and walk you through the most important areas.

I spent 2 years living in Barcelona and designed this itinerary from my experiences. To see the best things to do and see in Barcelona by clicking on the image below:

To help you plan your visit even more, I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions. So check the answers below:

What Cities Can You Travel To From Barcelona?

Within one day, these are the closest cities you can travel to from Barcelona: Saint Cugat, Sabadell, Girona, Figueres, Tarragona, Zaragoza, Lleida, and Valencia. You can visit these cities on a day trip from Barcelona.

How Many Days In Barcelona Is Ideal?

The ideal time for Barcelona is 5 days . You’ll have 3 days to explore the city fully. Spend the extra 2 days making road trips to other places, such as PortAventura, Girona, Tarragona, or Costa Brava and its beaches.

What Are The Best Countries To Visit From Barcelona?

The best countries to visit from Barcelona are Andorra, France, and Portugal .

Andorra and France are the closest to Barcelona. Visit Andorra if you want to see the smallest country in Europe, enjoy beautiful mountain views cute villages, and even do some hiking. Or head to France to drink delicious wine and enjoy the luxurious French Riviera.

For surfing, stunning rock formations, and beautiful historical cities, travel to Portugal .

WRAP-UP: Best Road Trips From Barcelona

These are my top 8 ideas for a road trip from Barcelona. They’ll show you the highlights of Catalonia , bring you closer to the culture and history, and you’ll see even more Gaudi sights. So choose one based on your interests and explore more than Barcelona.

If you have any questions or need a customized itinerary for Spain Catalonia, you can contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Spain Travel

Looking to visit more places in Spain? Check out my related articles:

Best Of Spain Itinerary: 14 Days In Spain

Barcelona Itinerary For 3 Days

Southern Spain Itinerary 10 Days

6 Best Spanish Festivals You Need To Experience

Spain In December: Best Things To Do & See

Christmas In Spain: Complete Guide With Traditions & Best Places

How Far Is Morocco From Spain? Complete Guide

How Far Is Barcelona From Paris? Complete Guide

27 Best Places To Visit In Europe In November

Is Portugal In Spain? Ultimate Guide

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

SPAIN : Interested in more articles about Spain? Check out my Spain Travel Page :

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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!

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The Perfect Catalonia Road Trip

From the sights of Barcelona to adventures on the coast, and exploring pretty mountain towns, this Catalonia road trip offers a great mix.

There’s nothing more liberating than hiring a car and heading off on a road trip. It’s one of my favourite styles of holiday. You really can spend a morning at the beach, then visit a museum in the afternoon followed by a beautiful restaurant in the middle of nowhere for dinner! Plus, you can travel at your own pace and explore spots away from the main tourist routes.

Over the last few weeks I’ve been reminiscing about an amazing road trip I went on through Catalonia in Spain. It was my first time in the region that didn’t revolve purely around Barcelona.

I absolutely loved how varied the route was. One minute I was cruising down a busy seaside promenade, and an hour later I was exploring a remote mountain village. The trip incorporated a great mix of activities, cities, villages and landscapes, all within easy reach of one another. In this post I’m going to highlight a few of my favourite spots along the route, so that you can follow in my footsteps.

When I talk about Catalonia, you probably think of Barcelona first and foremost. What a fantastic city! It makes sense for this road trip to start there, especially as most people will fly into Barcelona airport. After a day in Barcelona, we’ll be venturing along the Costa Dorada (aka the Golden Coast) and seeing a few spots you might not be familiar with.

This road trip takes you to one of the most historic sites in Spain, Gaudi’s hometown, an impressive cave and the best theme park in the country. Ready? Hop in the car, fasten your seat belt and off we go!

Day 1: Barcelona: Food, wine and Gaudi

Barcelona is the beating heart of Catalonia. I’m not exaggerating when I say I’ve visited Barcelona more times than any other city in the world! I love its lively character, colourful disposition and the fact there is so much to see and do.

I’ve had trouble plotting out an ideal one-day itinerary for Barcelona, as the city offers so much. If I was heading back for a day, here are some of the things I’d try to squeeze in.

After breakfast I’d beat the crowds and head straight to Parc Guell. This is without a doubt my favourite place in Barcelona. The park was designed by Antoni Gaudí and showcases his modernist techniques and inimitable style. Spend an hour or so wandering the beautifully wonky colonnaded pathway, ascend the dragon staircase and take in the view of Barcelona from the mosaic-covered terrace.

Then it’s time to wiggle your way through the city towards the Gothic Quarter. If you get peckish, stop by Escribà , the best patisserie in town for magical cakes and pastries that feel like they’ve been plucked straight from Willy Wonka’s imagination.

For lunch, devour a plate of pinxtos at El Pinxto de Petritxol . Here, you can wander the length of the bar choosing from bruschettas topped with fried prawns, cubes of goat’s cheese, tasty jams and more, all with the standard cocktail stick centrepiece of course. At the end you add up your sticks to total up your bill.

After lunch, it’s time for a few more key sights, starting with a visit to La Boqueria – Barcelona’s most famous food market, located just off Las Ramblas. Then we’re heading up to Montjuïc. This hill offers magnificent views over the city, but there are several spots to visit along the route up too, including the castle, the botanical gardens and the Fundació Joan Miró (my favourite art gallery in Barcelona).  

For fun, you can catch the cable car across to the Old Port, then meander past impressive super yachts towards Barceloneta Beach. After catching a few rays, you could explore my 2nd favourite park in the city – Parc de la Ciutadella, or nip across the city to see the Sagrada Familia. I told you there was a lot to see!

For dinner, pick from the hundreds of cute tapas bars in the city, or, if you’re looking for something extra special, book a table at Michelin-starred Disfrutar . I’ve visited twice now and can honestly say it’s the best restaurant I’ve ever eaten at. The food is playful and creative, with mind-blowing flavour and texture combinations, served over 20+ courses.

After dinner, it’s back to the Gothic Quarter for a nightcap at Salterio – a cute bar with a great vibe tucked neatly away in the skinny pedestrianised streets.

Day 2: Tarragona: History and art

I still remember driving into Tarragona and being absolutely mesmerised by the view of the Roman amphitheatre set against the bright turquoise of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a stunning sight. Needless to say, the Roman history is a huge draw for visitors to this city.

Wherever you wander you’ll see ruins from the city’s ancient past, including the remains of the forum and the old city walls. To learn more, you could kick off your time in Tarragona by visiting Museu Nacional Arqueològic de Tarragona – the museum dedicated to the city’s history. However, if you’re someone who likes to appreciate history without having facts and figures thrown at you, I’d recommend walking around at leisure, and taking in the historic sites as you go.

One of my top tips for Tarragona is to get lost! On the whole, the buildings are made from peach, orange and sandy coloured stone, and sit on narrow, cobbled streets. They’re very pretty and ooze character. I loved taking photos of the architecture and soaking up the buzz as I passed small tapas bars, eavesdropping on the locals jabbering away in Catalan.

For the best views of Tarragona, I’d recommend the terrace of the Museu Nacional Arqueològic de Tarragona or the bell tower of Tarragona Cathedral.

When you fancy a break from the city streets, wander down towards the ocean and check out the 2nd century Roman Amphitheatre. It hosts re-enactments from time to time, and while it might not be quite the same as watching a gladiatorial battle, any experience with a crowd in the old seats would be amazing! 

Day 3: Siurana and Reus: History, natural beauty and architecture

For day 3, I’d suggest splitting your time between two contrasting places in Catalonia. Siurana and Reus look really close on the map, but the drive is likely to take you around an hour, as the roads to get to Siurana wind around the Prades Mountains. If you suffer from travel sickness, be prepared – you might leave your lunch at the bottom!

The village of Siurana was an absolute highlight of my previous Catalonia road trip and is somewhere I’m desperate to return to. I couldn’t quite believe the contrast between the coastal towns in Catalonia and this region in the Prades mountains. They feel like places that should be a plane journey away rather than an hour’s drive!

So why add Siurana to your Catalonia road trip? History lovers will be amazed by the ruins of a Moorish castle which dates back to the year 800, and sits close to the village’s 12th century Romanesque church. Meanwhile, anyone who appreciates a good view will be in awe of the spectacular panoramas. The village is located at the top of the mountain road, with sheer drops around its perimeter. Oh, and there’s also a vivid turquoise reservoir below.

I’d recommend starting by taking a walk around the village (only 24 people live here is it won’t take long!) before stopping for a drink in the little café. Then wander back along the ancient cobble streets and visit the ruins and the church, before taking approximately 719,890 photos of the epic views.

Siurana is one of the prettiest villages in Catalonia so you can imagine how busy it gets in peak season (yes, somehow coaches make it up these narrow windy roads!) I visited quite early on a Thursday morning in the summer and amazingly had the place almost to myself.

After a relaxing exploration of this pretty village, it’s time to hop in the car and continue the Catalonia road trip past craggy rocks and vineyards to the city of Reus.

This smallish city is famed for its numerous examples of modernist architecture. After starting the road trip in Barcelona seeing some of Gaudi’s most famous works, Reus is a great place to go back to the start of his life. Yes, the architectural genius was born right here in Reus.

I’d recommend starting with a trip to The Gaudi Centre to learn all about his life. This is a really engaging museum experience with lots of hands on exhibits, videos and interactive displays. It’s a great place for families too.

When you’ve got your Gaudi fix, it’s time for an ice cream and a spot of people watching in the main square in Reus.

Then you should wander the streets of Reus for a big dose of modernist architecture. Around the centre of the city you’ll see lots of beautiful and elaborate buildings, designed by top Catalan architects including Lluís Domènech i Montaner, Pere Caselles i Tarrats and Pere Domènech Roura.

While most are privately owned, you can take a tour of Casa Navàs (designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner). The outside is pretty spectacular, but it’s nothing compared to the eccentric designs of the interiors. After going up a bold tiled staircase, you’ll be met by a huge mosaic design on the walls, colourful stained glass and a pretty courtyard.

Day 4: Costa Dorada: Beach day

I’ll keep this day a little vaguer as there are plenty of lovely beaches along the Costa Dorada. Just find one you like and enjoy a swim in the sunshine.

If you love water sports and activities, there are a couple of spots I’d recommend. Firstly, you could book a parasailing trip in Salou . It’s a relaxing activity once you’re up in the sky and the views are incredible. From heights of around 50m you’ll see a few of the places you’ve visited on this Catalonia road trip, including the Prades Mountains, as well as the rollercoasters you’ll see on your final day at PortAventura World.   

If you feel confident on a paddle board then my top tip would be to book onto a SUP tour from l’Hospitalet de l’Infant Beach to La Cova del Llop – a small cave a few km along the coast. The only way to reach the cave is by water. Once there you can swim inside, relax on the pebble beach or go in search of stalagmites and stalactites. This was another highlight for me!

Day 5: Port Aventura: Adrenaline and fun  

After a memorable few days road tripping around Catalonia, it’s time to finish our adventure with a big dose of fun! PortAventura World is Spain’s most popular theme park and attracts visitors from all over Europe.

If you’re an adrenaline addict, you’re going to love it here. PortAventura World is divided into sections themed around different parts of the world. One minute you’ll be reaching some crazy G-forces in Asia on the park’s biggest rides Shambhala and Dragon Khan, the next you’ll be relaxing in the lush surroundings of Polynesia!

I’m a big fan of theme parks and have visited quite a few all over the world. I’d definitely say that this is one of the best I’ve ever been to. I only spent around four hours there last time, but would love to return on another Catalonia road trip to try out more of the rides. There are more than 40, plus lots more fun to be had at Caribe Aquatic Park and Ferrari Land (which are located on the same site). I’ve only suggested one day here, but if you’re a big fan of theme parks, I’d recommend buying a 3-parks ticket to use over 2 days.

If you like hardcore rollercoasters, my top recommendations would be to go on Furius Baco (which reaches a speed of 135 km/h in just 3 seconds), Shambhala (which starts with an 80m drop) and the Vertical Accelerator ride at Ferrariland (the tallest and fastest rollercoaster in Europe).

Don’t worry if that all sounds terrifying – there are kids rides too, plus shows and lots of great places to eat and drink around the park. I’d recommend booking a special skip the line ticket before your trip so you make the most of your day.

As the adrenaline wears off, it’s time to return your hire car to the airport in Barcelona and head home. Or, alternatively, you could extend your trip with a few of the options below.

Where To Go Next On Your Catalonia Road Trip?

This is just one great itinerary for a Catalonia road trip. From national parks and medieval villages to beautiful beaches, there are plenty more great places to visit in the region.

If you love a mix of history and natural beauty, you could drive to Santa Maria de Poblet Monastery . Founded in 1129, this fascinating monastery is in a stunning location at the base of the Prades mountains, and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.

To learn about Salvador Dali, you could spend a day visiting the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, followed by Dalí’s house in Port Lligat.

Or for another completely different option you could head north to Girona, or enjoy a coastal Catalonia road trip along the Costa Brava.

My advice? Hire a car and go on your own adventure! There are lots of great places just waiting to be discovered.

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.

This post was brought to you as part of the #SpainOnMyMind campaign, created and managed by iambassador in partnership with the Spain Tourist Office . As always, all opinions are my own.

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Wanderlust Chloe

Wanderlust Chloe was launched by Chloe Gunning – a creative producer from London. When not working she writes, blogs, tweets and goes on some amazing adventures (which she then writes, blogs and tweets about to make you all jealous). Alongside Wanderlust Chloe, she also blogs for the Huffington Post. Follow Chloe on Twitter and Instagram @WanderlustChloe. Alongside Wanderlust Chloe, she also blogs for the Huffington Post. Follow Chloe on Twitter and Instagram @WanderlustChloe.

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Barcelona to Bilbao: The Ultimate 1 Week Road Trip in Northern Spain

Catalonia and Basque country totally blew me away. I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but I had heard great things from trusted travel friends who raved about it. I knew I would be eating and drinking well, but other than that, I was open to the surprise. Whatever expectations I did have, northern Spain absolutely exceeded them. The cityscapes and beautiful architecture alone are worth a visit, but when you combine that with delectable Basque cuisine and crazy good wine, northern Spain is an unbeatable, and frankly underrated, destination for a getaway.

I am sharing all the insights I gained on the road so that you can plan the perfect road trip in northern Spain. This epic journey will take you through a diverse range of destinations, from the vibrant streets of Barcelona to the breathtaking coastal beauty of San Sebastian and the cultural gems of Bilbao. Along the way, you'll also have the opportunity to explore the renowned wine region of Rioja and dive into delectable dining experiences.

With this blog post, I’ll explore the highlights of each destination, provide insider tips, and share practical information to help you plan the perfect week-long road trip through the enchanting landscapes of Northern Spain. Embark on an unforgettable road trip with this ultimate 1-week itinerary from Barcelona to Bilbao. Get ready for an incredible adventure filled with stunning scenery, mouthwatering cuisine, and unique experiences.

What You'll Find In This Post

The Ultimate 1 Week Road Trip in Northern Spain

Overview of this itinerary.

I planned this itinerary as a road trip because I think a car is the most convenient way to get between these locations, especially the small towns and wineries. There are train and bus connections between the major cities, so you could theoretically do this itinerary without a rental car, although you may need to adjust the Rioja days. 

This itinerary can be done in reverse, starting in Bilbao and ending in Barcelona. You could also do this itinerary as a round trip from the same city (ex: start & end in Barcelona), although that will increase the driving time significantly. Currently, the total drive time is around 9 hours , with the longest drive being from Barcelona to Rioja on day 2.

1 Week Itinerary for Northern Spain Road Trip

Day 1: barcelona.

With a large airport and excellent flight connections around the world, Barcelona is a logical place to start your road trip of northern Spain. Rental cars are available in the city or at the airport. Barcelona is certainly a destination in its own right. You could easily spend a few extra days at the beginning of your trip exploring. If you want to spend more time in Barcelona, I’ve got lots more suggestions on what to see and do during a long weekend visit. 

