11-Day Spain Road Trip from Bilbao traveling south to Santander and Valladolid

Welcome to Bilbao, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Bilbao's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bilbao 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 Federiko Moiua enparantza or 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 Bilbao. 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 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative and seasonal cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Zortziko, renowned for its delicious contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Etxanobe Atelier, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Spain!

On day 2 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 4 nights.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Albiako Lorategiak. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 4,047 reviews.

Next up is Puppy. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,913 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Guggenheim Museum. This museum building has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 64,815 reviews. Every year, 530,967 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,312 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,643 reviews.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Santander.

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 Bib Gourmand-establishment, it is an ideal choice for contemporary and traditional cuisine in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kings Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Grog, a bar catering to every mood and preference. HYGGE COCKTAIL likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 3 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Santander for 3 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bilbao, Getxo, and Portugalete to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bilbao. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bilboko Donejakue katedrala. This church is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,802 visitors.

Etxebarria parkea is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,229 visitors.

Europa parkea is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,593 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Getxo. This car ride takes around 22 min.

Make Puerto Viejo your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,111 reviews.

Set your GPS to Portugalete and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Portugalete beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Vizcaya Bridge. This suspension bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 28,202 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at El Sol, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurante Posada Del Mar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Cadelo Restaurante as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Santander.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Little Bobby, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Greet day 4 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 2 nights 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 Fontibre, Santillana del Mar, Puente Viesgo, and Villaescusa.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Santander and set your GPS to Fontibre. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 59 min. Upon reaching Fontibre, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Nacimiento del Rio Ebro. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,575 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Fontibre, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Santillana del Mar. This drive usually takes around 47 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is National Museum and Research Center of Altamira. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,249 reviews.

Continue your journey at Cave of Altamira. This cave with prehistoric art is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 13,460 travelers from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Puente Viesgo. This drive usually takes around 22 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Cave of El Castillo, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable cave with prehistoric art has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,866 reviews.

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.

Savor the flavors at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Barruca de Calderón beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider La Bombi. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Santander tonight.

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.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Santander, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Drop by the renowned Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico. This popular maritime museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,771 visitors.

Set your GPS to Rionansa and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rionansa beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Cueva El Soplao, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,913 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Santander, 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 Cerrazo to Santander may take around 26 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Santander, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Laberinto De Villapresente. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,994 reviews.

Upon reaching Cueto, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Llamas Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,849 visitors.

When you’re finished at Llamas Park, head to Centro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,037 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Casa Lita, a popular restaurant in Santander. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Santander at Bodega del Riojano, 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 La Magnolia. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Santander tonight.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Santander. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Valladolid, which will be your home away from home for 4 nights.

When you're ready to see some sights, Catedral de Santander is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 6,521 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Plaza Porticada. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,395 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Mercado del Este. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 7,680 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Centro Botin. This art museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 14,508 reviews. As a top-rated attraction, it's no surprise that 111,096 people visit Centro Botin every year.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Valladolid, 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 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 taste of local culinary excellence while in Valladolid by securing a table at Llantén. Esteemed as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Alquimia - Laboratorio, famous for its scrumptious creative and modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Trigo, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Valladolid. 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.

Continue your lively evening at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Café Bar Alborada is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Monasterio ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 7 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. You still have 3 nights left in Valladolid.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Segovia. This car ride takes around 1 hour 21 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Alcázar of Segovia is a great place to start. This alcázar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 49,713 visitors. Alcázar of Segovia attracts more than 754,946 visitors every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Segovia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,509 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Plaza Mayor. The plaza mayor has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,239 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Aqueduct of Segovia. This stone bridge is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 95,202 reviews.

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

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 Restaurante Niza, a top-rated dining destination in Valladolid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Corcho, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Pícara. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Valladolid this evening.

Keep the evening going at RUGBY BAR THE CENTRAL, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to THE VILLA GIN BAR, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Valladolid, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

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 Salamanca. Your travel time is around 1 hour 23 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Roman bridge of Salamanca. This bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,869 reviews.

Continue your journey at Casa Lis. This house is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,572 travelers from near and far.

Salamanca is also the home of Calisto and Melibea Vegetable Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,760 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Salamanca Cathedral. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,562 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Parrilla De San Lorenzo, a highly-rated dining destination in Valladolid. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante Pide por esa Boquita, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Villa Paramesa. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Valladolid this evening.

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

On day 9 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Valladolid. You’ll stay in Valladolid for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Parque Campo Grande. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,850 visitors.

Next, make your way to Plaza de Zorrilla. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,590 reviews.

While in Valladolid, we also recommend a visit to Plaza Mayor. This square has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,713 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Cathedral of Valladolid. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,791 travelers, this catholic cathedral is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Valladolid.

Make your way to National Sculpture Museum, perhaps the most famous art museum in Valladolid. This attraction welcomes around 145,606 visitors annually and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,935 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Valladolid, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Valladolid below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Valladolid.

Make sure to book a table at Restaurante Jero, a popular restaurant in Valladolid. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Valladolid at Restaurante Paco Espinosa, 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 La Cotorra. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Valladolid tonight.

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Burgos Province. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Burgos Province’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Valladolid behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 24 min. Burgos Province welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Abbey of Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas. This much-appreciated cistercian nunnery is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,194 reviews.

Next up is Burgos Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 28,435 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Mirador Del Castillo. This sightseeing destination has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,666 reviews.

Castillo de Burgos is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 4,597 reviews.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Café Bar Bilbao, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Globo taberna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Barraca jatetxea. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Day 11 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bilbao before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Bilbao’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Spain. Keep the spirit of your trip to Spain alive with these special souvenirs.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Zubizuri. This footbridge is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bilbao, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 10,295 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bilbao.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante Pentxo, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kirol jatetxea offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Arpiku.

You’ll then say farewell to Bilbao. 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!