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

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Embark on an unforgettable 9-day multi-country road trip across Spain, and Portugal! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Madrid, Merida, Cáceres, Agualva e Mira-Sintra, Sintra, and Lisbon sounds like your idea of a great vacation, this iconic European tour is for you.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 6 nights in Spain, and 2 nights 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, Merida, Cáceres, and Toledo, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Portugal. Immerse yourself in the allure of Agualva e Mira-Sintra, Sintra, and Lisbon, where every street tells a story.

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, 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 9-day self-drive adventure in Spain, 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, 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
Western Park
Santiago Bernabéu StadiumPuerta de AlcaláGreat Pond of El RetiroEl Retiro ParkCrystal Palace
Museo del PradoThyssen-Bornemisza MuseumCírculo de Bellas ArtesMain SquareMarket of San Miguel
Royal Palace of MadridTemple of DebodMuseo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina SofíaCasa de Campo
Park and National Palace of PenaQuinta da RegaleiraCabo da Roca
Lisbon OceanariumTime Out Market LisboaLX FactoryBelém TowerPadrão dos Descobrimentos

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Madrid - Arrival day
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  • Western Park
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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 3 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.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Madrid today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Western Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 28,992 visitors.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at El miniBAR, a top-rated dining spot in Madrid. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Areia. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Madrid.

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

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.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Madrid
  • More

Drive 15 km, 1 hour 7 min

  • Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
  • Puerta de Alcalá
  • Great Pond of El Retiro
  • El Retiro Park
  • Crystal Palace
  • More

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 2 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated association football venue and attraction in Madrid — Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. About 120,158 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular Puerta De Alcalá is another top sight in Madrid that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved triumphal arch in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 43,833 visitors.

Great Pond Of El Retiro is a spectacular park and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Madrid, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 22,242 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent El Retiro Park. Because of its allure and charm, around 162,386 visitors have rated this attraction and urban park an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Crystal Palace. Echoing its popularity, 39,270 travelers have awarded this famous building and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Madrid. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Spain in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Begin your culinary exploration in Madrid by securing a reservation at DiverXO. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Smoked Room, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Paco Roncero, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Celebrate day 2 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 3

Day 3

  • Madrid
  • More

Drive 3 km, 53 min

  • Museo del Prado
  • Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
  • Círculo de Bellas Artes
  • Main Square
  • Market of San Miguel
  • More

Day 3 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Madrid. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

In Madrid, the extraordinary Museo Del Prado awaits. This attraction is a valued art museum that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 98,929 travelers' reviews. Hosting around 3,497,345 visitors every year, the amazing Museo Del Prado is undoubtedly one of the top sights of the area.

Another of the best travel destinations in Madrid, which gets around 671,078 annual visits, is the spectacular Thyssen-bornemisza Museum. This attraction is an art museum that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 32,846 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Círculo De Bellas Artes. This local movie theater and wonder has an overall review score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,540 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Main Square is another attraction you might want to add to your Madrid exploration itinerary. This square is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 152,388 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Market Of San Miguel. More than a popular building and attraction, Market Of San Miguel offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Madrid. Market Of San Miguel boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 traveler reviews.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at BiBo Dani García, a top-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Malacatín, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pum Pum Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

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 4

Day 4

  • Mérida
  • Madrid
  • More

Drive 354 km, 4 hours 18 min

  • Royal Palace of Madrid
  • Temple of Debod
  • Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
  • Casa de Campo
  • More

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Spain, 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 Madrid in Spain. In the evening, you’ll end up in Merida, where you will stay for 1 night.

Royal Palace Of Madrid is a travelers’ favorite in Madrid, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,471 visitors.