But for my American friends who have limited vacation time, I see you. If you only have one day in Barcelona, maximize your 24 hours by exploring the city's iconic attractions. Start with a visit to the breathtaking Sagrada Familia. You’ll want to book tickets in advance to guarantee availability. Then stroll through the Gothic Quarter's narrow streets and the enchanting Barcelona Cathedral. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the trendy El Born neighborhood, followed by a visit to Park Güell for panoramic views. End your day with a relaxing walk along Barceloneta Beach and savor delicious tapas at a local restaurant.

Day 2 & 3: Rioja Wine Valley

Exploring the Rioja wine valley is a must-do activity on a road trip in northern Spain. Rioja is the beating heart of Spain’s wine industry with a number of world-renowned wineries . Additionally, this region offers breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Two days won’t feel like enough in the Rioja and you’ll be dying to come back! 

I would recommend choosing a town as a jumping off point in the Rioja. The medieval village of Laguardia is a great option. It is nestled amidst vineyards and olive groves. Plus, the well-preserved architecture is picturesque for a nighttime stroll. I can also recommend Logroño , the capital of the Rioja region. Its lively streets are lined with charming shops, cafes, and bars. You can also visit the Mercado de San Blas there, a vibrant market where you can sample local produce and cheeses.

You can also stay at a winery, finca or bodega for a really immersive experience in the Rioja! Set among vineyards and olive groves, I am obsessed with Hotel Bodega Finca de los Arandinos' . We stayed at this boutique hotel and I was so impressed with the personalized attention, stellar modern facilities, and luxury experience. Hotel Bodega Finca de los Arandinos is the first wine tourism project in La Rioja that integrates a winery, hotel, restaurant and spa, fusing some of my favorite things in life – design, gastronomy, wine tourism and nature. Plus, the sunsets here are amazing!

Now that we've covered where you'll be staying in the Rioja, let's talk about what you'll be doing there. I would recommend spending your two days exploring wineries, bodegas and small towns. This is a great place to slow down a bit, relax in the scenery and sip some of the best wine Spain has to offer. Choose a few wineries that sound good to you, and then plan your days accordingly based on the tour time slots.

Don’t worry if you aren’t a wine expert – I wasn’t either ! The Rioja is a great destination to learn about wine production and viticulture through fun and educational tours. You can also head to the acclaimed Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture . This museum offers a comprehensive journey through the world of wine, from the history of winemaking to the art and science behind it. 

In general, it's a good idea to make reservations for winery tours and tastings in advance, especially during the peak summer and harvest seasons. It is reasonable to visit 2 wineries per day, or 3 if you are really ambitious. I highlight my favorite wineries for first timers in a separate blog post. 

Day 4: Pamplona

I added Pamplona to my northern Spain road trip itinerary spontaneously at the last minute, and I am so glad that I did – it turned out to be one of the cutest cities I visited! Pamplona is the capital of the Navarre Basque region of Northern Spain. It is actually the region’s third largest city. With a rich history and culture, Pamplona is a great destination for those looking to experience an off-the-beaten path city in Spain.

Although Pamplona is practically synonymous with its annual Running of the Bulls festival, the charming city has a lot more to offer. Start your day in the iconic Plaza del Castillo, the city's main square, surrounded by picturesque buildings and lively cafés. You’ll also want to see the City Walls and Citadel which surround old town Pamplona. And finally, learn about the history of the famous San Fermín festival. For more details about how to structure your 24 hours in Pamplona, I actually wrote a separate blog post that breaks down everything that you need to see, eat and do in Pamplona in just one day. 

Day 5 & 6: San Sebastian

I had heard wonderful things about San Sebastian from a number of trusted travel buddies, so my expectations were high. Most of my days in San Sebastian were food-focused because it is the foodiest of foodie cities! More on what to eat in a minute.

Basically, my suggestion is to punctuate your foodie stops with some walks and cultural attractions. Start your first day in San Sebastian by exploring the picturesque old town.  Go inside the impressive San Sebastian Cathedral and climb up to the rooftop for stunning views of the city. Visit the San Telmo Museum to learn about the history and culture of the Basque Country. Wander through its narrow streets filled with charming shops and crowded bars, popping in for a pintxo or two. 

Pintxos, or Basque-style tapas, are the name of the game when it comes to experiencing San Sebastian’s food scene like a local. There are a ton to choose from in the old town. Have pintxo, walk to a church. Have a pintxo, wander the museum. You get the idea. I went on a pintxos food tour with Mimo that I absolutely loved, because it took me to unique taverns and cafes that I might have normally overlooked. I summarized all my favorite San Sebastian pintxos in a separate blog post so that you can have the perfect afternoon sampling the best food in the city.

On your second day, head to La Concha Beach, one of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade or relax on the golden sand. If you're feeling adventurous, hike to the top of Monte Urgull for panoramic views of the city. Not looking for a steep uphill climb but still want a view? Monte Igueldo is perfect for you! There is a charming (albiet rickety) funicular ride to the top where you can wander through a vintage theme park with a backdrop of Bay of La Concha. 

Another thing that is well-worth splurging on in San Sebastian is a Michelin star meal. The city boasts more Michelin stars per capita than any other place in the world! I was traveling in Spain with some friends who had never experienced a Michelin-star meal before, so I was really excited to go with them as first-timers. While it can feel like an intimidating experience, it is easy to prepare for your first Michelin dining experience with a few simple pointers and suggestions. We booked a table at Arzak , a female-run 3 star restaurant on the outskirts of San Sebastian. It was incredible!

Day 7: Bilbao

The final stop on your one week road trip to northern Spain is Bilbao. Nestled in the heart of the Basque Country, Bilbao is a gritty yet special city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern architectural wonders. With a captivating mix of culture, art, and gastronomy, Bilbao is one of the most overlooked but worthwhile destinations for travelers seeking an authentic Spanish experience.

Bilbao's history can be traced back to the 14th century; however, it was the transformation of the city in recent decades that truly put Bilbao on the map. The iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao stands as a symbol of the city's reinvention and artistic prowess. Stay at the Gran Hotel Domine , a modern five-star hotel right across the street from the Guggenheim, to enjoy breakfast on the roof top terrace with views of the museum.

Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry (who also has buildings in my neighboring city of Düsseldorf ), one of the best things to do in Bilbao is to explore the Guggenheim Museum itself. Its striking architecture is of course impressive, as are the modern and contemporary art collections inside. The permanent collection includes paintings by Andy Warhol, Cy Twombly, Mark Rothko, and Gerhard Richter. 

The museum is just the tip of the cultural iceberg in Bilbao. Take a stroll through the Old Town (Casco Viejo) and immerse yourself in its charming medieval streets, filled with pintxos bars, traditional shops, and the stunning Santiago Cathedral. Much like San Sebastian, Bilbao is a foodie city with lots of exceptional gastronomy. Be sure to try local specialties like bacalao al pil-pil (codfish in garlic and olive oil sauce) and txangurro (stuffed crab).

Road Trip Suggestions in Spain

Overall, the roads in northern Spain are in great condition. We didn’t have any issues on the highway, and navigation was pretty straightforward. There are a number of service stations and gas stations along the highway, so you can easily fill up on gas whenever you need.

I was quite surprised by the cost of tolls on this journey. There were a number of toll stops, especially outside of Barcelona. They were more a lot expensive than I expected – we spent around 100 euros in total on tolls... Most accepted card, but not all. Have spare cash on hand in the car.

When to Go to Northern Spain?

The best time to visit northern Spain is during the grape harvest season from September to October. There will be a lot of things happening, and the weather is still warm and sunny. With that said, the region is manageable all year round. It will be most crowded in July and August, and it is likely to be quite rainy in the winter from January - March.

Have questions or comments about a road trip in Northern Spain? Tell me below!

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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!

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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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10D Barcelona Itinerary for First Timers — Road Trip Around the Best of Catalonia

This epic Barcelona itinerary goes beyond the city. Go skydiving in Girona, hiking in Montserrat, and see first-century Roman ruins in Tarragona!

Updated on 16 Feb 2022.

Like most first-timers to Spain, my knowledge of Catalonia was limited to its capital — Barcelona. I looked forward to seeing Gaudi’s works and eating lots of tapas.

But this trip proved there’s so much more to the region surrounding Barcelona. There are dormant volcanoes to hike into, quirky museums (from some of the most brilliant artists in the world) and even Game of Thrones filming locations!

For those unfamiliar with Catalonia, here’s a short introduction: Catalonia is made up of four regions — Barcelona , Girona, Tarragona, and Lleida.

Despite being part of Spain, Catalonia has its own flag, language, and traditions not found anywhere else in the country. Like the sport of building human towers (below), Castells!

Castells are under the UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage list!

Good news for those hoping to visit as well; Singapore announced a Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) with Spain ! Read on for our 10-day itinerary exploring Barcelona and surrounds.

Pre-trip Essentials

Photo credit: @angelacompagnone via Unsplash

COVID-19 related:

Entering Spain — You’ll need the following documents: 1) 48 hours pre-departure: Complete the Spain Travel Health Form to receive a QR code. You’ll need to present this upon arrival in Spain. 2) Before check-in: Download your Digital Vaccination Certificate via  Notarise .

Catalonia’s COVID-19 page here.

Returning to Singapore (Update as of 22 Feb 2022) — Travellers entering Singapore (citizens included) via the VTL are required to take a supervised ART within 24 hours of arrival.

Do check the latest VTL requirements when planning your trip.

Social distancing restrictions: Most facilities and events are back at 100% capacity. Face masks must be worn indoors and some outdoor locations such as amusement parks.

More pre-trip essentials below such as where to get data and a Google maps with all the locations pinned!

Barcelona and Surrounds Itinerary Overview

This 10-day Catalonia road trip itinerary covers highlights in the Barcelona, Tarragona, and Girona regions in a clockwise direction.

Day 1-3: Barcelona

We spent six weeks based in Barcelona as part of Airbnb’s Live Anywhere Program and still left feeling like there’s so much more left to see!

If you’re only in Barcelona for a few days, here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

La Sagrada Familia

No Barcelona itinerary would be complete without seeing the Sagrada Familia — Gaudí’s last and arguably greatest work. 40 years of his life was dedicated to building the Sagrada Familia, and his last 12 years were spent working solely on it up till his death in 1926.

The interior is unlike any other church. Our eyes were immediately drawn to the ceiling — massive granite columns branching up to the sky. Gaudí’s main inspirations were nature and light and every detail in the church reflected that!

The church is still undergoing construction and was slated to be completed by 2026, but will most likely be delayed due to the pandemic. Entrance includes a detailed audio tour, but you can book guided tours (€49) as well.

Entrance fee: €26 , €24 for those under 30 years old — tickets can only be purchased online) Opening hours: 9AM – 6PM How to get there: Take the L2 or L5 metro line to Sagrada Familia station. Alternatively, take bus 19, 33, 34, 43, 44, 50, 51, B20 or B24 and get off at the Sagrada Familia stop

Park Güell 

Park Güell is another Gaudí must-see in Barcelona. The most iconic part of the park is the Terrace, an excellent vantage point overlooking the city decorated with vibrant mosaic tiles!

The project was intended as a private estate for upper-class families in 1900, but was bought over by the City Council in 1922 due to the lack of interested buyers. No complaints there because Park Güell can now be enjoyed by everyone!

Other notable photo spots here include the Greek Theatre , Dragon Stairway , and Hypostyle Room .

Entrance fee: €10 (~S$15.43) — purchase online beforehand as there are time slots for entry Opening hours: 9:30AM – 5:30PM How to get there: Take the L3 metro line to Lesseps or Vallcarca stations and walk 20min from either station. Or, take bus H6 or D40 and walk 10 min.

Casa Batlló

Photo credit: @casabatllo via Instagram

Glimmering scaled-roofs and mask-shaped balconies; the exterior of Casa Batlló stands out like a sore thumb — in the best possible way. The interior is no less fascinating. For one, you’ll find no straight lines! Every door, window, and tile exudes character, creating Casa Batlló’s lively personality.

Entrance includes a free audio tour sharing the history of Casa Batlló and Gaudí’s inspirations while designing it.

Entrance fee: €35 (~S$54), free for children under 12 — tickets can be purchased online or in-person Opening hours: 9AM – 6:30PM (Tue – Thu), 9AM – 8PM (Fri – Mon) How to get there: Take the L2, L3 or L4 metro line to Passeig de Gràcia station or bus H10, V15, 7, 22 or 24 and walk 3min

Singapore has Orchard Road , Barcelona has La Rambla . This 1.2km-long street stretches from Plaça de Catalunya to Port Vell at the coast. Beyond big brands like Primark and Zara, there’s also street artists and performers here!

*Pro-tip: Take your time to explore the side streets. There are loads of charming bakeries and vintage shops (See Carrer de Tallers street) in the area.

Opening hours: Most shops close by 9PM, but restaurants open till much later How to get there: Take L1 metro line to Catalunya (exit at the beginning of La Rambla at Plaza Catalunya) or L3 metro line to Liceu (exit in the middle of La Rambla)

La Boqueria Market

Boqueria Market isn’t just a colourful feast for the eyes. Salami and cheese bouquets, fresh fruits, and local pastries are some gems you’ll find! We enjoyed snacking on street food, but a highlight was stopping at one of the seafood bars for tapas.

We settled at Ramblero for some calamari, mussels, and grilled octopus. The bill came to €38 (~S$58), but verdict — we’d gladly return for more.

Spoiler — we actually did return. Couldn’t leave without trying their seafood platter (€60) 😂

*Pro-tip: Some stalls start closing around 4PM so it’s good to go earlier!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 8AM – 8:30PM (Mon – Sat, Closed on Sun)  How to get there: Take the L3 metro line to Liceu station. The entrance of La Boqueria is located on La Rambla

If you’d like to explore markets the locals frequent, Barcelona has 38 other food markets scattered all over the city! Just the Eixample district alone has a few — like Ninot Market , and Sant Antoni Market .

Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter , or Barrio Gothic, is one of the best places to visit in Barcelona. It’s one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city — a labyrinth of bars, shops, and timeless architecture.

Walk the same streets as Picasso , who frequented the restaurant Els Quatre Gats as a young artist in the 1900s. It was here he held one of his first exhibitions! The Gothic Quarter is also home to Barcelona’s oldest restaurant, Can Culleretes  — a family-run eatery since 1786.

In the area, be sure to visit the Cathedral of Barcelona , the Bishop’s Bridge (first photo) and Plaça Reial (second photo).

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours How to get there: Take the L3 metro line to Liceu station. The Gothic Quarter is located opposite La Boqueria.

Hot Chocolate and Churros

Churros con chocolate (Churros with chocolate) is a must-try in Barcelona. And no, it’s not quite the hot chocolate you’re used to — more like pure, sinful melted chocolate to dip the churros in. There are many places selling this snack but one of our favourites was Churrería Laietana !

Cost: €1.70/serving (+ €2 for a cup of melted chocolate) Opening hours: 7AM – 1PM, 4:30PM – 8:30PM (Mon – Fri), 8AM – 1:30PM (Sun), Closed on Sat Address: Via Laietana, 46, 08003 Barcelona

Accommodation in Barcelona (3 Nights): Stay in the Exiample or Gothic Quarter area for easy access to the main attractions. Our Airbnb was located in Exiample and had several dining options nearby.

Read also: 16 Best Things to do in Barcelona Besides the La Sagrada Familia

Day 4: Tarragona

Rent a car in barcelona and drive to tarragona.

Distance: 97.6km  Drive time: 1h 13min

The first stop on this Catalonia road trip is Tarragona, a coastal city famous for well-preserved ancient Roman ruins. It was the first Roman stronghold in Spain, dating back to 218 BC.

Look up car rentals via doyouspain.com and opt to pick it up from Barcelona Sants (train station). We got a five-seater SUV with automatic transmission from OK Rent A Car at €153 (~S$236) for six days (excl. zero excess for insurance).

PortAventura World

PortAventura Park

Start the road trip on a high with a visit to PortAventura Park . This thrill-seeker’s paradise has 43 rides across six themed worlds so you won’t be able to cover them all in a day.

Our favourites were the big coasters like Furius Baco, Shambhala, Dragon Khan, and El Diablo. Despite the long estimated waiting times for the rides, we waited no more than 15 minutes for most of them.

