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

On day 2, you will wake up in Madrid with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Madrid before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Spain, Portugal, and France.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Madrid is La Latina. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Madrid. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Market Of San Miguel is the perfect place to start. This food market is one of the most timeless places to visit in Madrid. Next, head to Main Square, an iconic public square, known for its symbolic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Thyssen-bornemisza Museum. This photogenic museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Museo Del Prado and El Retiro Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 Madrid'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 lovely dining experience at Alhambra, a popular restaurant in Madrid. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Madrid at Restaurante Alabaster, 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 Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Madrid tonight.

Keep the evening going at Jazz Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to España Building, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is 1862 Dry Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day 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!

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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the frequently visited Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion, a picture-perfect church in San Sebastian. Next, go to Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux.

After visiting Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion and Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux, have a stroll along San Sebastian's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Place De La Bourse. This history-steeped public square offers a unique experience. Miroir D'eau is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Bordeaux Cathedral, one of the most UNESCO world heritage-designated places to visit in San Sebastian.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Bordeaux. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in France 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Cent 33, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of L'Originel, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Clemenceau, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Brun, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Mushroom Café provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Whose Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Bilbao in Spain. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bilbao, your home for 1 night.

Bordeaux is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Artxanda Funicular, a worthwhile tramway that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Zubizuri, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Puppy. This art installation is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bordeaux at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Guggenheim Museum. After exploring the museum building, head to the intriguing Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Bilbao. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Viña del Ensanche, a highly-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're eager to try something different, consider Marinela jatetxea, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Boss Bilbao, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Stromboli Taberna, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Zuberoa Taberna likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night 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 Bilbao to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 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 - Lisbon in Portugal. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Lisbon where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Porto today. One of the most extraordinary attractions included on the itinerary is Belém Tower. This visually striking monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Jerónimos Monastery and learn what makes this visually striking monastery unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Rua Augusta Arch. After exploring the monument, head to Praça Do Comércio. This iconic public square is a highlight in Porto.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Lisbon. 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 sun sets on day 7 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.

Savor the flavors at Delirium Café Lisboa, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, daPrata52 - Petiscos ¦ Tapas 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.

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.

Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Spain, Portugal, and France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Sintra in Portugal. 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.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Lisbon. Begin your sightseeing with Initiation Well. This notable monument is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Pisoes Waterfall, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Lisbon, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Sintra Natural History Museum. This frequently visited museum is a traveler-favorite.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Areia, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La MaMá Restaurante offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Sacha Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Madrid.

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!