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

Say hello to Bilbao! Your exciting road trip through Spain is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Bilbao for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Bilbao is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. 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.

Reserve a table at Mina, a 1 Michelin star restaurant and a Bib Gourmand dining establishment in Bilbao. This epicurean hotspot’s delicious creative and seasonal offering makes it a crowd favorite. Mina is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Another popular dining spot in Bilbao is Zortziko, which critics have graced with 1 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s pleasant ambiance and food choices leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its contemporary menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Zortziko’s culinary excellence.

Locals and foreign travelers alike recommend the popular Bib Gourmand restaurant, Etxanobe Atelier. Captivated customers consistently praise this restaurant in Bilbao for its appetizing selection of food, including its creative courses. As a leading food haven, it boasts 1 Michelin stars for giving an unforgettable dining experience to its patrons.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Stromboli taberna, claiming it’s one of the best. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,133 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the city is Mugi taberna. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 986 customers.

Arpiku is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 571 customers.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Spain, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Bilbao and Santander. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Santander. Santander will be your home away from home for 4 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Albiako Lorategiak. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bilbao, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,047 visitors.

Puppy is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,913 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Guggenheim Museum. Visitors have rated this museum building an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 64,815 reviews. Guggenheim Museum receives around 530,967 visitors every year.

Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a museum rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,312 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Doña Casilda Iturrizar park, perhaps the most famous park in Bilbao. This attraction is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,643 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Santander. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

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

Reserve a table at Cadelo, a luxury dining establishment in Santander. This epicurean hotspot’s delicious modern offering makes it a crowd favorite. Cadelo is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Another popular dining spot in Santander is Umma. This gourmet establishment’s pleasant ambiance and food choices leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its modern menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Umma’s culinary excellence.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the city. La Magnolia is a popular option with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,129 customers.

Another top option is Little Bobby. This bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 920 customers.

Kings Pub is also a great place to continue your evening. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 857 customers.

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

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Spain. With 3 nights left in Santander, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Santander, 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 1 hour 16 min. Upon your arrival in Bilbao, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

Next, make your way to Etxebarria parkea. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,229 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Europa parkea. This park is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,593 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bilbao, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Getxo may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Getxo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Getxo and set your GPS to Portugalete. 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 25 min. Upon reaching Portugalete, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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.

Reserve a table at Restaurante Los Peñucas, a renowned restaurant in Santander. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 4,136 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Bodega del Riojano while in Santander. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 3,195 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Santander at Taberna La Radio, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 3,408 customers.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Santander. Santa & Co is a fantastic option, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 887 customers.

To end your night the best way possible, don't forget to check out La Barruca de Calderón. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,014 customers.

Another bar with a great atmosphere is Cantabria Restaurant. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,226 customers.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Santander, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Fontibre, 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 Fontibre may take around 59 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Santillana del Mar. This car ride takes around 47 min.

Puente Viesgo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Santillana del Mar behind. This drive usually takes around 22 min. Puente Viesgo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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

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

Book a table at La Bombi, a famous dining establishment in Santander. This culinary hotspot and its appetizing cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,500 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Santander is Restaurante Posada Del Mar, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.6 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 993 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Santander’s Restaurante la Mayor for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 921 satisfied diners.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, a popular bar you can go to is El Sol. This place has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,098 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Grog. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 1,162 customers.

Daría is another great place where you can celebrate after a long, fun day in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 409 customers.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 5 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Cueto, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Santander for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Cueto, Santander, Rionansa, Cerrazo, and Santander to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Laberinto De Villapresente. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,994 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Santander. This drive usually takes around 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at La Chulilla, an iconic dining spot in Santander. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 850 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Restaurante Gele while in Santander. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, treasured by 779 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Restaurante Agua Salada, a favorite in Santander. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 640 discerning guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit HYGGE COCKTAIL, one of the top bars you could visit in the city. HYGGE COCKTAIL is an excellent place for a refreshing evening drink and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 343 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos. Around 1,493 customers have rated their experience at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

Spanish Coffee also belongs to the list of the best bars in the Santander, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 1,619 bar-goers.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Santander and Valladolid, 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 4 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Catedral de Santander. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 6,521 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Plaza Porticada. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,395 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Mercado del Este. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 7,680 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Centro Botin. This art museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 14,508 visitors. Visiting Centro Botin means you'll be one of 111,096 people who do so every year.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Valladolid. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 25 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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.

