Hi, I am planning to explore Eastern Spain for 16 nights in April. I have been to Barcelona several times so only feel I need to spend 1-2 nights there. I know that I want to spend time in Valencia and Alicante (and likely do a few day trips by train from there). I think it makes sense to spend a few nights in Sitges and Taraggon as well as I make my way down the coast. (Will it be warm enough to at least sunbathe in any of the coastal towns, which might impact where to stay and for how long)?

What are your suggestions for overnight stays (where and how many nights), and day trips from those overnight spots?

Do you have any hotels you'd recommend in the Eur 125-175 range (though I may use hotel points for Barcelona, Valencia and Alicante, where hotel costs might be higher).

Finally, any restaurant recommendations would be welcome. (I have seen some of Maribel's recommendations for Alicante and Valencia).

Thanks in advance.

John H

If you are interested in modern History, you may visit the Civil war sights in the Delta del Ebro.

I'd give Sitges a miss as there's not much there to recommend it. At best, it's a day trip from Barcelona.. Then Tarragona for as long as you fancy and on to Valencia. Be aware that following the floods there, you'll have to be ready for the city to be still in some disarray. Valencia to Alicante, then Murcia if time allows.

Thanks for those thoughts. Are there day trips that I should take from any of the cities you mention (which would help me determine how many days to stay in each)? Is Alicante (including day trips) worth 5 nights? Is Valencia (including day trips) worth 5 nights? [Mainly asking for hotel points redemptions where the fifth night is free].

Thanks.

"Is Alicante (including day trips) worth 5 nights? Is Valencia (including day trips) worth 5 nights?"

All depends on the day trips you plan to do.

Do you have suggestions on what the key day trips might be from each?

From Alicante you can visit Elche (Elx) for El Palmeral, the Huerto del Cura, the Banys Arabs,
Altea is very nice, especially the casco antiguo. Walk up to the Mirador de los Cronistas de España for an incredible panoramic view of Altea and its bay, from Calpe and Altea Hills to Benidorm.
Dénia has nice shops and some excellent restaurants. Castillo de Dénia is also worth a visit. Take a stroll in the Barrio de Pescadores or make an excursion by boat or catamaran from the Puerto.

In Valencia, rent a bike or book a bike tour with guide.
Excursion to Parque Natural de la Albufera.
By train to Xàtiva for a visit of the Castell de Xàtiva.
Excursion to Requena in the Cabrillas mountains, famous for its vineyards. The old town has many caves (Cuevas de la Villa de Requena) that can be visited.

If you are interested in Punic History, you may proceed up to Cartagena.

Thanks so much, MariamC and neckervd -- much appreciated!

John H

We stayed 5 nights at POSADA DEL MAR in Denia. Perfect location across from the marina; easy walk to anywhere in town.
Lovely historic building with parking in a lot about a block away from the hotel.

I think I'd stay in Denia longer than Alicante, even thought is a smaller city. I skipped Alicante altogether on this past trip but it depends, as was said, above, on your interests.
Denia has some great places to eat.