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

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Pack your bags and hit the road for the ultimate 8-day Euro trip extravaganza! This multi-country adventure through the Spain, France, and Portugal guarantees unforgettable experiences at every stop.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 5 nights in Spain, 1 night in France, and 1 night in Portugal.

In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Spain, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Madrid and begin your adventure from there. Explore Madrid, San Sebastian, Bilbao, and Salamanca, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of France. Immerse yourself in the allure of Le Bouscat, Lormont, and Bordeaux, where every street tells a story.

Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Portugal. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Porto.

Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Le Bouscat’s Parc Bordelais and Porto's iconic Luís I Bridge. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.

Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.

Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Spain, France, and Portugal will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.

By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 8-day self-drive adventure in Spain, France, and Portugal. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.

Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Spain, France, and Portugal.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Main Square
Royal Palace of Madridplaza de EspañaEl Retiro ParkMuseo del PradoLa LatinaMalasaña
Peine del Viento XVFunicular Monte IgueldoBeach of La Concha
parc bordelaisCité du Vinplace de la Boursemiroir d'eauBordeaux CathedralPorte Dijeaux
Artxanda FunicularZubizuriPuppyGuggenheim MuseumMuseum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
Luís I BridgeMiradouro da Vitória
Plaza Mayor de SalamancaCasa de las ConchasSalamanca Cathedral
Gran Vía

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Madrid - Arrival day
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  • Main Square
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Spain, France, and Portugal begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Madrid in Spain. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Madrid for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to Spain to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Madrid before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

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 Main Square, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Madrid. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Spain's delectable cuisine at one of Madrid'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.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Yambala, known for its lively atmosphere. Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cafe Madrid offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Your multi-country road trip in Spain, France, and Portugal has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Madrid
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Drive 8 km, 1 hour 4 min

  • Royal Palace of Madrid
  • plaza de España
  • El Retiro Park
  • Museo del Prado
  • La Latina
  • Malasaña
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On day 2, you will wake up in Madrid with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Madrid before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Spain, France, and Portugal.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Madrid is La Latina. Allow yourself some time to leisurely explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Royal Palace Of Madrid. This globally renowned palace is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Plaza De España, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out El Retiro Park, one of the most wondrous places to see in Madrid. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Museo Del Prado. Wander around and soak in the history-steeped atmosphere this museum offers.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Spain's delectable cuisine at one of Madrid'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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Alhambra, a highly-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante Alabaster, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Jazz Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to España Building, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, 1862 Dry Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Madrid
  • Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 461 km, 5 hours 8 min

  • Peine del Viento XV
  • Funicular Monte Igueldo
  • Beach of La Concha
  • More

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

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Madrid today. One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is Peine Del Viento Xv. This noteworthy art installation will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Funicular Monte Igueldo and learn what makes this enchanting heritage railway unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Beach Of La Concha.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in San Sebastian. 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 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through San Sebastian's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Spain to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, San Sebastian has them.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Polka San Sebastián, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bar Antonio. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in San Sebastian tonight.

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

Take in the ambiance of San Sebastian 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!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
  • Bordeaux
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Drive 259 km, 3 hours 38 min

  • parc bordelais
  • Cité du Vin
  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • Porte Dijeaux
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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 1 vibrant destinations - Le Bouscat in France. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Bordeaux where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for an exciting day in San Sebastian. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a museum, a public square, an art installation, a church, a monument and much more! Begin your adventure at Parc Bordelais. This is an intriguing park you should not miss. Another must-see is La Cité Du Vin, a notable museum in San Sebastian.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Place De La Bourse. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Miroir D'eau, another of the town’s popular attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the town with a visually striking church. Bordeaux Cathedral is a truly remarkable place to visit in San Sebastian.

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

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Bordeaux. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Cent 33, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L'Originel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Clemenceau is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café Brun is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Mushroom Café, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Whose Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bordeaux
  • Bilbao
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Drive 346 km, 4 hours 15 min

  • Artxanda Funicular
  • Zubizuri
  • Puppy
  • Guggenheim Museum
  • Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
  • More

On day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Spain, France, 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 Bilbao in Spain. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your day at Artxanda Funicular. This instagrammable tramway is a worthwhile place to see in Bordeaux. Then, wander over to Zubizuri. If masterful sites excite you, this art installation will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Puppy. This picture-perfect art installation is a favorite among visitors.

Bordeaux offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Guggenheim Museum is an astonishing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum building, don’t forget to check out the eye-catching Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing museum in Bordeaux.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Bilbao. 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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Viña del Ensanche, a highly-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're eager to try something different, consider Marinela jatetxea, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Boss Bilbao after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Stromboli Taberna, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bilbao
  • Porto
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Drive 713 km, 7 hours 3 min

  • Luís I Bridge
  • Miradouro da Vitória
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On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Spain, France, and Portugal, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Porto in Portugal. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Porto, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bilbao. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Luís I Bridge is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most famous places to visit in Bilbao. Next, head to Miradouro Da Vitória, an intriguing observation deck, known for its romantic features.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Porto. 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 Porto. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Brasão Aliados, a top-rated dining destination in Porto. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Em Canto, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Nata Lisboa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Porto this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Fé Wine & Club, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Tapas Bar 24, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Royal Cocktail Club provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Porto
  • Madrid
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Drive 567 km, 5 hours 51 min

  • Plaza Mayor de Salamanca
  • Casa de las Conchas
  • Salamanca Cathedral
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Salamanca in Spain. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Madrid, your home for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Porto covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a historical landmark, and a church. Start your adventure at Plaza Mayor De Salamanca. This intriguing public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the standout wonders of Casa De Las Conchas, a must-see historical landmark in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Salamanca Cathedral. This popular church offers an enriching experience.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Madrid’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Spain, France, and Portugal by rewarding yourself with a taste of Madrid’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

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.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Madrid - Departure day
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  • Gran Vía
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On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Madrid before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Spain, France, and Portugal. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Madrid's best shopping area, Plaza Mayor. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Spain.

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Gran Vía, a street that captures the true essence of Madrid. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Get a last taste of Spain’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Madrid and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Spain, France, and Portugal.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Taberna Mozárabe, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurante Lakasa? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

The time has come to say farewell to Madrid for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 8-day European road trip in Spain, France, and Portugal with fond memories. Safe travels!

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