11-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Portugal and Spain With Itinerary from Faro to Lisbon, Cáceres, Madrid, Jaen, and Seville

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Faro in Portugal. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lisbon, your home for 2 nights.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Faro today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Parque Natural Da Ria Formosa. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,026 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Faro, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Quarteira. This drive usually takes around 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Something that makes Quarteira the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding food market, Fish Market. This local gem has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,761 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Quarteira, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Albufeira. Your travel time is around 24 min.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Albufeira, including the outstanding Falesia Beach. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,278 reviews, this fascinating beach and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Lisbon. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Lisbon. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Portugal in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Encanto, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional vegetarian menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Alma, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Lisbon is Belcanto, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and portuguese menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lisboa Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Toca Da Raposa provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, O Bom O Mau E O Vilão offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Take in the ambiance of Lisbon as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Portugal and Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Mostoles in Spain. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Madrid, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Mostoles. This car ride takes around 2 hours 39 min.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Mostoles is the magnificent The Park Soto Mostoles. Around 3,010 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Finca Liana Móstoles Park on this leg of your adventure in Spain. This attraction is a well-known park that has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from around 8,239 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in San Lorenzo de El Escorial. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in San Lorenzo de El Escorial today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Royal Monastery Of San Lorenzo De El Escorial. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 31,511 visitors.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Madrid. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Spain's delectable cuisine at one of Madrid's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Madrid by booking a table at DiverXO. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Smoked Room, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Paco Roncero, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Yambala, known for its inviting atmosphere. Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cafe Madrid provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 6, you will wake up in Madrid with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Madrid before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Portugal and Spain.

La Latina is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Madrid. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Main Square. This outstanding public square and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 180,808 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Main Square is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Market Of San Miguel is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This food market and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 136,314 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing palace, Royal Palace Of Madrid. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 108,690 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, an outstanding public square, is one place you should visit while in Madrid considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 145,531 travelers.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Madrid boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Spain.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Alhambra, a highly-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante Alabaster, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Jazz Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out España Building, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, 1862 Dry Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Take in the ambiance of Madrid as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

Day 7 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Madrid. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

Make sure to visit Malasaña, a popular neighborhood in Madrid. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated monument and attraction in Madrid — Temple Of Debod. About 57,161 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

The popular Plaza De España is another top sight in Madrid that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved public square in the area, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 98,199 visitors.

Museo Del Prado is a spectacular museum and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Madrid, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 127,611 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía. Because of its allure and charm, around 59,426 visitors have rated this attraction and museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars. More than 1 person visit this attraction each year, and today is your opportunity to be one of the lucky travelers to explore it.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Madrid. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Spain in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Areia, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La MaMá Restaurante offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Sacha Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Madrid.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

On day 9 of your multi-country road trip across Portugal and Spain, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Granada in Spain. In the evening, you’ll end up in Seville, where you will stay for 1 night.

Granada’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Jaen behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 13 min. Granada welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated observation deck and attraction in Granada — Mirador De San Nicolas, Granada. About 70,339 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular Nasrid Palaces is another top sight in Granada that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved palace in the area, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 24,922 visitors.

Alhambra is a spectacular palace and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Granada, earning an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 139,107 enchanted visitors.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Seville of your choice.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Seville. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Portugal and Spain.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Az-Zait in Seville by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Az-Zait offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Abantal, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Cañabota, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional seafood menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Premier Cocktail, Gin & Rum Selections, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Garlochí offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Café Tarifa Miraflores provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Seville in Spain. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Faro, your home for 1 night.

Something that makes Seville the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding art installation, Metropol Parasol. This local gem has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 89,153 visitors.

The famous Royal Alcázar Of Seville is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Seville's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 84,152 travelers have rated this incredible palace and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Seville is also home to the extraordinary Plaza De España, which boasts a 4.8 out of 5 star rating in 156,813 traveler reviews.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Faro’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Faro’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Portugal and Spain.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Papaya, a top-rated dining spot in Faro. If you're in the mood for something new, try Wax RestoBar, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at A Venda. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Faro.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Poncha's Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Columbus is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Lab Terrace is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the night falls in Faro, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.