In Madrid, don’t miss Temple Of Debod, a great egyptian temple and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 44,446 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Madrid off your list when you visit the wonderful Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía. This popular sight is an outstanding art museum, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 46,855 travelers. Approximately 1 person visit this attraction each year.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Casa De Campo. This park and place of interest has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 50,826 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Madrid, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Merida. Your travel time is around 3 hours 17 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Merida. 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 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 city’s most popular bars.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurante Chamorro, a top-rated dining destination in Merida. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider A de Arco, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Volterra. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Merida this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Trastero, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Jazz Bar Mérida, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Cafetería Pizarrín likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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 5

Day 5

  • Lisbon
  • Agualva-Cacém
  • Sintra
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Drive 372 km, 4 hours 51 min

  • Park and National Palace of Pena
  • Quinta da Regaleira
  • Cabo da Roca
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Spain, and Portugal. Today's main destinations are 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 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Agualva e Mira-Sintra, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Merida to Agualva e Mira-Sintra may take around 3 hours 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Agualva e Mira-Sintra, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Agualva e Mira-Sintra, including the outstanding National Palace Of Pena. Having an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 86,631 reviews, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Agualva e Mira-Sintra is also home to the captivating Quinta Da Regaleira, a local museum considered one of the highlights of the city. About 54,624 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Agualva e Mira-Sintra, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sintra. This drive usually takes around 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Sintra is the fantastic Cabo Da Roca. As an appreciated cape and local gem in the area, Cabo Da Roca has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 55,143 reviews.

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

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Portugal's delectable cuisine at one of Lisbon'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 Delirium Café Lisboa, a highly-rated dining destination in Lisbon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Via Graça, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at daPrata52 - Petiscos ¦ Tapas. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lisbon this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Cockpit Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Lisboa Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Cave Rock Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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 6

Day 6

  • Lisbon
  • More

Drive 36 km, 1 hour 38 min

  • Lisbon Oceanarium
  • Time Out Market Lisboa
  • LX Factory
  • Belém Tower
  • Padrão dos Descobrimentos
  • More

On day 6, you will wake up in Lisbon with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Lisbon before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Spain, and Portugal.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Lisbon is the fantastic Lisbon Oceanarium, attracting around 1,000,000 visitors every year. As an appreciated public aquarium and local gem in the area, Lisbon Oceanarium has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 86,301 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Time Out Market Lisboa. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 59,217 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Lx Factory, a standout sightseeing destination and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 52,117 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Belém Tower. This fort is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 91,872 visitor reviews.

Just around the corner lies the magnificent Padrão Dos Descobrimentos, a popular monument and attraction many visitors enjoy. More than 55,676 people have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the 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.

Savor the flavors at Lídia Restaurante & Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Adega da Tia Matilde beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider A Provinciana. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lisbon tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Toca Da Raposa after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Janela Da Atalaia Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Pub Português is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 7

Day 7

  • Cáceres
  • Lisbon
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Drive 321 km, 4 hours 8 min

  • Praça do Comércio
  • Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
  • Miradouro de Santa Luzia
  • Castelo de S Jorge
  • More

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 1 vibrant destinations - Lisbon in Portugal. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Cáceres where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Lisbon today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Praça Do Comércio. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 108,290 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Miradouro Da Senhora Do Monte. This incredible attraction and scenic viewpoint holds an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to 24,155 visitors.

According to travelers in Lisbon, the extraordinary Miradouro De Santa Luzia is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and scenic viewpoint is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 32,846 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible museum, Castelo De S. Jorge. Up to 86,378 visitors have rated it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Cáceres. 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Cáceres by reserving a table at Atrio. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante alBalat, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at El Corral De Las Cigüeñas, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out La Traviata, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Little Gin provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Spain, and Portugal! Enjoy your evening in Cáceres to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Madrid
  • Toledo
  • More

Drive 336 km, 3 hours 47 min

  • Alcázar of Toledo
  • Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo
  • Zocodover
  • More

On day 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Spain, and Portugal, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Toledo in Spain. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Madrid, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cáceres, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Toledo may take around 2 hours 35 min. Upon your arrival in Toledo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Something that makes Toledo the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding alcázar, Alcázar Of Toledo. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,193 visitors.

The famous Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada De Toledo is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Toledo's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 27,938 travelers have rated this incredible church and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Toledo is also home to the extraordinary Zocodover, which boasts a 4.5 out of 5 star rating in 19,930 traveler reviews.

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

Dine in style at Sagaretxe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Arrabal Madrid boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Taberna El Sur. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Madrid.

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!

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Madrid - Departure day
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  • plaza de España
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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.

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Madrid’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Madrid, including the outstanding Plaza De España. Having an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 98,199 reviews, this fascinating square and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

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.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante El Espigón Madrid, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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 9-day European road trip in Spain, and Portugal with fond memories. Safe travels!

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