11-Day Road Trip in Portugal, and Spain from Lisbon to Porto, Zamora, Madrid, and Merida

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Portugal, and Spain begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Lisbon in Portugal. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Lisbon for 3 nights.

Catch an early flight to Portugal to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Lisbon before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

A tour of Lisbon is not complete without a visit to the famous Time Out Market Lisboa. This incredible food court and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 59,217 travelers.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Lisbon. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Lisbon’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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Delirium Café Lisboa, an iconic dining spot in Lisbon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Via Graça, a popular restaurant in Lisbon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of daPrata52 - Petiscos ¦ Tapas, a hidden gem nestled in Lisbon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Cockpit Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Lisboa Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cave Rock Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Your multi-country road trip in Portugal, and Spain has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Portugal, and Spain has in store for you! You will be staying in Lisbon for 2 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

A tour of Lisbon is not complete without a visit to the famous Lisbon Oceanarium. This incredible public aquarium and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 86,301 travelers, and is visited by 1,000,000 people every year.

Make the most of your Lisbon travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Praça Do Comércio. This square and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 108,290 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Rua Augusta Arch for an experience worth remembering. This local triumphal arch and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 23,187 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Lx Factory. This amazing site is a wonderful sightseeing destination with more than 52,117 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Lisbon by booking a table at Encanto, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional vegetarian menu. For a different culinary experience in Lisbon, Alma shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Belcanto is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative, and portuguese cuisine in Lisbon. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Continue your lively evening at Toca Da Raposa, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Janela Da Atalaia Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Pub Português ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3, you will wake up in Lisbon with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Lisbon before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Portugal, and Spain.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Lisbon, including the outstanding Belém Tower. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 91,872 reviews, this fascinating fort and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Lisbon is also home to the captivating Padrão Dos Descobrimentos, a local monument considered one of the highlights of the city. About 55,676 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Jerónimos Monastery is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Lisbon. This extraordinary monastery and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 48,349 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Castelo De S. Jorge will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing museum and attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 86,378 reviews.

Soak in Lisbon's rich culture at the fantastic Miradouro De Santa Luzia. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Lisbon is its overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 32,846 visitor reviews.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Portugal, and Spain, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Lisbon. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Procópio bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Delfina-Cantina Portuguesa offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Trindade. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lisbon.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Pub Lisboeta, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Desordem Bar & Lounge, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Tr3s Lisboa provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Portugal, and Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Óbidos in Portugal. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Porto, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

After soaking in Lisbon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Óbidos. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 9 min. When you arrive in Óbidos, it's time to take a break from the road.

In Óbidos, the extraordinary Castle Of Óbidos awaits. This attraction is a valued castle that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,915 travelers' reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Óbidos and set your GPS to Batalha. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 49 min. Upon reaching Batalha, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Batalha Monastery. This outstanding former convent and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 26,705 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Batalha Monastery is worth pages in your travel diary.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Batalha, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nossa Senhora da Piedade may take around 25 min. Upon your arrival in Nossa Senhora da Piedade, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Nossa Senhora da Piedade today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Sanctuary Of Fátima. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 107,827 visitors.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Porto. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Portugal's delectable cuisine at one of Porto'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 Porto by booking a table at Gruta. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of international cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Le Monument, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Pátio 44, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Fé Wine & Club offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Tapas Bar 24 is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Royal Cocktail Club is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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!

On day 5 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 Porto in Portugal. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zamora, where you will stay for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Porto, including the outstanding Porto Cathedral. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 28,944 reviews, this fascinating cathedral and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Porto is also home to the captivating Luís I Bridge, a local point of interest considered one of the highlights of the city. About 79,912 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Gardens Of The Palácio De Cristal is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Porto. This extraordinary garden and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,364 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Parque Da Cidade Do Porto will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing urban park and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,319 reviews.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Zamora.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Zamora. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Cuzeo in Zamora by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Cuzeo offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious regional, and contemporary menu.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Portugal, and Spain! Enjoy your evening in Zamora to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Segovia in Spain. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Madrid, your home for 3 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Zamora, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Segovia may take around 2 hours 4 min. Upon your arrival in Segovia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Alcázar Of Segovia is a travelers’ favorite in Segovia, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 49,713 visitors. More than 754,946 people visit this extraordinary alcázar and local gem every year to experience its uniqueness.

