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

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Málaga and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Málaga 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.

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 Acueducto San Telmo Ciudad Jardín or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Málaga. 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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante SOCA, an iconic dining spot in Málaga. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Next Level Specialty Coffee, a popular restaurant in Málaga. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La ristobottega, a hidden gem nestled in Málaga. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Speakeasy “the Pharmacy” after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Chester & Punk, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, La Terraza De Valeria also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-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 Málaga. In the evening, you’ll end up in Granada, where you will stay for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Iglesia Catedral De La Encarnación. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,609 visitors.

When you’re finished at Iglesia Catedral De La Encarnación, head to Picasso Museum Málaga. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 24,075 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Alcazaba. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,648 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Málaga Park. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,404 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Castle Of Gibralpharo. This famous museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,046 travelers.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bar Ávila Tapas, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Los Manueles Reyes Católicos - Restaurante Granadino offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss El Trillo Restaurante Granada. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Granada.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Aliatar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Continental Café Pub Granada is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Granada, and Jaen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ciudad Real, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Nasrid Palaces, a remarkable sightseeing destination 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Granada, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Jaen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 8 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, Andrés De Vandelvira Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,950 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Ciudad Real, 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 Ciudad Real. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Ciudad Real by booking a table at Mesón Octavio. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Toledo. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Madrid. You will spend 5 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Toledo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ciudad Real behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 30 min. Toledo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Alcázar Of Toledo. This alcázar is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Toledo, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,193 visitors.

Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada De Toledo is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,938 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Zocodover. Visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,930 reviews.

Puerta De Bisagra is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a city gate rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,260 reviews.

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

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Madrid by securing a table at DiverXO. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Smoked Room, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Paco Roncero, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Madrid. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Cafe Madrid offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out 1862 Dry Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Madrid, where you'll stay for 4 nights more.

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 Segovia may take around 1 hour 16 min. Upon your arrival in Segovia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Alcázar Of Segovia. This extraordinary alcázar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 49,713 visitors. Each year, around 754,946 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Segovia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,509 reviews.

While in Segovia, we also recommend a visit to Plaza Mayor. This plaza mayor has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,239 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Plaza De Medina Del Campo. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,386 travelers, this point of interest is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Segovia.

Make your way to Aqueduct Of Segovia, perhaps the most famous stone bridge in Segovia. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 95,202 reviews.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Mi Venta, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Mas Al Sur offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Prada a Tope Madrid is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Madrid.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Madrid for 3 nights 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 Matadero Madrid. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,723 visitors.

Next, make your way to Thyssen-bornemisza Museum. This art museum welcomes around 671,078 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 32,846 reviews.

While in Madrid, we also recommend a visit to Western Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 28,992 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Temple Of Debod. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 44,446 travelers, this egyptian temple is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Madrid.

Make your way to Plaza De España, perhaps the most famous square in Madrid. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 98,199 reviews.

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 Madrid's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at BiBo Dani García, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Malacatín? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Pum Pum Café as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Madrid.

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

Day 7 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to National Archaeological Museum. This national museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,100 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Puerta De Alcalá. This triumphal arch has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 43,833 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Great Pond Of El Retiro. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 22,242 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit El Retiro Park. This urban park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 162,386 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Crystal Palace. This building is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,270 visitors.

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 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 lovely meal at Sagaretxe, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Arrabal Madrid is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Taberna El Sur. 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 8 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 Las Ventas. This much-appreciated bullring is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 29,501 reviews.

Next up is Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía. This art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 46,855 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía welcomes 1 visitor annually.

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.

Círculo De Bellas Artes is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This movie theater has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,540 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This association football venue is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 120,158 reviews.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Madrid. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining 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!

Dive into day 9 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 Plasencia. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Main Square. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 152,388 reviews.

Next up is Market Of San Miguel. This building has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Almudena Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,842 reviews.

Royal Palace Of Madrid is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This royal palace has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,471 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Casa De Campo. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 50,826 reviews.

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

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

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

After soaking in Plasencia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Merida. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 31 min. When you arrive in Merida, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Roman Theatre Of Emerita Augusta your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this roman theatre an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 37,382 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at National Museum Of Roman Art. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,891 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this art museum every year.

Pórtico Del Foro Municipal De Augusta Emérita is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 563 visitors.

When you’re finished at Pórtico Del Foro Municipal De Augusta Emérita, the perfect next stop is Temple Of Diana. This roman temple is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,292 reviews.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Seville. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Seville by securing a reservation at Az-Zait. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Abantal, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Cañabota, a top local spot known for its tantalizing seafood menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Garlochí. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Second Room offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 11 of your road trip in Spain, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Seville. In the evening, you’ll end up in Málaga, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Metropol Parasol. This monument is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 78,849 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Giralda. This bell tower has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 36,814 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Catedral De Sevilla. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,052 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Royal Alcázar Of Seville. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 74,238 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Plaza De España. This porticoed square is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 141,385 visitors.

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

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Málaga by booking a table at La Cosmo, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional andalusian menu. For a different culinary experience in Málaga, José Carlos García shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative, and andalusian cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Blossom is known as a top local spot for its delicious fusion cuisine in Málaga. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Keep the evening going at Nusa Malaga, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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

Day 12 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. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Spain.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Plaza De La Constitución. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 965 visitors.

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider Picasso Bar Tapas, another top spot with a tantalizing 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!