12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Spain, Portugal, and France With Itinerary from Madrid to San Sebastian, Bordeaux, Biarritz, Bilbao, Santiago De Compostela, Porto, and Lisbon

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Madrid. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

A top thing to do today is to explore La Latina, a must-see neighborhood in Madrid. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Let Plaza De España set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this respected public square before continuing your journey. Main Square is your next stop. This timeless public square is one of the best-rated sights in Madrid.

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 Market Of San Miguel. This instagrammable food market is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit El Retiro Park and Museo Del Prado.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Spain, Portugal, and France, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Madrid.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Alhambra, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurante Alabaster offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Madrid.

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

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!

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Spain, Portugal, and France, you’ll soak in the magnificence Bordeaux in France. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to San Sebastian, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bordeaux, France. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to France. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 41 min.

Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux is a frequently visited museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour to Jardin Public, a mesmerizing park that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Miroir D'eau, an enchanting art installation. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Place De La Bourse, an enchanting and truly unique public square. End your sightseeing at Bordeaux Cathedral, a captivating church that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Bordeaux. 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 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.

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

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 Biarritz in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Biarritz, where you will stay for 1 night.

Biarritz’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bordeaux behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 17 min. Biarritz welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Grotte De La Chambre D'amour. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the cave before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Chambre D'amour Playground. This locally appreciated playground is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Rocher De La Vierge. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the rock formation. Next, take your journey to Biarritz Aquarium, an interesting aquarium. Conclude your sightseeing at Sainte-eugénie Church Of Biarritz, known for its inviting features.

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

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 Biarritz’s local cuisine.

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

Take in the ambiance of Biarritz as this 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 multi-country road trip to look forward to!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bilbao, Spain. This car ride takes around 1 hour 46 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Artxanda Funicular, a beloved tramway that everyone visiting Bilbao should see. Next, head to Zubizuri. This romantic art installation is one of the most well-known attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Puppy, a picture-perfect art installation popular among locals as well as travelers. Guggenheim Museum is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this famous museum building before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, a visually striking museum and a top attraction in the city.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Bilbao. 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.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Spain, Portugal, and France, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Bilbao.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Boss Bilbao after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Stromboli Taberna for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Zuberoa Taberna is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Spain, Portugal, and France. Today's main destinations are Santiago De Compostela 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 Santiago De Compostela. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Santiago De Compostela. This drive usually takes around 5 hours 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Santiago De Compostela is Parque Da Alameda, a notable park that draws attention for its eye-catching features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Praza De Galicia, an eye-catching public square that stands out in the city.

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 Monasterio De San Martín Pinario, an up-and-coming monastery that offers a unique experience.

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

As the sun sets on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Santiago De Compostela's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Enjoy a delicious meal at A Taberna do Bispo, a top-rated dining destination in Santiago De Compostela. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider A Curtidoría, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante A Moa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santiago De Compostela this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Pepa A Loba, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Rock Café O Cum. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Casa Das Crechas (santiago De Compostela), another top-rated place in the area.

Celebrate day 7 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 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 Porto in Portugal. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Porto where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Porto, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Santiago De Compostela to Porto may take around 2 hours 38 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Porto, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Gardens Of The Palácio De Cristal, a popular park known for its enchanting features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Luís I Bridge, an astonishing monument.

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 Porto Cathedral and uncover the details of this breathtaking church. Make sure to also explore Clerigos Tower, a notable monument.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Brasão Aliados, a top-rated dining spot in Porto. If you're in the mood for something new, try Em Canto, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Nata Lisboa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Porto.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Fé Wine & Club, known for its lively atmosphere. Tapas Bar 24 is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Royal Cocktail Club offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the night falls in Porto, 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.

Greet day 10 of your multi-country road trip across Spain, Portugal, and France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Sintra in Portugal. You will return to Lisbon for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Sintra is brimming with adventures.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sintra may take around 43 min. Upon your arrival in Sintra, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Castle Of The Moors is an interesting castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-designated features before continuing your self-guided tour to Initiation Well, a visually striking monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Quinta Da Regaleira, a visually striking palace. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Pisoes Waterfall, a romantic and truly unique waterfall. End your sightseeing at Sintra Natural History Museum, an intriguing museum that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the town.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Delfina-Cantina Portuguesa, a top-rated dining spot in Lisbon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Gambrinus, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Duque. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lisbon.

Continue your lively evening at 4 Caravelas, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. British Bar Lisboa is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

As the night falls in Lisbon, 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 11 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 Salamanca in Spain. In the evening, you’ll end up in Madrid, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lisbon and set your GPS to Salamanca, 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 4 hours 29 min. Upon reaching Salamanca, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Roman Bridge Of Salamanca and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Casa De Las Conchas, another highlight in Salamanca. When you’re done exploring the historical landmark, continue to Plaza Mayor De Salamanca, a culturally significant public square.

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

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.

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

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