7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Valladolid traveling north to Leon, Santander, Vitoria-Gasteiz, and Bilbao

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Valladolid. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Leon. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Valladolid, including a park, a museum, a church, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Parque Y Playa De Las Moreras. This underrated park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to National Sculpture Museum located in Valladolid for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Cathedral Of Valladolid. Its heritage-rich features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Plaza De Zorrilla. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this public square. Next up is Parque Campo Grande, a highly recommended park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Leon. Leon 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 Leon, 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Leon by securing a table at Becook. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional fusion and modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Pablo, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Cocinandos, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Leon. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Bar La Dama, known for its lively atmosphere. Bacanal is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Chelsea offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Leon and Gijon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Santander, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Leon. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a museum, a public square, a university and much more! Begin your adventure at León Cathedra. This is a notable church you should not miss. Another must-see is Casa De Los Botines, a curiosity-inducing museum in Leon.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Plaza Del Grano, León. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Universidad Laboral De Gijón, another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Santander, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Santander's best restaurants.

Begin your culinary exploration in Santander by securing a reservation at Cadelo. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Umma, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Agua Salada, a top local spot known for its tantalizing contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kings Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Grog. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Hygge Cocktail, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Santander and Villaescusa, 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Santander is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Plaza Porticada, an increasingly popular public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Mercado Del Este, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Centro Botin. This art gallery is one of the city’s most popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Santander at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Palacio De La Magdalena. After exploring the palace, head to the widely recognized Cabarceno Natural Park.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Vitoria-Gasteiz by securing a reservation at Zabala. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Riojana Restaurante, a popular restaurant in Vitoria-Gasteiz. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Soho Vitoria-cocktail Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Taberna Txustarra offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Aldapa Taberna is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, San Sebastian and Portugalete. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start by visiting Alderdi Eder Parkea, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Beach Of La Concha, another must-visit landmark and notable beach renowned for its eye-catching features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Vitoria-Gasteiz by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Vizcaya Bridge. This culturally significant monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Vitoria-Gasteiz experience.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bilbao. Bilbao offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Zortziko, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Bilbao is Etxanobe Atelier, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Boss Bilbao. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Stromboli Taberna offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Zuberoa Taberna, another top-rated bar in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!

On day 6 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 Bilbao and Burgos Province. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valladolid, where you will stay for 1 night.

Federico Moyúa Enparantza is must-visit sightseeing destination and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Guggenheim Museum, a top-rated museum building, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a serene park, also available for your discovery today.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Valladolid, 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 Valladolid. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Llantén in Valladolid by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Llantén delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Alquimia - Laboratorio, acclaimed for its delectable creative and modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Trigo, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Café Bar Alborada offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Monasterio. 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!