Mediterranean Coast Road Trip Itinerary
The Mediterranean Coast Road Trip is a journey of discovery and adventure. Starting in Barcelona, this 12-day trip takes you through the stunning towns of Tarragona, Alicante, and Mojácar, before ending in Málaga. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, visit historical sites, and marvel at UNESCO Heritage monuments. The total distance of the trip is approximately 1147km and the roads are excellent.
The best time to drive the Mediterranean Coast Road Trip is during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, the trip can be enjoyed at any time of the year. The route is suitable for all drivers, and can be managed on a moderate budget.
This is an unforgettable journey that will provide you with a lifetime of memories.
12
number of days
1,147 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Barcelona
Distance 1,147 km
Driving time 22.0 h
Pace: modest
298.3 kWh
Airports
BCN
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Barcelona, located in the Catalonia region of Spain, is an ideal starting point for the Mediterranean Coast Road Trip. This vibrant city offers a wide range of attractions and activities to explore and enjoy. From the stunning Gaudi architecture to the lively La Rambla, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
For those arriving by air, Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) is the closest international airport and offers a range of car rental options. From here, visitors can then begin their journey to explore the Mediterranean coast.
While in Barcelona, visitors must not miss the opportunity to explore the city’s many attractions. A visit to the Sagrada Familia is a must, as is a stroll along the bustling La Rambla. The Gothic Quarter offers a unique insight into the city's history, with its narrow cobbled streets and ancient buildings. For those wanting to get a taste of the city's nightlife, the Barceloneta area is the perfect place to explore.
For those looking for a unique experience, the Montjuïc mountain is the perfect spot to take in the city's stunning views. From here, visitors can also explore the National Art Museum and the iconic Camp Nou Stadium.
With so much to see and do, Barcelona is the perfect starting point for the Mediterranean Coast Road Trip.
1
Barcelona
- Tarragona
Distance 98 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: modest
25.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Start your journey from Barcelona and explore the stunning beauty of the Mediterranean coast. Drive through Sitges, a picturesque coastal town and discover its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. Then, continue your journey to Tarragona, a city with a rich Roman past. Along the way, marvel at the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and take in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. With a distance of 98km and a driving time of fewer than 2 hours, this is a great road trip for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the region.
Visit the old city of Tarragona, which is home to several ancient monuments, including the Roman Amphitheatre and the Tarragona Cathedral. Take a stroll along the old streets and visit the many museums and galleries. In Sitges, take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea and explore the many restaurants, bars and shops. Don't forget to visit the beautiful beaches and the old churches.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage. With its stunning views, rich cultural heritage and amazing attractions, this road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Tarragona - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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2
Tarragona
- Valencia
Distance 267 km
Driving time 3.6 h
Pace: fast
80.0 kWh
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Embark on a unique road trip starting in Tarragona and heading towards Valencia. This 267km journey takes less than 4 hours and will take you through some of Spain’s most breathtaking landscapes and historical sites. From the Roman ruins of Tarragona to the UNESCO Heritage sites in Castellón de la Plana, you will be in awe of the beauty of this region. Make sure to take time to explore the old city centre of Castellón de la Plana and its historic churches. As you make your way to Valencia, you will have the chance to admire the picturesque views of the Mediterranean Sea. Once you reach Valencia, make sure to visit the City of Arts and Sciences to experience its modern architecture. Along the way, you will find plenty of accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites. For more information on the attractions, accommodation, restaurants and campsites along the route, please refer to the ‘Itinerary’ of this stage.
Valencia - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
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3
Valencia
- Alicante
Distance 190 km
Driving time 3.2 h
Pace: modest
49.5 kWh
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Welcome to the road trip stage from Valencia to Alicante! This stage will take you on a 190km journey through some of the most beautiful places in Spain. You can expect to drive for fewer than 4 hours, so make sure to plan your stops and take your time to enjoy the scenery.
Start your journey in Valencia, the city of arts and sciences, and visit the iconic Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. Marvel at the architecture of the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia and the Hemisfèric, and take a stroll through the Turia Gardens.
Continue your journey to the coastal city of Alicante and make sure to visit the Santa Barbara Castle, the imposing fortress overlooking the city. Be sure to take a stroll on the Explanada de España, the promenade lined with palm trees, and take in the views of the Mediterranean Sea.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Alicante - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Alicante - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
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4
Alicante
- Cartagena
Distance 116 km
Driving time 3.8 h
Pace: slow
26.7 kWh
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Take your next road trip to Alicante, Spain, and end in Cartagena! This 116 km journey will take you less than 4 hours. Along the way, you can explore some of the most interesting places in the area.
Start your journey in Alicante and visit the Santa Barbara Castle, a 9th century fortress with amazing views of the city. Then, take a stroll in the old town, where you can find the popular Explanada de España, a promenade lined with palm trees and mosaic designs.
Continue your journey to Cartagena, where you can explore the remains of the Roman Theatre, a 2nd century amphitheater. Don't forget to visit the Palacio Consistorial, a 19th century building that now houses the City Hall.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Cartagena - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Cartagena
- Mojácar
Distance 128 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: modest
33.3 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for a 128km journey from Cartagena to Mojácar that will take you less than 3 hours. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, so make sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
Start off your journey in Cartagena, a port city in southeast Spain. Visit the Castillo de la Concepción, a 16th century castle with a stunning view of the city. After that, take a stroll through the old town and admire the beautiful architecture.
