Let’s explore some stunningly beautiful places that can easily be visited on any Madrid to Valencia road trip. Both cities are must-sees on any Spain bucket list – but why not add a few hidden gems along the way to make your journey even more memorable?

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Top Stops on the road from Madrid to Valencia

Planning Madrid to Valencia Road Trip

While there’s a high-speed train connecting the Spanish cities of Madrid and Valencia (you can often find great budget-friendly deals on Trainline), Spain is so much more than just its major cities. There’s a unique charm in exploring a country by road, soaking in the landscapes and experiencing life beyond the urban buzz.

Spain becomes even more surprising once you step off the tourist trail and discover its hidden villages, many of which feel frozen in time. So, if your Spain itinerary includes at least one day in Madrid and one in Valencia, why not turn the journey between them into a road trip filled with unexpected gems? Renting a car is a fantastic way to personalize any Spanish itinerary to your tastes – and turn it into the trip of a lifetime.

Although you can make this drive year-round, be warned: summer temperatures can be intense. You’ll be passing through central Spain, a region that lacks greenery, offers little shade, and doesn’t benefit from the cooling Mediterranean breeze. In July and August, daytime temperatures often reach 35–40°C (95–104°F), making travel during midday particularly uncomfortable.

Anyways, having driven between Madrid and Valencia hundreds of times myself, I’ve had the chance to explore nearly everything along the route. I’m excited to share some insider tips and lesser-known spots to help you experience Spain like a pro.

At the end of this post, you’ll also find a link to save the Madrid to Valencia road trip map on Google Maps for easy planning. If you are considering to do the drive in just one day, you’ll only have time to visit one of the landmarks I mention. To see it all, I’d recommend allowing at least 6 days. You can find the best places to stay along the route on the map below.

Best places on the road from Madrid to Valencia

Aranjuez

The Palace of Aranjuez is one of the most magnificent Royal Sites linked to the Spanish Crown. In 2001, this historic landmark was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Cultural Landscape, a testament to its rich history and stunning surroundings.

Originally built in the 15th century during the reign of the Catholic Monarchs, Aranjuez underwent numerous transformations under successive rulers. Its golden age, however, came under King Carlos III and King Carlos IV, when it became a fashionable retreat for the Spanish royal court – a place of leisure, luxury, and artistic flourishing.

The last time I was fortunate enough to visit Aranjuez was in Autumn, as part of a day trip from Madrid. With the autumn leaves painting the palace gardens, Jardin del Principe, in warm hues of gold and crimson, the entire scene felt absolutely magical.

Chinchon

Visiting the small town of Chinchon was one of the true highlights of my travels in Spain in 2022. I often say it’s one of the most unique small towns near Madrid – a hidden gem that many travelers sadly overlook. Steeped in tradition and seemingly frozen in time, Chinchon is best known for its iconic Plaza Mayor, a rare and remarkably preserved example of Castilian medieval architecture.

Chinchon’s Plaza Mayor is considered one of the most distinctive town squares in all of Spain. With 234 wooden balconies, some dating back to the 15th century, the square exudes old-world charm and history of Medieval Spain. Its cinematic appeal hasn’t gone unnoticed – Chinchon has served as a filming location for several classic movies featuring legends like Rita Hayworth, Orson Welles, and John Wayne.

Parque Warner

Warner parque madrid — *Parque Warner is a must-stop if you’re visiting Spain with kids*

If you’re visiting Spain with kids, Parque Warner is a must – one of the country’s most popular and exciting theme parks. But even if you’re not traveling with children, it’s well worth a visit if you enjoy adrenaline-pumping rides and immersive entertainment. In fact, I first visited Parque Warner before having kids, and now returning with them is high on my travel list.

This beloved Spanish theme park features five themed areas, each filled with thrilling attractions, restaurants, and shops. Since our last visit, Parque Warner has only gotten better – especially with the launch of its latest ride, Batman: Gotham City Escape, which opened in May 2023.

If you plan to go, I highly recommend buying your tickets in advance to skip the long lines at the entrance and make the most of your day at the park.

Segobriga Archaeological Park

segobriga cuenca spain — *Segobriga Ruins on the road from Madrid to Valencia*

Along the road from Madrid to Valencia, you’ll come across one of the most impressive Roman ruins in Spain – Segobriga Archaeological Park. As one of the oldest and most significant historical sites in the Castilla-La Mancha region, it’s a must-stop for anyone with a passion for ancient history in Spain.

Segobriga was once a flourishing Roman city, strategically located between Carthago Nova (modern-day Cartagena) and Toletum (modern-day Toledo). Today, visitors can explore its remarkably preserved amphitheater, forum, and thermal baths – or even take a sneak peek through Spain’s virtual tours.

The site is also steeped in Spanish legend. It’s often associated with the story of Viriato, the famed Lusitanian leader believed to have connections to Segobriga, as well as tales tied to the mystical Enchanted City of Cuenca.

Monastery of Ucles

monastery ucles spain beautiful facades — *Ucles is one of the most secret and beautiful monasteries in Spain*

For those who love discovering hidden and beautiful monasteries in Spain, a visit to the Monastery of Ucles is a must. Nestled in the tranquil countryside near one of Spain’s most significant Roman sites – Segobriga Archaeological Park – this lesser-known gem is often referred to as “El Escorial of Castilla-La Mancha,” drawing a comparison to the grand Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial near Madrid. One of the most striking features of the monastery is its ornate main doorway, a masterpiece by the famed architect Pedro de Ribera.