Ferrari Land

Right next to PortAventura Park is another theme park — Ferrari Land , whose main attraction can be spotted from afar. The ride Red Force stands at an intimidating 112m and goes from 0 – 180km/hr in just five seconds. Ferrari Land is much smaller and can be covered in just half a day.

If we had to pick just one park, it’ll be PortAventura Park. It’s almost three times bigger, with a lot more rides.

Entrance fee: From €48 (PortAventura Park), from €20 Ferrari Land). Alternatively, pay €58 for both parks Opening hours: Varies Address: Av. Pere Molas, Km 2, 43840, Tarragona

Accommodation in Tarragona (1 Night): Our Airbnb was located right in front of Mercat De Tarragona (Tarragona’s Central Market) and just a 15-minute drive from the theme parks. Pick an Airbnb or hostel in the same area for easy access to the main landmarks.

Day 5: Tarragona to Montserrat

Spend the first half of the day exploring Tarragona before driving up to Montserrat. The main attractions are all located within walking distance of one another.

Tarragona Market

The Tarragona Market is the heart of the city. Despite being around since 1915, the inside is modern with minimalistic cast-iron columns. Fresh meat, veggies and cooked food are sold on the main floor, while the basement houses a large supermarket.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 8:30AM – 9PM (Mon – Sat, Closed on Sun) Address: Plaça de Corsini, 43001 Tarragona

Tarragona Amphitheatre

Along the coast lies Tarragona Amphitheatre , which has been around since the second century. This was the backdrop of bloody gladiator fights and public executions, witnessed by up to 14,000 spectators.

Besides the amphitheater, there are several Roman landmarks around Tarragona. Like the Roman Circus (above), which used to hold chariot races! A single attraction ticket costs €3.30. Alternatively, get bulk tickets to four Roman monuments and two noble houses for €11.05.

Entrance fee: From €3.30 Opening hours: Varies depending on the season Address: Parc de l’amfiteatre, s/n, 43003 Tarragona (Roman Amphitheatre)

Mediterranean Balcony

Just a two-minute walk from Tarragona Amphitheatre is the Mediterranean Balcony . Here you’ll get the best views of the Mediterranean ocean from Tarragona. According to legend, touching the railing brings good luck!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: Passeig de les Palmeres, s/n, 43004 Tarragona

Other landmarks in Tarragona include the Monument als Castellers sculpture and Plaça del Sadassos .

Las Ferreres Aqueduct

A 16-minute drive from the main city will take you to Les Ferreres Aqueduct , also known as Devil’s Bridge. This structure has been around since the first century A.D. and used to supply the city with water. These days, visitors can enjoy a scenic walk across the remaining 217-metre long stretch.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: 43007 Tarragona

Lunch at El Celleret

For lunch, we recommend stopping by El Celleret — a highly-rated local restaurant surrounded by vineyards. It’s roughly a 40-minute drive from Les Ferreres Aqueduct. This establishment is run by the Torres family , a five-generation wine empire since 1870.

They have an a la carte menu , but we settled on the set lunch (€38/pax) which included five starters and two bottles of wine to share, plus a main and dessert each. Dishes feature commonly used ingredients from the area, like wild mushrooms, potatoes and grilled Iberian pork. 😋

El Celleret gets pretty packed, so call ahead to book a table.

Cost: From €15 for a main Opening hours: 1PM – 4PM (Wed – Mon), Closed on Tue Address: Finca el Maset, s/n, 08796 Pacs del Penedès, Barcelona

Drive to Montserrat from El Celleret

Distance: 54km  Drive time: 52min 

Escape the city and head to the jagged peaks of Montserrat ! Montserrat, or “serrated mountain” in Catalan, is one of Catalonia’s most famous landscapes. This can also be done as a day trip from Barcelona via train, so feel free to reshuffle the itinerary.

Montserrat Monastery and Escolonia Boy’s Choir

Founded over a thousand years ago, Montserrat Monastery is one of Catalonia’s most recognised landmarks.

End the night with a performance by Escolanía de Montserrat in the Montserrat Basilica. This prestigious all-boys choir is one of Europe’s oldest singing groups, with a history of over 700 years!

Entrance fee: Free Performance timings: Escolanía de Montserrat typically performs twice daily, in the afternoon and at night [ schedule ] Address: 08199 Montserrat, Barcelona

Accommodation at Montserrat (1 Night): Abat Oliba Hostel is conveniently located just beside the Abbey of Montserrat and offers both dorm beds and family rooms.

*Pro-tip: There are limited dining options at Montserrat. La Cafeteria is the most budget option but it closes early (4:30PM on weekdays, 6:30PM on weekends). Pack some food and snacks before driving up.

Day 6: Montserrat to Girona

A popular hike here is to the peak of Sant Jeroni and there are two ways up. You could start from the base which will take around six hours roundtrip. If you’re pressed for time, you can cut that journey in half by taking the Sant Joan Funicular up and hike the rest of the way.

Sant Joan Furnicular

Sant Joan Furnicular takes you from the lower station near the Abbey of Montserrat up to 1,000m above sea level.

If you’re hiking up, there’s a clearly marked path on the right side of Upper Sant Joan Station leading to the summit, Sant Jeroni.

Cost: €9.10 for a single journey , €14 for return Opening hours: Varies Address: 08293 Monestir de Montserrat, Barcelona

Hike up Montserrat’s Peak, Sant Jeroni

The path is well-marked and not too steep, so kids can take on this hike too. We even spotted mountain goats along the way!

It’ll take around 2.5hrs to get to Sant Jeroni (1,236m), but there are many viewpoints along the way so look out for those as well.

The last stretch includes a long flight of steps but trust us, the view at the top is worth it.

After that, either return to Sant Joan upper station and take the furnicular down or take an alternate hiking route to Montserrat Monastery.

If you’re opting for the latter, look out for a Y-junction on the way down from the peak. Take the path labelled “Pla dels Ocells” (where the hiker is standing). It’ll take roughly an hour from here to return to the Monastery.

Drive to Girona from Montserrat

Distance: 131km  Drive time: 1h 38min 

A 1.5-hour drive from Barcelona, most visitors just experience Girona Old Town as a day trip. But we suggest staying overnight to experience more of what Girona province has to offer!

Accommodation at Girona (3 Nights): Pick a hostel or Airbnb within Girona Old Town.

Day 7: Girona

Girona old town.

Start the day visiting the iconic colourful houses along the River Onyar — best viewed from Pont de Ferro , a bright red iron bridge built by Gustave Eiffel. The name should ring a bell; he’s the same architect who built the Eiffel Tower in Paris!

The Girona Cathedral is the city’s crown jewel. It was built between the 11th and 18th centuries and houses one of the world’s widest Gothic naves.

Fun fact: From the sixth season of Game of Thrones onwards, the crew stopped filming in Dubrovnik and used this church instead as the Great Sept of Baelor .

The Sant Marti Sacosta church is another GOT spot that shouldn’t be missed. The steps to the entrance are the same ones Arya Stark took when she was running from the Waif in Braavos !

Another great thing to do in Girona is walking along the 1.6km-long City Walls — no entrance fee! 🥳

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, opt for a GOT tour . The tour comes with an experienced guide who will introduce the prominent filming locations as well as the interesting history of Girona.

Girona Game of Thrones Walking Tour Cost: €30/pax Tour timings: 10:30AM and 3PM Meeting point: Plaça Sant Feliu, 08028 Barcelona

Local Cuisine in Girona

Rocambolesc Gelateria was set up by Girona local Jordi Roca , who was crowned “World’s Best Pastry Chef” in 2014!

Many dishes in Girona feature locally produced ingredients like mushrooms, meats, and wines — and the people here are really proud of their food scene.

Recommended eateries include Rocambolesc Gelateria (gourmet ice cream), Normal (traditional Catalan cuisine), Bubbles Gastrobar & Restaurant (signature tapas).

Day 8: Girona

Option 1: hot air balloon over la garrotxa.

An hour’s drive from Girona Old Town is the stunning volcanic region of Garrotxa . The area is known for medieval villages and a range of dormant volcanoes. We opted to start our morning on a high with the best view of La Garrotxa — from a hot air balloon!

Pink cava (sparkling wine) and local cake is served onboard!

The balloon ascends two meters per second, up to heights of 2,100m. But don’t worry, you’ll hardly notice as you’ll be completely transfixed with the view — there’s the Pyrenees and Montserrat on the horizon, and the Santa Margarida volcanic crater right at your feet.

Rides last between an hour to an hour and a half depending on wind conditions.

Celebrate another item ticked off the bucket list with a Catalan brunch — botifarra (a type of sausage), haricot beans, bread with tomato, and a salami platter. For drinks, there’s wine, coffee, tea, and a shot of ratafia (a local liquor, a really potent one).

Cost: €170 (Weekdays), €185 (Weekends and PH) Meet up time: 7:30AM Address: Afores, s/n, 17811 Santa Pau, Girona

Explore Surrounding Old Towns

Visit surrounding medieval villages like Santa Pau if you’ve got time to spare. It’s a good base to go on hikes around the area !

Option 2: Hike up at Santa Margarida

There’s also several hiking routes in the area for those who’d prefer to explore La Garrotxa on foot.

One of those we explored was the dormant Santa Margarida Volcano , famous for a lone hermitage built in the centre of the crater. Not much is known about the abandoned shack, other than it has a Roman origin.

There are various routes around here but the fastest would be to park at Santa Margarida Car Park . Parking is free and the entrance is clearly marked.

If you’re up for the challenge, there’s a 11km route (~4.5hrs) which also covers Croscat Volcano and Faeda d’en Jordà Forest.

Lunch at La Deu in Olot

Candied cod loin with sweet potato puree. Yum.

La Garrotxa’s rich fertile soil produces high-quality crops, and it’d be a sin to leave without trying some volcanic cuisine . We checked out Restaurant La Deu for lunch (a ~10min drive from Santa Margarida). It’s one of La Garrotxa’s oldest eateries, around since 1885!

The mains and desserts were yummy, but we were completely sold on the starters — mixed mushrooms and a creamy pumpkin soup with Garrotxa cheese.

Cost: From €23.95 for a set meal incl. a starter, main and dessert Opening hours: 10AM – 10:30PM (Mon – Sat), 10AM – 7PM (Sun) Address: Carretera de la Deu, s/n, 17800 Olot, Girona

Day 9: Figueres to Barcelona

Skydive empuriabrava.

Another way to take in the view from the top is at Skydive Empuriabrava ! Empuriabrava’s mix of ocean and mountain views make it a rewarding place to try skydiving — especially if it’s your first time, as it was for me.

After a safety briefing by experienced instructors, we were ushered onto a small aircraft. I’ll admit I was slightly (read: extremely ) nervous during the ascent to 4000m.

But once the light turned red and we exited the plane, I felt my fear leave as well. After a 30-second free fall to 1,500m, your shoot is deployed. Our instructors even let us try navigating the parachute! The whole experience was liberating — truly the best way to take in the views.

Cost: From €280 (top up required for photos and videos) Opening hours: 9AM – 5PM Address: Sector Aeroclub, s/n, 17487 Empuriabrava, Girona

Drive to Figueres from Skydive Empuriabrava

Distance: 15.3km Drive time: 21min

Lunch at Txot’s Sidreria in Figueres

Txot’s Sideria is great for tapas — there’s over 100 items listed on the menu . Order a couple to share!

Cost: ~€12/pax Opening hours: 12PM – 12:30AM Address: Avinguda de Salvador Dalí i Domènech, 114, 17600 Figueres, Girona

Dali Theatre-Museum

The Dali Theatre-Museum is the main reason why people visit Figueres . But even if you’ve got no clue who Dali is, this museum is worth a visit! Dali was an eccentric artist and his work is equally eccentric. For starters, the exterior is covered with eggs.

The inside is just as fascinating. Most art museums have a minimalistic layout with just one or two paintings per wall. Not the Dali Theatre-Museum — there’s art everywhere you look (ceilings included!).

Entrance fee: €14 (~S$21.62) Opening hours: 10:30AM – 6PM (Check the museum calendar before visiting as they close on certain dates) Address: Plaça Gala i Salvador Dalí, 5, 17600 Figueres, Girona

Drive to Barcelona from Figueres

Distance: 145.5km Drive time: 1hr 32min

After the Dali Theatre-Museum, drive back to Barcelona and return the car.

Accommodation in Barcelona (1 Night): Same as the first three nights.

Day 10: Barcelona and Flight Home

Visit other attractions like the Tibidabo Amusement Park , Mercat dels Encants (secondhand market) or Casa Mila before heading to Barcelona Airport.

There’s a shuttle bus service ( €5.90 one way ) to the airport from Placa Catalunya and Placa Espanya which departs every six minutes.

Bonus: Stay in a 13th-century Farmhouse

This 13th-century farmhouse on Airbnb was a little out of the way (1.5hr drive from Barcelona or 30min drive from Girona), but we loved it so much I just had to mention it.

Warm hospitality, beautifully decorated rooms, and adorable donkeys outside — this was a stay we won’t soon forget. If you can afford to extend your trip by one or two days, this is an experience worth including!

Tips for Planning Your Next Trip to Spain

Youthful, sexy, full of life and culture — that was my impression of Spain. After spending some time here, it’s still true.

Our 10-day road trip around Catalonia packed enough adventure to make up for the lack of travel for the past two years.

We got to tick off bucket list experiences like skydiving and taking a hot air balloon ride, visiting several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and eating loads of good food!

We knew we would love Spain before arriving but now it’s official — Spain is up there on our list of favourite destinations. Hoping to visit? Here are some pre-trip essentials:

Connectivity: A 12GB SIM card plan from Vodafone costs €10 (~S$15.45) and is valid for 30 days

Transport within Barcelona: The Hola Barcelona Travel Card includes unlimited rides on trams, buses and metros. Choose from 48, 72, 96 or 120 hour cards from €16 (~S$24.72). Alternatively, purchase pre-paid rides from the machines at metro stations. A single ride within zone 1 costs €2.40 but 10 rides cost €11.35 — useful if you’re planning to walk most of the time.

Language: Most locals can speak English, but prefer to speak Spanish or Catalan. It’ll be useful to learn basic Spanish before visiting. These few phrases should help you get by:

Google Map with pinned locations:

What are you looking forward to most on this Barcelona itinerary? Share with us in the comments!

Like what you see? Follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube , and  Telegram  for more travel inspiration!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by thetravelintern.com 🇸🇬 (@thetravelintern)

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Hi, would you be able to share the breakdown cost of this trip in excel (if there is)?

Hi Jenn, unfortunately we did not prepare a breakdown of costs for this trip!

Hi, could I check for your car rental, is Ok rent a car same as Ok Mobility?

Yup it was!

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10 Epic Spain Road Trips - Maps, Itineraries and Tips

Want to experience an amazing Spain road trip but not sure where to go? Choose from these 10 stunning routes for your road trip in Spain with our guides, detailed itineraries and insider tips.

Whether you're looking to relax in the mountains off the Costa del Sol, navigate the narrow streets of Toledo or take a stroll down Barcelona's Las Ramblas, we can help you plan the perfect Spanish road trip for you.

Best Spain road trips comparison

We have driven up and down and across Spain a lot of times over the past 15 years. Before we dive into the ideas, here's the complete list of the best road trip routes with key information. Scroll down to see more detail on each one.

Whether you want a relaxing drive along the coast or drive around the entire country of Spain, here are the 10 amazing options for a Spain road trip to pick from.

1. Andalucia road trip

A perfect way to explore Spain is to drive around Andalucia . If you love the sun, beaches and perfect mountain hideaways overlooking the sea, Andalucia is the place for you.

If you are more into culture and love grandiose cathedrals, medieval fortresses and jaw dropping architecture, Andalucia is also a place for you.

If, however, you just want to walk around historic towns and love traditional hearty Spanish food, you guessed it - Andalucia is your perfect destination.

The perfect Andalucia road trip will take you on a loop including coastal destinations such as Nerja, Malaga, Marbella, Gibraltar and Cadiz before going inland to discover Ronda, Seville, Cordoba and Granada.

