9-Day Road Trip in Spain and Portugal from Madrid to Cáceres, Lisbon, and Merida

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Spain 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.

In Madrid, the extraordinary plaza de España awaits. This attraction is a valued square that boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 98,199 travelers' reviews.

You’ll choose from the best hotels and places to stay in Madrid. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring.

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 and Portugal.

DiverXO is the Bib Gourmand restaurant to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 3-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature creative meals.

Elevate your dining experience at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Madrid, Smoked Room. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature contemporary dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Madrid you shouldn’t miss is Paco Roncero. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 2-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s creative menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Salmon Guru, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Madrid. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, backed by 2,802 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular El miniBAR, consistently rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Areia, one of the top-rated bars in Madrid, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,973 satisfied customers.

Your multi-country road trip in Spain 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.

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

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Madrid today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 120,158 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular El Retiro Park. This incredible attraction and urban park holds an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to 162,386 visitors.

According to travelers in Madrid, the extraordinary Museo del Prado is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and art museum gets around 3,497,345 visits annually and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 98,929 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible art museum, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. Up to 1 person visit this attraction every year, and around 46,855 visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

If you’re up for another attraction, check out the popular park, Western Park. This attraction is rated an average 4.5 out of 5 stars among 28,992 visitors.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Madrid, its culture, and people.

So be sure to reserve your slot early so you won’t miss the chance to join this highly recommended activity in Madrid.

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 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 experiencing La Mi Venta, a renowned dining spot in Madrid. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,658 satisfied guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid has charmed many with its 4.3 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 4,124 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Lambuzo, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Lambuzo captures hearts with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 1,622 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Sambhad cocktail bar terraza, another local party gem in Madrid. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,029 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Take in the ambiance of Madrid 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!

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Spain and Portugal, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Madrid in Spain. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cáceres, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

In Madrid, the extraordinary Main Square awaits. This attraction is a valued square that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 152,388 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Madrid is the spectacular Market of San Miguel. This attraction is a building that is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 106,296 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Royal Palace of Madrid. This local royal palace and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,471 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Temple of Debod is another attraction you might want to add to your Madrid exploration itinerary. This egyptian temple is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,446 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Casa de Campo. More than a popular park and attraction, Casa de Campo offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Madrid. Casa de Campo boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 50,826 traveler reviews.

Get comfortable in your rental car and blast some good music as you continue your road trip in Europe, and drive to your next destination, Cáceres. This car ride takes around 2 hours 56 min.

We recommend checking out all the tours and activities you can add to your package. Embarking on a tour is an excellent way of learning something new in Madrid, Spain.

It’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Cáceres. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

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 and Portugal by rewarding yourself with a taste of Cáceres’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.

Elevate your stay in Cáceres by dining at this Bib Gourmand awarded restaurant. Renowned for its prestigious 3 Michelin-star rating and a variety of mouthwatering dishes, Atrio consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional creative cuisine.

Make a reservation at Restaurante alBalat while indulging in the charm of Cáceres. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, cherished by 2,239 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of El 13 de San Antón, a treasured establishment in Cáceres. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,296 satisfied guests.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the town, Atrio Restaurant Hotel. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,248 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Restaurante Eustaquio Blanco. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,029 customers.

El Corral de las Cigüeñas cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 1,387 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.4 out of 5 stars average rating.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Spain and Portugal. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Agualva e Mira-Sintra in Portugal, 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 Lisbon. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Agualva e Mira-Sintra today.

Feel the freedom as you navigate your way from Cáceres to Lisbon, Portugal. Expect a journey of approximately 4 hours 20 min without stops.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Agualva e Mira-Sintra by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Agualva e Mira-Sintra.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy lively vibes in central Lisbon. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Spain and Portugal.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in daPrata52 - Petiscos ¦ Tapas, a distinguished dining establishment in Lisbon. It has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 1,470 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Lisbon is Alma. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 1,033 happy diners.

Lisboa Tu e Eu 2 stands out as a local favorite in Lisbon. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,027 customers.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Delirium Café Lisboa. This famous bar in Lisbon has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,093 customers.

