Castellón de la Plana, Spain 4-Day Trip Itinerary

Depart Vác, Hungary

Begin your road trip journey from Vác.

Ensure your vehicle is fueled and ready for a long drive towards the Italian border.

Plan for stops every 2-3 hours for rest and fuel. Consider packing some snacks and drinks for the road.

Drive through Slovenia

Enjoy the scenic drive through Slovenia, potentially passing through Ljubljana or making a quick stop for lunch.

Remember to purchase a vignette (road tax sticker) upon entering Slovenia.

Arrive in Dolomites Foothills

Reach the area around Belluno or Trento, at the base of the stunning Dolomites.

Enjoy the first views of the Italian Alps.

The exact arrival time will depend on traffic and stops. Prepare for mountain roads.

Check-in & Dinner

Check into your accommodation in the Dolomites foothills and unwind after a long day of driving.

Enjoy a traditional Italian dinner.

Many hotels offer regional cuisine. Ask for local specialties.

Dolomites Foothills Scenery

Take a short scenic drive or a gentle walk to admire the beautiful pre-Alpine landscapes of the Dolomites foothills.

Capture some stunning photos.

Look for viewpoints indicated by road signs. Dress in layers, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.

Drive to Ligurian Coast

Embark on a scenic drive across Northern Italy towards the Ligurian Coast, aiming for a charming village like Portovenere or a similar coastal town near Cinque Terre.

This will be another significant driving day. Consider stopping for lunch in a charming town like Parma or Modena for some local specialties.

Arrive Portovenere & Check-in

Arrive at the picturesque village of Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a less crowded alternative to Cinque Terre.

Check into your hotel.

Parking can be challenging in these coastal towns; check if your accommodation offers parking or nearby options.

Seafood Dinner by the Sea

Enjoy a delicious fresh seafood dinner at one of Portovenere's charming restaurants, overlooking the harbor.

Liguria is known for its pesto, focaccia, and fresh seafood. Try a local white wine.

Explore Portovenere

Wander through the narrow streets of Portovenere, visit the Church of St.

Peter, Doria Castle, and enjoy the vibrant harbor. Take in the coastal views.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking up hills and cobblestone streets. Don't forget your camera!

Ligurian Lunch

Enjoy a final Ligurian meal, perhaps a focaccia sandwich or a simple pasta dish, before continuing your journey.

Try pesto, a regional specialty originating from Liguria.

Drive towards Verdon Gorge (France)

Begin the drive from the Ligurian Coast across the French Riviera, heading inland towards the Verdon Gorge.

Enjoy the changing landscapes from coast to dramatic canyons.

You'll pass by famous cities like Nice and Cannes, which you can glimpse from the highway. This drive takes you through scenic routes.

Arrive & Check-in near Verdon Gorge

Arrive at your accommodation in a town near the Verdon Gorge, such as Moustiers-Sainte-Marie or Castellane.

Relax and prepare for exploration tomorrow.

Many villages in this region are charming. Consider having dinner at a local Auberge.

Provençal Dinner

Savor a dinner featuring Provençal specialties in your chosen village near the Verdon Gorge.

Provence is known for herbs, olive oil, and fresh produce. Try a local rosé wine.

Verdon Gorge Scenic Drive

Start your day with a scenic drive along the rim of the Gorges du Verdon, often called Europe's Grand Canyon.

Take in the dramatic cliffs and the vibrant turquoise waters of the Verdon River below. Stop at various viewpoints like Point Sublime or Balcons de la Mescla for breathtaking photo opportunities. You can choose either the north rim (Route des Crêtes) or the south rim (Corniche Sublime) for spectacular views.

Ensure your vehicle is ready for winding roads. There are many parking spots at viewpoints. Pack some snacks and water.

Prepare for Departure

After soaking in the beauty of the Verdon Gorge, begin your preparations for the long drive to Spain.

Grab some quick lunch or provisions from a local bakery or small market.

Fuel up your car before heading out. The drive to Castellón de la Plana is approximately 6-7 hours without major stops.

Drive to Castellón de la Plana

Embark on the final leg of your road trip, driving from Southern France across the border into Spain and towards Castellón de la Plana. This will be a significant driving day, traversing diverse landscapes from the French countryside to the Spanish coast. Plan for necessary breaks for rest and refueling.

Consider stopping at a rest area along the highway for a quick stretch and coffee. Toll roads may be encountered in both France and Spain.

Check into Hotel

Arrive in Castellón de la Plana and check into your chosen hotel for a well-deserved rest after your extensive road trip.

Inform the hotel of your late arrival if it's past standard check-in times.

Dinner in Castellón

Upon arrival in Castellón de la Plana and checking into your accommodation, find a local restaurant to enjoy your first Spanish dinner.

Explore the city center for traditional Valencian cuisine.

Many restaurants may be open late, especially around the city center. Try local seafood or paella.