As you drive towards Mojácar, you will pass by the towns of La Unión and Los Belones. Make sure to stop at La Unión and visit the El Castillo de los Moros, an 8th century castle. Los Belones is a charming fishing village, so take some time to explore its streets and take some pictures.
Once you reach Mojácar, you will be mesmerized by its white-washed houses and its beautiful beaches. Visit the old town and explore its narrow streets, or go to the beach and enjoy the stunning views.
We hope you enjoy your journey from Cartagena to Mojácar. Have a safe and fun trip!
Mojácar - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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6
Mojácar
- Almeria
Distance 113 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: slow
25.9 kWh
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Embark on a 113 km road trip through the beautiful region of Mojácar, Spain and its neighbouring cities. Begin your journey in Mojácar, a picturesque village, with its cobbled streets and white washed houses, and explore its historical sites, such as the Church of Santa María and the Castle of Mojácar. As you continue your journey, you will pass through San Jose, a beautiful coastal town, perfect for a beach day or a stroll through its picturesque streets. Finally, you will arrive in Almeria, a city with a rich cultural heritage, where you can explore the Alcazaba de Almeria, the Castillo de San Cristobal and the Cathedral of Almeria. With fewer than 4 hours of driving time, this is the perfect road trip for those looking to explore the region. Along the way, be sure to take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Almeria - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Almeria - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
Almeria
- Málaga
Distance 235 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: fast
70.6 kWh
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Get ready for an amazing road trip from Almeria to Málaga! This 235 km journey will take you through some of Spain's most breathtaking landscapes and historical sites. Start the adventure in Almeria, where you can explore the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress. Then, make your way to Almuñécar, where you can take a stroll along the beach and visit the Roman ruins. Finally, arrive in Málaga, where you can discover the city's vibrant culture and take in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Along the way, you'll have plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning views of the countryside and explore the amazing historical sites. Don't forget to take a few stops to enjoy some of the amazing restaurants and campsites that are available. With a driving time of fewer than four hours, you'll have plenty of time to explore these amazing places. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" section of this stage.
Málaga - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Málaga - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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Málaga
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Málaga is a fantastic destination to finish your Mediterranean Coast Road Trip. Located in the south of Spain, this coastal city offers a variety of activities for every traveler. Explore the old city to discover ancient architecture and a rich culture, including some of the best art galleries in the country. A must-see is the Alcazaba, a palace-fortress that was built by the Moors in the 11th century. Wander around the ruins to get a glimpse of the past.
For a unique experience, visit the Picasso Museum to learn more about the famous Spanish artist. With over 200 works of art, it is one of the most visited museums in the city. Afterward, take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea. End your day with a walk along the port, where you can find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars.
If you’re traveling by car, you can easily reach Málaga from the Mediterranean Coast Road Trip. The closest international airport is Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) which is only 8 kilometers from the city center. So, don’t miss out on this beautiful city and explore Málaga for the perfect end to your Mediterranean Coast Road Trip.
Málaga - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Википедия
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Mediterranean Coast Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Barcelona
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End:
Málaga
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Distance:
1,147 km
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Stay:
12 days
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Getting there:
Barcelona International Airport (BCN)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating 12-day Mediterranean Coast Road Trip, starting from the bustling city of Barcelona and concluding in the sun-kissed city of Málaga. Covering an approximate distance of 1147 kilometers (about 713 miles), this journey is a remarkable blend of idyllic beaches, historical landmarks, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, designed for both relaxation and cultural enrichment.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Barcelona: Marvel at the architectural masterpieces of Antoni Gaudí, such as the iconic Sagrada Familia—a still-unfinished basilica combining Gothic and Art Nouveau forms—and the enchanting Park Güell, a public park composed of gardens, architectonic elements, and artistic mosaics.
- Tarragona: Step back in time with the ancient Roman ruins, including the well-preserved Amphitheatre that dates back to the 2nd century A.D., and the awe-inspiring Pont del Diable, an ancient aqueduct that once supplied water to the city.
- Alicante: Discover the imposing Castle of Santa Bárbara perched on Mount Benacantil, offering panoramic views of the city, and stroll along the Explanada de España, a maritime promenade lined with palm trees and paved with 6.5 million marble floor tiles.
- Mojácar: Explore the charming whitewashed buildings and navigate the old town's labyrinthine streets, which reflect the town's Moorish past and provide a sense of its storied history.
- Málaga: Visit the majestic Alcazaba fortress, a palatial fortification dating to the 11th century, explore the Picasso Museum to celebrate the city's most famous son, and experience the lively atmosphere of the historic center.
Best Time to Go:
The best times to embark on this Road Trip are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), to enjoy the mild and pleasant Mediterranean climate without the summer crowds or the scorching heat.
Potential Risks:
While the Roads are generally in excellent condition, summer months can bring heavy traffic along coastal routes and potentially uncomfortable high temperatures. Conversely, winter travel may be affected by less predictable weather conditions, including occasional rain and wind.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- This journey is a moderate budget-friendly adventure, offering accommodations and attractions to suit various price points.
- The route is suitable for all levels of drivers, with well-maintained Roads and clear signage.
- The Road Trip presents a harmonious combination of beach relaxation and cultural excursions, allowing travelers to unwind by the sea and engage with Spain's multifaceted history.
A good choice for:
Taking the Mediterranean Coast Road Trip is more than just a vacation; it's an opportunity to forge unforgettable memories by delving into Spain's coastal allure and deep-rooted cultural heritage. Whether it's the charm of Gaudí's architectural wonders or the serene beauty of the Mediterranean Sea, this journey promises a tapestry of experiences that resonate with the soul of every RoadTripper.
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