In Segovia, don’t miss Segovia Cathedral, a great catholic cathedral and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,509 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Segovia off your list when you visit the wonderful Plaza Mayor. This popular sight is an outstanding plaza mayor, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,239 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Aqueduct Of Segovia. This stone bridge and place of interest has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 95,202 reviews.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Portugal, and Spain, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Madrid. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Madrid by reserving a table at DiverXO. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Smoked Room, recognized for its delicious contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Paco Roncero, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Madrid. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Continue your lively evening at Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cafe Madrid is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, 1862 Dry Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

As the night falls in Madrid, 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.

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 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Madrid is the fantastic Market Of San Miguel. As an appreciated building and local gem in the area, Market Of San Miguel has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 106,296 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Main Square. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 152,388 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Thyssen-bornemisza Museum, a standout art museum and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 32,846 reviewers, so it's no surprise that it attracts as many as 671,078 visitors annually.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Museo Del Prado. This art museum is a highly recommended attraction in the city, attracting more than 3,497,345 visitors per year and boasting an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 98,929 visitor reviews.

Just around the corner lies the magnificent Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, a popular association football venue and attraction many visitors enjoy. More than 120,158 people have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Portugal, and Spain by rewarding yourself with a taste of Madrid’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Mi Venta, an iconic dining spot in Madrid. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mas Al Sur, a popular restaurant in Madrid. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Prada a Tope Madrid, a hidden gem nestled in Madrid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Wake up and see what day 8 of your great European road trip in Portugal, and Spain has in store for you! You will be staying in Madrid for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Something that makes Madrid the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding building, Crystal Palace. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,270 visitors.

The famous El Retiro Park is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Madrid's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 162,386 travelers have rated this incredible urban park and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Madrid is also home to the extraordinary Puerta De Alcalá, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 43,833 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía, which hosts up to 1 visitor every year. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 46,855 reviews, a visit to this wonderful art museum and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

On this Madrid exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic Casa De Campo up close. This fascinating park and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 50,826 travelers is proof.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Madrid’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.

Make sure to book a table at BiBo Dani García, a popular restaurant in Madrid. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Madrid at Malacatín, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Pum Pum Café. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Madrid tonight.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your multi-country journey across Portugal, and Spain. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Madrid in Spain. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Merida where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Madrid is the fantastic Royal Palace Of Madrid. As an appreciated royal palace and local gem in the area, Royal Palace Of Madrid has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 77,471 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Plaza De España. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 98,199 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Temple Of Debod, a standout egyptian temple and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 44,446 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Western Park. This park is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 28,992 visitor reviews.

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

As the sun sets on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Merida's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Spain to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Merida has them.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante Chamorro, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try A de Arco? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bar Volterra as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Merida.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Trastero after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Jazz Bar Mérida for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cafetería Pizarrín is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Portugal, and Spain. Today's main destinations are Agualva e Mira-Sintra in Portugal, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lisbon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Agualva e Mira-Sintra, Portugal and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Agualva e Mira-Sintra beckons with new experiences!

One place travelers keep coming back to in Agualva e Mira-Sintra is the magnificent National Palace Of Pena. Around 86,631 visitors have rated this excellent museum and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Quinta Da Regaleira on this leg of your adventure in Portugal. This attraction is a well-known museum that has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from around 54,624 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Agualva e Mira-Sintra, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sintra. This drive usually takes around 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Sintra is the fantastic Cabo Da Roca. As an appreciated cape and local gem in the area, Cabo Da Roca has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 55,143 reviews.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Lisbon. 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Chic do Rêgo, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Laurentina offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss A Nossa Casa. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lisbon.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting 4 Caravelas, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Imprensa Cocktail And Oyster Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, A Tabacaria also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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 11 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Lisbon before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Portugal, and Spain. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

On your last day in Portugal, take time to indulge in shopping at Lisbon’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated sightseeing destination and attraction in Lisbon — Santa Justa Lift. About 48,439 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4 out of 5 stars.

Get a last taste of Portugal’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Lisbon and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Portugal, and Spain.

Dine in style at Taberna Portuguesa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Gambrinus boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

The time has come to say farewell to Lisbon for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 11-day European road trip in Portugal, and Spain with fond memories. Safe travels!