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

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 Madrid in Spain. In the evening, you’ll end up in Merida, where you will stay for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Royal Palace Of Madrid. This outstanding palace and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 108,690 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Royal Palace Of Madrid is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This stadium and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 145,531 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing park, El Retiro Park. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 190,149 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Museo Del Prado, an outstanding palace, is one place you should visit while in Madrid considering its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 127,611 travelers. Museo Del Prado receives around 3,497,345 visitors in a single year, and today is the perfect opportunity to see it up close.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Merida. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Merida. 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurante Chamorro, a top-rated dining destination in Merida. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider A de Arco, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Volterra. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Merida this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Trastero, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Jazz Bar Mérida, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Cafetería Pizarrín likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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 - Sintra in Portugal. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Lisbon where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Merida, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sintra, Portugal. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Portugal. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 7 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated palace and attraction in Sintra — Quinta Da Regaleira. About 54,624 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The popular National Palace Of Pena is another top sight in Sintra that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved palace in the area, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 86,631 visitors.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Lisbon by securing a reservation at Encanto. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of vegetarian cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Alma, renowned for its delicious creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Belcanto, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative and portuguese menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Lisboa Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Toca Da Raposa. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at O Bom O Mau E O Vilão, another top-rated place in the area.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Spain and Portugal. Today's main destinations are Toledo in Spain, 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 Madrid. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cáceres, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Toledo may take around 2 hours 38 min. Upon your arrival in Toledo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Toledo, including the outstanding Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada De Toledo. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 31,551 reviews, this fascinating church and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Toledo is also home to the captivating Puerta De Bisagra, a local monument considered one of the highlights of the city. About 10,536 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Madrid of your choice.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Madrid. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Spain and Portugal.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at DiverXO, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Smoked Room, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Madrid is Paco Roncero, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative menu.

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.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Spain and Portugal! Enjoy your evening in Madrid to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.