This drive will scale mountains with breathtaking views and take you to the mesmerising Mezquita cathedral in Cordoba and the unique Moorish Alhambra complex in Granada.

You'll relax in the world famous Andalucian white villages of Mijas, Benahavis and Casares and mingle with new money in Puerto Banus' marina full of expensive supercars, people with too much plastic surgery and the world's biggest yachts.

Road trip length: 11 days

Total distance: 518 miles

2. Drive Spain's Mediterranean coast

Spain's Mediterranean coast is perfect for a Spanish road trip - just make sure you put sun screen on your left arm if you're driving - the sun gets hot!

Start your road trip with a mini-break in Barcelona where you can visit sights such as La Sagrada Familia, Las Ramblas and unique buildings designed by Gaudi. There are few cities that offer as much as Barcelona so it's a perfect start to the Mediterranean coast trip.

Next leg takes you south to Valencia - a seriously underrated Spanish city that offers culture, food and sunshine aplenty with an amazing historical centre.

Once you've crossed over the Sierra Nevada mountains, your trip continues to Granada, Costa del Sol, Seville and Cordoba.

You will do an abridged version of the Andalucia road trip above, but get a much broader view of Spain having driven from one corner to another.

Hugging the coast for virtually the entire trip means that you are always a few minutes away from a beach - something that can provide welcome distractions on your way.

This road trip is a perfect mix of culture and relaxation so if you want to blend the two, give it a go. You will see the world's finest architecture in Barcelona, La Mezquita in Cordoba, the Seville Cathedral and Granada's Alhambra fortress but have time to relax in Puerto Banus, lay on the beach in Nerja and roam the narrow streets of Andalucian white villages.

Road trip length: 14 days

Total distance: 1,385 miles

3. Castille Leon - visit the heart of Spain

If you're flying in and out of Madrid, the Castille and Leon road trip can be an amazing way to explore Spain without having to drive all the way to the coast or spend weeks on the road.

This road trip through Spain's heartland comes in a loop that starts and ends in the Segovia province.

You will start in the historic city of Segovia itself - famous for some of Spain's best architecture and declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

After a day of exploring, the route heads west towards Salamanca via Arévalo. Arévalo is a small historic town famous for its Mudejar architecture and art giving it a special protected status in Spain and Salamanca is an ancient city with two cathedrals - the New one (it is actually called that) began construction in 1513!

From Salamanca, you can check out other beautiful historic towns of Ledesma and Zamora before a stop in Valladolid - the assumed capital of the Castille and Leon province. Its medieval history can be seen throughout the city - the Spanish Monarchy even made Valladolid their home in the 17th century!

After a visit to the city that shares its name with the Castile and Leon region, the trip ends with a drive through the Ribera del Duero wine region - hugely underrated relative to Rioja and the Portuguese Douro wine further down the same river valley.

The end of the trip gets you to Pedraza back in the Segovia province before taking a short drive back to Madrid's airport.

You can extend this road trip to include the historic Spanish cities of Leon and Burgos in the north of the province, but that will add a lot of mileage and time to your trip and southern Castille and Leon has a huge amount to see already - you can easily spend 2 weeks exploring this part of Spain and see new places every day.

Road trip length: 7 days

Total distance: 345 miles

4. Northern Spain road trip

So often overlooked in favour of Costa Brava, Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca, Spain's northern coast makes for an amazing road trip exploring the mix of cultures, fantastic food and rocky shore scenery.

The road trip starts in the capital of Spain's Basque country - Bilbao. This is a place worth spending a couple of days in to explore its old historic centre, the surrounding mountains and the spectacular world-famous Guggenheim museum.

There is something for everybody in Bilbao with superb pintxos in street bars and michelin-starred restaurants, medieval streets and modern boulevards.

The road trip then moves west along the coast to Santander, before further stops in Santillana del Mar, the Picos de Europa national park and Gijon.

This trip includes a mix of beaches, historic Spanish cities and exploring nature - a perfect mix for a Spanish road trip!

Once you've hiked amazing gorges and filled yourself with pastries, it's time to hit the road and drive on to Oviedo and La Coruna.

Finishing off with a day trip inland to Santiago de Compostela, you will travel the entire length of Spain's Bay of Biscay coastline with everything to see along the way.

Depending on your flights, you might have to do a drive back along the coast to Bilbao or down to Porto or Madrid - this is one heck of a trip that you won't find in many recommendations or guides!

Road trip length: 10 days

Total distance: 737 miles

5. Basque country and Pyrenees

Spain's north-west corner lying on the Bay of Biscay and bordering France is full of history, tradition and... mountains.

The Basque country is a unique part of Spain - they have a prominent local language, cities that make up two prominent medieval kingdoms (Basque and Navarre) and a unique link to the Pyrenees. In medieval times, Basque country spanned the mountain range, including parts of France on the other side.

Today the region fervently focuses on its culture. As you travel in major cities such as Bilbao, San Sebastian and Pamplona, you will get to try the local pintxos tradition. In some ways similar to tapas popular in the rest of Spain, pintxos are smaller bite-size snacks served in bars and charged by number or by plate.

If you get out of the tourist areas, you will find local pintxo bars where the snacks are free as long as you keep buying the drinks!

The Pyrenees are an amazing mountain range that is not high on many tourists' radars.

Often overlooked in favour of trips to the Alps or even Sierra Nevada further south in Spain, the Pyrenees are an older mountain range with a lot of peaks over 3,000m above sea level.

The roads through the Pyrenees are fantastic and can make for really great road trips with the added bonus of hardly any other cars as you drive around. There are some fantastic hotels if you want to really relax and go off the grid for a few days - we have stayed at The Arantza Hotela in the foothills of Pyrenees and cannot recommend it highly enough - it is expensive but super luxurious and worth it!

A small number of rooms have stunning views of the surrounding hills with morning fog climbing towards the peaks and you can relax in a jacuzzi looking out over the landscape before having an amazing dinner in the hotel's gastro restaurant.

After a few days of luxuriating, it's time to drive down from the mountainside and make your way to Pamplona - a historic city famous for its July bull running festival has far more to offer than the medieval tradition. Narrow streets, beautiful stone buildings and fantastic local coffee shops are great for unwinding in late morning.

The drive back to Bilbao airport is a little under 2 hours to get you back home!

Total distance: 240 miles

6. Driving tour of Catalonia

There is a whole lot more to Spain's Catalonia region than Barcelona. You can spend weeks travelling around the area and still not see dozens of amazing villages, secret beaches, mountain waterfalls or quirky museums.

If you want to base yourself in Barcelona, instead of going on a road trip, check out our 40 day trips from Barcelona for inspiration on where you can get to!

A great route around the region can start and end in Barcelona to make it easy with flights.

From Barcelona, head south along the coast to Tarragona with a stop in Sitges and the option of relaxing in one of a few great beaches along the way.

From Tarragona, this trip goes inland towards Montblanc and all the way to La Seu d'Urgell in the Pyrenees via Solsona.

On your route across the north of Catalonia, you are spoilt for choice with the Garrotxa volcanic national park and the village of Santa Pau worth visiting, a detour into Andorra and towns like Besalu and Castellfollit de la Roca all great options before you arrive in Figueres.

After some cultural sightseeing, head on to Cadaques on the coast - there are some great beaches and a Salvador Dali House Museum.

The rest of the road trip follows the Costa Brava back down to Barcelona. There are tonnes of great places to stop including Roses resort, the canals of Empuriabrava, L'Escala and Begur. A drive inland to Girona is optional before you make it down to the relaxation end of the journey with beach stops in Tossa de Mar and Lloret de Mar on the menu.

There are few parts of the world which have so much to see in such a compact region both culturally and in nature. If you love the mountains, hiking and being off the beaten track, a road trip around Catalonia is definitely the best choice in Spain.

Road trip length: 9 days

Total distance: 520 miles

7. Historic central Spain - Castilla-La Mancha

Castilla - La Mancha is one of the largest regions of Spain and also one of the least well known by tourists.

Hidden away in plain sight right next to Madrid, it stretches almost as far as Valencia and Murcia in Spain's south east.

Exploring this region brings a mix of natural sights and beautiful historic Spanish cities. As with the Castille Leon trip, it's easy to start and finish in Madrid if that's where you can get easy flights to.

This Spain road trip starts in the most famous city in the La Mancha region - Toledo. Toledo is famous as a blend of Christian, Muslim and Jewish religions and cultures. It was the capital city of the Visigoth Empire, Spanish Moors and later of Spain at some points during the course of history.

After a couple days of sightseeing, it's time to hit the road and head on south to Ciudad Real via Consuegra and Daimiel.

There is a lot to see in this part of Spain including the infamous windmills made famous by Miguel de Cervantes' Don Quixote. The majority of the region is set on a plateau with occasional barren hills.

The trip continues east to Cuenca and Siguenza - both stunning towns but in completely different ways and both very different from a lot of typical Spanish destinations.

If you're feeling adventurous, there are a number of national parks on the way where you can stretch your legs on a hike or just take a scenic detour.

Total distance: 380 miles

8. Galicia road trip

Getting to and from the region can be tough so you might have to adjust the route depending on where you're travelling from.

The plan with this road trip is to go all the way round the Galician coastline starting from As Catedrais beach. If you don't know it by name, you've definitely seen pictures of giant rocks and archways on the sandy beach before.

Although this trip is only 5 days long, you'll spend a few of these driving along small coastal roads. Our tip is to ignore the navigator which will send you inland along faster roads. Keep the sea to your right as you go and you're unlikely to go too far wrong.

After passing the Vixia Herbeira cliffs, you'll arrive in A Coruña. Other than the Hercules Tower, the main sight here is the light house. Naturally.

Take a day to see the city and its surroundings - seafood here is amazing as it's a functioning port supplying much of the region and beyond.

The trip then continues around the coast to Santiago de Compostela. You can take the direct short cut but you will miss out on a whole lot of stunning scenery, ocean-facing cliffs and spectacular locations for light houses - on the shoreline, on cliffs and even on their own islands.

After exploring the historic and religiously important city, the route goes back towards the coast and passes Pontevedra on the way to the pretty town of Vigo.

This might not be so much of a Spanish road trip as a gentle breeze along the coast (and there will be a lot of breeze!), but it's definitely one to keep in mind if you want to unwind and keep yourself away from the tourist traps around Spain.

Road trip length: 5 days

Total distance: 322 miles

9. Road trip around Mallorca

Many don't associate Mallorca with a road trip, but the island has a huge amount to offer beside the beaches and clubs.

Flying in and out of Palma means that's a great place to start and finish your trip.

Palma is the capital and often overlooked by visitors who go straight from airport to their preferred corner of the island. The city actually has a lot to offer so it's great to spend the first or last night here depending on your flight times.

Make sure you check out the huge Cathedral (you really can't miss it) and the part of the city around the market (only open in the morning).

Once you set off, the best way to see the island is to drive all the way around.

Start by heading along the narrow cliff roads along the coast to Valdemossa and Soler - the two very popular destinations to the north of Palma. After that the road trip continues all the way to Port de Pollença before heading across the island to Cala Mesquida.

Once you've navigated the tourists, a short drive down the coast takes you to Cala Agulla where the beaches are empty and the sun is just as hot for some relaxation.

To wrap up the trip, you've got to stop off at the resort town of Cala d'Or before making your way back to Palma.

A short trip with a lot of breathtaking views and cliffs in the north and resorts with fantastic beaches on the south can be the perfect way to unwind on a short break!

Total distance: 175 miles

10. The full circle - A complete road trip around Spain

If you have time on your hands and feel adventurous, a road trip around the entirety of Spain can be an amazing way to delve into the culture, see all the corners of this amazing country and really get immersed.

One key disclaimer is that while this one sits high on our list of bucket list trips, we haven't actually done the full trip - it's a long drive!

But if you're brave enough, you can start wherever along the route you like as you it goes in a loop.

Barcelona and Madrid are likely to be the best hubs for getting in and out of Spain and the route cycles down through Valencia to an Andalucian tour before heading back north from Cordoba.

After exploring central Spain with stops in Toledo and surrounding towns and a tour of Madrid, the drive continues into Spain's Duero valley, Valladolid and on to Galicia's Vigo, Santiago de Compostela and A Coruna while taking in breathtaking views of ocean-facing cliffs and huge waves.

The trip continues along the north coast stopping off at Santander, Bilbao and San Sebastian before detouring off into the Pyrenees and the historic cities of Pamplona and Zaragoza. A mini Catalonia tour to end the trip wraps up the route that will take at least a month to complete if you want to do things other than driving.

If you do end up doing this one, please let us know! We'd love to see how you get on!

Road trip length: 35 days

Total distance: 2,800 miles

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Barcelona and French Riviera Road Trip Itinerary

There’s nothing like traveling to Southern Europe during summer. One of the best things to do is enjoy the beauty of the stunning Mediterranean coast. The best way to do this is by doing a road trip from Barcelona to the French Riviera and exploring everything in between.

Barcelona is situated in the Catalonia region of Northeastern Spain and is the most visited city in the country. It’s also the largest city along the Mediterranean Sea. The French Riviera , otherwise known as the Côte d’Azur is located in Southern France and is filled with luxury hotels, A-list beach clubs, breathtaking scenery and stunning cities.

In June 2022, I did a summer Europe trip for my 31 st birthday, where I visited all the beautiful destinations surrounding the Mediterranean Sea in Barcelona and France .  In this article, discover the best Barcelona and Southern France road trip itinerary . There’s nothing more memorable than enjoying everything Barcelona and the French Riviera have to offer!

**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like.

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Traveling to Barcelona for a Road Trip:

Barcelona, Spain is easy to get to from anywhere in the world, whether you take a flight or public transportation .

Suppose you are flying from New York City’s JFK Airport like I did, along with San Francisco, Los Angeles, Boston, Buenos Aires and Santiago. In that case, you can enjoy non-stop flights to Barcelona with Level Airlines ! You can find other affordable flights through Skyscanner .

The main airport in Barcelona is Josep Tarradellas Barcelona – El Prat Airport , also known as Barcelona Airport . Additionally, if you plan to take the train to and from Barcelona, the city’s main train station is Barcelona-Sants and there are numerous bus stations throughout the city.

There are numerous rental car companies throughout the city when you plan to road trip from Barcelona . It’s best to book all rental cars and public transportation ahead of time in the summer months since Europe is more crowded with tourists and vacationers alike.

How to Get Around during a Barcelona and South of France Itinerary:

There are many great stops and day trips from Barcelona to Southern France . One of the best ways to see everything is by renting a car . If you don’t want to drive, Europe has some of the best public transportation !

For those planning to take public transportation, you can follow the below itinerary by taking a bus or train from Barcelona to the French Riviera :

Barcelona to Valencia: Two of Catalonia’s largest cities are only a few hours from each other. The best way to get to either is by taking the train from Barcelona Sants to Joaquin Sorolla station or Estació Nord in Valencia. If you plan to visit the Priorat wine region, you must rent a car .

Barcelona to Andorra: The best way to get from Barcelona to the Pyrenees Mountains in Andorra is by taking the bus from Barcelona’s Nord station to Andorra La Vella’s Estació Nacional d’Autobusos d’Andorra .

Andorra to Marseille: France’s second-largest city is a bit further from Andorra, so the best way to get to Marseille is by taking the ANDBUS from Andorra La Vella to Gare Matabiau in Toulouse. From there, you must transfer to the train that will take you to Marseille Saint-Charles train station.

Marseille to Nice: Being the South of France’s two major cities, it’s easiest to take the train from Marseille Saint-Charles to Nice-Ville . They’re only a few hours from each other.

If you plan to see the other French towns along the Riviera, you can easily take the train from Nice-Ville . For those wanting to see the lavender fields from Marseille, getting a rental car or doing a day trip from one of Provence’s more prominent cities or towns is best.

