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

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

La Latina is a fantastic place you can explore today in Madrid. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Madrid-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Make time for Market Of San Miguel, a world-famous food market that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Main Square, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Thyssen-bornemisza Museum. This museum is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Madrid at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Museo Del Prado. After exploring the museum, head to the timeless El Retiro Park.

Bring home unique finds from Madrid's bustling shopping hub, Plaza Mayor. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Plaza Mayor offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

Before this 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, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

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

Continue your lively evening at Jazz Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. España Building is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, 1862 Dry Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Spain, Portugal, and France. Today's main destinations are Saint-Émilion in France, 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 Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Saint-Émilion, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from San Sebastian to Saint-Émilion may take around 3 hours without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Saint-Émilion, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion, a worthwhile church in Saint-Émilion. Explore its majestic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Bordeaux’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Saint-Émilion behind. This drive usually takes around 44 min. Bordeaux welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux, a worthwhile museum known for its romantic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Place De La Bourse, a well-known public square.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Miroir D'eau and uncover the details of this romantic art installation. Make sure to also explore Bordeaux Cathedral, a popular church.

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

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, Portugal, and France by rewarding yourself with a taste of Bordeaux’s local cuisine.

Don’t miss out on dining at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Originel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Clemenceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

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

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

On day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Spain, Portugal, and France, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation 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.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bilbao.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bordeaux, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bilbao, Spain. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Spain. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 36 min.

Artxanda Funicular is a locally appreciated tramway we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Zubizuri, a visually striking art installation that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Puppy, an instagrammable art installation. End your sightseeing at Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, a beloved museum that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at La Viña del Ensanche, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bilbao at Marinela jatetxea, 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 San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bilbao tonight.

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.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Spain, Portugal, and France! Enjoy your evening in Bilbao to the fullest!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your multi-country journey across Spain, Portugal, and France. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Sintra in Portugal. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Madrid where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Lisbon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sintra. Your travel time is around 39 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Sintra is Initiation Well, a captivating monument that draws attention for its symbolic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Pisoes Waterfall, a mesmerizing waterfall that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Sintra Natural History Museum, an up-and-coming museum that offers a unique experience.

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

Before this 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, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Savor the flavors at Areia, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La MaMá Restaurante beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sacha Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Madrid tonight.

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!