9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao traveling south to Santander, Valladolid, Madrid, Calatayud, and Pamplona

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bilbao. 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.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the well-known Zubizuri, a romantic art installation in Bilbao. Next, go to Puppy.

Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, one of the most mesmerizing places to visit in Bilbao.

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

As you explore more of Santander, 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Santander by booking a table at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Umma, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Agua Salada, a local gem known for its delightful contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Nestled in the city's heart, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 3 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 Valladolid. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Santander, including a market, an art gallery, a palace, a safari park and much more! Start your adventure at Mercado Del Este. This often recommended market is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Centro Botin located in Santander for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Palacio De La Magdalena. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the palace, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Cabarceno Natural Park. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this safari park.

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.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Valladolid by securing a reservation at Llantén. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Alquimia - Laboratorio, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern 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 Trigo, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Panoramix, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Esgueva is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Largo Adiós provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Segovia and San Lorenzo de El Escorial. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Madrid. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Valladolid, including a monument, a church, a castle, a monastery and much more! Start your day with a visit to Aqueduct Of Segovia. This wondrous monument is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Segovia Cathedral, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Valladolid on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Alcázar Of Segovia, a top-rated castle in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Royal Monastery Of San Lorenzo De El Escorial.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Madrid. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Madrid by reserving a table at DiverXO. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Smoked Room, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Paco Roncero, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Madrid.

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

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Madrid for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

La Latina is a fantastic place you can explore today in Madrid. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Madrid-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Today’s itinerary in Madrid covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a food market, and a palace. Start your adventure at Main Square. This globally renowned public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the standout wonders of Market Of San Miguel, a must-see food market in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Royal Palace Of Madrid. This world-famous palace offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Plaza De España, where you can take in breathtaking features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Madrid. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Alhambra, a popular restaurant in Madrid. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Madrid at Restaurante Alabaster, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Madrid tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Jazz Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out España Building, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is 1862 Dry Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Say good night to Madrid and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 Madrid. In the evening, you’ll end up in Calatayud, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Madrid allows for both. Start by heading to Museo Del Prado. This iconic museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover El Retiro Park, an eye-catching park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, a world-famous stadium.

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

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

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Zaragoza and Olite/Erriberri. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pamplona, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Calatayud today. One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park. This eye-catching park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar and learn what makes this picture-perfect church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Sala De Exposiciones La Lonja. After exploring the exposition center, head to Puente De Piedra. This locally appreciated monument is a highlight in Calatayud. As your day continues, stop by Royal Palace Of Olite, known for its enchanting features.

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

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Pamplona by booking a table at El Merca'o, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in Pamplona, Europa shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. This 1-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, Rodero is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Pamplona. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Krawill, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Montblanc, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Vermutería Río likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of San Sebastian and Portugalete. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bilbao, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Pamplona, including a park, a beach, an art installation, a monument and much more! Start your day at Alderdi Eder Parkea. This instagrammable park is an interesting place to see in Pamplona. Then, wander over to Beach Of La Concha. If eye-catching sites excite you, this beach will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Peine Del Viento Xv. This romantic art installation is a favorite among visitors.

Pamplona offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Vizcaya Bridge is a popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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