The Monasterio de Ucles was constructed atop the ruins of an ancient Moorish castle, with its origins dating back to the 15th century. Over time, it evolved into the spiritual and political center of the Order of Santiago, one of Spain’s most powerful military-religious orders during the Reconquista (you can learn more about this historical period through my list of Spanish documentaries). The architecture of the monastery reflects a blend of styles – from Renaissance to Baroque – capturing the rich and layered history of the region.

The Castle of Garcimuñoz

garcimuñoz on the road from Madrid to Valencia — The Castle of *– a hidden historical site between Madrid and Valencia*

One of the lesser-known sites along the road from Madrid to Valencia is the Castle of Garcimuñoz – a place I only truly discovered after driving past it nearly fifty times. It’s a fascinating fusion of medieval heritage and bold modern restoration, where history meets innovation in the most unexpected ways. The castle features striking Gothic architecture blended with sleek, futuristic walkways that offer a unique perspective on its ancient walls.

Its history is just as compelling: the first recorded owner was a knight who rode alongside King Alfonso VIII during the 12th-century conquest of Cuenca. In the 14th century, it passed to Prince Don Juan Manuel, one of the most important literary figures of medieval Spain. Later, in the 15th century, it came under the ownership of Juan Pacheco, the powerful nobleman better known as the Marquess of Villena – a character you might recognize from the Spanish TV series Isabel.

Adding another layer to its story, the Church of Saint John the Baptist was built within the castle grounds in the 13th century. It eventually served as a cemetery, much like the hauntingly atmospheric Museum of the Mummies in Quinto.

Note, to access the castle, you need to book your guided entrance in advance.

Cuenca

One of the most popular and convenient stops on any Valencia to Madrid road trip is the charming city of Cuenca – whether you’re traveling by car or taking the high-speed AVE train, which also stops there. Thanks to its strategic location, spending a day in Cuenca makes for an ideal day trip from either Valencia or Madrid.

Cuenca is best known for one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks, the Hanging Houses (Casas Colgadas), dramatically perched on the edge of a cliff. But beyond its postcard-famous view, the city holds other treasures – most notably, the Cathedral of Cuenca, one of the most stunning religious sites in Spain. Its adjacent museum even houses an original painting by El Greco, adding yet another layer of cultural richness.

You can discover more about Cuenca in my posts: One Day Cuenca Itinerary, Must-Sees Places in Cuenca, and Secret Cuenca Road Trip. Plus, don’t miss the stunning cathedral photos featured in this article.

Alarcon

Alarcón Cuenca Spain beautiful small towns — *Alarcon feels straight out of a medieval storybook*

Alarcon is one of Spain’s most beautiful and best-kept secrets – visiting it truly feels like stepping back in time. Tucked away in the province of Cuenca, this enchanting village is perched atop a dramatic hill and encircled by the meandering Júcar River, offering a scene straight out of a medieval storybook.

What makes Alarcon particularly unforgettable are its remarkably preserved medieval walls, narrow cobbled streets, and the serene, timeless atmosphere that surrounds you from the moment you arrive. It’s a place where history whispers from every stone, and where the past feels intimately present. You can catch a glimpse of the views in my IG Reels on Alarcon, but trust me – photos don’t quite capture the magic.

Requena

Another fascinating and lesser-known stop on the road from Madrid to Valencia is the historic town of Requena, renowned for its network of ancient underground caves. Before planning your visit, though, be sure to double-check if the site is open – Requena was recently impacted by DANA flooding in the Valencia region, and parts of the area are still undergoing reconstruction.

The Cuevas de la Villa is a remarkable complex of 22 caves, dating back to the period of Arab presence in Spain. These subterranean chambers once served as granaries, used to store wheat and cereals thanks to the caves’ naturally stable temperatures. Ingeniously, the locals would seal amphoras with fire to preserve their contents – creating an effect much like modern vacuum-sealing, centuries ahead of its time.

Abandoned in the 18th century and forgotten for generations, the caves were only rediscovered in the 1970s, revealing a hidden chapter of Spain’s agricultural and architectural heritage. While in the area, consider visiting the Casa del Arte Mayor de la Seda, a beautifully preserved and little-known museum celebrating Spain’s silk-making tradition.

Manises

Fans of Spanish ceramic pottery will find a visit to Manises, a charming town just outside Valencia, especially rewarding. Recognized as a UNESCO Creative City, Manises has been a celebrated center of ceramic craftsmanship for over 700 years.

This historic town gained fame in the 14th and 15th centuries for its exquisite gold and cobalt-blue pottery, admired throughout Europe. In later centuries, it became known for its vibrant polychrome earthenware and decorative tiles, especially during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Today, Manises is one of the most popular day trips from Valencia, offering visitors the chance to explore artisan workshops, ceramic museums, and heritage routes that tell the story of its long-standing artistic tradition. In fact, even during a recent solo weekend in Paris, I came across ceramic pieces from Manises on display at the Cluny Museum – a beautiful reminder of how far its artistic legacy has reached.

You can read more about my visit and discover tips for spending a day in Manises in this post.

Madrid to Valencia Road Trip Map

Save this Madrid to Valencia road trip map here. For a longer journey, you can combine it with my my Ultimate 7-day Valencia Road Trip, an Epic 7-day Madrid road Trip, or any other popular Madrid road trips, depending on your interests. You can download more Spain travel planning freebies here.

Madrid to Valencia Road Trip: Top Stops Not To Miss

Top Stops on the road from Madrid to Valencia

Planning Madrid to Valencia Road Trip