5-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Spain and Portugal With Itinerary from Málaga to Seville and Faro
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Description
Explore Spain and Portugal on an epic 5-day European road trip. Málaga, Seville, Huelva, Albufeira, Silves, and Lagoa await!
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 3 nights in Spain and 1 night in Portugal.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Spain, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Málaga and begin your adventure from there. Explore Málaga, Seville, and Huelva, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Portugal. Immerse yourself in the allure of Albufeira, Silves, Lagoa, and Faro, where every street tells a story.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Albufeira’s Falesia Beach. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Spain and Portugal will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 5-day self-drive adventure in Spain and Portugal. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Spain and Portugal.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Málaga - Arrival day
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- La Térmica
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Spain and Portugal begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Málaga in Spain. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Málaga for 1 night.
Catch an early flight to Spain to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Málaga before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
A tour of Málaga is not complete without a visit to the famous La Térmica. This incredible cultural center and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,675 travelers.
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.
After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Spain and Portugal by rewarding yourself with a taste of Málaga’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Camden Town Pub - La Malagueta, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Parador de Málaga Golf Club offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, LA TRANCA is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Málaga.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Speakeasy “the Pharmacy”, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Road House provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Moonlight - Bar De Copas offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Your multi-country road trip in Spain and Portugal has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.
Day 2
- Málaga
- Seville
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Drive 219 km, 3 hours 3 min
- Iglesia Catedral de la Encarnación
- Picasso Museum Málaga
- Málaga Park
- Alcazaba
- Jardín Botánico Histórico - La Concepción
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On day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Spain and Portugal, 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 to see in Málaga in Spain. In the evening, you’ll end up in Seville, where you will stay for 1 night.
You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Málaga, including the outstanding Iglesia Catedral De La Encarnación. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 29,313 reviews, this fascinating church and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.
Málaga is also home to the captivating Museo Picasso Málaga, a local museum considered one of the highlights of the city. About 28,074 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.3 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.
The extraordinary Málaga Park is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Málaga. This extraordinary park and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,668 travelers.
A trip to the wonderful Alcazaba will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing castle and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,994 reviews.
Soak in Málaga's rich culture at the fantastic Jardín Botánico - Histórico La Concepción. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Málaga is its overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,816 visitor reviews.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Seville. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Seville boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Spain.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Seville by booking a table at Az-Zait. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Abantal, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Cañabota, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing seafood menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Premier Cocktail, Gin & Rum Selections, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Garlochí is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Café Tarifa Miraflores is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Seville
- Albufeira
- Silves
- Lagoa
- Faro
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Drive 331 km, 4 hours 19 min
- Falesia Beach
- Castle of Silves
- Algar de Benagil
- Marinha Beach
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Spain and Portugal. Today's main destinations are Albufeira in Portugal, 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 Faro. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Seville, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Albufeira, Portugal. Your travel time is around 2 hours 18 min.
One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Falesia Beach. This outstanding beach and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 13,278 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Falesia Beach is worth pages in your travel diary.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Albufeira, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Silves may take around 36 min. Upon your arrival in Silves, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Castle Of Silves. This outstanding castle and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.4 stars out of 5 from 13,387 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Castle Of Silves is worth pages in your travel diary.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lagoa. This car ride takes around 25 min.
In Lagoa, the extraordinary Benagil Cave awaits. This attraction is a valued cave that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,886 travelers' reviews.
Another of the best travel destinations in Lagoa is the spectacular Marinha Beach. This attraction is a beach that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,515 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Faro.
As the sun sets on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Faro's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Portugal to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Faro has them.
Make sure to reserve a table at Xic, an iconic dining spot in Faro. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Taco y Tequilla, a popular restaurant in Faro. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Woods, a hidden gem nestled in Faro. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Rooftop Eva, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Rrudy's, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Boheme provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!
Day 4
- Faro
- Huelva
- Málaga
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Drive 427 km, 4 hours 48 min
- Zafra Park
- Paseo de la Ría
- Monumento a la Virgen del Rocío
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Huelva in Spain. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Málaga, your home for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Faro, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Spain! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Huelva may take around 1 hour 20 min. Upon your arrival in Huelva, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Huelva — Zafra Park. About 1,657 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars.
The popular Paseo De La Ría is another top sight in Huelva that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved boardwalk in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,801 visitors.
Monumento A La Virgen Del Rocío is a spectacular monument and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Huelva, earning an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,811 enchanted visitors.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Málaga of your choice.
In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Málaga’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Spain and Portugal.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Cosmo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional andalusian menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, José Carlos García, known for its delicious creative and andalusian cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Málaga is Blossom, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant and a delicious fusion menu.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Shakespeare, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Mojito Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Chester & Punk offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Take in the ambiance of Málaga as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!
Day 5
- Málaga - Departure day
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- La Farola, Málaga
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On day 5 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Málaga before it’s time to leave.
Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Spain and Portugal. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Málaga’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Mercado Central de Atarazanas. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated lighthouse and attraction in Málaga — La Farola, Málaga. About 2,243 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Get a last taste of Spain’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Málaga and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Spain and Portugal.
The time has come to say farewell to Málaga for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 5-day European road trip in Spain and Portugal with fond memories. Safe travels!
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