7-Day Spain Road Trip from Málaga traveling north to Cordova, Merida, and Seville

Welcome to Málaga, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Málaga's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Málaga 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 Hammam Al Ándalus Baños Árabes or 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 Málaga. 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 in Málaga. 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Málaga by booking a table at La Cosmo, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional andalusian menu. For a different culinary experience, José Carlos García shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious creative and andalusian cuisine in Málaga. This 1-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, Blossom is known as a top local spot for its delicious fusion cuisine in Málaga. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Speakeasy “The Pharmacy” after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Chester & Punk, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, La Terraza De Valeria also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Spain!

On day 2 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 Málaga. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cordova, where you will stay for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Iglesia Catedral de la Encarnación. This extraordinary catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,609 visitors.

Next, make your way to Picasso Museum Málaga. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 24,075 reviews.

While in Málaga, we also recommend a visit to Alcazaba. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,648 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Málaga Park. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,404 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Málaga.

Make your way to Castle of Gibralpharo, perhaps the most famous museum in Málaga. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,046 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cordova, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Cordova, 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cordova by booking a table at La Cuchara de San Lorenzo. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Noor, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Choco, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and andalusian menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar "Baron", ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Kavango is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Berlanga, Zafra, and Almendralejo, 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 Merida. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Berlanga’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cordova behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 31 min. Berlanga welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Parque Natural Las Quinientas, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,101 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zafra. This drive usually takes around 44 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Castle of Zafra. This extraordinary palace has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 496 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Merida, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Merida. 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. 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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at trastero, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Jazz Bar Mérida offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Cafetería Pizarrín. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Merida, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Badajoz. This drive usually takes around 47 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Castelar Park. This urban park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,160 visitors.

When you’re finished at Castelar Park, head to Door of Palmas. This one-of-a-kind city gate is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,269 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Plaza La Soledad Badajoz. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 327 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Archaeological Museum of Badajoz. This archaeological museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 776 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Alcazaba of Badajoz. This famous alcazaba is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,857 travelers.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Merida.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Merida. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to book a table at Restaurante Rainha do Mar, Restaurante y Marisquería, a popular restaurant in Merida. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Merida at Los Segovianos, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Restaurante La Tahona. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Merida tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Cervecería Bremen, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Nevado provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Merida. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Seville, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make Temple of Diana one of your first sightseeing stops in Merida. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,292 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Roman Theatre of Emerita Augusta is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This roman theatre is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 37,382 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by National Museum of Roman Art. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,891 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Roman Circus of Mérida. A trip to this popular sightseeing destination is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.4 out of 5-star rating as given by 9,532 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Acueducto de los Milagros. This aqueduct enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,410 local and international travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Seville. Seville offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Seville's best restaurants.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Seville by booking a table at Az-Zait, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Abantal, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Cañabota, a local gem known for its delightful seafood cuisine in Seville. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Garlochí offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Second Room is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

Head back to your accommodation in Seville and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Seville. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Málaga. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you're ready to see some sights, Metropol Parasol is a great place to start. This monument is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 78,849 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Giralda. This bell tower has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 36,814 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Catedral de Sevilla. The catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,052 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Royal Alcázar of Seville. This park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 74,238 reviews.

Plaza de España is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this porticoed square, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 141,385 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Málaga, 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 Málaga.

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

Continue your lively evening at Nusa Malaga, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 7 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Málaga before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Spain, take a moment for some retail therapy in Málaga’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Spain, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Spain with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Fuente de las Tres Gracias. Previous visitors have rated this fountain an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 356 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Málaga.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Picasso Bar Tapas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Málaga. 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!