11-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santiago De Compostela traveling east to Oviedo, Santander, Bilbao, and Leon
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Explore the best of Spain on a 11-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Santiago De Compostela, Oviedo, Gijon, Cueto, Santander, Santillana del Mar, Comillas, Bilbao, Bermeo, Portugalete, Leon, and Astorga. This road trip itinerary in Spain seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Santiago De Compostela, 2 nights in Oviedo, 2 nights in Santander, 2 nights in Bilbao, and 1 night in Leon. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Spain. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Santiago De Compostela, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Spain on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Spain. Cathedral Of Santiago De Compostela and Guggenheim Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Sanctuary Of Covadonga, learn more about the unique León Cathedra, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Vizcaya Bridge.
As you hit the open road and drive through Santiago De Compostela, Oviedo, Gijon, Cueto, Santander, Santillana del Mar, Comillas, Bilbao, Bermeo, Portugalete, Leon, and Astorga, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Spain. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Spain.
Throughout your road trip in Spain, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Spain.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Spain fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Spain today!
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Day 1
- Santiago de Compostela - Arrival day
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- Parque da Alameda (Santiago de Compostela)
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Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Santiago De Compostela and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Santiago De Compostela for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Santiago De Compostela is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Parque Da Alameda, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Santiago De Compostela. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Spain. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Santiago De Compostela, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at A Taberna do Bispo, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? A Curtidoría offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante A Moa. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Santiago De Compostela.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pepa A Loba offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Rock Café O Cum is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Casa Das Crechas (santiago De Compostela) is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Santiago de Compostela
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Drive 0.8 km, 11 min
- Museum of Pilgrimage
- Fonte dos Cabalos
- Praza da Quintana de Vivos
- Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
- Monasterio de San Martín Pinario
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Santiago De Compostela for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Santiago De Compostela allows for both. Start by heading to Museum Of Pilgrimage. This up-and-coming museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Fountain Of Horses, a heritage-rich monument, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Praza Da Quintana De Vivos, an underrated public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the widely recognized Cathedral Of Santiago De Compostela. Round off your day at Monasterio De San Martín Pinario, another gem in Santiago De Compostela with symbolic features to discover.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Bring home unique finds from Santiago De Compostela's bustling shopping hub, Mercado de Abastos. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Mercado de Abastos offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
As you explore more of Santiago De Compostela, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Los Caracoles Restaurante, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurante Pedro Roca? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurante Tarará as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Santiago De Compostela.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar O´46, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Forest, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Fuco Lois provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 3
- Santiago de Compostela
- Oviedo
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Drive 325 km, 3 hours 51 min
- Iglesia de San Julián de los Prados - Santullano
- Foncalada's Fountain
- Archaeological Museum of Asturias
- Plaza del Fontán
- Mafalda statue
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On day 3 of your road trip in 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 in Oviedo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oviedo, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Foncalada's Fountain, a respected monument that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Archaeological Museum Of Asturias, one of the city’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the underrated Plaza Del Fontán. When you're finished at the public square, Mafalda Statue awaits your visit.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Oviedo. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Oviedo. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurante Doña Concha, a top-rated dining spot in Oviedo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Quemedás, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Oveja Negra. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Oviedo.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Astur, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Bodegón is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Baam also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.
Day 4
- Oviedo
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Drive 204 km, 3 hours 42 min
- Elogio del horizonte
- Plaza del Parchís
- La Escalerona
- San Lorenzo Beach
- Sanctuary of Covadonga
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Greet day 4 of your road trip in Spain with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Oviedo for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Gijon and Cuadonga/Covadonga.
Today’s agenda in Oviedo includes an art installation, a public square, a monument, a beach, a church and much more! Elogio Del Horizonte is must-visit art installation and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Plaza Del Parchís, a beloved public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to La Escalerona, a culturally significant monument, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Oviedo. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the interesting San Lorenzo Beach. If you’re looking for more, Sanctuary Of Covadonga is also a popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Oviedo.
