5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Madrid traveling east to Cuenca
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Spain on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Madrid and Cuenca. This road trip itinerary in Spain seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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.
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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Madrid, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Restaurante Taberna Madrid Madriz, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Lamucca del Carmen boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out El miniBAR. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Madrid.
Continue your lively evening at Bar Yambala, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cafe Madrid ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
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
Day 2 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Madrid. You have 1 night left in Madrid. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This timeless stadium is a historic place to see in Madrid. Continue your discovery at Museo Del Prado, an instagrammable museum with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Madrid, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía. This impressive museum offers a photogenic encounter with Madrid. Temple Of Debod is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Madrid.
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.
Bring home unique finds from Madrid's bustling shopping hub, Gran Via. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Gran Via offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
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.
Have a memorable dining experience in Madrid by booking a table at DiverXO, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Madrid, Smoked Room shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. This 2-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, Paco Roncero is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative cuisine in Madrid. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Jazz Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to España Building. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at 1862 Dry Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 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 Madrid. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cuenca, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. 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. Main Square is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking public square before continuing your journey. Market Of San Miguel is your next stop. This wondrous food market 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 Royal Palace Of Madrid. This symbolic palace is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit El Retiro Park and Crystal Palace.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cuenca's best restaurants.
Begin your culinary exploration in Cuenca by securing a reservation at Olea Comedor. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern and fusion cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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.
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 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
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 - Cuenca. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Madrid. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Castilla-la Mancha Paleontological Museum. This up-and-coming museum is an instagrammable place to see in Cuenca. Continue your discovery at San Pablo Bridge, a symbolic monument with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Cuenca, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Science Museum Of Castilla La Mancha. Castillo De Cuenca is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cuenca.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Madrid. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Areia, a top-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La MaMá Restaurante, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sacha Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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, begin at Plaza De España. This extraordinary public square is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Spain unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Madrid's best shopping area, Salamanca District. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Spain. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Madrid.
Dine in style at Taberna Mozárabe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante Lakasa boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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.