11-Day Spain Road Trip from Málaga traveling north to Granada, Ciudad Real, Madrid, Plasencia, and Seville

Say hello to Málaga! 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 Málaga for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Málaga 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 La Farola, Málaga 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 Málaga. 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 Málaga. 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Málaga by reserving a table at La Cosmo. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of andalusian cuisine. For a different taste, head over to José Carlos García, renowned for its delectable creative and andalusian 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 Blossom, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite fusion menu. With a Bib Gourmand 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 Málaga.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Speakeasy “The Pharmacy”, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Chester & Punk offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, La Terraza De Valeria provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Málaga. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Granada. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Iglesia Catedral de la Encarnación. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,609 visitors.

Picasso Museum Málaga is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 24,075 visitors.

Alcazaba is also highly recommended by travelers. This point of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,648 visitors.

Málaga Park is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,404 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Castle of Gibralpharo. This museum has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,046 travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Granada. Granada 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Granada. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bar Ávila Tapas, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Los Manueles Reyes Católicos - Restaurante Granadino? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at El Trillo Restaurante Granada as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Granada.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Aliatar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Continental Café Pub Granada offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Granada and Jaen, 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 Ciudad Real. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Make Nasrid Palaces your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 20,263 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Palace of Charles V. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,429 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this palace every year.

Alhambra is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This architectural ensemble has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 127,431 visitors.

Set your GPS to Jaen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Jaen beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Andrés de Vandelvira Park. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,950 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Ciudad Real, 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 explore more of Ciudad Real, 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 Ciudad Real by securing a reservation at Mesón Octavio. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of traditional cuisine.

Head back to your accommodation in Ciudad Real and get some rest in preparation for another magical day 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 Toledo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Madrid, where you will stay for 4 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Toledo, 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 Ciudad Real to Toledo may take around 1 hour 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Toledo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Alcantara Bridge. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,836 visitors.

Zocodover is another popular attraction you could visit today. This point of interest has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,930 visitors.

Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo is also highly recommended by travelers. This church has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,938 visitors.

Alcázar of Toledo is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This alcázar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,193 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Madrid, 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 Madrid's best restaurants.

Start your culinary exploration in Madrid by securing a reservation at DiverXO. This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Smoked Room, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Paco Roncero, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Cafe Madrid is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, 1862 Dry Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 5 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Segovia, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Madrid for 3 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Segovia and Madrid to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Take the opportunity to see Western Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 28,992 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Segovia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take the opportunity to see Alcázar of Segovia. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 49,713 visitors and gets around 754,946 visits every year.

Segovia Cathedral is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,509 travelers.

Segovia is also the home of Plaza Mayor. Around 7,239 people have rated this plaza mayor an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Aqueduct of Segovia. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 95,202 reviews, a visit to this stone bridge is a great idea.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Madrid and your accommodation.

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

Savor the flavors at La Mi Venta, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Mas Al Sur beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Prada a Tope Madrid. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Madrid tonight.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 6 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This association football venue is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Madrid, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 120,158 visitors.

Great Pond of El Retiro is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 22,242 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Crystal Palace. Visitors have rated this building an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,270 reviews.

El Retiro Park is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an urban park rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 162,386 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Museo del Prado, perhaps the most famous art museum in Madrid. This attraction welcomes around 3,497,345 visitors annually and is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 98,929 travelers.

Your discoveries in Madrid do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Madrid on this day of your trip. You can select your tours 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at BiBo Dani García, a top-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Malacatín, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pum Pum Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

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 7 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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía is a great place to start. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 46,855 visitors. Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía attracts more than 1 visitor every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Main Square. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 152,388 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Market of San Miguel. The building has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 106,296 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.

Plaza de España is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this square, rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 98,199 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Spain that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Madrid has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Spain by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

Savor the flavors at Sagaretxe, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Arrabal Madrid beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Taberna El Sur. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Madrid tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 8 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 Plasencia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Círculo de Bellas Artes. This popular movie theater has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 27,540 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 32,846 visitors, this art museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Puerta de Alcalá. This triumphal arch has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 43,833 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Temple of Debod. This egyptian temple and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 44,446 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Casa de Campo. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 50,826 travelers, this park is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Madrid.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Plasencia. Plasencia 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 Plasencia.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Merida. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Seville, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Merida and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Merida beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Roman Theatre of Emerita Augusta. This extraordinary roman theatre has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 37,382 visitors.

Next, make your way to National Museum of Roman Art. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,891 reviews.

While in Merida, we also recommend a visit to Pórtico del Foro Municipal de Augusta Emérita. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 563 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Temple of Diana. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,292 travelers, this roman temple is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Merida.

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

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Garlochí, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Second Room is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg 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 - Seville. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Málaga. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you're ready to see some sights, Metropol Parasol is a great place to start. This monument is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 78,849 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Giralda. This bell tower has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 36,814 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Catedral de Sevilla. The catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,052 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Royal Alcázar of Seville. This park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 74,238 reviews.

Plaza de España is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this porticoed square, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 141,385 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Málaga, 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 Málaga. 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.

Dine in style at El Pimpi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Morrissey's Irish Pub boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar Málaga. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Málaga.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Nusa Malaga after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

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

Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Málaga’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Spain, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Spain home with you through these charming souvenirs.

Kick off the day at Plaza de la Constitución, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 965 reviews.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at El Gastronauta, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Picasso Bar Tapas offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Málaga. 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!