Where to Stay during a Barcelona and French Riviera Road Trip:

During a Barcelona and French Riviera trip, the best places to stay are Barcelona, Andorra, Marseille and Nice. There are a plethora of accommodations for all budgets, including rental properties ! Below are the top hotels to stay at during your road trip:

Luxury Accommodation: The Barcelona EDITION

Boutique Accommodation: Kimpton Vividora

Mid-Budget Accommodation: Hotel chic&basic Ramblas

Budget Accommodation: St. Christopher’s Inn

Luxury Accommodation: Hotel Plaza

Boutique Accommodation: Andorra Park Hotel

Mid-Budget Accommodation: Hotel Exe Prisma

Budget Accommodation: Alberg Els Andes

Luxury Accommodation: InterContinental Marseille Hotel Dieu

Boutique Accommodation: AC Hotel Marseille Prado Velodrome

Mid-Budget Accommodation: Hôtel C2 – Marseille

Budget Accommodation: Meininger Marseille Centre La Joliette

Luxury Accommodation: Hotel Boscolo Exedra Nice

Boutique Accommodation: Hotel Azur Riviera

Mid-Budget Accommodation: The Jay Hotel

Budget Accommodation: Villa Saint Exupery Beach

Spain and France Itinerary for 14 Days:

Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona – Enjoy the Best Travel Experiences

After arriving in Barcelona, Spain , on the first day of your road trip, you must head to La Sagrada Familia and see Antoni Gaudí ’s famous Roman Catholic cathedral! It’s one of the most visited monuments in Spain, with nearly 5 million people visiting annually.

It costs €26 for an individual ticket. You could also get an audio guide with that price, but you’ll need to download the Sagrada Familia Official app for the self-guided tour. You can also do guided tours at €30 and a guided tour of the cathedral and towers for €40. La Sagrada Familia is open every day from 9 am to 8 pm.

Since Barcelona is a beautiful city, it’s best to try walking as much as possible because there’s so much to see and do! From La Sagrada Familia , check out the Casa Batlló , another Gaudí masterpiece. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site , art gallery and museum that provides visitors with an interactive experience.

A trip to Barcelona, Spain is incomplete without enjoying vermouth. Morro Fi is one of the best vermouth bars in Barcelona and only a 15-minute walk from Casa Batlló . It’s an authentic spot where you can also savor tapas, including their chips and special sauce, along with sardines.

The best place to eat dinner on your first day in Barcelona is Terrassa Martinez in Parc de Montjuïc. This excellent restaurant is known for its paella dishes and breathtaking city views.

Day 2: Explore Around Barcelona

Once you have breakfast and are fueled up for the day, go to the Gothic Quarter to tour the Palau de la Música Catalana . It’s the most beautiful concert hall in Barcelona and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The Palau de la Música Catalana is recognized as an architectural jewel of Catalan Art Nouveau. It costs €15 to do a self-guided tour and €19 for a guided tour. The concert hall is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 9 pm. On Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, it’s open from 9:30 am to 1 pm and two hours before a concert.

Another spot you must visit in the morning because it gets crowded is Park Güell . It’s another picturesque spot you must visit on a Barcelona and French Riviera road trip because it features Gaudí ’s work!

During the summer, it costs €13.50 for an adult ticket (ages 13-64), €9.33 for a children’s ticket (ages 7-12); €9.33 for a senior citizen ticket (ages 65 and older) and it’s free for young children (ages six and under) to enter Park Güell. The park is open every day from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm.

Tapas for lunch is a must! After touring Barcelona’s beautiful landmarks, visiting Bar Cañete for lunch is the best. Enjoy a refreshing sangria and savor Spanish staples like jamón Ibérico, patatas bravas, octopus, pescado frito and more.

After lunch, walk off what you ate by strolling up and down Las Ramblas. You can walk through different stores, shop in the famous Boquería market, grab helado (ice cream) at Rocambolesc and people-watch!

If you prefer a beach day, spend the afternoon at Barceloneta Beach. It features a white sand beach, a seaside promenade, beach bars and great seafood restaurants. Otherwise, it would be best to enjoy rooftop drinks at Hotel Colón ’s Panoramic Terrace , which overlooks the Gothic Cathedral of Barcelona. You can also visit the rooftop at the Sercotel Rosellón , which overlooks La Sagrada Familia .

Whether you go to the beach or not, you must enjoy an incredible seafood dinner at Can Fisher , located at Platja del Bogatell. They have wonderful fish dishes, seafood paella and tapas.

Day 3: Explore Valencia – One of the Best Road Trips from Barcelona

Following a Barcelona and South of France itinerary is only complete with visiting Valencia. Known as the birthplace of paella, Valencia has a stunning Old Town and beautiful Gothic buildings to admire.

Valencia is one of the best day trips from Barcelona and one of the leading things to do is visit and explore the City of Arts and Sciences . It includes Oceanographic , which is the biggest aquarium in Europe.

Since Valencia is also located on the Mediterranean coast, you can enjoy one of the many posh beach clubs. A great one is Marina Beach Club , which has a pool, two restaurants and a stage where world-famous DJs perform.

Because Valencia is the birthplace of Spain’s National Dish, paella, you must savor some during your day trip. Paella is made with rice, saffron, and vegetables and either meat or seafood is added. It’s usually served in one pan and is made for two people to enjoy. The best restaurants to enjoy paella in Valencia are Restaurante Levante , Taberna Alkazar and La Pepica .

Day 4: Day Trip to Priorat Wine Region – Top Attractions Outside Barcelona

During the Catalonia road trip portion of your Barcelona and French Riviera itinerary, you must also go wine tasting in the Priorat wine region, west of Tarragona. One of the best places to spend the day and even stay a night, if you can, is Terra Dominicata .

Priorat is recognized for its intensely flavored red wines, so you must try some, even if you aren’t a fan of red wine.

Overall, the Priorat wine region is secluded in the mountains of Catalonia. Because of its location, Priorat was undiscovered for many years. Nowadays, more people are traveling to this incredible region to experience some of Spain’s most renowned wines!

Whether you stay at Terra Dominicata or not, you must enjoy a traditional Catalan dinner at Mater Terrae Restaurant .

Day 5: Arrive in Andorra from Barcelona

Andorra is a mountainous country situated between Spain and France. It’s the perfect destination to add to your Barcelona and French Riviera road trip, especially if you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, skiing (if you visit in the winter) and fresh air!

Known as Europe’s sixth smallest country, Andorra offers something for everyone to enjoy! It also makes for one of the best road trips from Barcelona !

During your first day in Andorra, you must discover everything the capital city of Andorra La Vella offers. It’s the highest capital city and the 10 th highest city in Europe! As you walk around the city, you can admire the stunning Romanesque buildings, go shopping and grab a glass of wine at Atelier by Aitoir Estela . A great place to have lunch on your first day is El Refugi Alpí .

What is great about visiting Andorra is that it has the Directbus , which goes to all the charming cities in the country. One of the best things to do on your first day is to take the bus to Santa Coloma and enjoy the rock climb on the Via Ferrata to the picturesque Sant Vicenc D’Enclar .

If traveling with kids, you must enjoy the longest alpine slide in the world, the Tobotronc , at Naturland ! Additionally, if it’s raining, you must treat yourself to a spa day at the Caldea Complex , a spa amusement park.

A trip to Andorra is incomplete without having dinner in a traditional borda, a wooden house that serves authentic Andorran food. On your first night, you must eat at Restaurant El Faisà !

Day 6: Explore Andorra and the Pyrenees Mountains

Once you’re fueled up from coffee and breakfast, a hike on the Fontverd trail is well-needed! Andorra National Park’s Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is a safe day hike accessible from Andorra La Vella.

The Fontverd hike will take several hours, so it’s best to start in the morning so you’ll be finished by mid-afternoon. Being 8 miles/13 kilometers, the Fontverd hike is a short trail up the Riu Madriu, a glistening river in the Pyrenees Mountains.

It’s a challenging hike but well worth it because the views are fascinating! Throughout the hike, you’ll encounter waterfalls, high mountain peaks, stone huts and farm animals. The Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

A great place to have lunch after your hike is at Juventus . They are known for their platos combinados, a combination meal that usually consists of ham, eggs, potatoes, French fries, calamari, salad, croquettes, etc.

Later in the evening, you can enjoy a wonderful dinner at Borda Estevet , an authentic Andorran restaurant. It’s another charming restaurant that will make you feel at home!

Day 7: Travel to the French Riviera and Arrive in Marseille

On day 7 of your Barcelona to French Riviera road trip, it will take you several hours to get from Andorra La Vella to Marseille. Once you arrive in the city, it’s best to take it easy and grab food near your accommodation.

Day 8: Explore Marseille – France’s Second Largest City

Once you’re in Marseille, wake up to a beautiful sunny day, enjoy a croissant and coffee and explore everything this timeless city offers. Marseille is France’s oldest city. It was founded by the Greeks in 600 BC. Nowadays, it’s one of the most diverse cities in Europe!

One of the top things you must do in Marseille, France is to stroll through the Vieux Port (Old Port) and admire the stunning sailboats, yachts and fishing boats. During the summer, Marseille boasts a summer market where you can purchase local jewelry, handmade accessories, trinkets, paintings and more.

You can visit MuCEM ( Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean ) or The Marseille Soap Museum in the Vieux Port. The Vieux Port also has the Fort Saint-Jean , Parc du Pharo and the neo-Byzantine Cathédrale La Major . A great place to enjoy lunch in Marseille’s Vieux Port is L’Entrecôte du Port .

After lunch, it’s best to walk off your food by strolling through Le Panier, the oldest district in Marseille. In this area, you can walk through art galleries, admire talented street art, see beautiful floral facades and watch talented street performers.

A great place to have an afternoon drink is Intercontinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu , which is in Le Panier. This elegant hotel has an outdoor bar that overlooks Marseille’s Vieux Port and it’s a great place to enjoy a glass of local rosé. Another fun spot to enjoy drinks with a view is Le Dantès Skylounge at Sofitel Marseille Vieux Port .

During your time in Marseille, you must savor the city’s staple dish – bouillabaisse. It’s a seafood stew containing many different fish and shellfish. The best place to savor bouillabaisse in Marseille is Chez FonFon . It’s situated on the marina and one of the best places to enjoy dinner in Marseille!

Day 9: Adventure through the Calanques in the South of France

One of the most underrated things to add to your French Riviera itinerary is a day in the Calanques.

There are a few ways to explore the Calanques and one of them is by taking a boat tour from Vieux Port in Marseille to Cassis. If you’re a hiker, you can do many hikes in Parc National des Calanques, such as the Marseilleveyre and Cap Canaille trails.

In addition to hiking, there are plenty of dive sites in the Calanques. You can also enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding and boating opportunities. There are 26 Calanques and there is something for everyone to enjoy! Don’t forget the incredible waterfront restaurants and cafés in this breathtaking National Park.

Marseille and the Calanques have some of the most beautiful beaches, but many are rocky. If you plan to relax at the beach, I suggest wearing comfortable water shoes . There are still plenty of white sandy beaches in the Calanques, such as Cap Croisette.

One of the best sunset spots in the Calanques is Cap Canaille. It’s the highest maritime cliff in France and you can get to it by car! It’s a popular spot for photography, engagement proposals and more.

An excellent restaurant to visit after your day in the Calanques is Restaurant Chez Zé . It’s in the Baumettes area of Marseille, right outside the National Park. You can savor delicious pasta, seafood and meat dishes at this spot.

Day 10: See Lavender Fields and Enjoy a Provence Road Trip

A French Riviera itinerary must include a road trip through Provence! This breathtaking area features some of the most incredible lavender fields in the world! You can easily do a day trip to the Provençal countryside from Marseille.

If you only have a day to see the lavender fields in Provence , then you must visit Valensole. In this area, you can walk through the endless rows of lavender, full of great photo opportunities!

As I mentioned above, you will either need your own vehicle to get out to the lavender fields from Marseille or you will need to do an organized tour . Overall, Valensole is around an hour and a half from Marseille.

The best lavender farms to visit in Valensole are Les Grandes Marges, Terraroma Lavande Amandes, Lavender Angelvin and Puimisson Lavender. I also suggest visiting the town of Valensole, which boasts charming cafés, boutiques, lavender shops and more.

If you have extra time, you must also visit Gorges du Verdon . Please note that it’s over an hour’s drive from Valensole and over two hours from Marseille. It’s an excellent destination for outdoor adventures, but my biggest recommendation is renting a paddle boat on the Lac de Sainte-Croix for a couple of hours.

In addition to Valensole, some of the most beautiful villages to explore during a Provence road trip , if you have time, are Avignon, which is home to the Pont d’Avignon ; Roussillon, which is a medieval town that is earth-toned and famous for the Grand Canyon of France, and Gordes, one of the most picturesque hilltop towns with stone houses. You must also see the Pont du Gard and visit a Provençal market for lavender products!

Please note that lavender in Provence is in peak bloom from late June through early July!

Day 11: Road Trip to Nice, France

A Barcelona and French Riviera road trip itinerary is only completed if it includes Nice! Located on the Côte d’Azur, Nice is France’s 5 th largest city.

It will take you a few hours, by train, to get from Marseille to Nice, but once you arrive, take on the narrow streets in Nice’s Old Town. This picturesque place will have you amazed by all the stunning buildings, street performers, artists and ambiance! Scattered throughout the city are also local markets.

One of the top Nice staples you must try is socca. It’s a chickpea flatbread or pancake that is nice to have with fresh tomatoes and a glass of rosé. As you stroll through Vieux Nice, you must stop at Chez Theresa , Chez Rene Socca and Chez Pipo for a light lunch.

Another great thing to do in Nice during the day is to shop along the Place Masséna. You can find everything from Zara to L’Occitane and Hermès to H&M in this beautiful shopping center. If it’s raining during your trip to Nice, you can visit one of the many museums!

A memorable thing to do during a road trip to Nice is climb Castle Hill and enjoy the city’s best views! It’s located over 300 feet above sea level and where a former Citadel sat.

Since Nice is situated close to the Italian border, you will find great Italian restaurants. One of the best is La Voglia , which is in Old Town Nice. It’s one of the best places to enjoy dinner.

Day 12: Explore Nice: The Best City to Experience on a French Riviera Trip

After having a morning coffee in Old Town, go to one of Nice’s best beach clubs! First, you must stroll along the breathtaking Promenade des Anglais before reserving an oceanfront lounge chair at Opéra Plage .

This beach club is open from 9 am to 8 pm every day during the summer months. It costs €23 for a day at the beach with an umbrella and cabin included, €19 for a half day on the beach with an umbrella and cabin included and €230 for a 12-day pass per person. If you prefer having your umbrella/lounge chair directly facing the water, which I recommend, it’ll cost €28 for the day.

You’ll want to spend the majority of the day at the beach. Other great beach clubs to visit in Nice are below:

• Castel Plage : A fun and swanky beach restaurant that is perfect for those in their 20s and 30s.
• Ruhl Plage : The perfect family-friendly beach club with a restaurant and salt-water children’s pool.
• Blue Beach Club : A popular beach club that draws locals.
• Plage Beau Rivage Beach Club : Recognized for having the best restaurant along the promenade.

Later in the evening, a wonderful place to enjoy dinner on the water is at Les Pêcheurs , where you can savor delicious seafood dishes like bouillabaisse!

Day 13: Road Trip around the Côte d’Azur

A highlight of a Barcelona and South of France road trip is driving the French Riviera. There are a lot of charming villages to visit and spend time in.

You can enjoy many day itineraries from Nice to the villages along the French Riviera. I suggest starting from the furthest village and making your way closer to the city. Your first stop should be closer to the Italian border to the laidback and colorful town of Menton.

From Menton, you must visit Monaco – a hub for the rich! It’s famous for its fascinating Monte Carlo Casino and iconic for the Grand Prix , a Formula 1 motor racing event. Monaco has a port, beaches, and renowned shopping and dining like other villages along the French Riviera.

In the late afternoon, visit the village of Villefranche-Sur-Mer. It’s one of the most charming seaside villages along the French Riviera with a beach, wine bars and quaint narrow streets to wander through.

Other great coastal towns and villages to visit during a French Riviera trip are Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Èze, St. Tropez, Cannes and Antibes. Most of these towns and villages have a picturesque Old Town, beach clubs and wonderful restaurants.

Day 14: Concluding the Road Trip – Traveling Home from the French Riviera

When it comes time to conclude your Barcelona and French Riviera road trip, the best airport to depart from is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport .

