5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Madrid traveling east to Cuenca
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Spain. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Madrid and 1 night in Cuenca. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Spain. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Madrid, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Spain on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Spain. El Retiro Park and Main Square are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, learn more about the unique Market Of San Miguel, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Museo Del Prado.
As you hit the open road and drive through Madrid and Cuenca, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Spain. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Spain.
Throughout your road trip in Spain, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Spain.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Spain fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Spain today!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Madrid - Arrival day
- More
- Puerta de Alcalá
- More
Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Madrid and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Madrid for 2 nights 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.
Madrid 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 Puerta De Alcalá, or just 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 Madrid. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Madrid, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurante Taberna Madrid Madriz, a top-rated dining spot in Madrid. If you're in the mood for something new, try Lamucca del Carmen, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at El miniBAR. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Madrid.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Yambala stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cafe Madrid is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Madrid
- More
Drive 32 km, 1 hour 42 min
- Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
- Museo del Prado
- Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
- Temple of Debod
- Casa de Campo
- More
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.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Madrid on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching stadium before continuing your journey. Museo Del Prado is your next stop. This timeless museum is one of the best-rated sights in Madrid.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía. This instagrammable museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Temple Of Debod and Casa De Campo.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities 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.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Madrid by reserving a table at DiverXO. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Smoked Room, recognized for its delicious contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Paco Roncero, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Madrid. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Jazz Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, España Building offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, 1862 Dry Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!
Day 3
- Madrid
- Cuenca
- More
Drive 172 km, 2 hours 20 min
- Main Square
- Market of San Miguel
- Royal Palace of Madrid
- El Retiro Park
- Crystal Palace
- More
On day 3 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 Cuenca, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Madrid, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Main Square, a globally renowned public square in the city. Then, head to Market Of San Miguel and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking food market.
There are many interesting places to see in Madrid, and when you are ready for more, go to Royal Palace Of Madrid. This is one of the city’s most globally renowned enchanting spots of interest. After exploring the palace, visit the globally renowned El Retiro Park. Not far away, you'll also find Crystal Palace. This art installation is an enchanting highlight in Madrid.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Cuenca, 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 Cuenca. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a memorable dining experience in Cuenca by booking a table at Olea Comedor, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and fusion menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar, a popular restaurant in Cuenca. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Tu Rincón, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Café Hispano. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bogart, another top-rated place in the area.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!
Day 4
- Cuenca
- Madrid
- More
Drive 172 km, 2 hours 35 min
- Castilla-La Mancha Paleontological Museum
- San Pablo Bridge
- Science Museum of Castilla La Mancha
- Castillo de Cuenca
- More
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 Cuenca. In the evening, you’ll end up in Madrid, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cuenca, including a museum, a monument, a science center, a castle and much more! Start your day with a visit to Castilla-la Mancha Paleontological Museum. This increasingly popular museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to San Pablo Bridge, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Cuenca on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Science Museum Of Castilla La Mancha, an often recommended science center in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Castillo De Cuenca.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Madrid. Madrid offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Madrid's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Areia, an iconic dining spot in Madrid. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La MaMá Restaurante, a popular restaurant in Madrid. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Sacha Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Madrid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Head back to your accommodation in Madrid and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 5
- Madrid - Departure day
- More
- plaza de España
- More
Day 5 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Plaza De España, a picture-perfect public square before you head out.
On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Madrid’s popular marketplace, Salamanca District. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, high-end stores await you.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Madrid.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Taberna Mozárabe, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurante Lakasa offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Lambuzo.
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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Spain
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.