6-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Spain and Portugal With Itinerary from Madrid to Merida, Lisbon, and Covilha

On day 2 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Spain and Portugal, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Madrid in Spain. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Merida, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Madrid is the magnificent Royal Palace Of Madrid. Around 108,690 visitors have rated this excellent palace and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Plaza De España on this leg of your adventure in Spain. This attraction is a well-known public square that has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from around 98,199 travelers.

The remarkable Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is known to be one of the best places to visit in Madrid, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 145,531 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Madrid by exploring the captivating Museo Del Prado, which draws the attention of nearly 3,497,345 visitors annually. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 127,611 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Madrid exploration list!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Merida, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Madrid to Merida may take around 3 hours 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Merida, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Merida. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Merida’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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Trastero, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Jazz Bar Mérida is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cafetería Pizarrín also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take in the ambiance of Merida 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!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Spain and Portugal. Today's main destinations are Sintra 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 Lisbon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Sintra’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Merida behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 7 min. Sintra welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Quinta Da Regaleira. This outstanding palace and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 54,624 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Quinta Da Regaleira is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating National Palace Of Pena is another of the town's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This palace and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 86,631 travelers.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Lisbon. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Portugal's delectable cuisine at one of Lisbon's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Encanto, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible vegetarian menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Alma is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Lisbon. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Belcanto. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and portuguese cuisine in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Lisboa Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Toca Da Raposa, a bar catering to every mood and preference. O Bom O Mau E O Vilão likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across Spain and Portugal. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Salamanca in Spain. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Madrid where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Covilha and set your GPS to Salamanca, Spain. 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 2 hours 8 min. Upon reaching Salamanca, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Salamanca today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Casa Lis. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,328 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Calisto And Melibea Vegetable Garden. This incredible attraction and botanical garden holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 12,547 visitors.

According to travelers in Salamanca, the extraordinary Salamanca Cathedral is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,151 visitors.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Madrid.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Madrid. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Spain in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Madrid by booking a table at DiverXO. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Smoked Room, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Paco Roncero, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Jazz Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out España Building, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, 1862 Dry Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!