12-Day Spain Road Trip from Bilbao traveling west to Valladolid, Madrid, Arévalo, and Oviedo

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Bilbao and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bilbao 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.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Zortziko, celebrated for its delectable contemporary 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 Etxanobe Atelier, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Stromboli taberna, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

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

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

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 Puppy. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,913 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Etxebarria parkea. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,229 reviews.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Make sure to book a table at Café Bar Bilbao, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bilbao at El Globo taberna, 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 La Barraca jatetxea. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bilbao tonight.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Portugalete and Burgos Province. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valladolid, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Bilbao, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Portugalete. Your travel time is around 24 min.

Kick off the day at Vizcaya Bridge, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This suspension bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 28,202 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Burgos Province. This car ride takes around 1 hour 52 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Puente de Santa María. This extraordinary bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 699 visitors.

Next, make your way to Arco de Santa María. This triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,973 reviews.

While in Burgos Province, 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.

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

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.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Café Bar Alborada offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Valladolid. Monasterio is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 4 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 Segovia and Real Sitio de San Ildefonso. In the evening, you’ll end up in Madrid, where you will stay for 4 nights.

After soaking in Valladolid’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Segovia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 21 min. When you arrive in Segovia, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Alcázar of Segovia. This popular alcázar has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 49,713 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 754,946 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Segovia Cathedral. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,509 visitors, this catholic cathedral deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Aqueduct of Segovia. This stone bridge has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 95,202 reviews.

Set your GPS to Real Sitio de San Ildefonso and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Real Sitio de San Ildefonso beckons with new 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.

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

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Madrid by securing a table at DiverXO. Esteemed as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Smoked Room, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Paco Roncero, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Madrid. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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.

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.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Madrid, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Make Círculo de Bellas Artes one of your first sightseeing stops in Madrid. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 27,540 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Puerta de Alcalá is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This triumphal arch is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 43,833 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Toledo. This car ride takes around 57 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Alcázar of Toledo. This much-appreciated alcázar is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,193 reviews.

Next up is Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo. This church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,938 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Zocodover. This sightseeing destination has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,930 reviews.

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

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.

Make sure to book a table at La Mi Venta, a popular restaurant in Madrid. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Madrid at Mas Al Sur, 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 Prada a Tope Madrid. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Madrid tonight.

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

On day 6 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.

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 Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 32,846 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 671,078 people visit it every year.

Main Square is another must-visit attraction. This renowned square offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 152,388 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 Market of San Miguel. This well-loved building boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 106,296 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.

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

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at BiBo Dani García, 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 Malacatín, 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 Pum Pum Café, a hidden gem nestled in Madrid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Madrid has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Madrid by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

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

Next up, make your way to Great Pond of El Retiro. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 22,242 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to El Retiro Park. This urban park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 162,386 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Crystal Palace. This building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,270 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. This art museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 46,855 visitors. Approximately 1 traveler visit Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía every year.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Sagaretxe, a top-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Arrabal Madrid, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Taberna El Sur. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 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.

Kick off the day at Almudena Cathedral, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,842 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Royal Palace of Madrid. Royal Palace of Madrid is a royal palace with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,471 reviews.

Plaza de España is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 98,199 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Temple of Debod. This egyptian temple is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 44,446 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Western Park, a famous park in Madrid. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 28,992 travelers.

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

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Leon, 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 2 nights.

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 Arévalo to Leon may take around 2 hours 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Leon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Palacio de los Guzmanes. This extraordinary palace has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 628 visitors.

Next, make your way to Casa de los Botines. This building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,594 reviews.

While in Leon, we also recommend a visit to park of El Cid. This park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,321 reviews.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Restaurante Doña Concha, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Oveja Negra beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante La Tagliatella | Oviedo / Uviéu. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Oviedo tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Baam, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Mala Saña offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out L'Esperteyu Pub - Cervecería. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Oviedo, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Colunga’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Oviedo behind. This drive usually takes around 51 min. Colunga welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Jurassic Museum of Asturias is a great place to start. This fossil museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,827 visitors. Jurassic Museum of Asturias attracts more than 1,000,000 visitors every year.

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

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Mirador del Fito, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,162 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cangas de Onís and set your GPS to Cuadonga/Covadonga. 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 14 min. Upon reaching Cuadonga/Covadonga, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Roman bridge in Cangas de Onis one of your first sightseeing stops in Cangas de Onís. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,965 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mesón El Viso, a top-rated dining destination in Oviedo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Arrocería La Genuina de Cimadevilla, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at El Chibiski Oviedo. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Oviedo this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Per Se Café after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Santander and Villaescusa. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Santander and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Santander beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Palacete del Embarcadero. This palace is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 391 reviews.

Continue your journey at Centro Botin. This art museum is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 14,508 travelers from near and far. Approximately 111,096 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Santander.

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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cabarceno Natural Park. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 45,839 reviews.

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

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

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. Also, be sure to check out Arpiku. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bilbao.

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

As you approach the end of your journey in Spain, take a moment for some retail therapy in Bilbao’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Spain, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Spain with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Zubizuri. This extraordinary footbridge has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 10,295 visitors.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

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!