11-Day Spain Road Trip from Santander traveling south to Pamplona, San Sebastian, Bilbao, and Valladolid

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Santander and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Santander for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Santander is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Santander. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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

Make sure to book a table at Restaurante la Mayor, a popular restaurant in Santander. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Santander at Santa & Co, 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 Restaurante Agua Salada. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Santander tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kings Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Grog provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, HYGGE COCKTAIL offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 2 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Santander. You have 1 night left in Santander. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Take the opportunity to see Estatua de Pedro de Velarde. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 31 visitors.

Plaza Porticada is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,395 travelers.

Santander is also the home of Mercado del Este. Around 7,680 people have rated this point of interest an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Centro Botin, which hosts up to 111,096 visitors every year. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from a total of 14,508 reviews, a visit to this art museum is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Santander is also your chance to admire Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico. This must-visit maritime museum enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,771 reviews.

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

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at El Sol, a highly-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante Posada Del Mar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cadelo Restaurante. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Little Bobby is an excellent place to start.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Villaescusa, Vitoria-Gasteiz, and Elorriaga, 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 Pamplona. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Villaescusa, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Villaescusa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Cabarceno Natural Park. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 45,839 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Elorriaga, 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz to Elorriaga may take around 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Elorriaga, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to La Florida. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,409 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Plaza Virgen Blanca. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,751 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Nueva Square. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,706 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Pamplona, 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Pamplona. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. This awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal. Make sure to reserve a table at La Mandarra de La Ramos, an iconic dining spot in Pamplona. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bar Guria, a popular restaurant in Pamplona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Saint Wich, a hidden gem nestled in Pamplona. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Vermutería RÍO offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Hawái is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Pamplona and Olite/Erriberri. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in San Sebastian, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Pamplona, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Olite/Erriberri may take around 34 min. Upon your arrival in Olite/Erriberri, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Castle Square your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,066 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Plaza de Toros de Pamplona. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 10,402 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this bullring every year.

Citadel of Pamplona is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This citadel has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,829 visitors.

When you’re finished at Citadel of Pamplona, the perfect next stop is Parque yamaguchi. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,373 reviews.

Set your GPS to Olite/Erriberri and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 34 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Olite/Erriberri beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Royal Palace of Olite. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,713 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to San Sebastian, 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 San Sebastian's best restaurants.

Renowned as a restaurant, it offers an exceptional menu. This restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Nestled in the heart of the city, is an ideal choice for discerning foodies seeking culinary excellence. Enjoy a delicious meal at Polka San Sebastián, a top-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bar Antonio, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bodega Donostiarra Gros. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Gorriti Taberna. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions San Sebastian has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in San Sebastian by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cristina Enea parkea. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,457 visitors.

Aquarium is another popular attraction you could visit today. This aquarium has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,413 visitors.

Miramar Palace is also highly recommended by travelers. This palace has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,022 visitors.

Funicular Monte Igueldo is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,567 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Peine del Viento XV. This sculpture has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,281 travelers.

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

As you explore more of San Sebastian, 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Cuchara de San Telmo, a top-rated dining spot in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood for something new, try Narru Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Sirimiri Gastroleku. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in San Sebastian.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sukarrieta. This car ride takes around 1 hour 19 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Gipuzkoa Plaza. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,940 reviews.

Continue your journey at Alderdi Eder Parkea. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,442 travelers from near and far.

San Sebastian is also the home of Beach of La Concha. This natural feature has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,054 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to San Sebastian, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sukarrieta. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 19 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,342 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Bilbao. Bilbao 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 Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at La Viña del Ensanche, an iconic dining spot in Bilbao. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café Iruña, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Iturriza Taberna, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Stromboli taberna, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bilbao. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make Doña Casilda Iturrizar park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,643 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,312 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

Guggenheim Museum is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This museum building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 64,815 visitors. Up to 530,967 travelers come to Bilbao every year to see Guggenheim Museum with their own eyes.

When you’re finished at Guggenheim Museum, the perfect next stop is Federiko Moiua enparantza. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,235 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Zubizuri. This footbridge is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 10,295 reviews.

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

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

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Café Bar Bilbao, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, El Globo taberna beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider La Barraca jatetxea. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bilbao tonight.

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

On day 8 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valladolid, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Burgos Province. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 43 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Drop by the renowned Castillo de Burgos. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 4,597 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Mirador Del Castillo. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,666 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Burgos Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 28,435 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Abbey of Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas. This cistercian nunnery and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,194 local and international travelers.

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 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.

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at The other library Café, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Café & copas Murmullo beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider ATYPIKAL. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Valladolid tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Café Bar Alborada is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Monasterio provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 9 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Segovia 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 Segovia 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante Niza, an iconic dining spot in Valladolid. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of El Corcho, a popular restaurant in Valladolid. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La Pícara, a hidden gem nestled in Valladolid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at RUGBY BAR THE CENTRAL, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to THE VILLA GIN BAR. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Valladolid and Cerrazo. 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Valladolid, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cerrazo. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Plaza Mayor. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,713 visitors.

Cathedral of Valladolid is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,791 travelers.

Valladolid is also the home of Plaza de Zorrilla. Around 6,590 people have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Parque Campo Grande. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 15,850 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Valladolid and set your GPS to Cerrazo. 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 2 hours 14 min. Upon reaching Cerrazo, 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 Laberinto De Villapresente. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,994 visitors.

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 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Barruca de Calderón boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Bombi. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Santander.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Day 11 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Santander 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 Santander’s shopping district. 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.

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

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Casa Lita, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bodega del Riojano is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Santander. 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!