11-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander traveling east to Valladolid, Madrid, Valencia, and Zaragoza

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 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 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of an instagrammable, a standout, a gorgeous, and a noteworthy. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Plaza Porticada. This beloved public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Mercado Del Este, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Museum Of Prehistory And Archaeology Of Cantabria, one of the most worthwhile places to see in Santander. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Plaza De Pombo. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this public square offers. Finally, take the path to the notable Centro Botin, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Valladolid by booking a table at Llantén, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in Valladolid, Alquimia - Laboratorio shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and modern 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, Trigo is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Valladolid. 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 Bar Panoramix, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Esgueva is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Largo Adiós offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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.

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Valladolid and San Lorenzo de El Escorial, 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 Madrid. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Valladolid covers several incredible sights, including a public square and a park. Start your adventure at Plaza Mayor. This often recommended public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the idyllic wonders of Parque Campo Grande, a must-see park 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 Plaza De Zorrilla. This increasingly popular public square offers an enriching experience.

Head to “puerto De Navacerrada” Ski Station, a captivating ski resort in Valladolid. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Madrid may take around 49 min. Upon your arrival in Madrid, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Royal Monastery Of San Lorenzo De El Escorial, a notable monastery that everyone visiting San Lorenzo de El Escorial should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Madrid. 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 DiverXO, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Smoked Room, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Madrid is Paco Roncero, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Yambala, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cafe Madrid is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Madrid. You’ll stay in Madrid for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready for a day filled with a gorgeous, a visually striking, a respected, a charming, a majestic, a masterful, and a majestic in the charming city of Madrid. Your adventure starts at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, an iconic local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Puerta De Alcalá. This famous monument is known for its instagrammable appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Madrid's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía. This heritage-rich museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Royal Palace Of Madrid is also worth visiting, along with Plaza De España. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Alhambra, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurante Alabaster? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Madrid.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Jazz Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to España Building for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, 1862 Dry Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Madrid. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valencia, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Madrid, including a public square, a food market, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Main Square. This iconic public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Market Of San Miguel, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Madrid 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 Museo Del Prado, one of the city’s most wondrous museum.

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 Valencia. Valencia 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 Valencia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Start your culinary exploration in Valencia by securing a reservation at El Poblet. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ricard Camarena, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Fierro, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Pub Pasos. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Clann Bar Tapas, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Café Negrito provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Valencia has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Valencia by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Valencia, including a science center, an aquarium, a market, a park, a food market and much more! Start your day at City Of Arts And Sciences. This eye-catching science center is a wondrous place to see in Valencia. Then, wander over to L'oceanogràfic. If awe-inspiring sites excite you, this aquarium will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Mercado De Colón. This history-steeped market is a favorite among visitors.

Valencia offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Instal·lacions Dels Jardins Del Túria is an interesting spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the park, don’t forget to check out the photogenic Mercat Central. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this famous food market in Valencia.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at USUAL resto-bar, a top-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Casa Ripoll, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante La Cepa Vieja (Valencia). With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Cosmo Valencia. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Casa Pepe, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Cafe De Las Horas provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Valencia. You have 1 night left in Valencia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Discover a day packed with a charming, an awe-inspiring, a picture-perfect, a heritage-rich, a symbolic, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and an inviting in Valencia. Begin your sightseeing with Plaça De La Mare De Déu. This captivating public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Plaça De La Reina (valència), another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Valencia, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Llotja De La Seda. This captivating historical landmark is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Valencia Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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 Valencia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to book a table at Restaurant Helen Berger València, a popular restaurant in Valencia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Valencia at Éter Valencia, 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 Casa Montaña. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Valencia tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café Madrid Valencia, where the evening is just getting started.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Valencia. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zaragoza. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Valencia allows for both. Start by heading to Quart Towers. This popular monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Serrano Towers, a breathtaking monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Jardins Del Real De València, a notable park.

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

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Gente Rara in Zaragoza by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Gente Rara offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Cancook, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative 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 La Prensa, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional contemporary menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Be A Legend Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Aragón Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar El Circo offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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

Today’s agenda in Zaragoza includes a monument, a church, a public square, a park and much more! Puente De Piedra is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar, a captivating church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Cathedral Of The Savior In His Epiphany Of Zaragoza, a grand church, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Zaragoza. If you’re looking for more, Plaza De Los Sitios is also an underrated attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park, a captivating gem to see in the city.

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 explore more of Zaragoza, 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.

Dine in style at Bula del Tubo, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante La Rinconada de Lorenzo | Zaragoza boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurante Palomeque. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zaragoza.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Umalas Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dan O'hara Irish Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, La Terraza provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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 Bilbao. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Bilbao and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 3 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bilbao beckons with new experiences!

Head to Federico Moyúa Enparantza, a locally appreciated sightseeing destination in Bilbao. This locally appreciated art installation is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Guggenheim Museum is an excellent choice.

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.

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 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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Little Bobby, where the evening is just getting started.

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