One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santiago De Compostela traveling south to Leon, Madrid, Toledo, Merida, and Zamora

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Santiago De Compostela, 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 Leon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Santiago De Compostela. Begin your sightseeing with Cathedral Of Santiago De Compostela. This famous church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Cervantes Square, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Santiago De Compostela, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Praza Da Quintana De Vivos. This locally appreciated public square is a traveler-favorite.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Leon, 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 Leon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a memorable dining experience in Leon by booking a table at Becook, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional fusion and modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Leon, Pablo shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. 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, Cocinandos is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Leon. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

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

On day 3 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 Salamanca. In the evening, you’ll end up in Madrid, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Leon and set your GPS to Salamanca. 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 2 hours 2 min. Upon reaching Salamanca, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Head to Parque Huerta Otea, a worthwhile park in Salamanca. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Casa Lis. This often recommended museum is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Roman Bridge Of Salamanca is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most enchanting historical landmark in the region.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Madrid. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Madrid by booking a table at DiverXO. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Smoked Room, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Paco Roncero, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Yambala offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cafe Madrid is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Madrid. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toledo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Madrid, including a public square, a food market, a museum, a park, a stadium and much more! Start your adventure at Main Square. This world-famous public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Market Of San Miguel located in Madrid for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Museo Del Prado. Its heritage-rich features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to El Retiro Park. This park has an eye-catching appeal. For a change of pace, head to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. As one of the most world-famous attractions in Madrid, this stadium is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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

As you explore more of Toledo, 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Toledo by booking a table at Iván Cerdeño, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Casa de Damasco, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Buca Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Pub "o'briens" offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Terraza Miradero, another top-rated bar in the area.

Say good night to Toledo and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Badajoz. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Merida. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Toledo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Badajoz. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Spend your afternoon discovering Parque De La Legión, an intriguing park known for its eye-catching features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Castelar Park, a curiosity-inducing park that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Door Of Palmas and uncover the details of this historic monument. Make sure to also explore Alcazaba Of Badajoz, a curiosity-inducing castle that offers a unique experience.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurante Chamorro, a popular restaurant in Merida. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Merida at A de Arco, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Bar Volterra. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Merida tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Trastero, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Jazz Bar Mérida is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cafetería Pizarrín also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!

On day 6 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 Zamora, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Merida, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Roman Circus Of Mérida, a popular archeological site in the city. Then, head to Roman Theatre Of Emerita Augusta and soak in the ambiance of this historic archeological site.

There are many interesting places to see in Merida and when you are ready for more, go to Temple Of Diana. This is one of the city’s most well-known spots. After exploring the archeological site, visit the locally appreciated Archaeological Area Of morería. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the curiosity-inducing Acueducto De Los Milagros, a curiosity-inducing archeological site in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zamora. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Zamora by securing a reservation at Cuzeo. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of regional and contemporary cuisine.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Ourense, 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 Santiago De Compostela. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Zamora, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ourense may take around 2 hours 54 min. Upon your arrival in Ourense, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at As Burgas, a worthwhile hot spring that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Ponte Vella and admire its romantic features. When you’re ready, continue to Termas Outariz E Canedo, an up-and-coming hot spring beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Caldas De Outariz (hot Springs), another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Santiago De Compostela. 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 symphony of flavors at Abastos 2.0 - Mesas in Santiago De Compostela by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Abastos 2.0 - Mesas delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at A Tafona, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Casa Marcelo, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for fusion cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar O´46, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Forest is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Fuco Lois provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!