12-Day Spain Road Trip from Madrid traveling south to Merida, Seville, Granada, Murcia, and Valencia

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. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Madrid. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Spain. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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. 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 El miniBAR, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Areia. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Madrid.

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 12-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.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This much-appreciated association football venue is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 120,158 reviews.

Next up is Puerta de Alcalá. This triumphal arch has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 43,833 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Museo del Prado. This art museum has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 98,929 reviews. Every year, 3,497,345 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

El Retiro Park is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This urban park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 162,386 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 46,855 reviews. Approximately 1 person come to see this attraction every year.

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.

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

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Mi Venta, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Mas Al Sur offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Prada a Tope Madrid. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Madrid.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Madrid, 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 Merida. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

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 Merida may take around 3 hours 9 min. Upon your arrival in Merida, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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 Temple of Debod. This famous egyptian temple is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 44,446 travelers.

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.

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

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 Restaurante Chamorro, a top-rated dining destination in Merida. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider A de Arco, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Volterra. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Merida this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at trastero, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Jazz Bar Mérida. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cafetería Pizarrín, another top-rated place in the area.

Head back to your accommodation in Merida 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 Merida. In the evening, you’ll end up in Seville, where you will stay 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 Seville. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 53 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Acueducto de los Milagros. Previous visitors have rated this aqueduct an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,410 reviews.

Roman Circus of Mérida is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,532 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is National Museum of Roman Art. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,891 reviews.

Roman Theatre of Emerita Augusta is another outstanding experience in Merida. Around 37,382 travelers have rated this roman theatre an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Temple of Diana is not far away. This roman temple is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,292 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Seville. Seville 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Seville's best restaurants.

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. Don’t miss out on dining at Bollywood Indian Restaurant Sevilla, a top-rated dining destination in Seville. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Brunilda Tapas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cervecería Giralda Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Seville this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Garlochí, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Second Room is another popular option for a drink or two.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Seville for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Hermandad de la Macarena. This extraordinary church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,549 visitors.

Next, make your way to Metropol Parasol. This monument is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 78,849 reviews.

While in Seville, we also recommend a visit to Catedral de Sevilla. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 45,052 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Giralda. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,814 travelers, this bell tower 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.

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 Seville 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 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 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. Don’t miss out on dining at Le XiX, a top-rated dining destination in Seville. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Agustín & Company Bar de Tapas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Almazen café. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Seville this evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 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 Granada, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Granada and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 41 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Granada beckons with new experiences!

Make La Alameda your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this neighborhood an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 17,974 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Plaza de toros de la Maestranza. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 23,913 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this monument every year.

Torre del Oro is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This monument has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 40,410 visitors.

When you’re finished at Torre del Oro, the perfect next stop is Plaza de España. This porticoed square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 141,385 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Parque de María Luisa. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,203 reviews.

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

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.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. This awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal. Make sure to reserve a table at Bar Ávila Tapas, an iconic dining spot in Granada. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Los Manueles Reyes Católicos - Restaurante Granadino, a popular restaurant in Granada. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of El Trillo Restaurante Granada, a hidden gem nestled in Granada. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Aliatar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Continental Café Pub Granada is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Granada. You have 1 night left in Granada. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Nasrid Palaces, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 20,263 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Palace of Charles V. This palace has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,429 travelers.

Alhambra is another must-visit attraction. This renowned architectural ensemble offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 127,431 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 Royal Chapel of Granada. This well-loved monument boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 10,536 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Fountain of the Battles awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a fountain, this is a top pick rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,065 previous visitors.

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

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

This popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Have a fantastic dining experience at Provincias, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bar los diamantes offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurante Oliver is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Granada.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 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 Murcia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Granada, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Murcia. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 52 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Plaza Isabel La Católica. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,894 visitors.

Federico García Lorca Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This urban park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,779 visitors.

S. A. I. Catedral Metropolitana de la Encarnación is also highly recommended by travelers. This catholic cathedral has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,036 visitors.

Mirador de San Nicolas, Granada is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This scenic viewpoint is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 63,173 reviews.

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.

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

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 El Churra, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try El Pasaje de Belluga? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurante Hispano as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Murcia.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at El Bosque Animado, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Culturas, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, BarAltea provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Alicante and Elche. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valencia, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Murcia and set your GPS to Alicante. 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 59 min. Upon reaching Alicante, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Mercado Central de Alicante one of your first sightseeing stops in Alicante. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 24,503 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Santa Bárbara Castle is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This castle is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 35,044 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Archaeological Museum of Alicante. This archaeological museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,768 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Alicante and set your GPS to Elche. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Elche, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is El Palmerar. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,060 reviews.

Huerto del Cura is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,389 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Valencia. Valencia 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 Valencia, 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 popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Have a fantastic dining experience at Ubik Cafè Cafeteria Llibreria, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, USUAL resto-bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Éter Valencia is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Valencia.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café Negrito after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Cafe de las Horas for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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

Day 10 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Valencia has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Valencia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Kick off the day at Plaça de la Mare de Déu, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,170 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 37,810 reviews.

City of Arts and Sciences is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This tourist destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 125,881 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit L'Oceanogràfic. This public aquarium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 76,085 visitors.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Casa Montaña, a popular restaurant in Valencia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Valencia at La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo, 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 El Lleón bar. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Valencia tonight.

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

Dive into day 11 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 Madrid. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Valencia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Madrid. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 37 min. When you arrive in Madrid, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Mercado de Colón. This much-appreciated building is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 37,146 reviews.

Next up is Mercat Central. This market hall has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 79,570 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Serrano Towers. This fortified tower has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,998 reviews.

Valencia Bioparc is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,210 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.

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.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at BiBo Dani García, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Malacatín offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Pum Pum Café. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Madrid.

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

Day 12 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.

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

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. This awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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!