If you wish to continue your trip, I suggest heading into Italy and visiting the Italian Riviera, like Cinque Terre , or discovering the Italian region of Piedmont . You can also head north and discover the Burgundy wine region.

Plan Your Barcelona and French Riviera Itinerary for this Summer!

Looking for other destinations to visit after your road trip? Check out the below spots! Another fantastic European summer trip is to Southern Italy .

Madrid, Spain

Milan, Italy

Alsace, France

I hope you enjoyed following this Barcelona and French Riviera road trip itinerary. If you have any questions, please email me at [email protected].

Click here to book a cooking class!

Basic Facts of Spain, Andorra and France:

Spain – Currency: Euro, Capital: Madrid, Time Zone: Central European Standard Time

Andorra – Currency: Euro, Capital: Andorra La Vella, Time Zone: Central European Time

France – Currency: Euro, Capital: Paris, Time Zone: Central European Time

*Anything could happen during your travels. Always make sure you are insured in case there are unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage/theft, natural disasters, personal liabilities and more.  Click here  to get insured for your next trip.

In addition, great and secure luggage storage to utilize during your summer Europe trip is  Nannybag ! It is easy to use; all you do is download the  Nannybag  app, and type in the city that you will be visiting and when you plan to arrive and depart. At a small cost per luggage,  Nannybag  will list the stores, restaurants or hotels where you could drop your bag off at the city you are visiting.

Nannybag  is also insured against theft, loss and breakage. It’s a convenient way to store your bags when you are traveling from one city to the next in Europe.

Shop my Barcelona and French Riviera Look:

Click here  to shop my  Poshmark  closet!

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Such an amazing guide to beautiful Barcelona and the French Riviera. After reading this blog and seeing all the stunning photos, this trip has been added to my bucket list. Looks like you saw and experienced some fabulous places! Loved reading this blog and hope to make a family trip there one day!

Love you, mom 👩🏻 ❤️ xoxo

Thank you mom! You would love this part of Europe!

Thanks for a great post. We are in are early 60s from Australia and hoping to do this from Barcelona and then head into Italy. Are the roads safe, parking easy to find in these small villages?

thanks in advance

That sounds like a wonderful trip! The roads are safe, but windy! You can find parking in small villages, but make sure you have everything mapped out in advance. A lot of it is paid parking.

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The top 10 day trips from Barcelona, from divine sights to beautiful beaches

Dec 6, 2023 • 7 min read

Tarragona has lots of lovely restaurants in the square surrounding the cathedral © frantic00 / Getty Images

You could spend weeks in Barcelona and never run out of neighborhoods to explore , things to do , food to try and bars to hop.

But for a taste of Catalan life beyond the metropolis – or simply for a change of pace – take a day trip from Barcelona to experience the mountains, beaches and pretty little towns that are just a short ride away. Here are the 10 best short escapes from beautiful Barcelona. 

1. Savor divinely beautiful views in Montserrat

Travel time: 1 hour, 20 minutes

The mountain of  Montserrat  is home to  Catalonia 's holiest site, the monastery of the same name. The views are spectacular – take walking shoes – and season permitting, you might be able to catch a choir performance inside the  basilica . Afterward, ride the funicular or take a walk down to the  Santa Cova , the spot where La Moreneta – a holy effigy of the virgin – was found, or up to the Sant Jeroni peak for a splendid view of the valley below.

How to get to Montserrat from Barcelona:  The R5 line trains operated by FGC run half-hourly to hourly to and from Barcelona's Plaça d’Espanya station. Next, get the AERI cable car to the monastery from the Montserrat Aeri stop. Alternatively, take the R5 to the next stop (Monistrol de Montserrat), from where cremallera trains run up to the monastery every 20 to 40 minutes.

2. Escape the city to the forests of Collserola

Travel time: 15 minutes

Barcelonins seek out the vast  Parc de Collserola  up in the hills for an escape from city life. Walking and cycling trails run throughout the park, which is dotted with farmhouse-style restaurants. Pick up a map of the various routes from the info center at Carretera de l’Església 92, close to the Baixador de Vallvidrera FGC train station. From here, those with a bit of energy can walk across the hills to Sant Cugat and take the train back to Barcelona from there.

How to get to Collserola from Barcelona:  Get the FGC suburban train from Plaça de Catalunya, Carrer de Provença or Gràcia to Baixador de Vallvidrera.

3. Sunbathe and party in Sitges

Travel time: 40 minutes

The pretty, whitewashed town of  Sitges  is perfect for seafront promenading and sun-worshiping, so in warmer weather, you’ll find the most central beaches quite crowded. Luckily, there are quite a few to choose from, so pick your spot for a morning of sunbathing (or skinny dipping off the nudist beach) before choosing a seafood restaurant nearby.

It’s not all about the sea in Sitges. If you have an interest in contemporary art and in the Modernisme movement, the classy old center’s array of elegant buildings – many housing museums – is well worth some of your time. The town also has great nightlife and a vibrant LGBTIQ+ scene. One of Spain's best Carnaval celebrations is held here (dates change annually), and October brings the Sitges International Film Festival to town.

How to get to Sitges from Barcelona:  From 5am to 10pm, regular trains run from Barcelona Passeig de Gràcia and Sants. Monbus runs from Barcelona every 15 to 50 minutes.

4. Walk through a rainbow in Girona

Travel time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Girona 's old town is a tight huddle of ancient arcaded houses, grand churches and sloped cobbled streets, with the grand cathedral  looming over it. Until the virtual expulsion of the Jewish population in 1492, Girona was home to a huge Jewish community, and the  Museu d’Història dels Jueus  tells their story.

For a different slice of history, visit the 12th-century  Banys Àrabs  (Arab Baths), which was used as a filming location in  Game of Thrones , and the pretty Romanesque  Monestir de Sant Pere de Galligants . Stroll along the Onyar River to look at the colorfully painted houses that flank it or to reach the newer part of town, where you’ll find some excellent tapas bars.

If your pockets are deep enough, Girona also has one of the world’s best restaurants:  El Celler de Can Roca .

How to get to Girona from Barcelona:  Take the train from Barcelona, which runs about every 30 minutes.

5. Relax in friendly and welcoming Vilanova i la Geltrú

Travel time: 45 minutes

Just down the coast beyond Sitges (there is a lovely, hour-long walk along the cliffs you can do to reach it), Vilanova i la Geltrú is a larger, more down-home version that has long dedicated its efforts more to fishing and industry than the leisure business, with a pleasantly unpretentious air.

If you want to spend the day on the beach, Vilanova i la Geltrú is an excellent place to do it. There are some decent, wide beaches (head straight to the south for a lovely little cove) and an interesting railway museum, the Museu del Ferrocarril . 

How to get to Vilanova i la Geltrú from Barcelona:  From 5am to 10pm, regular trains run from Barcelona.

6. Revel in Roman ruins in Tarragona

Travel time: 1 hour

Of a similar size and scale to Girona,  Tarragona  is known for its Roman remains. Since the  Museu d’Història de Tarragona  – which comprises the main Roman sites – tends to be busiest from mid-morning onward, it’s best to start with its  Amfiteatre Romà  and the  Fòrum Provincial  or the excellent  Museu Nacional Arqueològic de Tarragona , which gives a useful overview of the city’s impressive Roman past.

Afterward, head for the grand  cathedral , followed by lunch in one of the many restaurants thereabouts or in the fishing neighborhood of El Serrallo, where you’ll find many fine seafood restaurants.

How to get to Tarragona from Barcelona:  The train station is a 10-minute walk south of the old town near the beach, with services to and from Barcelona every 10 to 30 minutes.

7. Get surreal in Figueres

Travel time: 2 hours

Figueres  has some handsome Modernista architecture, a sprawling 18th-century castle  and a delightful little toy museum, the  Museu del Joguet , but it is best known for the  Teatre-Museu Dalí .

A former theater, it was converted by Dalí himself into a palace of surrealism, protected by tall red walls that bristle with giant eggs, Oscar-like statues and plaster croissants. Inside, you’ll find paintings, a jewelry collection designed by Dalí and some entertaining trompe l’oeil installations. A Teatre-Museu Dalí ticket will get you free entry to the  Museu de l'Empordà , a fantastic art and archaeology museum that's considered one of the best in the region.

How to get to Figueres from Barcelona:  Figueres train station, 800m (0.5 miles) southeast of the center, has half-hourly trains to and from Barcelona.

8. Step back in time in medieval Montblanc

Montblanc is a good-sized medieval walled town with a decent selection of places to eat and sleep. It’s worth a visit on its own merits; however, ideally, you should go with a car to fully explore the Cistercian Route, a triad of stunning monasteries within easy reach of one another at  Poblet ,  Vallbona de les Monges  and  Santes Creues . You’ll need to set off early if you are hoping to see all three.

How to get to Montblanc from Barcelona: Five direct trains a day run from Barcelona Passeig de Gràcia and Sants; the first is around 7am.

9. Shop the local markets in Vic

Travel time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Vic, with its attractive historic center and some fine restaurants, dominates the flatlands of La Plana de Vic to the south of the Pyrenees and is an easy train ride from Barcelona. Plaça Major, the largest of Catalunya’s central squares, is lined with medieval, Baroque and Modernista mansions. It is still the scene of regular markets, hence its other name, Plaça del Mercadal.

How to get to Vic from Barcelona:  Regular rodalies trains (line R3) run to and from Barcelona.

10. Find a buried treasure in Colònia Güell

Apart from La Sagrada Família , Gaudí’s last big project was the creation of a utopian textile workers’ complex for his magnate patron Eusebi Güell outside Barcelona at Santa Coloma de Cervelló. Gaudí’s main role was to erect the colony’s church,  Colònia Güell , although he only managed to finish the crypt, which is open to visitors. Its mostly brick-clad columns that support the ribbed vaults in the ceiling are inclined at all angles in much the same way that trees in a forest lean and are key to understanding the physics behind his magnum opus, the Sagrada Família.

How to get to Colònia Güell from Barcelona:  Take FGC lines S4, S8 or S33 to Colònia Güell.

This article was first published June 2019 and updated December 2023

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Five Fun Spanish Road Trips From Barcelona

Discover five of the most fun Spanish road trips from Barcelona. Road trips are a perfect way to see Spain, as they allow flexibility and stops to explore along the way. Spain has many different languages and landscapes, so a road trip can be the best way to experience the most authentic Spain. If you drive from Barcelona you’ll find amazing local experiences and places that not many tourists know about.

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HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

In this guide, I have listed four easy Spanish road trips from Barcelona. Each one showcases a different area and provides a unique experience in Spain. I have done all of these road trips myself and can highly recommend all of the stops and destinations.

I have made it flexible. You can visit all the recommended stops, or pick the perfect ones for your Spanish road trip. It’s also up to you to decide which ones are going to be quick stops on your road trip or an overnight experience. All of the towns I’ve listed are great for overnight stays.

You can always ask me in the comments if you have any further questions and want some recommendations on where to stay.

WHAT IS IT LIKE DRIVING IN SPAIN

Driving in Spain is relatively easy once you leave the cities. Most rules are similar to what you are used to in your country. Always be careful and respectful. We have never had any language problems, even when our Spanish was not very good.

DRIVING IN CITIES IN SPAIN

Driving in the cities in Spain can be stressful. A lot of the streets are narrow and one way. Make sure you have a map or GPS to help you get around. If you need to, always pull over somewhere safe, take some deep breaths and figure out where you need to go.

BEEPING IN SPAIN

Unlike some other European countries, it is aggressive to beep in Spain. They only use the horn when they’re angry or want to tell someone to move or go faster.

MOTORWAYS AND TOLLS

The motorways are well maintained and can get you around Spain very quickly. Most of the best ones have tolls, so a long road trip can start costing quite a bit. There is usually an old motorway close by without tolls, but this will go through the small towns so will be slower (but better for exploring). Set your GPS to avoid tolls if you don’t want to pay.

SPEED LIMITS

Speed limits are usually shown clearly and are similar to other countries. The Spanish use Kilometers.  On the motorways, they are almost always 120 km an hour. If you’re driving in the far left lane then please make sure you’re driving as fast as the locals (on average 140km an hour). It is a legal requirement to leave the far left lane if someone comes up behind you and flashes their lights (even if they’re speeding and you’re doing the speed limit).

HAZARD LIGHTS

My husband and I have a joke that as soon as you put the hazard lights on in Spain anything you do is okay. I don’t recommend you do this yourself, but watch out for cars doing illegal things with their hazard lights on. This is usually parking in the bigger cities.

DRIVERS LICENCES

Always check the requirements in Spain for your country. For example, for Australians, an international drivers licence is recommended for driving in Spain. The rental companies have never wanted to see this, but the police may want it if you’re pulled over.

ROAD TRIP FROM BARCELONA TO ZARAGOZA

One of the most interesting road trips in Spain is from Barcelona to Zaragoza. If you’re looking for a local experience and a chance to explore places more off the beaten path then this road trip is for you. You’ll also get to see some incredible history and visit one of the birthplaces of the Spanish empire.

339 KM 3 H 58 MIN

WHERE TO STOP

Barcelona is one of the best cities in Spain and is popular for a reason. Explore the beautiful city and famous monuments like Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell. Make sure you stop for a vermut in a plaza and try all the delicious tapas ( my local guide to Barcelona is here ). Driving out of Barcelona might be a bit stressful, but once you’re on the highway it’s easy.

MONASTERY OF POBLET

The Monastery of Poblet is very close to Barcelona and is famous for its history and beautiful architecture. The monastery was built in 1151 and many of the buildings are very old and very beautiful. There is a tranquil garden, courtyards and glowing stained glass windows. The monastery is still in operation and still participates in one of the monks famous past times: making wine! You can buy the wine in the gift shop, and it’s highly rated.

If you’re like me, you’ll be forgiven for thinking Mont Blanc is suddenly much closer to Spain than you thought. This is not the famous mountain in France, it is a historic walled town in Catalonia. The old town walls have been preserved and still circle the centre of town. You can climb them for great views over the countryside. The town is very local with a picturesque cathedral, vibrant plazas and small streets and stairways.

THE OSBORNE BULLS

Welcome to a truly iconic image in Spain and probably one of the best marketing campaigns. Many years ago the Osborne Sherry company erected dozens of black silhouettes of bulls all over Spain as advertising.  Ninety-one of them remain and are heritage-listed. You can see three of them on your road trip from Barcelona to Zaragoza. They’re huge, so you’ll definitely see them quite easily if you’re on the right roads.

1 – Above the town of Alfajarín

2 – On the outskirts of Peñalba

3 – In the middle of nowhere so here are the map coordinates 41.512589,-0.452318

Zaragoza has a large place in the history of Spain. Situated in the province of Aragon, this is where the empire of Spain began with the marriage between King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isobella I of Castile. It’s also got some of the purest air in Spain (Michael Jackson’s only Spanish concert was here because of this), and it’s got one of the longest runways in the world, so long that it’s a backup for Nasa emergency landings if needed.  Check out this guide for what to do in Zaragoza .

ROAD TRIP FROM BARCELONA TO SAN SEBASTIAN

A really fun Spanish road trip from Barcelona is to San Sebastian. This is a journey from coast to coast of Spain and you will get to experience the difference in landscapes and languages. You’ll start at the sunshine and beaches of Barcelona, travel through the deserts of Spain to the lush, rainy coast of the Basque country. You’ll hear three languages that define the different regions, Catalan in Barcelona, Spanish in the middle and Basque at the end (Basque is actually so unique that there is no other language in the world like it).

586 KM 6 H 43 MINS

Cardial is a fascinating stop on your Spanish road trip from Barcelona. The ghost town is on the side of the motorway on the way from Barcelona to Zaragoza. It has been ruined for hundreds of years and you can wander amongst the houses carefully and see the old architecture of Spain. Apparently, the town was abandoned due to the plague.

CASTILLO DE ALFAJARÍN AND OSBORNE BULL

A historic stop on your Spanish road trip from Barcelona to San Sebastian is the Castillo de Alfajarín and the Osborne Bull next to it. This country is quintessential Spanish desert with the pale earth and low green bushes. The town of Alfajarín also has a church with beautiful turquois rooves. The Alfajarín Castle is ruined, but you can wander around and even enter something that was either the cellar or dungeon (the ceiling has long gone). On an opposite hill looms the Osborne bull, a large, black cutout of a bull.

