11-Day Spain Road Trip from Santander traveling west to Oviedo, La Coruña, Leon, Madrid, and Valladolid

Say hello to Santander! 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 Santander for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Santander 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 Paseo Marítimo de Santander or taking a stroll in the city center. 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Santander by securing a table at Cadelo. Esteemed as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Umma, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Agua Salada, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Located in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is an ideal pick for contemporary and traditional cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kings Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Grog offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, HYGGE COCKTAIL provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Santander and Cueto, 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 Oviedo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Plaza Porticada, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,395 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Mercado del Este. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 7,680 travelers.

Centro Botin is another must-visit attraction. This renowned art museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 14,508 travelers and attracting 111,096 annual visitors, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Upon your arrival in Cueto, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Llamas Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,849 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Parque Cabo Mayor. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 139 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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

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

Dine in style at Restaurante Doña Concha, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Oveja Negra boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurante La Tagliatella | Oviedo / Uviéu. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Oviedo.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Baam is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Mala Saña, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is L'Esperteyu Pub - Cervecería. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Gijon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in La Coruña. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gijon. This car ride takes around 36 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Elogio del horizonte, a remarkable sculpture where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,387 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at La Escalerona. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,573 travelers.

San Lorenzo Beach is another must-visit attraction. This renowned beach offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,583 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Universidad Laboral de Gijón. This well-loved labor universities boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 7,743 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of La Coruña. La Coruña 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in La Coruña. 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 El de Alberto, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Árbore da Veira, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in La Coruña is Artabria, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant , known for its delicious traditional menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Victoria offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Sham-Rock is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cafetería La Granera is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions La Coruña has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in La Coruña by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Take the opportunity to see Tower of Hercules. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,352 visitors.

Surfers Fountain is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,609 travelers.

La Coruña is also the home of Beach of Orzán. Around 3,122 people have rated this beach an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Museo Nacional de Ciencia e Tecnología. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 2,957 reviews, a visit to this museum is a great idea.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in La Coruña, 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 La Coruña below.

As you explore more of La Coruña, 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 Restaurante La Masia, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Artabria boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Santa Clara Destapa. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in La Coruña.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Chaflán, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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

On day 5 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 La Coruña. In the evening, you’ll end up in Leon, where you will stay for 1 night.

Kick off the day at María Pita square, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,562 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Méndez Núñez garden. Méndez Núñez garden is a garden with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,337 reviews.

Parque de Santa Margarida is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,603 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Parque Europa. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,841 visitors.

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

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

Start your culinary exploration in Leon by securing a reservation at Becook. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of fusion and modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Pablo, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover ConMimo, a top local spot known for its tantalizing international menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Leon and San Lorenzo de El Escorial. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Madrid, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Journey into the unknown at León Cathedra, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 30,058 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Basilica of San Isidoro is a recommended place to visit. This collegiate church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,015 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Leon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Your travel time is around 2 hours 54 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. This extraordinary monastery is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,732 visitors.

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.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Madrid by securing a reservation at DiverXO. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Smoked Room, renowned for its delicious contemporary dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Paco Roncero, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cafe Madrid offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, 1862 Dry Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Madrid. You’ll stay in Madrid for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This extraordinary association football venue is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 120,158 visitors.

Next, make your way to Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. This top attraction is an art museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 32,846 visitors. Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum welcomes 671,078 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Puerta de Alcalá. This triumphal arch is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 43,833 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit El Retiro Park. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 162,386 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Crystal Palace. This building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,270 travelers.

You can learn more about Madrid today by going on a tour. Madrid offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Savor the flavors at La Mi Venta, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Mas Al Sur beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Prada a Tope Madrid. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Madrid tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Day 8 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Madrid. You have 1 night left in Madrid. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Museo del Prado, a remarkable art museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 98,929 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 3,497,345 visitors.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. This art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 46,855 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 1 person visit it every year.

Plaza de España is another must-visit attraction. This renowned square offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 98,199 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Temple of Debod. This well-loved egyptian temple boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 44,446 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Casa de Campo awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 50,826 previous visitors.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at BiBo Dani García, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Malacatín offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Pum Pum Café. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Madrid.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Madrid and Segovia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valladolid, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Main Square. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 152,388 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Market of San Miguel. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 106,296 visitors, this building deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Royal Palace of Madrid. This royal palace has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 77,471 reviews.

Set your GPS to Segovia and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Segovia beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Aqueduct of Segovia. This much-appreciated stone bridge is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 95,202 reviews.

Next up is Alcázar of Segovia. This alcázar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 49,713 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Alcázar of Segovia welcomes 754,946 visitors annually.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Valladolid. Valladolid 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.

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 symphony of flavors at Llantén in Valladolid by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Llantén delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Alquimia - Laboratorio, acclaimed for its delectable creative and modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Trigo, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar. Alternatively, go to Café Bar Alborada, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Monasterio provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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 10 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Fontibre, Santillana del Mar, and Villaescusa, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Santander. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Valladolid, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Fontibre may take around 1 hour 50 min. Upon your arrival in Fontibre, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Nacimiento del Rio Ebro. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,575 reviews.

After soaking in Fontibre’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Santillana del Mar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 47 min. When you arrive in Santillana del Mar, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to National Museum and Research Center of Altamira. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,249 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Cave of Altamira. This cave with prehistoric art has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 13,460 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Santander, 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 Santander. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Little Bobby, a top-rated bar in the area.

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 Santander before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Santander’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain. Take home a piece of Spain with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ascensor Río de la Pila. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 1,667 visitors.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Barruca de Calderón, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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!