11-Day Spain Road Trip from Santiago De Compostela traveling south to Leon, Madrid, Jaen, Seville, Merida, and Zamora

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Santiago De Compostela and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Santiago De Compostela for 1 night 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.

Santiago De Compostela 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 Parque da Alameda or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Santiago De Compostela. 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.

Renowned as a restaurant, it offers an exceptional menu. This restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Nestled in the heart of the city, is an ideal choice for discerning foodies seeking culinary excellence. Enjoy a delicious meal at Bar Raíces Galegas (Santiago de Compostela), a top-rated dining destination in Santiago De Compostela. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider A Taberna do Bispo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante A Moa. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santiago De Compostela this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Pepa A Loba, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Casa das Crechas (Santiago de Compostela) offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Santiago De Compostela. Bar O´46 is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 2 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 Santiago De Compostela. In the evening, you’ll end up in Leon, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Leon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Leon beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Museo del Pueblo Gallego. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,800 visitors.

Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 71,359 travelers.

Santiago De Compostela is also the home of Praza da Quintana de Vivos. Around 4,255 people have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Parque de San Domingos de Bonaval. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 2,719 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Leon, 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 Leon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to book a table at Bar Nápoles, a popular restaurant in Leon. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Leon at Clandestino Gastrobar, 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 Four Lions Brewery. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Leon tonight.

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

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.

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore San Lorenzo de El Escorial and El Escorial, 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 Madrid. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in San Lorenzo de El Escorial. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 55 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Frailes Garden. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,686 reviews.

Next up is Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. This monastery has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,732 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Silla de Felipe II. This human-made geographic feature has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,833 reviews.

El Escorial welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Casita del Príncipe. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,248 visitors.

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.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at El miniBAR, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Areia. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Madrid tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Cafe Madrid offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook 1862 Dry Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Madrid for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This extraordinary association football venue is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 120,158 visitors.

Next, make your way to Museo del Prado. This top attraction is an art museum with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 98,929 visitors. Museo del Prado welcomes 3,497,345 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to El Retiro Park. This urban park is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 162,386 travelers.

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

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at La Mi Venta, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mas Al Sur is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Prada a Tope Madrid. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Madrid tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 5 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 Jaen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Madrid, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Jaen. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Main Square. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 152,388 visitors.

When you’re finished at Main Square, head to Market of San Miguel. This one-of-a-kind building is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 106,296 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Royal Palace of Madrid. This royal palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 77,471 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to plaza de España. This square is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 98,199 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Toledo Gate. This famous point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,684 travelers.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Jaen and set your GPS to Granada. 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 1 hour 6 min. Upon reaching Granada, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to S. A. I. Catedral Metropolitana de la Encarnación. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,036 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Alhambra. This architectural ensemble has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 127,431 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Mirador de San Nicolas, Granada. This scenic viewpoint has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 63,173 visitors.

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.

As you explore more of Seville, 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at Bollywood Indian Restaurant Sevilla, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Brunilda Tapas boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Cervecería Giralda Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Seville.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Garlochí is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Second Room, offering a different kind of charm.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Seville. You’ll stay in Seville for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Take the opportunity to see La Alameda. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 17,974 visitors.

Plaza de toros de la Maestranza is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This monument has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 23,913 travelers.

Seville is also the home of Torre del Oro. Around 40,410 people have rated this monument an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Plaza de España. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 141,385 reviews, a visit to this porticoed square is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Seville is also your chance to admire Parque de María Luisa. This must-visit park enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,203 reviews.

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

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

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le XiX, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Agustín & Company Bar de Tapas? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Almazen café as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Seville.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Seville. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Merida, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Seville, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Merida may take around 1 hour 55 min. Upon your arrival in Merida, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Hermandad de la Macarena. This church is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Seville, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,549 visitors.

Metropol Parasol is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 78,849 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Catedral de Sevilla. Visitors have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 45,052 reviews.

Giralda is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a bell tower rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 36,814 reviews.

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

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

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

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. 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.

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 Merida. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zamora, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Zamora. This car ride takes around 3 hours 20 min.

Kick off the day at Roman Circus of Mérida, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,532 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Roman Theatre of Emerita Augusta. Roman Theatre of Emerita Augusta is a roman theatre with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 37,382 reviews.

Temple of Diana is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This roman temple is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,292 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Archaeological area of Morería. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 2,698 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Acueducto de los Milagros, a famous aqueduct in Merida. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,410 travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Zamora. Zamora 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zamora. 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 popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Ourense, Zamora, and Puebla de Sanabria, 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 Santiago De Compostela. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Ourense, 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 Puebla de Sanabria to Ourense may take around 1 hour 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ourense, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Caldas de Outariz (Hot Springs). This extraordinary spa is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,884 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zamora and set your GPS to Puebla de Sanabria. 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 1 hour 22 min. Upon reaching Puebla de Sanabria, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Cathedral of Zamora. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,520 reviews.

Continue your journey at Zamora Castle. This point of interest is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,184 travelers from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Santiago De Compostela, 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 Santiago De Compostela. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Los Caracoles Restaurante, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bresca beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Casa de Xantar O Dezaseis. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Santiago De Compostela tonight.

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

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 Santiago De Compostela before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Spain, take a moment for some retail therapy in Santiago De Compostela’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Spain, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Spain with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider A Noiesa ~ Casa De Comidas (Santiago de Compostela), another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Santiago De Compostela. 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!