As you explore more of Oviedo, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante La Tagliatella | Oviedo / Uviéu, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurante Al Baile La Temprana offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Mesón El Viso. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Oviedo.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café Bar Ego, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Mala Saña offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Cubia provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 5
- Oviedo
- Santander
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Drive 202 km, 2 hours 36 min
- Segunda Playa del Sardinero
- Palacio de la Magdalena
- Botin Centre
- Plaza Porticada
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Cueto and Santander. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Santander. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Oviedo, including a beach, a palace, an art gallery, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Segunda Playa De El Sardinero. This underrated beach is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Palacio De La Magdalena located in Oviedo for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Centro Botin. Its noteworthy features will captivate you. After the art gallery, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Plaza Porticada. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this public square.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Santander. Santander offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Santander's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante la Mayor, a highly-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're eager to try something different, consider Santa & Co, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Marcello Restaurante. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kings Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Grog is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!
Day 6
- Santander
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Drive 118 km, 1 hour 49 min
- National Museum and Research Center of Altamira
- Cave of Altamira
- Sobrellano Palace
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On day 6 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Santander, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Santander for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Santillana del Mar and Comillas to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Today's adventure in Santander promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at National Museum And Research Center Of Altamira. This photogenic museum is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Cave Of Altamira, another idyllic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Sobrellano Palace, one of the village’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its symbolic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Santander and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Santander. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante Matices Santander is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Enmienda Dieciocho. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Santander tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Little Bobby. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.
Say good night to Santander and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 7
- Santander
- Bilbao
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Drive 100 km, 1 hour 34 min
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Guggenheim Museum
- Puppy
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bilbao. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Santander. Begin your sightseeing with Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This popular park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Santander, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Guggenheim Museum. This famous museum building is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Puppy, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Federico Moyúa Enparantza is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bilbao, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at La Viña del Ensanche, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Marinela jatetxea, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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 a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Boss Bilbao, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Stromboli Taberna offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 8
- Bilbao
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Drive 106 km, 2 hours 18 min
- San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
- Vizcaya Bridge
- Artxanda Funicular
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On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Bermeo, Portugalete, and Bilbao. You still have 1 night left in Bilbao.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Bilbao. Your adventure starts at San Juan De Gaztelugatxe Hermitage, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Vizcaya Bridge. This popular monument is known for its inviting appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bilbao's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Artxanda Funicular. This romantic tramway offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bilbao.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Café Iruña, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Iturriza Taberna offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Antxoa Taberna is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bilbao.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!
Day 9
- Bilbao
- León
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Drive 332 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Conde Luna Palace
- Basilica of San Isidoro
- Casa de los Botines
- Museo de León
- Catedral de León
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Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Leon, 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 Leon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the beloved Conde Luna Palace, a photogenic palace in Bilbao. Next, go to Basilica Of San Isidoro.
After visiting Conde Luna Palace and Basilica Of San Isidoro, have a stroll along Bilbao's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Casa De Los Botines. This respected museum offers a unique experience. Museo De León is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to León Cathedra, one of the most culturally significant places to visit in Bilbao.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Leon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Leon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Parrilla Louzao, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bar Nápoles is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Flecha 1957 Panadería Pastelería Cafetería. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Leon tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Café Bar La Dama, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bacanal offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Chelsea. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 10
- León
- Santiago de Compostela
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Drive 320 km, 3 hours 44 min
- Museo Romano La Ergastula
- Palace of Gaudì Astorga
- Cathedral of Santa María de Astorga
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Astorga. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Santiago De Compostela, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Museo Romano La Ergastula. This increasingly popular museum is an eye-catching place to see in Leon. Continue your discovery at Palace Of Gaudí Astorga, a gorgeous palace with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Leon, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cathedral Of Santa María De Astorga. This increasingly popular church offers a stunning encounter with Leon. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Leon.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Santiago De Compostela. Santiago De Compostela offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of Santiago De Compostela, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Casa de Xantar O Dezaseis, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Café Tertulia offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss A Noiesa ~ Casa De Comidas (Santiago de Compostela). With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Santiago De Compostela.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Pub Momo. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Pub Modus Vivendi, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, O Bandullo Do Lambón provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!
Day 11
- Santiago de Compostela - Departure day
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- Praza de Galicia
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Day 11 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Santiago De Compostela before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Praza De Galicia. This well-known public square is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Santiago De Compostela’s popular marketplace, Mercado de Abastos. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Santiago De Compostela.
You’ll then say farewell to Santiago De Compostela. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Spain!
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