7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander traveling south to San Sebastian, Bilbao, and Valladolid

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 - Santander. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in San Sebastian. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Santander promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Catedral De Santander. This historic church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Plaza Porticada, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Mercado Del Este, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its photogenic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Centro Botin. This picture-perfect art gallery is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Palacio De La Magdalena, a locally renowned palace, and take a stroll around the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to San Sebastian, 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 San Sebastian's best restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience in San Sebastian by booking a table at Arzak, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in San Sebastian, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Kokotxa is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in San Sebastian. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

Head back to your accommodation in San Sebastian and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!

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 San Sebastian and Portugalete. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore San Sebastian on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Aquarium is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect aquarium before continuing your journey. Alderdi Eder Parkea is your next stop. This locally renowned park is one of the best-rated sights in San Sebastian.

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 Beach Of La Concha. This majestic beach is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Vizcaya Bridge.

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.

As you explore more of Bilbao, 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Zortziko, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Bilbao and Burgos Province, 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 Valladolid. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Start your adventure at Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This underrated sightseeing destination is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Guggenheim Museum located in Bilbao for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Burgos Cathedral. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this church.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Valladolid. 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 Valladolid. 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Llantén, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional traditional menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Alquimia - Laboratorio, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Valladolid is Trigo, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Panoramix is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Esgueva, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Largo Adiós. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Say good night to Valladolid and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Valladolid, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Segovia and Valladolid. You still have 1 night left in Valladolid.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Valladolid on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Aqueduct Of Segovia is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic monument before continuing your journey. Segovia Cathedral is your next stop. This captivating church is one of the best-rated sights in Valladolid.

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 Alcázar Of Segovia. This majestic castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Parque Campo Grande.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Valladolid.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Valladolid. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Sercotel Valladolid, a top-rated dining destination in Valladolid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café & copas Murmullo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at ATYPIKAL. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Valladolid this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Café Bar Alborada provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Monasterio offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Head back to your accommodation in Valladolid and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Santillana del Mar, Cerrazo, Cabezón de la Sal, and Villaescusa. 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.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Cave Of Altamira. This well-known cave is a picturesque place to see in Valladolid. Continue your discovery at Villapresente's Labyrinth, a visually striking maze with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Valladolid, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón. This interesting nature reserve offers a visually striking encounter with Valladolid. Next, make your way to Cabarceno Natural Park to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Valladolid.

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.

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

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Little Bobby, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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.