Zaragoza has a large place in the history of Spain. Situated in the province of Aragon, this is where the empire of Spain began with the marriage between King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isobella I of Castile. Visit the Zaragoza Basilica, Roman ruins in the city centre and the Aljafería Palace for ancient Arabic elegance.

Pamplona is a beautiful city situated halfway between Barcelona and San Sebastian. It is most famous for the controversial Running of the Bulls (San Firmin), but it is also a gorgeous city with many parks and delicious tortilla de patatas.

SAN SEBASTIAN

San Sebastian definitely makes for one of the best stops on a Spanish road trip. Located on the west coast of Spain, it is surrounded by the lush green hills of the Basque country and has one of the most unique languages in the world, as well as Spanish. The town is reminiscent of a French seaside resort town with tall old buildings and a large esplanade to promenade. Check out the beautiful views, hang at the long beach, and make sure you try the famous pintxos. These tiny snack-like tapas are amazing!

ROAD TRIP FROM BARCELONA TO VALENCIA

A Spanish road trip from Barcelona to Valencia is easy and full of fun stops along the way. You can take your time and spend a few days exploring the coast, or do the drive in a day with some selected stops. The Catalan and Valencian regions are both amazing for food and interesting activities.

400 KM 5 H 25 MINS

Sitges is one of the trendiest beach towns close to Barcelona. Known for some of the best beaches in Europe it also has a fashionable restaurant and bar scene. Sitges is a gay-friendly town and actually has been gay-friendly since 1930. Shop in the boutiques, drink at the beach bars and generally have a great time.

Tarragona is a great stop for any Spanish road trip. The city has many old buildings and has several Roman ruins to explore. There’s also a beach for relaxing.

DELTA DEL EBRO

Delta del Ebro should be added to any Spanish road trip from Barcelona to Valencia. This place is where a lot of the rice in Spain is grown. If you go during Summer the delta is covered in bright green rice fields and flamingos. There is also one of the longest beaches in Spain and amazing seafood. Due to this abundance of rice and fresh seafood the region is famous for seafood Paella. I have had the best seafood Paella of my life here ( Restaurant Ca’l Faiges ).

El Palmar is very close to Valencia and can be added on before, during, or after Valencia. The region of Valencia is where Paella was invented, so you must try this national dish, as it will be at its most authentic. El Palmar is a tiny town purely devoted to Paella restaurants. During summer it’s surrounded by green rice fields and has canals intersecting the town. Book a restaurant and try the famous Paella. The most traditional is the one with chicken and rabbit. You usually need to book this in advance as it takes a few hours to cook.

Valencia is a beautiful city. The buildings are old and majestic and it has one of the longest parks in the world. You can explore old castle walls, a famous cathedral, a photogenic science museum and see the holy grail (may or may not be the real one). If you’re there in March you could attend the unique insanity of Fallas festival ( check out my blog post here ).

ROAD TRIP FROM BARCELONA TO THE COSTA BRAVA

The Costa Brava above Barcelona is one of the most beautiful coasts in Spain. You can explore secluded, tiny coves or find popular beaches full of beach umbrellas and high rises. You can do a road trip to one town and then use it as a base to explore or tick a few places off your list by exploring in-depth and choosing a few different destinations to stay in. Whatever you do you’ll want some walking shoes for exploring and swimmers for relaxing beach days.

311 KM 4 H 48 MINS

Tamariu is one of the sweetest little towns and coves on the Costa Brava. I’ve included it as the only way to get here is by car. So if you’re going to do a road trip from Barcelona to the Costa Brava make sure this place is on your list. The cove has a beautiful beach with easy swimming. There’s also a small esplanade with restaurants and a few shops. It’s a place for relaxing and beach days.

PERATALLADA AND THE IBERIAN TOWN OF ULLASTRET (ARCHEOLOGICAL DIG AND MUSEUM)

These two places are full of history and make the perfect stop or overnight adventure on any road trip from Barcelona. Peratallada is a tiny hilltop town in the hinterland of the Costa Brava. The old city walls still exist in some parts, as well as ancient parts of the castle. On one street you can see the ancient furrows of cart tracks made over hundreds of years. The town is beautiful as well as historic with cute little shops and great restaurants.

Further down the road is the Catalan Museum of Archeology located at the ruins of the Iberian town of Ullastret. This place is the most extensive archeological dig in Catalonia. The Iberian town dates back to the 5th Century and was one of the biggest in the region at the time. Pick up an audio guide in multiple languages and walk around the walls, ruined city structures and museum. If you’re into history it’s fascinating, especially as it was so advanced for its time.

Figueres is an easy add on to any road trip from Barcelona. The reason people visit this city is the Dali Theatre Museum. Dali was born in Figueres and he designed the museum himself. It is one of the strangest buildings you’ll ever see and is full of his art and history.

Cadaques is like a small part of Greece transplanted into Spain. The white buildings have colourful shutters, and the shops and restaurants on the esplanade provide a Mediterranean vibe. The town is beautiful; there is a Dali museum to visit and Costa Brava tours to explore the coastline. If you want more details of where to stay or eat check out my  Cadaques guide here .

Girona is an easy stop on any road trip from Barcelona to the Costa Brava. Classed as the capital of the area it has lots of historic charm and ancient staircases. It’s so charming and medieval that it was chosen for filming locations of Game of Thrones. Girona is perfect for a day visit, or as an overnight stay. The restaurants are first class ( check out my guide here ), it actually does brunch, and the photo opportunities are everywhere.

ROAD TRIP FROM BARCELONA TO OLOT

A road trip from Barcelona to Olot will take you through some of the prettiest towns in inland Catalonia. This area is located towards the awe-inspiring pyrones. Medieval towns are located atop hills, and many of these places have been involved with centuries of struggle over the border with France.  It’s also famous for its natural beauty. This is one of the best places during autumn in Spain, and where the natural wonders are as fascinating as the manmade history.

199 KM 2 H 52 MINS

Girona is an easy stop on any road trip from Barcelona to the Costa Brava. Classed as the capital of the area it has lots of historic charm and ancient staircases. It’s so charming and medieval that it was chosen for filming locations of Game of Thrones. Girona is perfect for a day visit, or as an overnight stay. The restaurants are first class (check out my guide here), it actually does brunch, and the photo opportunities are everywhere.

Besalú is full of charm and medieval history. It still retains a massive bridge, which was built by the Romans, and is the main entryway into the town by foot. Wander the small twisting streets and marvel at old churches, local town plazas and remnants of old stone walls. It’s a definite must on any Spanish road trip from Barcelona.

CASTELLFOLLIT DE LA ROCA

This little town is your perfect European clifftop town. It is reminiscent of hugely popular towns in Italy without all the people. Perched on a cliff, it dramatically overseas the Catalan landscape. The streets are narrow and you can find a cafe with windows looking over the sheer dropoff that the houses are built up to.

Olot is one of the larger towns in this mountainous region of Catalonia. It’s a pretty town with large tree-lined avenues and great restaurants. Olot is famous for the walks close by in the Volcànica de la Garrotxa National Park. There are short walks or longer ones that take you into an extinct volcano where a shrine is built. This area is one of the best places in Spain to see autumn colours.

If you do go, make sure you eat at  Restaurant La Bota . It’s the best, authentic restaurant experience I’ve had. There’s no menu so you just get served what they’re cooking, and be warned it can feel like the food will never stop. Chorizos, salad, tortilla with smoked salmon, mussels, different cuts of meat barbequed in their fireplace behind you and dessert. There was no English, but we had a great time with hilarious communications.

MOLI DELS MURRIS GORGE

Gorge Molí dels Murris is another natural beauty in the mountainous area of Catalonia. You will need a car to get here, so that’s why it fits perfectly into a Spanish road trip from Barcelona. The area has many walks (even a long one to Girona) and the one to the gorge is signposted. There are not many places to have a picnic, but it’s a pretty place to have a swim. The water is from the mountains so be prepared for it being cold even if it’s a warm day.

You may also like

So many amazing road trips up north in the country! I live in the south and really want to travel more up north. Thanks for this great guide I’ll definitely use it in the future.

I’m finally getting my driving license soon, can’t wait to be able to go on road trips like this! Stop whenever I want, stay for photos however long I need, and no other tourists as I usually have on bus tours. Looks like a dream to me, thank you for sharing! Your photos are beautiful, I’m definitely gone save this for my next trip to Spain!

How exciting! Having your drivers license definitely opens up the world more. Hopefully, you get to road trip Spain soon.

This blog post is so detailed and informative! You did an incredible job writing everything out, Bliss! Will come back and use it when planning my trip to Spain! I saw only Barcelona when I was there.

Wow! Some brilliant ideas here, I really need to see more of Spain. I absolutely loved Zaragoza when I went years ago, isn’t the castle amazing? I didn’t realise so much was accessible from Barcelona though, I really want to get to San Sebastian one day.

I love the castle in Zaragoza! San Sebastian is definitely worth visiting, especially for the food.

Great list! I love the gorge!!

This is amazing! I love that you added the map to this. Such a great packed itinerary!

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14 Best Road Trips from Barcelona

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

Barcelona is an absolutely gorgeous city filled with rich history, but it’s also the perfect place to stay while making some great day trips around Spain ! You could easily escape the city to explore amusement parks, beaches, and more. Below, find some of the best day trips from Barcelona!

Table of Contents

Travel time from Barcelona: 2.5 hours by car or 3 hours by train

If you want to take a day trip from Barcelona and visit another country, head to Andorra! Located just a little under three hours away, you can get to Andorra by car or you can take the bus. 

Once in Andorra la Vella, Andorra’s capital city, you can walk around and see the pockets of historic architecture in the city. Make sure to stop and see the beautiful Església de Sant Esteve, a church with a signature bell tower. The Puente de Paris is the most famous bridge in the city, and the 7 Poets is a modern statue that looks almost out of place.

Perhaps the city’s most famous landmark is the Salvador Dali statue, called The Nobility of Time, which is easy to reach since it’s in the middle of Andorra la Vella’s main shopping district. 

If you find yourself with extra time, you can enjoy a visit to one of the local spas. Caldea has an indoor and outdoor pool located in a beautiful modern building, along with steam rooms and saunas to enjoy in between swims.

For meals, try Escudella, Andorra’s national dish. This hearty stew is perfect for those visiting  Andorra in winter,  since it’s hearty and meaty and packed with protein. 

Recommended by Stephanie from History Fangirl

Travel time from Barcelona: 1 hour 19 minutes

Girona is one of the best places to visit if you’re considering a day trip from Barcelona. There are many reasons. One is that there are plenty of  things to do in Girona . You can gaze at the gigantic cathedral in the centre of the city, which was featured in Game of Thrones .

Walk along the ancient Roman Walls and dine in numerous top-quality cafes and restaurants. La Fabrica is one cafe I highly recommend you check out! The food is excellent and the coffee even better!

Getting to Girona from Barcelona is easy. All you have to do is head to one of the big train stations in the city, such as Sants Estacio, or Passeig de Gracia, hop on the high-speed train and you’ll be in Girona in just under an hour! It’s as simple as that!

When you get to Girona, I recommend you head to the river first. This way you’ll get to see one of the most impressive sights in Girona, the river snaking through the city, with multicoloured houses lining the banks on either side.

It’s an iconic image of Girona and sets the tone for the rest of the day. A trip to the top of the walls offers a fantastic view of the city and beyond too!

Recommended by Tom from The Travelling Tom

Travel time from Barcelona: 4 hours

The Montanejos hot springs are 340 kilometre south of Barcelona. This beautiful natural area is a perfect getaway and offers adventurous hikes and stunning hot springs in a gorge of stunning limestone cliffs. The mountainous area is located in the province of Castellon near the Serra d’Espadà. 

Since it’s called Montanejos hot springs, you would assume the water will be warm. But don’t be fooled by this name, because the water is actually pretty chilly. Of course, this depends on the time of the year, but just to make sure you won’t have the expectation of a very hot hot spring!

The water of the Montanejos hot springs does have a rejuvenate and positive effect on your skin because they have minerals in them that cleanse the skin.

The towering limestone rocks and crystal clear turquoise waters are inviting to take a dip in. The hot spring pools are big enough, and that’s a good thing because during the summer period it can get busy here with locals and tourists enjoying their time in nature. 

If you’re looking for more things to do in the direct area of Montanejos, then there are enough activities to do. Such as hiking the mountains, or going on a tour through the Montanejos gorge where you’ll explore the beautiful gorge, hidden caves, and much more! 

Recommended by Ilse from Digital Travel Couple

Travel time from Barcelona: 1 hour

The Montserrat Monastery is one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona. Perched into the mountainside, the monastery is an architectural wonder and equally impressive for religious and non-religious visitors.

The construction of the monastery started in the 9th century, but it did not become a monastery until 1025. From the monastery, you will have an excellent view of the valley below. 

Montserrat Monastery is also home to one of the most famous  Black Madonnas , La Moreneta. In the 12th century, several miracles were attributed to this Madonna statue and pilgrims have visited this place ever since. According to tradition, you must touch the ball she is holding in her hand and make a wish and it will come true. 

While the monastery is obviously the main attraction, there is more to do in Montserrat. You can visit the local art museum that features works by Picasso and Dalí. 

Of course, the stunning mountains invite you to go hiking or even rock climbing. Depending on your fitness and skill level, there are guided tours you can take, or you can go independently. 

The Benedictine Monastery Santa Maria de Montserrat is located about 45 kilometers outside of Barcelona. You can either take an organized day tour or simply hop on the R5 train in Placa Espana to Aeri de Montserrat.

The trip is about 1 hour long and costs between 5-8 EUR. From Aeri, you can take the cable car up to the monastery. You can also hike up the mountain if you prefer. 

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Travel time from Barcelona: 2.5 hours

One of the most beautiful places to visit in the area of Barcelona is for sure the old town of  Peniscola in Spain . Its located in the Province Castellon on the Mediterranean Coast, around 2:20 hours away from Barcelona, and can be therefore easily be visited for a day trip.

Actually, Peniscola was already voted as one of the most beautiful towns in Spain, and really – this fortified town is breathtaking. Due to its unique location, this city is often called “the city in the sea” and the snow white old-town houses let it appear with an extra portion of charm.

The most important attraction is here the Peniscola Castle, which is rising 64 meters above the azure blue sea. And the wonderful cobbled stone streets with the many lovely shops, that lead through the town. There are also many fantastic beaches, which are actually just perfect for swimming and sunbathing!

Peniscola can easily be reached by car or also by bus and trains that are connected with Barcelona. If you want to stay there for the night you will find wonderful places to stay inside the middle of the picturesque white old town, like the charming Hotel Boutique La Mar – Adults Only .

Recommended by Martina & Jürgen from PlacesofJuma

Travel time from Barcelona: 2 hours

From Barcelona Sants railway station it’s just an hour and a half direct train to Perpignan in southwest France. The capital of French Catalonia, Perpignan is an interesting blend of Catalan and French culture.  A day is just the right amount of time to explore this relatively small city.

From the train station in Perpignan, it’s about a 15-minute walk into the old town. Start the day by riding Le Petit Train de Perpignan. This hour-long sightseeing tour will give you a good overview of the city. Afterward, spend some time wandering through the old town on foot.

Check out the shops and cafés as you head in towards the Palace of the Kings of Majorca, the most famous attraction in Perpignan. The palace is a 13th-century gothic-style fortress. For a small entry fee, you can explore the rooms inside and get great views of the city from the fortress walls. 

Finish up the day with a meal at one of the restaurants in the old town. Like the “menú del día” in Barcelona, many restaurants offer a set daily menu of dishes selected by the chef. For a very reasonable price, you can get a lot of tasty food.

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Travel time from Barcelona: 2 hours by car

Priorat is the perfect spot for an amazing day trip from Barcelona to enjoy some of the best wine Spain has to offer! 

