10-Day Spain Road Trip from Madrid traveling north to Avila, Leon, Santander, and Valladolid

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Madrid has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Madrid by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make Santiago Bernabéu Stadium one of your first sightseeing stops in Madrid. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 120,158 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Great Pond Of El Retiro is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 22,242 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by El Retiro Park. This urban park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 162,386 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Casa De Campo. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 50,826 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Zoo Aquarium De Madrid. This zoo enjoys an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 33,779 local and international travelers.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Madrid has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Madrid offers and add your favorites to your Spain travel package 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Madrid by booking a table at DiverXO, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Smoked Room, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Paco Roncero, a local gem known for its delightful creative cuisine in Madrid. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Madrid for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Temple Of Debod. This egyptian temple is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Madrid, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 44,446 visitors.

Market Of San Miguel is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Main Square. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 152,388 reviews.

Thyssen-bornemisza Museum, boasting an annual visitor count of up to 671,078 people, is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an art museum rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 32,846 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Museo Del Prado, perhaps the most famous art museum in Madrid. This attraction welcomes around 3,497,345 visitors annually and is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 98,929 travelers.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Madrid on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at BiBo Dani García, a top-rated dining spot in Madrid. If you're in the mood for something new, try Malacatín, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Pum Pum Café. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Madrid.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Madrid. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Avila, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Royal Palace Of Madrid. Previous visitors have rated this royal palace an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 77,471 reviews.

Círculo De Bellas Artes is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This movie theater is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 27,540 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Puerta De Alcalá. This triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 43,833 reviews.

Crystal Palace is another outstanding experience in Madrid. Around 39,270 travelers have rated this building an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía is not far away. This art museum is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 46,855 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Avila, 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 Avila. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Avila by securing a table at Barro. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cervecería La Cigueña, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!

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

Journey into the unknown at Walls Of Ávila, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable city walls has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 14,534 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Salamanca. This car ride takes around 1 hour 4 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Salamanca Cathedral, a remarkable church where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,562 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Calisto And Melibea Vegetable Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,760 travelers.

Roman Bridge Of Salamanca is another must-visit attraction. This renowned bridge offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,869 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Leon, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Leon by booking a table at Becook, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional fusion, and modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Pablo, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit ConMimo, a local gem known for its delightful international cuisine in Leon. Nestled in the city's heart, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Chelsea, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Café Bar Silver is another popular option for a drink or two.

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.

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 Leon, and Llanes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to León Cathedra. This extraordinary catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 30,058 visitors.

Next, make your way to Casa De Los Botines. This top attraction is a building with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,594 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Plaza Del Grano, León. This square is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,643 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Leon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Llanes. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Jesters Of Arenillas. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,784 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Santander. Santander offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Umma is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Santander. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Agua Salada. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for contemporary, and traditional cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kings Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Grog is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Hygge Cocktail is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Spain with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Santander 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 Portugalete, and Bilbao.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Portugalete, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Santander to Portugalete may take around 1 hour 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Portugalete, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Vizcaya Bridge is a great place to start. This suspension bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 28,202 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Portugalete, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bilbao may take around 21 min. Upon your arrival in Bilbao, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Federiko Moiua Enparantza, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,235 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is a park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,643 reviews.

Puppy is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,913 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Guggenheim Museum. This museum building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 64,815 visitors. Visiting Guggenheim Museum means you'll be one of 530,967 people who do so every year.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Santander and your accommodation.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at El Sol, a top-rated dining spot in Santander. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurante Posada Del Mar, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Cadelo Restaurante. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Santander.

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

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Santander, Cueto, 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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Plaza Porticada. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,395 visitors.

Next, make your way to Mercado Del Este. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 7,680 reviews.

While in Santander, we also recommend a visit to Centro Botin. Hosting around 111,096 visitors every year, Centro Botin is one of the best places to visit. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,508 reviews.

After soaking in Santander’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cueto. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Cueto, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Llamas Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,849 reviews.

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 explore more of Valladolid, 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 harmony of flavors at Llantén in Valladolid by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Llantén offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Alquimia - Laboratorio, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative, and modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Trigo, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Café Bar Alborada is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Monasterio 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Valladolid, and Segovia. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Madrid. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Make Parque Campo Grande your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,850 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Valladolid, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Segovia. Your travel time is around 1 hour 22 min.

Kick off the day at Alcázar Of Segovia, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 754,946 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This alcázar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 49,713 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Segovia Cathedral. Segovia Cathedral is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,509 reviews.

Aqueduct Of Segovia is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 95,202 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Madrid, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Make sure to book a table at Sagaretxe, a popular restaurant in Madrid. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Madrid at Arrabal Madrid, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Taberna El Sur. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Madrid tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!