Malaga to Barcelona Roadtrip Guide

Dreaming of tapas, flamenco, and coastal sunsets? Hit the road from Málaga to Barcelona and explore the best of Andalusia, the Mediterranean coast, and Catalonia — all for as little as 1 Euro per day with Imoova campervan relocations! You’ll save big on transport and accommodation while taking in the country’s most iconic regions.

Carl W

Relocation Specialist

3 min read
road-trips
Malaga to Barcelona Roadtrip Itinerary

🛻 Route: Málaga → Granada → Almería → Cartagena → Valencia → Tarragona → Barcelona
📅 Duration: 7 nights / 8 days

📍 Day 1: Málaga to Granada (~1.5 hrs)

Start in sun-soaked Málaga with a morning beach stroll or a wander through the Picasso Museum, then head inland to the magical city of Granada.

🚗 Things to Do:

  • Tour the Alhambra Palace & Gardens

  • Explore the white-washed Albaicín quarter

  • Watch sunset from Mirador de San Nicolás

🍴 Food Tip:

  • Bodegas Castañeda – classic tapas with a rustic vibe

💤 Overnight Suggestion:

  • Camping Reina Isabel, close to the city with Alhambra views

📍 Day 2: Granada to Almería (~2 hrs)

Drive east through the desert landscapes of Andalusia to coastal Almería.

🚗 Things to Do:

  • Visit the Alcazaba Fortress

  • Swim at Playa de los Genoveses in Cabo de Gata

  • Explore the city’s historic centre and tapas bars

🍴 Food Tip:

  • Casa Puga – one of the oldest taverns in town, beloved by locals

💤 Overnight Suggestion:

  • Camping Cabo de Gata – perfect for beach access and starry skies

📍 Day 3: Almería to Cartagena (~2.5 hrs)

Follow the coastline into Murcia, landing in the historic seaport of Cartagena.

🚗 Things to Do:

  • Tour the Roman Theatre Museum

  • Stroll the harbour and historic city walls

  • Grab gelato and people-watch in Plaza del Ayuntamiento

🍴 Food Tip:

  • La Catedral – great food, even better ambiance by ancient ruins

💤 Overnight Suggestion:

  • Área Camper Cartagena – a central and convenient motorhome stop

📍 Day 4: Cartagena to Alicante (~1.5 hrs)

Make your way up the Costa Blanca to buzzing Alicante, a perfect mix of beach and culture.

🚗 Things to Do:

  • Climb Castillo de Santa Bárbara

  • Swim at Playa del Postiguet

  • Stroll the Explanada de España for a sunset walk

🍴 Food Tip:

  • D’Tablas – budget-friendly tapas with a buzzing local vibe

💤 Overnight Suggestion:

  • Camping El Jardín, in nearby El Campello

📍 Day 5: Alicante to Valencia (~2 hrs)

Head to Spain’s third-largest city — an eclectic mix of modern architecture, ancient streets, and beach vibes.

🚗 Things to Do:

  • Explore the City of Arts and Sciences

  • Bike the Turia River Park

  • Hit the sand at Playa de la Malvarrosa

🍴 Food Tip:

  • Casa Carmela – one of the best spots for authentic paella Valenciana

💤 Overnight Suggestion:

  • Devesa Gardens Camping & Resort – peaceful, near Albufera Natural Park

📍 Day 6: Valencia to Tarragona (~2.5 hrs)

Continue up the coast to Tarragona, a Roman city perched on the Mediterranean.

🚗 Things to Do:

  • Wander the Roman amphitheatre by the sea

  • Visit Tarragona Cathedral and old town alleys

  • Take a beach break at Platja del Miracle

🍴 Food Tip:

  • Barhaus – Mediterranean fusion in a lovely historic setting

💤 Overnight Suggestion:

  • Camping Trillas Platja Tamarit – ocean views + pool + great facilities

📍 Day 7: Tarragona to Barcelona (~1.5 hrs)

End your journey in vibrant Barcelona, with Gaudí’s masterpieces, urban beaches, and world-class food.

🚗 Things to Do:

  • Tour Sagrada Família and Park Güell

  • Explore Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas

  • Catch a sunset at Bunkers del Carmel

🍴 Food Tip:

  • El Xampanyet – buzzing cava bar with legendary tapas

💤 Overnight Suggestion:

  • Drop your vehicle at the Barcelona depot — then check into a local hotel or hostel if you’re staying on.

💡 Budget Travel Tips for Spain

🛻 Imoova campervan relocation = transport + accommodation for as little as €1/day

⛽ Fill up at larger supermarket petrol stations for the best prices

🥘 Menú del día (daily lunch specials) give you 3 courses for under €12

🅿️ Use Park4Night or Campercontact to find free/cheap overnight spots

🧴 Stock up at Mercadona or Lidl for groceries and supplies

From the white villages of Andalusia to the golden beaches of Catalonia, the Málaga to Barcelona campervan drive is a must-do for anyone craving culture, coast, and cuisine — all at an affordable price.

Malaga to Barcelona Fuel Calculator

Malaga to Barcelona road trip scenery

Estimated Fuel Cost

€155.20

Based on average gasoline price €1.80 per litre

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