11-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Spain, Portugal, and France With Itinerary from Madrid to San Sebastian, Bordeaux, Bilbao, Porto, Lisbon, and Seville

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Spain, Portugal, and France has in store for you! You will be staying in Madrid for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

A top thing to do today is to explore Malasaña, a must-see neighborhood in Madrid. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Check out the globally renowned palace, Royal Palace Of Madrid. Afterward, continue to Temple Of Debod, a monument every traveler should visit. As you explore Madrid’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Plaza De España. This widely recognized public square is an essential stop. Following that, head to El Retiro Park, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Museo Del Prado, a world-famous museum in the city.

For an unforgettable shopping experience, visit Salamanca District, the top shopping destination in Madrid. Browse local boutique shops and luxury stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Salamanca District has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Spain, Portugal, and France, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Madrid.

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

Continue your lively evening at Jazz Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. España Building 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.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Spain, Portugal, and France! Enjoy your evening in Madrid to the fullest!

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

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

After soaking in San Sebastian’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bordeaux, France. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 41 min. When you arrive in Bordeaux, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux, a locally appreciated museum in Bordeaux. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Place De La Bourse. This captivating public square is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Bordeaux Cathedral is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most inviting church in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the curiosity-inducing Porte Dijeaux and discover what makes this monument unique.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Cent 33, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Originel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Clemenceau. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Café Brun, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Le Mushroom Café offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Whose Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Spain, Portugal, and France! Enjoy your evening in Bordeaux to the fullest!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Spain, Portugal, and France. Today's main destinations are Bilbao in Spain, 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 Bilbao. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Spain! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bilbao may take around 3 hours 42 min. Upon your arrival in Bilbao, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Zubizuri, a well-known art installation that everyone visiting Bilbao should see. Next, head to Puppy. This noteworthy art installation is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region.

Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this worthwhile museum before you continue your journey.

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

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 Spain, Portugal, and France by rewarding yourself with a taste of Bilbao’s local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Viña del Ensanche, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Marinela jatetxea? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bilbao.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Boss Bilbao, known for its lively atmosphere. Stromboli Taberna is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Take in the ambiance of Bilbao as this 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 multi-country road trip to look forward to!

On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Spain, Portugal, and France, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Lisbon in Portugal. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lisbon, where you will stay for 2 nights.

As you explore Lisbon’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Porto and set your GPS to Lisbon. 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 2 hours 52 min. Upon reaching Lisbon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Lisbon is Lisbon Oceanarium, an impressive aquarium that draws attention for its awe-inspiring features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Rua Augusta Arch, a history-steeped monument that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Praça Do Comércio, a globally renowned public square that offers a unique experience.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Upon your arrival in Madalena, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Tram 28, an intriguing tramway known for its history-steeped features.

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

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Lisbon. 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 Spain, Portugal, and France.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Delirium Café Lisboa, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, daPrata52 - Petiscos ¦ Tapas is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at A Provinciana. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lisbon tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Lisboa Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Toca Da Raposa, a bar catering to every mood and preference. O Bom O Mau E O Vilão likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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!

Wake up to day 8 of your extraordinary road trip through Spain, Portugal, and France. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Madalena in Portugal. With 1 night left in Lisbon, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Don’t miss Alfama today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the village’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Spend your afternoon discovering Castelo De S. Jorge, a spectacular castle known for its symbolic features.

Upon reaching Penha de França, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Miradouro Da Senhora Do Monte, a locally renowned observation deck that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Portugal's delectable cuisine at one of Lisbon's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, 4 Caravelas stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, British Bar Lisboa offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

As the night falls in Lisbon, 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.

On day 10 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Spain, Portugal, and France, you’ll soak in the magnificence Cordova 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 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Cordova, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Seville to Cordova may take around 1 hour 38 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cordova, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Alcázar Nuevo and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Puente Romano, another highlight in Cordova. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to Puerta Del Puente, a historic monument.

Nearby, you will also find Mosque-cathedral Of Cordoba. This captivating mosque is a top place to see in the area.

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.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Spain, Portugal, and France, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Madrid.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Areia, a top-rated dining spot in Madrid. If you're in the mood for something new, try La MaMá Restaurante, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Sacha Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Madrid.

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!