This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance.

Take in the ambiance of Lisbon 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!

On day 5, you will wake up in Nossa Senhora da Piedade with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Lisbon before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Spain and Portugal.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated point of interest and attraction in Lisbon — LX Factory. About 51,300 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on your trip in Spain. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Nossa Senhora da Piedade itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

Add this highly recommended tour to your package now and make this refreshing day in Spain extra special!

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 Lisbon. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Nicolau Lisboa. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Lisbon has received a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from around 5,172 happy diners.

This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 6 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Lisbon. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Lisbon is the magnificent Belém Tower. Around 90,401 visitors have rated this excellent fort and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Padrão dos Descobrimentos on this leg of your adventure in Portugal. This attraction is a well-known monument that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 55,078 travelers.

The remarkable Time Out Market Lisboa is known to be one of the best places to visit in Lisbon, and its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 58,503 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Lisbon by exploring the captivating Santa Justa Lift. With a stellar average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 47,787 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Lisbon exploration list!

We recommend checking out all the tours and activities you can add to your package. Embarking on a tour is an excellent way of learning something new in Lisbon, Spain.

As the sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Lisbon's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Portugal 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, Lisbon has them.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Sacramento do Chiado. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,947 customers.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your multi-country journey across Spain and Portugal. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Lisbon in Portugal and Merida in Spain. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Merida. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated square and attraction in Lisbon — Praça do Comércio. About 106,926 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular Castelo de S. Jorge is another top sight in Lisbon that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved museum in the area, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 85,656 visitors.

Miradouro de Santa Luzia is a spectacular scenic viewpoint and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Lisbon, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 32,250 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery. Because of its allure and charm, around 47,647 visitors have rated this attraction and monastery an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lisbon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your European road trip adventure. Set course for Spain! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Merida may take around 2 hours 47 min.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on your trip in Spain. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Lisbon itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

Add this highly recommended tour to your package now and make this refreshing day in Spain extra special!

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

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 Merida. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the town’s most popular bars.

Make sure to book a table at Agallas Gastro & Food, a popular restaurant in Merida. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 622 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Sybarit Gastroshop during your stay in Merida. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 1,611 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of La Mafia se sienta a la mesa, a renowned dining destination in Merida. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,267 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend A de Arco, claiming it’s one of the best in the town. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,916 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Shangri La. It is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,061 customers.

La Carbonería Brasas y Tapas is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,494 customers.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 3 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Merida in Spain. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Madrid. Madrid will be your home for 1 night.

A tour of Merida is not complete without a visit to the famous Roman Theatre of Emerita Augusta. This incredible roman theatre and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 37,382 travelers.

Madrid’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Merida behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 55 min.

Slow down and say goodbye to the road for a while, as Merida welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences. Stretch your arms and legs and head out into the town.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Merida is the fantastic Roman Theatre of Emerita Augusta. As an appreciated roman theatre and local gem in the area, Roman Theatre of Emerita Augusta has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 37,382 reviews.

To make your fun escapade in Merida, Spain even more exciting, we recommend you check out all the tours and activities you can add to your itinerary. Joining tours is an incredible way to visit wonderful places and meet new friends.

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.

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 and Portugal.

Don't forget to book a table at Arrabal Madrid, a well-known eatery in Madrid. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,924 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Asador Real while exploring Madrid. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,789 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurante Alabaster, a popular restaurant in Madrid. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,156 discerning diners.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Del Diego Cocktail Bar, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Del Diego Cocktail Bar has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,245 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, a crowd-favorite. Around 966 customers have rated their experience at Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Harvey's Cocktail Bar belongs to the list of the best bars in Madrid, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,137 bar-goers.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 9 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 and Portugal. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Optimize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Madrid’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Spain, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery.

A tour of Madrid is not complete without a visit to the famous Puerta de Alcalá. This incredible triumphal arch and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 43,833 travelers.

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 and Portugal.

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 9-day European road trip in Spain and Portugal with fond memories. Safe travels!