11-Day Spain Road Trip from Madrid to Zaragoza, Barcelona, Valencia, Murcia, Málaga, Seville, and Merida and surrounding area

Say hello to Madrid! Your exciting road trip through Spain is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Madrid for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Madrid is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out El Retiro Park or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Madrid. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Madrid. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at DiverXO, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Smoked Room is one of the best restaurants for contemporary cuisine in Madrid. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Paco Roncero. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cafe Madrid is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, 1862 Dry Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Spain!

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Madrid. You’ll stay in Madrid for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Drop by the renowned Museo del Prado. This popular art museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 98,929 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 3,497,345 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 46,855 visitors, this art museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Main Square. This square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 152,388 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Market of San Miguel. This building and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Royal Palace of Madrid. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,471 travelers, this royal palace is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Madrid.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Madrid on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

As you explore more of Madrid, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Dine in style at La Mi Venta, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mas Al Sur boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Prada a Tope Madrid. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Madrid.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Madrid. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zaragoza, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Círculo de Bellas Artes. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,540 visitors.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 32,846 travelers. Up to 671,078 people visit Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum every year.

Madrid is also the home of Puerta de Alcalá. Around 43,833 people have rated this triumphal arch an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 120,158 reviews, a visit to this association football venue is a great idea.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Zaragoza, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Zaragoza. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Zaragoza by reserving a table at Gente Rara. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative and contemporary cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Cancook, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Prensa, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zaragoza.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Be A Legend Bar. Alternatively, go to Bar El Circo, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Rock & Blues Cafe provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

On day 4 of your road trip in 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 in Zaragoza. In the evening, you’ll end up in Barcelona, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make Plaza de los Sitios your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,205 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,535 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This co-cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 34,215 visitors.

When you’re finished at Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, the perfect next stop is Macanaz Park. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 3,378 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Barcelona. Barcelona offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Barcelona.

Begin your culinary exploration in Barcelona by securing a reservation at Lasarte. This renowned restaurant offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit ABaC, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Cocina Hermanos Torres, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 3-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bobby's Free is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Torre Rosa also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Barcelona. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Valencia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Sagrada Família. This minor basilica is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Barcelona, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 226,955 visitors. Around 4,527,427 people visit this attraction every year.

Park Güell is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 181,403 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Plaça de Catalunya. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 175,036 reviews.

Mercado de La Boqueria is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a sightseeing destination rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 160,835 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Valencia, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Valencia's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at El Poblet, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ricard Camarena is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Valencia. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Fierro. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café Negrito, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cafe de las Horas offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Say good night to Valencia and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Valencia, 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 Murcia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Make Mercat Central one of your first sightseeing stops in Valencia. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 79,570 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Serrano Towers is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This fortified tower is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,998 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by City of Arts and Sciences. This tourist destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 125,881 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to L'Oceanogràfic. A trip to this popular public aquarium is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 76,085 previous visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Murcia, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Murcia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Murcia by reserving a table at Perro Limón. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional fusion menu. For a different taste experience, head to Cabaña Buenavista, recognized for its delicious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Almo, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Murcia. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. El Bosque Animado is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Culturas, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is BarAltea. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Granada. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Málaga, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Granada’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Murcia behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 46 min. Granada welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Albaicín, Granada, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 326 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Mirador de San Nicolas, Granada is a recommended place to visit. This scenic viewpoint is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 63,173 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Granada is Plaza de Toros de Granada. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 3,881 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Granada offers an experience you will remember.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Málaga. Málaga offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Málaga, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Málaga by securing a table at La Cosmo. Esteemed as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional andalusian menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit José Carlos García, famous for its scrumptious creative and andalusian dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Blossom, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite fusion cuisine in Málaga. Located in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is an ideal pick for fusion cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Speakeasy “The Pharmacy” after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Chester & Punk for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, La Terraza De Valeria is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Málaga. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Seville, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Málaga Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,404 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Iglesia Catedral de la Encarnación. Iglesia Catedral de la Encarnación is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,609 reviews.

Alcazaba is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,648 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Picasso Museum Málaga. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 24,075 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Plaza de la Merced, a famous square in Málaga. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,095 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Seville, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Seville. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Seville by booking a table at Az-Zait. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Abantal, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Cañabota, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing seafood menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Garlochí after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Second Room, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 9 of your road trip in 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 in Seville. In the evening, you’ll end up in Merida, where you will stay for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Torre del Oro. This extraordinary monument has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 40,410 visitors.

Next, make your way to Plaza de España. This porticoed square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 141,385 reviews.

While in Seville, we also recommend a visit to Metropol Parasol. This monument has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 78,849 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Catedral de Sevilla. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,052 travelers, this catholic cathedral is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Seville.

Make your way to Royal Alcázar of Seville, perhaps the most famous park in Seville. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 74,238 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Merida, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Merida. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Merida. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Madrid. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Roman Theatre of Emerita Augusta. This roman theatre is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 37,382 visitors.

Temple of Diana is another popular attraction you could visit today. This roman temple has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,292 visitors.

Acueducto de los Milagros is also highly recommended by travelers. This aqueduct has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,410 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Madrid. Madrid offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Madrid.

Make sure to reserve a table at BiBo Dani García, 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 Malacatín, 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 Pum Pum Café, a hidden gem nestled in Madrid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Head back to your accommodation in Madrid and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!

Day 11 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Madrid before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Madrid’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Spain. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Spain forever.

Make plaza de España one of your first sightseeing stops in Madrid. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 98,199 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Madrid.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Arrabal Madrid, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Madrid. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Spain!