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.

Make sure to visit La Latina, a popular neighborhood in Madrid. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Market Of San Miguel. This iconic food market is an instagrammable place to see in Madrid. Continue your discovery at Main Square, an enchanting public square with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Madrid, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Thyssen-bornemisza Museum. This locally renowned museum offers a historic encounter with Madrid. Next, make your way to Museo Del Prado to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit El Retiro Park, an iconic park that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Madrid.

Experience shopping bliss at Madrid as you explore Salamanca District. Take a leisurely stroll through unique boutiques and high-end shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Salamanca District offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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.

Savor the flavors at Alhambra, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurante Alabaster beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Madrid tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Jazz Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, España Building offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, 1862 Dry Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Saint-Émilion in France. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, your home for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore San Sebastian on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning church before continuing your journey. Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux is your next stop. This often recommended museum is one of the best-rated sights in San Sebastian.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Place De La Bourse. This culturally significant public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Miroir D'eau and Bordeaux Cathedral.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Bordeaux. 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, Portugal, and France by rewarding yourself with a taste of Bordeaux’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 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.

Keep the evening going at Café Brun, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Mushroom Café, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Whose Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Spain, Portugal, and France, 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 Bilbao in Spain. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your adventure at Artxanda Funicular. This beloved tramway is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the culturally significant wonders of Zubizuri, a must-see art installation in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Puppy. This up-and-coming art installation offers an enriching experience. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Spain's delectable cuisine at one of Bilbao'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.

Savor the flavors at La Viña del Ensanche, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Marinela jatetxea beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bilbao tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Boss Bilbao, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Stromboli Taberna is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Zuberoa Taberna also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

As the night falls in Bilbao, 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 7 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Spain, Portugal, and France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Lisbon in Portugal. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lisbon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Belém Tower. This extraordinary monument is a visually striking place to see in Porto. Continue your discovery at Jerónimos Monastery, a culturally significant monastery with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Porto, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Rua Augusta Arch. This interesting monument offers an awe-inspiring encounter with Porto. Next, make your way to Praça Do Comércio to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Porto.

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.

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, Portugal, and France.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Delirium Café Lisboa, a top-rated dining spot in Lisbon. If you're in the mood for something new, try daPrata52 - Petiscos ¦ Tapas, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at A Provinciana. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lisbon.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Lisboa Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Toca Da Raposa offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. O Bom O Mau E O Vilão is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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 1 vibrant destinations - 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.

Lisbon is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Initiation Well, a notable monument that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Pisoes Waterfall, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Sintra Natural History Museum. This museum is one of the town’s most up-and-coming spots.

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.

As the sun sets on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Madrid's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Spain 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, Madrid has them.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Areia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La MaMá Restaurante is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Sacha Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Madrid tonight.

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