A 2-hour drive south along the coast then turn west to the mountains is what it takes to experience this gem of a wine region. You can also take a train, but I recommend having a car (or better yet a tour guide since you will be wine tasting…) to easily get between wineries. Let someone else do the driving while you enjoy the scenery on the ride.

I suggest researching ahead of time and making appointments with the wineries you’d like to visit. I’d recommend no more than 3, they are not close together like in Napa Valley, CA. Some wineries I recommend that you check out:

• Mas Martinet – who doesn’t want a wine tasting on top of the mountain beside the vines the grapes in your glass came from?? 
• Clos Figueras – enjoy an amazing lunch paired with their wines and a tour of the cellar
• Clos Mogador – another amazing stop with delicious wines

Be sure to have room in your suitcase to bring some bottles back with you, but also know that the price might be a bit higher than other regions in Spain. But after tasting the wine and seeing the landscape (and the skill needed to farm it), you completely understand and have an amazing bottle and story to share with friends. 

Recommended by Jess from Wine, Dine, and Roam

Saint Cugat del Vallès

Travel time from Barcelona: 37-minute drive or 1-hour train ride

Sant Cugat del Vallès  is not only one of the most beautiful, but also the closest trip destinations from Barcelona. The popularity of this destination is not only due to the proximity to Barcelona but also because of its stunning architecture and small-town atmosphere.

Therefore, it’s a real change from the hustle and bustle of the city of Barcelona. The small town of Sant Cugat is just 17 km away, which is only about half an hour’s train ride from the Catalan capital.

You can easily walk to the center of the city from the train station. Your path leads you through the most popular shopping streets in the city. Just walk straight ahead and follow the signs until you arrive at Sant Cugat’s most popular attraction: the impressive monastery of Sant Cugat del Vallès.

The monastery and its adjacent church are located in a small, quiet square in the center of the city. Here you can rest and eat something while enjoying some delicious Catalan specialties.

The town’s market, which is located on the adjacent square, just a few minutes walks from the monastery, is particularly popular. In addition to typical regional delicacies, you can also enjoy international specialties.

The monastery of Sant Cugat can be visited free of charge. Don’t forget your camera, because you can take some beautiful photos in the inner courtyard of the monastery.

Recommended by Vicki from Vicki Viaja

Sant Feliu de Guixols

Travel time from Barcelona: 1 hour by car, 2 hours by train

Located just 1 hour and 15 minutes from Barcelona by car, Sant Feliu de Guixols is the perfect day trip destination. Especially if you like the beach! The Costa Brava coastline has a wealth of beautiful beaches and Platja De La Badia in Sant Feliu de Guixols is one of the best. 

The waters at Platja De La Badia are calm and clear making it popular with families and a great place to go for a swim. The beach is sandy and close to town, so restaurants and other facilities are never too far away. 

We would recommend spending the majority of your time swimming, sunbathing, and playing beach games but if you would prefer a more cultural day trip, Sant Feliu de Guixols delivers on that too. The Sant Feliu de Guixols monastery was built in the 10th century and is worth a visit. It is a great example of Romanesque architecture.

For a greater understanding of the history of the town visit the Town History Museum. It has lots of interactive exhibits and features the shipwreck rescue centre which was built in 1867 for sailors who shipwrecked on the Sant Feliu’s shores.

For lunch head to the Sant Feliu de Guixols market and pick up picnic supplies. You’ll enjoy a truly local experience, picking out all the local goodies and chatting with local farmers.

Recommended by Oksana and Max from Drink Tea & Travel

Travel time from Barcelona: 35 minutes by train, 1 hour by car

If you’re looking to discover a city that’s not too far away from Barcelona but, at the same time, can give you the feeling of being disconnected from a big city, then a getaway to Sitges will suit your needs perfectly.

Located 40 kilometers away from Plaza Catalunya, Sitges is a small city that preserves the local atmosphere with all the comfort of a tourist place. It’s also easy to reach, you just have to catch a train from Paseo de Gracia, Francia Station or Sants Station and after 40 minutes you will arrive at this beautiful place.

There are several things you can do there if you want to get to know the local history you can go to the Museu du Maricel or to the Museu del Cau Ferrat. In case you prefer to discover the local vibe, just a nice stroll through the city will do. One of the reasons why so many people love Sitges is the beach! Small but cozy, nice sand and really transparent water. 

If you are planning to go there in summer and during the weekend you’ll probably need a reservation for lunch or dinner. One of the most famous places is La Zorra, a great spot for paella and different kinds of rice dishes typical from Spain.

In case you’re looking for something more casual go to El Cable, a small tapas place really well known in Sitges, they even have some famous tapas (try the one with tuna tartar).

Sitges is a perfect place to spend a day away from the chaos you may find in Barcelona.

Recommended by Laura from Laura No Esta

Barcelona is a Spanish city that’s famous for its incredible architecture and vibrant culture. But what if I told you there’s a Roman version of Barcelona that’s off-the-beaten-path? Located on the Costa Daurada in the northeastern part of the Catalonia region in Spain, Tarragona is a mini-Barcelona that’s away from the hordes of crowds.

Taking a  day trip to Tarragona  is a must-do in your Spain itinerary. The best way to explore this hidden gem is through a self-guided walking tour as you want to experience and soak in the sights and sounds at your own pace.

Tarragona is about 97 km away from Barcelona. To reach Tarragona, you can take a direct train from the Sants/ Passeig De Gracia stations in Barcelona. It’s a convenient one-hour 10-minute journey. You can also opt for a one-hour 30-minute bus journey from the Barcelona Nord station to Tarragona.

The best things to do in Tarragona are Tarragona Amphitheatre, Mediterranean Balcony, Old Town, Rambla Nova, Tarragona Cathedral, and Tarragona Beach.

If you plan to stay in Tarragona, then try booking your hotel accommodation near the city centre as the hotels in this area not only give you the best access to different parts of this port city but also provide you with the best facilities.

As far as food is concerned, Chef Clive serves you the best coffee along with fresh pastries, margarita pizza, and carrot cake. For a tasty but cheap meal, you can visit the Tarakan and La Botifarra restaurants. And for fine dining, there’s no better place than the Arcs restaurant.

Recommended by Vaibhav from The Wandering Vegetable

Travel time from Barcelona: 36 minutes

When visiting Barcelona, look up and you’ll spot Mount Tibidabo in the distance. The 1,680-foot mountain is a landmark in Barcelona worth visiting, especially if you’re looking for a place to see a stunning view of the city.

Even though Tibidabo isn’t far from the centre of Barcelona, you’ll need a day to enjoy the sights. A famous attraction is its amusement park, which is one of the oldest in the world and a great place for an adrenalin rush. With six zones and lots of heart-pumping rides, such as Russian Mountain, kids and big kids at heart will love this day trip from Barcelona.

Another thing to do at Tibidabo is visit the Sagrat Cor Cathedral to admire its stunning stained-glass windows and impressive architecture. It took 60 years to build and the Jesus Christ bronze statue is a look-alike to the one in Rio de Janeiro.

How to get to Tibidabo? Take the train to Avinguda Tibidabo FGC Station then catch a tram to Plaza Doctor Andreu before boarding the Tibidabo funicular (Spain’s oldest) to get to the top or if you need to burn up some energy, you can hike to the top too! 

Recommended by Christina from Travel2Next

Travel time from Barcelona: 2 hours 40 minutes by train

If you’re looking to get out of Barcelona for a day you may be intrigued by a trip to  Valencia  lies which lies just a few hours away. The coastal town of Valencia can, therefore, be visited as a day or weekend trip or as part of a multi-stop trip through Spain.

The train to Valencia takes around 3 hours from Barcelona (depending on the service you book), so while this would be a pretty long day if you were to visit in 24 hours, it is still definitely doable. There are also slightly slower and cheaper options by train and bus which are great for those travelers who are watching their budget.

Top tips for traveling to Valencia as a day trip: 

• Book your train for as early in the morning and as far in advance as possible
• Aim to get a seat on the left-hand side for the journey from Barcelona to Valencia so you can take in the sea views.
• Look out for the Euromed train service to Valencia as this route takes under 3 hours, as opposed to the Talgo train which takes 4+!

Once you arrive in Valencia you’ll be instantly impressed by its beauty, variety, and laid-back atmosphere, with museums, beaches, buildings, botanical gardens, and more to explore. It’s also a wonderful spot for foodie travelers. Valencia is THE place to go to try the best paella in Spain, with fresh seafood being caught in the morning ready to be served up by lunch!

This style of cuisine will give you a different taste to that of Catalonia and allow you to dine on authentic Valencian dishes. For the best paella in Valencia, head to the La Riua restaurant.

Recommended by Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

Travel time from Barcelona: 3 hours by car or 1.5 hours by train

Zaragoza is the fourth largest city in Spain and the perfect day trip out of Barcelona. The city is located on the Ebro River, in a valley with an astonishing diversified landscape of mountains, forests, and deserts. By car, you are just around 3 hours on the way out of Barcelona but by train, you are there in one hour and twenty-five minutes. 

This city is less known to tourists but is filled with surprises.

The main sights of the city of Zaragoza are located on and around the car-free square ‘Plaza del Pilar’. This makes it one of the busiest places in the city center. Plaza del Pilar is also called ‘Plaza de las Catedrales’ due to the presence of no less than two cathedrals. 

Here you can visit ‘La Catedral-Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar’ and ‘Catedral del Salvador de Zaragoza’. The Catedral-Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar is undoubtedly the eye-catcher of the city. This impressive 17th century cathedral is the largest Baroque church in Spain and well worth a visit.

In Zaragoza, you can also visit the largest river aquarium in Europe, namely Acuario de Zaragoza.

As in any Spanish city, you will also find an indoor food market in Zaragoza. The Mercado Central dates back to 1895 and is a colorful and lively place, full of tasty products. There is always a pleasant buzz. You can buy fresh products or eat at the different stands. Do you prefer to eat in a restaurant? 

Then El Tubo is the area where you can find the best tapas. Several good tapas bars are located next to each other in the neighborhood. At Casalac you can go for tapas with a refreshing touch, the chef will spoil you with his trendy dishes while using many different fresh vegetables.

Recommended by Stéphanie from BEY OF TRAVEL

Watch our Barcelona travel vlog!

Spain Travel

There are so many great things to do in Spain! Check out more of our Spain posts below.

• 21+ Must-Know Tips for Barcelona for a Great Vacation
• 15 Fabulous Weekend Breaks in Spain
• 11 Free Things to do in Barcelona Spain
• Spain Bucket List: 39 Best Things To Do in Spain
• Where to Stay in Barcelona | 6 Best Barcelona Accommodations!

How to Spend the Perfect 24 Hours in Barcelona

• 15 Can’t-Miss Barcelona Instagram Spots

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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7- Day Camper Road trip Around Barcelona

Author: Bastian Salmen

Get a jump start on summer when you hire a roadsurfer camper and explore the Balearic Sea coastline from Barcelona to Valencia. The tour takes you along the Mediterranean coast, then into the Valencia mountains. Long summer days, warm Mediterranean seas, magical mountain landscapes, and even the possibility of the occasional surf make early spring the ideal time to visit Spain.

Rent a campervan

© roadsurfer GmbH / Janis

Day 1: Barcelona Architecture and Sunshine

To start your Catalonia adventure, we recommend exploring Barcelona’s main inner-city attractions designed by the famous Catalonian architect Antoni Gaudí, the Sagrada Família Church, and Park Güell. Apart from the awe-inspiring architecture, you also have one of the best party scenes in Europe, excellent Tapas, and the long golden sand beach that stretches for more than 4 km directly in front of Barcelona city center. Our roadsurfer station is located near the Barcelona airport, so you can either pick up your camper first or go to town to explore, or you arrive an evening early, explore the nightlife and sights, then pick up your camper the following day.

→Campsites in and around Barcelona

 Day 2: Cycle Around the Ancient City of Tarragona

Tarragona, an ancient Roman town dating back to the 5th century BC, is a spectacular seaside port village with ancient Roman amphitheaters, a UNESCO Monastery named El Poblet, the National Archaeological Museum, and Les Ferreres Aqueduct. After your time exploring the region’s historical importance, you also have warm Mediterranean beaches and gentle road biking loops to make the most of the early summer season.

→Campsites in and around Tarragona

© roadsurfer GmbH / comewithus2

 Day 3: Cruise the Coastal Highway to Valencia

Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city behind Madrid and Barcelona, is another Roman-era port town with a colourful past. It was also settled by Romans first, then Moors around 700 AD, then by the Castilians around 1000 AD, after which point, it was fought over by various Spanish and Catalonian royalty.  Today, Valencia is still renowned for its harbour, the fifth-largest in Europe, and its amalgamation of ancient and modern culture. In the city’s heart, you will discover the ultra-modern architecture of the City of the Arts and Sciences , and this modern architecture is juxtaposed with 800-year-old Churches such as the Valencia Cathedral. There is also a Bull Ring and a Museum of Fine Arts. Once you are all cultured out, you can spend the remainder of the day relaxing at Malvarrosa Beach or stocking up on food at the large central market in preparation for the coming days. The majority of Catalonia is renowned for Tapas. Valencia, however, is known for its Paella. Some of the best Paella can be found in the Malvarrosa region of town, near the beach, but if you want to take the hassle out of the experience, you can also take a Wine and Food Tour. 

→Campsites in and around Valencia

 Day 4: Explore Valencia’s National Parks

The journey now makes its way inland to the Muntanyes de Benifassà. A mountainous region located about 40 minutes away from the coast. You have great hiking paths, road biking loops, and mountain bike trails throughout this region. Some of the best tracks can be found around Mirador del Barranc del Salt, a river network that runs through the middle of the park, and Portell de l’infern. The landscape combines rugged stone outcrops, rivers, lakes, and mountainous peaks, some reaching over 1400 meters.

→Campsites in and around the Benifassà Mountains

© roadsurfer GmbH / Cindy Grave

 Day 5: Visit the Old Town of Zaragoza.

Zaragoza, another 2000-year-old city on the Ebro River, is steeped in history and culture. The town is nestled amongst a lush mountainous landscape. Zaragoza will also be your first foray outside the Catalonia border into the autonomous communities of Aragon. The city is full of historical sites that include a Moorish Castle, Aljafería, the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, a Botanical Garden called Parque Grande José Antonio Labordeta, and finally, the Roman Caesaraugusta. Apart from the history-rich inner city, you’re also rewarded with stunning landscapes in whichever direction you choose to look. You can undertake water activities on the river or head to the hills for more hiking or biking. There is also a geological anomaly nearby called the Aguarales de Valpalmas. This otherworldly location is the result of thousands of years of rain eating away at soft material in the rock, leaving behind what can only be described as thousands of giant anthills made of stone.

→Campsites in and around Zaragoza

Day 6: Hiking in Montserrat

The road takes you back into Valencia and uphill towards Montserrat, a mountain range just backing onto the outskirts of Barcelona. Montserrat is a series of mountain peaks, with the name literally translating to “serrated,” which is precisely what the mountain range looks like. The highest peak, Sant Jeroni, is a little over 1200 meters high and has a fantastic hiking trail that begins from the mountaintop Montserrat Monastery. The area is also one of the best rock climbing destinations in Spain. On top of the various types of climbing on offer, you will also find incredible mountain bike trails and tour operators offering everything from white water rafting to horseback tours. There are, of course, also options for those looking for a slightly more relaxing holiday; these include a cable car to Montserrat Monastery or a scenic railway.

→Campsites in and around Montserrat

Day 7: Back to Barcelona

The trip from the mountains around Montserrat back to the station in Barcelona is around an hour, meaning you have plenty of time to either undertake more activities in the highlands or enjoy the beaches in and around Barcelona. Apart from relaxing at the beach in Barcelona, you could also catch an FC Barcelona game at the 99 thousand seat Camp Nou, take a stroll down Las Ramblas, or explore some of the best Tapas bars in the country.

Let your colourful roadsurfer VW Camper make exploring the northeastern corner of Spain simple, relaxing and adventurous. Explore the Mediterranean coastline with crystal clear water and golden sand beaches, lush and dramatic mountain ranges, and cities that have defined the Europe we know today.

© roadsurfer GmbH / Alvaro Andrades

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