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

Transform your dining experience at Llantén, one of the top luxury restaurants in Valladolid. Offering a diverse menu focusing on traditional cuisine, Llantén has earned praise from numerous satisfied guests.

Indulge in culinary masterpieces at Alquimia - Laboratorio in Valladolid, renowned as. With its 1 Michelin star rating, it caters to the most discerning palates. The delectable creative and modern cuisine at Alquimia - Laboratorio is acclaimed far and wide.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Trigo in Valladolid. Its 1-Michelin star menu is crafted to delight your senses and transport you on a gastronomic journey. This distinguished restaurant, awarded with , offers modern dishes that have gained widespread acclaim from satisfied guests.

Villa Paramesa is one of our top recommendations. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,082 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Café Bar Alborada. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,054 customers.

Restaurante Pide por esa Boquita is another top-rated bar in the city of Valladolid. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 669 customers.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 7 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Segovia. You have 3 nights left in Segovia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Restaurante Niza. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Valladolid boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 2,745 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Valladolid is Eh Voilà! Crêpstaurante Casual. It has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,277 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Restaurante asador El Figón de Recoletos, in Valladolid. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,744 satisfied customers.

One of travelers' and locals' favorite bars in the city is El Corcho. This claim is supported by 3,211 customers who have rated it an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

If you want to continue your night somewhere else, head to another popular place like La Pícara. This bar is a local favorite, with great drinks, lovely service, and an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 2,498 customers.

The options in Valladolid don’t end there. You could also spend some time at the excellent ATYPIKAL. Rated 4.1 out of 5 stars by 2,104 customers, this bar is one of the best places to relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Salamanca has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Salamanca by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Your discoveries in Salamanca do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Salamanca on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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.

Don't forget to book a table at Las Aldabas, a well-known eatery in Valladolid. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,407 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Restaurante Paco Espinosa while exploring Valladolid. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,008 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of El Consejero del Rey, a popular restaurant in Valladolid. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 953 discerning diners.

El Patio del Olivo is a fantastic bar many locals in Valladolid recognize. This popular bar is an excellent place to unwind after a busy day and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,266 customers.

You can also enjoy a few drinks and some snacks at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, another popular bar in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,106 customers.

THE VILLA GIN BAR is a local favorite and a great place to hang out and socialize with other travelers in Valladolid. Customers have rated the exciting THE VILLA GIN BAR an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 998 reviews.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Day 9 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Valladolid for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Spain that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Valladolid has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Spain by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Trigo. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Valladolid has received a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from around 773 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, The other library Café should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Valladolid, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 572 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Restaurante La Malquerida. This highly regarded restaurant in Valladolid has earned a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 725 satisfied guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Valladolid, La Cotorra. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 1,432 customers.

Travelers and locals alike also recommend RUGBY BAR THE CENTRAL. This bar has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,020 customers.

Café & copas Murmullo is another popular place for a drink, considered one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 853 customers.

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

On day 10 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 Burgos Province and Bilbao. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay 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.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Abbey of Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas. This cistercian nunnery is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,194 visitors.

When you’re finished at Abbey of Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas, head to Burgos Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 28,435 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Mirador Del Castillo. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,666 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Castillo de Burgos. This point of interest is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 4,597 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bilbao. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bilbao, 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 Bilbao's best restaurants.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Gure Kabi jatetxea. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Bilbao has received a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from around 1,296 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, La Barraca jatetxea should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Bilbao, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 842 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Zurima jatetxea. This highly regarded restaurant in Bilbao has earned a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 784 satisfied guests.

After dinner, visit Café Iruña, which is considered one of the best bars in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 11,699 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular place like Café Bar Bilbao. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,834 customers.

Alternatively, check out Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,714 customers.

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.

Optimize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Bilbao’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Spain, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery.

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

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!