12-Day Spain Road Trip from Bilbao traveling south to Santander, Oviedo, Valladolid, Madrid, Arévalo, and Vitoria-Gasteiz

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

Bilbao is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Federiko Moiua enparantza or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bilbao. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Bilbao by booking a table at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Zortziko, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Etxanobe Atelier, a local gem known for its delightful creative cuisine in Bilbao. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Spain!

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Bilbao, 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Puppy. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,913 visitors.

Next, make your way to Guggenheim Museum. This top attraction is a museum building with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 64,815 visitors. Guggenheim Museum welcomes 530,967 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao. This museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,312 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,643 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Etxebarria parkea. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,229 travelers.

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 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Cadelo, 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 Bib Gourmand-awardee, Umma, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Santander is Agua Salada, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant , known for its delicious contemporary and traditional menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Kings Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Grog is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, HYGGE COCKTAIL also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 3 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 Santander and Villaescusa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oviedo, where you will stay for 1 night.

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

Plaza Porticada is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,395 visitors.

Mercado del Este is also highly recommended by travelers. This point of interest has a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 7,680 visitors.

Centro Botin is an attraction you won’t want to miss. Around 111,096 people visit this place every year. This art museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,508 reviews.

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

Take the opportunity to see Cabarceno Natural Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 45,839 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Oviedo, 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurante Doña Concha, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Oveja Negra is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurante La Tagliatella | Oviedo / Uviéu. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Oviedo tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Baam. Alternatively, go to Mala Saña, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, L'Esperteyu Pub - Cervecería provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Leon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valladolid, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Leon, 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 Oviedo to Leon may take around 1 hour 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Leon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Basilica of San Isidoro is a great place to start. This collegiate church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,015 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Casa de los Botines. This building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,594 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at León Cathedra. The catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 30,058 visitors.

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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Valladolid by booking a table at Llantén. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Alquimia - Laboratorio, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Trigo, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Segovia and Real Sitio de San Ildefonso. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Madrid. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Segovia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Alcázar of Segovia. This alcázar gets 754,946 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 49,713 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Segovia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,509 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Aqueduct of Segovia. This stone bridge has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 95,202 visitors.

Real Sitio de San Ildefonso’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Segovia behind. This drive usually takes around 17 min. Real Sitio de San Ildefonso welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Royal Palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,635 reviews.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Madrid by booking a table at DiverXO, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Smoked Room, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Paco Roncero, a local gem known for its delightful creative cuisine in Madrid. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Cafe Madrid offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook 1862 Dry Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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.

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Spain with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Madrid for your remaining 3 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Toledo and Madrid.

Kick off the day at Las Ventas, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This bullring is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 29,501 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is an association football venue with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 120,158 reviews.

After soaking in Madrid’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Toledo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 57 min. When you arrive in Toledo, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Alcázar of Toledo. This alcázar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,193 reviews.

Continue your journey at Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo. This church is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,938 travelers from near and far.

Toledo is also the home of Zocodover. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,930 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Madrid, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Mi Venta, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Mas Al Sur offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Prada a Tope Madrid. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Madrid.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Madrid has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Madrid by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 46,855 visitors. Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía welcomes around 1 visitor every year.

Royal Palace of Madrid is another popular attraction you could visit today. This royal palace has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,471 visitors.

Plaza de España is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 98,199 visitors.

Temple of Debod is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This egyptian temple is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,446 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Western Park. This park has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 28,992 travelers.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

Dine in style at BiBo Dani García, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Malacatín boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Pum Pum Café. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Madrid.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Madrid for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

When you're ready to see some sights, Museo del Prado is a great place to start. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 98,929 visitors. Museo del Prado attracts more than 3,497,345 visitors every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 32,846 travelers. Every year, 671,078 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Madrid.

We also recommend a stop at Círculo de Bellas Artes. The movie theater has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 27,540 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Puerta de Alcalá. This triumphal arch is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 43,833 reviews.

Casa de Campo is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this park, rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 50,826 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Sagaretxe, an iconic dining spot in Madrid. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Arrabal Madrid, a popular restaurant in Madrid. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Taberna El Sur, a hidden gem nestled in Madrid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Madrid. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Arévalo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Main Square. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 152,388 visitors.

Market of San Miguel is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This building has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 106,296 travelers.

Madrid is also the home of Great Pond of El Retiro. Around 22,242 people have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Crystal Palace. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 39,270 reviews, a visit to this building is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Madrid is also your chance to admire El Retiro Park. This must-visit urban park enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 162,386 reviews.

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

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Burgos Province, 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Arévalo and set your GPS to Burgos Province. 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 5 min. Upon reaching Burgos Province, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Puente de Santa María, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 699 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Arco de Santa María. Arco de Santa María is a triumphal arch with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,973 reviews.

Burgos Cathedral is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 28,435 visitors.

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

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Vitoria-Gasteiz by reserving a table at Zabala. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of contemporary cuisine. Looking for something different? Restaurante-Asador Matxete offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bar Txiki. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Soho Vitoria-Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Taberna Txustarra offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Aldapa Taberna is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 11 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 San Sebastian and Portugalete. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 1 night.

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

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Gipuzkoa Plaza. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,940 visitors.

When you’re finished at Gipuzkoa Plaza, head to Alderdi Eder Parkea. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,442 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Beach of La Concha. This natural feature is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,054 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Peine del Viento XV. This sculpture is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,281 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Portugalete. This car ride takes around 1 hour 23 min.

Drop by the renowned Vizcaya Bridge. This popular suspension bridge has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 28,202 visitors.

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

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.

Dine in style at Café Bar Bilbao, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, El Globo taberna boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Barraca jatetxea. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bilbao.

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

Day 12 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.

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Bilbao’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Spain. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Spain forever.

Make Zubizuri your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this footbridge an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 10,295 reviews.

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

Dine in style at Restaurante Pentxo, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kirol jatetxea boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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!