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

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Portugal and Spain begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Lisbon in Portugal. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Lisbon for 1 night.

Catch an early flight to Portugal to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Lisbon 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 Lisbon, the extraordinary Time Out Market Lisboa awaits. This attraction is a valued food court that boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 58,503 travelers' reviews.

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

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

Reserve a table at daPrata52 - Petiscos ¦ Tapas, a renowned restaurant in Lisbon. This culinary gem and its delectable cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,470 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Alma while in Lisbon. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 1,033 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Lisbon at Lisboa Tu e Eu 2, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,027 customers.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Delirium Café Lisboa, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Lisbon. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, backed by 3,093 delighted customers.

Your multi-country road trip in Portugal and Spain 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.

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

One place travelers keep coming back to in Lisbon is the magnificent LX Factory. Around 51,300 visitors have rated this excellent sightseeing destination and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Belém Tower on this leg of your adventure in Portugal. This attraction is a well-known fort that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 90,401 travelers.

The remarkable Padrão dos Descobrimentos is known to be one of the best places to visit in Lisbon, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 55,078 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Lisbon by exploring the captivating Lisbon Oceanarium, which draws the attention of nearly 1,000,000 visitors annually. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 85,268 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Lisbon exploration list!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lisbon and set your GPS to Merida, Spain. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 42 min.

While in Lisbon, take the chance to join a popular tour to experience something one-of-a-kind during your getaway in Portugal. Check out all the tours Lisbon offers, and personalize your vacation package to your preferences for an amazing day in the city.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Merida’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the town’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Portugal and Spain.

Reserve your spot at Agallas Gastro & Food, a popular local restaurant in Merida. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 622 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Sybarit Gastroshop during your stay in Merida. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, by 1,611 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of La Mafia se sienta a la mesa, a popular local gem in in Merida. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,267 satisfied guests.

Unwind after a long day in one of the best and most popular bars in Merida, A de Arco. This famous place has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,916 customers.

Another trendy bar is Shangri La. This bar’s extensive drink menu, amazing vibe, and friendly atmosphere have earned it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars, based on the reviews of 1,061 customers.

Locals also recommend La Carbonería Brasas y Tapas. This bar’s welcoming atmosphere has earned it an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to the reviews of 1,494 delighted customers.

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

On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Portugal and Spain, 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 Merida in Spain. In the evening, you’ll end up in Madrid, where you will stay for 2 nights.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Merida, including the outstanding Roman Theatre of Emerita Augusta. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 37,382 reviews, this fascinating roman theatre and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the town.

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.

Prepare for a great time when you reach Merida. While in Merida, you’ll soak in Spain’s rich culture while exploring its wonderful attractions.

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.

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 Merida, Portugal.

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

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.

Reserve a table at DiverXO, a 3 Michelin star restaurant and a Bib Gourmand dining establishment in Madrid. This epicurean hotspot’s delectable creative offering makes it a crowd favorite. DiverXO is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Another popular dining spot in Madrid is Smoked Room, which critics have graced with 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s pleasant ambiance and food choices leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its contemporary menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Smoked Room’s culinary excellence.

Locals and foreign travelers alike recommend the popular Bib Gourmand restaurant, Paco Roncero. Captivated customers consistently praise this restaurant in Madrid for its appetizing selection of food, including its creative courses. As a leading food haven, it boasts 2 Michelin stars for giving an unforgettable dining experience to its patrons.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Salmon Guru. This famous bar in Madrid has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,802 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, El miniBAR. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. El miniBAR has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,297 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Areia. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,973 customers.

As the night falls in Madrid, 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.

On day 4, you will wake up in Segovia 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 Portugal and Spain.

Something that makes Madrid the perfect holiday destination is that the region offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding association football venue, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 120,158 visitors.

The famous Puerta de Alcalá is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Madrid's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 43,833 travelers have rated this incredible triumphal arch and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Madrid is also home to the extraordinary El Retiro Park, which boasts a 4.8 out of 5 star rating in 162,386 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Museo del Prado, which hosts up to 3,497,345 visitors every year. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 98,929 reviews, a visit to this wonderful art museum and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Segovia by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your itinerary. Explore more of the region’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 Segovia.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at La Mi Venta while you’re in Madrid. Famous for its lovely menu and delectable dishes, it has captivated around 2,658 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid has earned an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,124 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Lambuzo, a crowd-favorite. Around 1,622 customers have rated their experience at Lambuzo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Sambhad cocktail bar terraza 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 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,029 bar-goers.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Portugal and Spain. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Madrid in Spain, 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 Cáceres. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Something that makes Madrid the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding square, Main Square. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 152,388 visitors.

The famous Market of San Miguel is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Madrid's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 106,296 travelers have rated this incredible building and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Madrid is also home to the extraordinary Royal Palace of Madrid, which boasts a 4.6 out of 5 star rating in 77,471 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating plaza de España. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from a total of 98,199 reviews, a visit to this wonderful square and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

On this Madrid exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic Casa de Campo up close. This fascinating park and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 50,826 travelers is proof.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cáceres. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 56 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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 long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Cáceres. 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 Portugal and Spain 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.

Make your stay in Cáceres one for the books by indulging in an unforgettable culinary experience at Atrio, a 3 Michelin star-rated gem acclaimed by food experts. Its delightful creative cuisine and the praise from satisfied patrons speak of its exceptional quality. Atrio, which has a Bib Gourmand award, gives you the best value for your money, and ensures your dining experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Cáceres is Restaurante alBalat. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 2,239 happy diners.

El 13 de San Antón stands out as a local favorite in Cáceres. 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 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,296 customers.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Atrio Restaurant Hotel, one of the top bars in the town. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Atrio Restaurant Hotel has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,248 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Restaurante Eustaquio Blanco, a crowd-favorite. Around 1,029 customers have rated their experience at Restaurante Eustaquio Blanco an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

El Corral de las Cigüeñas belongs to the list of the best bars in Cáceres, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,387 bar-goers.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your multi-country journey across Portugal and Spain. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Agualva e Mira-Sintra in Portugal. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Lisbon. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Fasten your seatbelt and journey to your next stop in Portugal. Turn on the radio and notice the scenic views transition from Spain’s Cáceres to the enchanting landscapes of Lisbon. Keep in mind that your travel time may take around 4 hours 34 min without traffic disruptions.

To make your day special, check out all the available tours and tickets in the city!

Agualva e Mira-Sintra has something for every interest and travel budget.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Lisbon’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 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.

Don't forget to book a table at Nicolau Lisboa, a well-known eatery in Lisbon. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 5,172 satisfied guests.

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 7 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Lisbon 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 Portugal and Spain. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Make the most of your final day in Portugal by visiting Lisbon’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Portugal.

A tour of Lisbon is not complete without a visit to the famous Praça do Comércio. This incredible square and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 106,926 travelers.

Get a last taste of Portugal’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Lisbon 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 Portugal and Spain.

The time has come to say farewell to Lisbon for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 7-day European road trip in Portugal and Spain with fond memories. Safe travels!