One-Week Spain Road Trip from Madrid to Cuenca and surrounding area

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Madrid and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Madrid for 5 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 plaza de España 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 Madrid. 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 Madrid. 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at DiverXO in Madrid by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, DiverXO offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Smoked Room, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Paco Roncero, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cafe Madrid is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, 1862 Dry Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Spain!

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Madrid for 4 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Journey into the unknown at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable association football venue has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 120,158 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Crystal Palace is a recommended place to visit. This building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,270 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Madrid is El Retiro Park. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 162,386 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Madrid offers an experience you will remember.

Museo del Prado is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Madrid. This art museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 98,929 reviews. Each year, approximately 3,497,345 people travel to visit Museo del Prado.

Lastly, don't miss out on Casa de Campo. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 50,826 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Madrid's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at La Mi Venta, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mas Al Sur is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Prada a Tope Madrid. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Madrid tonight.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Madrid. You have 3 nights left in Madrid. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Make Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 46,855 reviews. More than 1 person visit this place of interest every year.

Next up, make a stop at Main Square. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 152,388 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this square every year.

Market of San Miguel is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This building has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 106,296 visitors.

When you’re finished at Market of San Miguel, the perfect next stop is Royal Palace of Madrid. This royal palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 77,471 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Temple of Debod. This egyptian temple is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 44,446 reviews.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Madrid.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at BiBo Dani García, an iconic dining spot in Madrid. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Malacatín, a popular restaurant in Madrid. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Pum Pum Café, a hidden gem nestled in Madrid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Madrid, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Segovia. You still have 2 nights left in Madrid.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Madrid, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Segovia may take around 1 hour 14 min. Upon your arrival in Segovia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Museo Real Casa de Moneda de Segovia. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,193 visitors.

Next, make your way to Puerta de San Andrés. This city gate is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,690 reviews.

While in Segovia, we also recommend a visit to Segovia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,509 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Plaza Mayor. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,239 travelers, this plaza mayor is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Segovia.

Make your way to Aqueduct of Segovia, perhaps the most famous stone bridge in Segovia. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 95,202 reviews.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Sagaretxe, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Arrabal Madrid beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Taberna El Sur. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Madrid tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Madrid and set your GPS to Real Sitio de San Ildefonso. 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 1 hour 13 min. Upon reaching Real Sitio de San Ildefonso, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Royal Palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,635 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Real Sitio de San Ildefonso, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Segovia may take around 20 min. Upon your arrival in Segovia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Mirador de la Pradera de San Marcos. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,894 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Alcázar of Segovia. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 49,713 visitors, this alcázar deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Real Sitio de San Ildefonso. This car ride takes around 1 hour 13 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Palace of Riofrío. This royal palace is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,059 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Madrid and your accommodation.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid, a top-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante El Espigón Madrid, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coque. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Azuqueca de Henares, Torija, and Guadalajara. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cuenca, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Azuqueca de Henares. This drive usually takes around 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Drop by the renowned Quebradilla Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,847 visitors.

After soaking in Azuqueca de Henares’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Torija. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 24 min. When you arrive in Torija, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Castle of Torija. This castle is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,875 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cuenca, 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 you explore more of Cuenca, 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Olea Comedor in Cuenca by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Olea Comedor offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and fusion menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Marisqueria Joni is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cuenca.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Café Hispano offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bogart is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. CAFE BAR PRINCESA is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Cuenca. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Madrid. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Castilla-La Mancha Paleontological Museum. This fossil museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cuenca, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,372 visitors.

San Pablo Bridge is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,784 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Castillo de Cuenca. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,266 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Corral de la Morería, a popular restaurant in Madrid. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Madrid at Inclán Brutal Bar, 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 JUNGLEKING - International Food & XL Brunch in Madrid. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Madrid tonight.

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

Day 8 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Madrid before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Madrid’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Spain. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Spain forever.

Make Puerta de Alcalá your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this triumphal arch an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 43,833 reviews.

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

Dine in style at Taberna del Alabardero de Madrid, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Café Central boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Madrid. 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!