If you’re dreaming of a scenic Spain road trip filled with stunning nature, rich history, and incredible food, Extremadura is the perfect destination. Just a few hours from Madrid, this underrated region offers some of the best places in Spain, with its charming towns, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re exploring ancient Roman ruins, savoring world-famous jamón ibérico, or immersing yourself in the natural beauty of national parks, Extremadura promises an unforgettable adventure. Here’s how to explore this captivating region in five days, with the top things to do in Extremadura.
Day 1: Madrid to Hervas
Day 2: Valle del Ambroz and Jerte Valley
Day 3: Monfragüe National Park and Caceres
Day 4: Ham Safari and Merida
Day 5: Trujillo and back to Madrid
You’ll find all the best places in Extremadura pinned on Google Maps.
Start your journey by picking up your rental car at Madrid Barajas Airport and driving to Hervás, a charming town in the province of Cáceres.
Known for its picturesque Jewish quarter, Hervás offers a perfect blend of cultural history and stunning scenery. It’s an easy Madrid day trip as it’s less than a 3 hour drive away, and will make you feel like you’re in Tuscany! There are also a variety of incredible landscapes nearby like Jerte Valley and Los Pilones.
Highlights: Hervás Jewish Quarter
Stay: Hospederia Valle del Ambroz
After breakfast, immerse yourself in the lush landscapes of the Valle del Ambroz and Jerte Valley. Whether it’s hiking or simply soaking in the beauty of cherry blossoms (in season), this day is all about embracing the outdoors.
One of the top things to do in Extremadura, and a must for any Spain road trip, is to visit Los Pilones. During the warmer months you’ll be able to swim here! I also recommend visiting the beautiful waterfall, Cascada Bonal.
If you’re more of an adventurous soul then you definitely need to try out canyoning! I went with Gecko Aventura, who were super friendly and professional. I had sooo much fun sliding down the waterfalls. Even in November I was able to go without being that cold thanks to the wet suit.
Then finish the day driving to Plasencia, where you’ll spend the night.
Highlights: Los Pilones and Cascada Bonal
Stay: Palacio Carvajal Girón
Your next stop is Monfragüe National Park, a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. You can either drive yourself around or book a guided tour to see dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and a variety of wildlife. We booked a tour which was great for understanding more about the national park and vultures, plus our guide provided us with binoculars and a telescope! Make sure to stop at Mirador de la portilla del Tiétar for one of the best places in Extremadura Spain!
After a tasty lunch at Restaurante Las Habazas, take a short drive to Cáceres, one of Extremadura Spain’s most enchanting cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wandering through its medieval streets feels like stepping into a different era, with its beautifully preserved architecture and ancient walls. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize several iconic filming locations. Such as the Arco de la Estrella, which served as the entrance to King’s Landing, and the picturesque Plaza de San Jorge. Cáceres seamlessly combines history, culture, and cinematic magic, making it an essential stop on any Spain road trip.
Highlights: Monfragüe National Park, Cáceres Old Town
Stay: NH Collection Cáceres Palacio de Oquendo
Kick off your day in Almendralejo with a unique Ham Safari, a must do on your Spain road trip itinerary. The Ham Safari in Extremadura is a unique culinary experience that takes you into the heart of the region’s dehesa, the oak forests where free-roaming Iberian pigs feast on acorns, giving the prized jamón ibérico its rich, nutty flavor. Extremadura, renowned for producing some of Spain’s finest jamón ibérico, offers the perfect setting to savour this iconic treat.
If you are limited on time but still want to visit the Iberian pigs, you can book a guided tour from Madrid.
Next, head to Mérida, a highlight of any Spain road trip through Extremadura Spain. It is a treasure trove of ancient Roman history and culture. Known for its incredibly preserved ruins, including the iconic Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre, this UNESCO World Heritage Site transports visitors back in time. A guided tour of Mérida is perfect for history buffs. It makes for an enriching stop on a longer itinerary or even as a Madrid day trip.
Highlights: Ham Safari in Almendralejo, Roman Theatre and Acueducto de los Milagros in Mérida.
Stay: Parador de Mérida
On your final day, visit Trujillo, another gem for history buffs and Game of Thrones fans. Trujillo was my favorite stop on our Spain road trip through Extremadura Spain. This stunning medieval town, with its cobblestone streets and historic charm, feels like stepping back in time.
Its hilltop castle, a filming location for Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon, offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains, making it a must-visit for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.
Known as the birthplace of famed conquistadors like Francisco Pizarro, Trujillo’s rich heritage is evident throughout its elegant plazas and ancient architecture. Whether as a highlight of your itinerary or as a Madrid day trip. Trujillo perfectly embodies the timeless allure of Extremadura. Make sure to book a guided tour to learn more!
From Trujillo, drive 2.5 hours back to Madrid to conclude your Extremadura road trip.
Highlights: Trujillo Old Town, Trujillo Castle
Return: Madrid Barajas Airport
The best time to visit Extremadura Spain is during the spring (March to May). As well as autumn (September to November) months when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most vibrant.
Spring brings blooming flowers and lush greenery, especially in the Jerte Valley, famous for its cherry blossoms. Autumn, on the other hand, offers cooler temperatures, perfect for exploring the region’s historic towns and natural parks without the summer crowds.
Both seasons are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking in Monfragüe National Park or enjoying the Ham Safari experience. Whether you’re planning a Spain road trip or a Madrid day trip, these seasons offer a comfortable climate and stunning scenery, making Extremadura even more enchanting.
Extremadura Spain is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on every Spain road trip itinerary. From the ancient Roman ruins of Mérida to the breathtaking landscapes of Monfragüe National Park and the medieval charm of Trujillo, this region offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re savoring world-class jamón ibérico during a Ham Safari or exploring Game of Thrones filming locations, every moment in Extremadura is unforgettable. Its close proximity to Madrid also makes it an ideal destination for a day trip or an extended adventure. With so much to discover, Extremadura promises an authentic and captivating experience that will leave you eager to return.
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