Relaxed 9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Barcelona to Tarragona

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Barcelona, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Whether you decide to explore Barcelona on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Passeig de Gràcia, a popular street in Barcelona. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Whatever your travel style is, Park Güell is an essential stop in Barcelona. This globally renowned park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Sagrada Família, an UNESCO world heritage-designated church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to La Pedrera, a widely recognized museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the wondrous Casa Batlló.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Barcelona offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Barcelona, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Barcelona by reserving a table at Lasarte. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to ABaC, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 3-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Cocina Hermanos Torres, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative menu. With a 3-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Barcelona and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Les Gens Que J'aime after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bobby's Free for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Old Fashioned Gin Tonic & Cocktail Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Barcelona, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Barcelona, and meet locals along the way!

A top thing to do today is to explore La Rambla, a must-see street in Barcelona. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Start your day at Cosmocaixa Museum Of Science. This photogenic science center is a well-known place to see in Barcelona. Then, wander over to Plaça De Catalunya. If gorgeous sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Mercat De La Boqueria. This picture-perfect food market is a favorite among visitors.

Barcelona offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Cathedral Of The Holy Cross And Saint Eulalia is a widely recognized spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Spain makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Spain also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Els 4Gats, a popular restaurant in Barcelona. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Barcelona at Bar El Born, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Ocaña. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Barcelona tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Barcelona and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Manchester, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dry Martini provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Icebarcelona offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Barcelona as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Barcelona. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Barcelona. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Barcelona!

Parc De La Ciutadella is an ideal stop early in the day. This astonishing park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Arc De Triomf, which may be one of the most respected places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Barcelona on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Magic Fountain Of Montjuïc, an astonishing fountain in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Museu Nacional D'art De Catalunya and Montjuïc Castle.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Spain by joining a traveler-approved tour in Barcelona. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Barcelona that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Spain more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Barcelona to find the best options for you!

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Barcelona, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at ÁNDELE Santa Fe, a top-rated dining spot in Barcelona. If you're in the mood for something new, try ARTiSA Barcelona, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Sant Martí. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Barcelona.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Barcelona. The bars in Barcelona make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Torre Rosa, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bobby Gin offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Generator Barcelona. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Spain.

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip in Spain will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Spain, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Salou’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Barcelona behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 19 min. Salou welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Portaventura Park is a well-known amusement park we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Tutuki Splash, a visually striking amusement park that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Font Cibernètica Salou, a gorgeous art installation.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Tarragona. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Tarragona has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Tarragona by booking a table at La Xarxa. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern and rice dishes cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Àncora del Serrallo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Tarragona. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Cube Night is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cafeteria Florida, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Tolo. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

Your relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 6 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Spain better by exploring the top attractions of Tarragona and beyond. With 2 nights left in Tarragona, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Tarragona, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Peníscola / Peñíscola. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 32 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Peniscola Castle, an astonishing castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Lighthouse Of Peñiscola and admire its enchanting features.

When you’re ready, continue to La Casa De Les Petxines, an underrated historical landmark beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Bufador, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Tarragona.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Tarragona.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Barhaus, a highly-rated dining destination in Tarragona. If you're eager to try something different, consider EL VERGEL VEGGIE RESTAURANT, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at CReeA. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Tarragona this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Polski Bar Avenida Tarragona Campclar Dardos. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Baires Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Terrassa Tapes I Música provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Tarragona, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Visiting Monument Als Castellers (tarragona) is always a good idea. This beloved monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the UNESCO world heritage-listed wonders of Roman Circus Of Tárraco, a must-see archeological site in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Balcó Del Mediterrani. This notable observation deck offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Tarragona Amphitheatre, where you can take in UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Spain. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Tarragona has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at Hotel Tarraco Park, a top-rated dining destination in Tarragona. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider ELIAN RESTAURANT, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at El Terrat Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tarragona this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Tarragona. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Tarragona can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Spain!

On day 8 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Spain, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Make a stop at Plaça Del Pallol. This locally appreciated public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Portal Del Roser located in Tarragona for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Passeig Arqueològic. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the archeological site, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Camp De Mart.

You'll be staying in Barcelona on this laid-back road trip through Spain. You'll stay here for 1 night.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Barcelona, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hotel Claris, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant El Foro offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Bouchon. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Barcelona.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Solange Cocktail Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dr Stravinsky is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, El Xampanyet provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!