One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Spain, France, and Portugal With Itinerary from Madrid to San Sebastian, Bordeaux, Bilbao, and Porto

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Spain, France, and Portugal has in store for you! You will be staying in Madrid for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

La Latina is a fantastic place you can explore today in Madrid. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Madrid-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Malasaña, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Royal Palace Of Madrid is an ideal stop early in the day. This globally renowned palace is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Plaza De España, which may be one of the most awe-inspiring places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Madrid 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 El Retiro Park, a timeless park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Museo Del Prado.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Madrid’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, France, and Portugal.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Alhambra, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante Alabaster is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Madrid tonight.

Keep the evening going at Jazz Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to España Building, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is 1862 Dry Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Spain, France, and Portugal, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in San Sebastian in Spain. In the evening, you’ll end up in San Sebastian, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Madrid and set your GPS to San Sebastian. 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 4 hours 40 min. Upon reaching San Sebastian, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Funicular Monte Igueldo, an interesting heritage railway that everyone visiting San Sebastian should see. Next, head to Beach Of La Concha. This serene beach is one of the most popular attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Gipuzkoa Plaza, an instagrammable public square popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in San Sebastian. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Spain in a new light.

Savor the flavors at Polka San Sebastián, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar Antonio. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in San Sebastian tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Txiki Taberna Donosti, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Taberna Barun offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in San Sebastian. Gorriti Taberna is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Spain, France, and Portugal! Enjoy your evening in San Sebastian to the fullest!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Spain, France, and Portugal. Today's main destinations are Le Bouscat in France, 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 Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for France! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Le Bouscat may take around 2 hours 40 min. Upon your arrival in Le Bouscat, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Parc Bordelais, a worthwhile park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Le Bouscat and set your GPS to Bordeaux. 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 10 min. Upon reaching Bordeaux, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux, an up-and-coming museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Place De La Bourse, where you can soak in the UNESCO world heritage-designated surroundings.

Next, explore Miroir D'eau, yet another notable place to see in the area. After the art installation, make time to go to Bordeaux Cathedral. This romantic church is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Porte Dijeaux, a frequently visited monument you won’t want to miss.

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

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Bordeaux's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Cent 33, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of L'Originel, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Clemenceau, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Café Brun, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Mushroom Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Whose Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Spain, France, and Portugal, you’ll soak in the magnificence Bilbao in Spain. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Bilbao, Spain and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bilbao beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Artxanda Funicular, an underrated tramway in Bilbao. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Zubizuri. This captivating art installation is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Puppy is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most breathtaking art installation in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the famous Guggenheim Museum and discover what makes this museum building unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, a photogenic museum many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that Bilbao boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the region.

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Viña del Ensanche, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Marinela jatetxea offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bilbao.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Boss Bilbao stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Stromboli Taberna offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Zuberoa Taberna is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

As the night falls in Bilbao, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your multi-country journey across Spain, France, and Portugal. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Spain, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Salamanca. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Plaza Mayor De Salamanca, a beloved public square that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Casa De Las Conchas, where you can soak in the heritage-rich surroundings.

Next, explore Salamanca Cathedral, yet another captivating place to see in the area.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Spain, France, and Portugal, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Madrid.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Areia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La MaMá Restaurante is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Sacha Restaurant. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Madrid tonight.

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!