11-Day Spain Road Trip from Madrid traveling south to Toledo

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Madrid and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Madrid for 5 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Madrid by booking a table at DiverXO, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Smoked Room, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Paco Roncero, a local gem known for its delightful creative cuisine in Madrid. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Cafe Madrid for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, 1862 Dry Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Madrid for 4 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

When you're ready to see some sights, Main Square is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 152,388 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Market of San Miguel. This building has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Almudena Cathedral. The catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,842 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Royal Palace of Madrid. This royal palace is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,471 reviews.

Casa de Campo is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this park, rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 50,826 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Madrid, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Madrid below.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Mi Venta, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mas Al Sur? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Prada a Tope Madrid as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Madrid.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Day 3 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Madrid. You have 3 nights left in Madrid. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Drop by the renowned Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This popular association football venue has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 120,158 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Puerta de Alcalá. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 43,833 visitors, this triumphal arch deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Círculo de Bellas Artes. This movie theater has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 27,540 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, drawing over 671,078 yearly visitors. This art museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 32,846 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Museo del Prado. This art museum gets around 3,497,345 annual visitors. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 98,929 travelers, this art museum is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Madrid.

You can learn more about Madrid today by going on a tour. Madrid offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at BiBo Dani García, a top-rated dining spot in Madrid. If you're in the mood for something new, try Malacatín, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Pum Pum Café. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Madrid.

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

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Madrid has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Madrid by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Journey into the unknown at Las Ventas, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable bullring has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 29,501 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Crystal Palace is a recommended place to visit. This building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,270 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Madrid is Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. This spectacular art museum gets over 1 visitor every year. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 46,855 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Madrid offers an experience you will remember.

Temple of Debod is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Madrid. This egyptian temple promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,446 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Western Park. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 28,992 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Sagaretxe, 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 Arrabal Madrid, 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 Taberna El Sur, 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 and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Spain with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Madrid for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Avila.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Madrid, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Avila. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Real Monasterio de Santo Tomás, a remarkable monastery where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,037 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Ávila Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,100 travelers.

Walls of Ávila is another must-visit attraction. This renowned city walls offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 14,534 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit San Vicente, Ávila. This well-loved minor basilica boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,714 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Madrid.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid, a top-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante El Espigón Madrid, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coque. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

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

On day 6 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 Avila. In the evening, you’ll end up in Toledo, where you will stay for 4 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Madrid, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Avila may take around 1 hour 19 min. Upon your arrival in Avila, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Cuatro Postes Lookout - Viewpoint of Ávila. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,843 visitors.

Puerta de la Adaja en la Muralla de Ávila is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 878 travelers.

Avila is also the home of Church and birthplace of Saint Teresa of Jesus. Around 3,232 people have rated this church an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Plaza Mercado Chico. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from a total of 3,654 reviews, a visit to this sightseeing destination is a great idea.

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

As you explore more of Toledo, 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Toledo by securing a reservation at Iván Cerdeño. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. Alternatively, Tobiko Restaurante beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider El Trébol. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Toledo tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at BUCA BAR, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Pub "O'Briens". This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Terraza Miradero, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Toledo. You’ll stay in Toledo for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Mirador del Valle. Previous visitors have rated this landmark an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,058 reviews.

Alcantara Bridge is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,836 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz. This church is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 4,181 reviews.

Puerta de Bisagra is another outstanding experience in Toledo. Around 9,260 travelers have rated this city gate an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Paseo de La Vega is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,900 reviews.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante Taberna El Gallo Toledo, a highly-rated dining destination in Toledo. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Clandestina, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante "El Cobertizo". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Toledo this evening.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Toledo for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Take the opportunity to see El Greco Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,753 visitors.

Iglesia de Santo Tomé is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This church has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,277 travelers.

Toledo is also the home of Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes, Toledo. Around 6,783 people have rated this monastery an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is San Martin's Bridge. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 10,516 reviews, a visit to this sightseeing destination is a great idea.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Jacaranda Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Taberna el Botero offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Orza is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Toledo.

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

Day 9 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Toledo. You have 1 night left in Toledo. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Alcázar of Toledo. This alcázar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,193 visitors.

When you’re finished at Alcázar of Toledo, head to Army Museum. This one-of-a-kind military museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,537 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Zocodover. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,930 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo. This church is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,938 visitors.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Toledo has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Toledo offers and add your favorites to your Spain travel package below.

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

Savor the flavors at Bar-Restaurante "Santa Fe", a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Madre Tierra | Restaurante vegetariano - Vegano en Toledo beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante Hierbabuena. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Toledo tonight.

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Consuegra, Campo de Criptana, and Ocaña. When you’re not sightseeing, 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. Consuegra, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Toledo to Consuegra may take around 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Consuegra, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Castle of la Muela, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,494 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Molinos de Viento de Consuegra. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,287 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Campo de Criptana, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Consuegra to Campo de Criptana may take around 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Campo de Criptana, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Molinos de viento de Campo de Criptana. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,000 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Madrid, 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 Madrid's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Corral de la Morería, a top-rated dining spot in Madrid. If you're in the mood for something new, try Inclán Brutal Bar, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at JUNGLEKING - International Food & XL Brunch in Madrid. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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.

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.

Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Madrid’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain. Take home a piece of Spain with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is plaza de España. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 98,199 reviews.

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 Café Central, 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!