Road trip through the Mediterranean and Levante: history, sea and southern essence
The Mediterranean and Levante by car: Madrid, Cuenca, Valencia, Alicante, Murcia, Granada and Córdoba.
A road trip through the essence of the Spanish Mediterranean and Andalusian soul. From Castilian landscapes to the brightness of the Levante coast and the art of the south, this itinerary combines sea, culture, and gastronomy at a serene pace — ideal for travelers seeking freedom and discovery.
From Cuenca to Valencia, the contrast between cliffs and beaches marks the start of the journey. Alicante and Murcia bring light, orchards, and Mediterranean character, while Granada and Córdoba close the route with monuments evoking Andalusi splendor.
Each stage is balanced for guided visits, short drives, and comfortable accommodations with breakfast included. Museums, history, and sea intertwine with unique flavors and ever-changing landscapes under the Levantine sun.
A journey where each city offers a distinct experience — culture, gastronomy, and the warmth of the Mediterranean in every kilometer.
- Day 1: Arrival in Madrid — Start of the trip and first impressions
Welcome to Madrid. Pick up your rental car at the designated point and spend the afternoon exploring the historic center: Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Literary Quarter. Tapas, art, and cosmopolitan atmosphere mark the beginning of your journey.
Accommodation in Madrid. Preparation for the first stage to Cuenca.
- Day 2: Madrid → Cuenca (2h) — Hanging Houses and art between gorges
Drive to Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Its Hanging Houses dominate the Huécar Gorge, while the medieval old town invites leisurely walks among alleys and viewpoints.
Cultural suggestion: Spanish Abstract Art Museum. Free afternoon to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and mountain cuisine.
Accommodation in Cuenca. Peaceful night amid history and landscape.
- Day 3: Cuenca → Valencia (2h 30) — City of Arts and paella by the sea
Descend towards Valencia, where modernity and tradition coexist. Included guided tour of the City of Arts and Sciences, the Silk Exchange, and the old town.
Enjoy authentic paella by the Mediterranean and the vibrant coastal atmosphere. Free afternoon for the Turia Gardens or local museums.
Accommodation in Valencia. Lively seaside evening.
- Day 4: Valencia → Alicante (2h) — Castle, promenade, and Mediterranean lifestyle
Drive to Alicante. Climb up to Santa Bárbara Castle for panoramic views, stroll along the Esplanade, and relax on Postiguet Beach.
Free afternoon to walk around the harbor, try rice dishes, and enjoy the coastal setting. Suggestion: dinner on terraces overlooking the sea.
Accommodation in Alicante. Night by the sea breeze.
- Day 5: Alicante → Murcia (1h) — Baroque Cathedral and flavors from the garden
Short drive to Murcia. Visit its Cathedral and old quarter with lively squares and local cafés. Tapas and garden produce take center stage today.
Free afternoon for museums or a stroll along the Segura River. Suggestion: try “marineras” and local wines.
Accommodation in Murcia. Quiet night in the heart of southeastern Spain.
- Day 6: Murcia → Granada (3h) — Alhambra, history and Albaicín views
Drive to Granada. Included guided visit to the Alhambra, a jewel of Nasrid art, with scheduled entry and professional guide.
In the afternoon, stroll through the Albaicín and enjoy views from San Nicolás. Suggestion: flamenco show in a Sacromonte cave.
Accommodation in Granada. Evening views of the illuminated Alhambra.
- Day 7: Granada → Córdoba (2h 30) — Mosque, courtyards and Andalusian flavor
Drive to Córdoba. Free visit to the Mosque–Cathedral, one of the most beautiful monuments in the Islamic world. Wander through the Jewish Quarter and its flower-filled courtyards.
Free afternoon for tapas and walks through historic alleys. Suggestion: dinner on a terrace overlooking the Roman Bridge.
Accommodation in Córdoba. Night of golden light and orange blossom scent.
- Day 8: Córdoba → Madrid (4h) — Return and vehicle drop-off
Return to Madrid to drop off your rental car at the indicated point. Free time to conclude your trip with one last visit or some shopping.
End of the Mediterranean and Levante journey — a trip through sea, mountains, and historical heritage.
End of services.
- Optional night in Madrid — A calm farewell in the capital
Possibility to add an extra night in Madrid to enjoy museums, terraces, or gastronomy before your return.
We recommend requesting this extension when booking to ensure availability.
A self-drive itinerary through the Mediterranean and Levante: history, beaches, mountains, and culture under the southern Spanish sun.
- Day 1: Arrival in Madrid. Pick up your car and stroll through the historic center and its emblematic neighborhoods.
- Day 2: Madrid → Cuenca. Hanging Houses, medieval old town and the Spanish Abstract Art Museum.
- Day 3: Cuenca → Valencia. Guided tour of the City of Arts and Sciences and paella tasting by the sea.
- Day 4: Valencia → Alicante. Santa Bárbara Castle, seaside promenade, and Postiguet Beach.
- Day 5: Alicante → Murcia. Baroque Cathedral, garden-fresh tapas, and local atmosphere in the old town.
- Day 6: Murcia → Granada. Guided tour of the Alhambra and walk through the Albaicín and San Nicolás viewpoint.
- Day 7: Granada → Córdoba. Mosque–Cathedral, Jewish Quarter, and flower-filled courtyards with Andalusian charm.
- Day 8: Córdoba → Madrid. Return and drop off the car. End of the Mediterranean and Levante route.
- Optional night: Extend your stay in Madrid to end your journey at a relaxed pace.
Meeting Point and End of Route
The experience begins in Madrid, where you will collect the hire car at the designated point to start the route through Castile. The booking includes all the necessary digital documentation, with a detailed itinerary, access maps and recommendations to enjoy each stage with autonomy and comfort.
The tour also ends in Madrid, where the vehicle is returned and the journey concludes. From there you can easily connect with your return or take advantage of an extra night in the capital before departure.
Included
- Mid-range rental car (4/5 doors) for the entire route, with unlimited mileage and basic insurance included.
- Accommodation with daily breakfast in selected hotels according to the itinerary.
- Guided tour in Valencia with an official guide and access to the City of Arts and Sciences.
- Guided tour in Granada with entry tickets to the Alhambra and professional guide.
- 24-hour travel assistance and logistical support throughout the trip.
- Detailed itinerary including distances, driving times, and cultural and gastronomic recommendations.
- Basic travel insurance.
Not Included
- Fuel, tolls, parking fees, or personal expenses related to vehicle use.
- Entrance fees to monuments or optional activities not explicitly listed as included.
- Lunches, dinners, and drinks not specified in the “Included” section.
- Extended travel insurance, cancellation coverage, or additional car insurance (optional).
- Optional: Extra night in Madrid. Please check availability and conditions.