12-Day Spain Road Trip from Pamplona traveling west to San Sebastian, Santander, Valladolid, Madrid, and Calatayud

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Pamplona and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Pamplona for 1 night 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.

Pamplona 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 Castle Square 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 Pamplona. 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 Pamplona. 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Pamplona by reserving a table at El Merca'o. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of traditional cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Europa, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Rodero, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Pamplona.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Vermutería RÍO, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Hawái likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Pamplona. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in San Sebastian, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Catedral Metropolitana de Santa María la Real de Pamplona. This church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,886 reviews.

Continue your journey at Plaza de Toros de Pamplona. This bullring is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 10,402 travelers from near and far.

Pamplona is also the home of Monumento al Encierro. This statue has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,963 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Citadel of Pamplona. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,829 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Parque yamaguchi. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,373 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of San Sebastian. San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian. 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 Arzak, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and traditional menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in San Sebastian is Kokotxa, a renowned restaurant , known for its delicious modern menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Gorriti Taberna, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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, San Sebastian and Bilbao. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Santander, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Alderdi Eder Parkea, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,442 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Beach of La Concha is a recommended place to visit. This natural feature is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,054 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in San Sebastian is Peine del Viento XV. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,281 travelers, this popular tourist destination in San Sebastian offers an experience you will remember.

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 Bilbao. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Federiko Moiua enparantza, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,235 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Guggenheim Museum. This museum building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 64,815 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 530,967 people visit it every year.

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 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Cadelo in Santander by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Cadelo offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Umma, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular Bib Gourmand-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Agua Salada, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional contemporary and traditional menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kings Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Grog offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook HYGGE COCKTAIL, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 Santander and Villaescusa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valladolid, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make Estatua de Pedro de Velarde your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 31 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Plaza Porticada. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,395 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this square every year.

Mercado del Este is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 7,680 visitors.

When you’re finished at Mercado del Este, the perfect next stop is Centro Botin. This art museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,508 reviews. Centro Botin attracts approximately 111,096 visitors annually.

Upon reaching Villaescusa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Cabarceno Natural Park. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 45,839 visitors.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Valladolid by securing a reservation at Llantén. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Alquimia - Laboratorio, celebrated for its delectable creative and 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 Trigo, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Café Bar Alborada offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Monasterio. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Segovia and Real Sitio de San Ildefonso, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Madrid. You’ll stay here for 5 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Valladolid and set your GPS to Segovia. 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 1 hour 21 min. Upon reaching Segovia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Alcázar of Segovia. This extraordinary alcázar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 49,713 visitors. Each year, around 754,946 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Segovia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,509 reviews.

While in Segovia, 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.

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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,635 visitors.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at DiverXO in Madrid by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, DiverXO delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Smoked Room, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Paco Roncero, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Cafe Madrid provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, 1862 Dry Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

On day 6 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Toledo, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Madrid for 4 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Toledo to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Toledo. This drive usually takes around 57 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Alcázar of Toledo is a great place to start. This alcázar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,193 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo. This church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,938 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Zocodover. The point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,930 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Alcantara Bridge. This sightseeing destination is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,836 reviews.

Mirador del Valle is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this landmark, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,058 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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

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

Dine in style at La Mi Venta, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mas Al Sur boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Prada a Tope Madrid. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Madrid.

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

Greet day 7 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 Aranjuez and Madrid.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Almudena Cathedral, a remarkable catholic cathedral where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,842 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Royal Palace of Madrid. This royal palace has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,471 travelers.

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 you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Madrid, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Aranjuez. This drive usually takes around 42 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Palace of Aranjuez. This royal palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,506 visitors.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Madrid. 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 BiBo Dani García, a top-rated dining spot in Madrid. If you're in the mood for something new, try Malacatín, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Pum Pum Café. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Madrid.

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

Day 8 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Madrid. You have 2 nights left in Madrid. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Make National Archaeological Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this national museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,100 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Puerta de Alcalá. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 43,833 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this triumphal arch every year.

Great Pond of El Retiro is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 22,242 visitors.

When you’re finished at Great Pond of El Retiro, the perfect next stop is El Retiro Park. This urban park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 162,386 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Crystal Palace. This building is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,270 reviews.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Sagaretxe, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Arrabal Madrid offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Taberna El Sur. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Madrid.

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

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

Take the opportunity to see Las Ventas. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 29,501 visitors.

Museo del Prado is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 98,929 travelers. Up to 3,497,345 people visit Museo del Prado every year.

Madrid is also the home of Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. This art museum gets more than 1 visitor on an annual basis. Around 46,855 people have rated this art museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Western Park. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 28,992 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Madrid is also your chance to admire Casa de Campo. This must-visit park enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 50,826 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 Madrid's best restaurants.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante El Espigón Madrid is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Coque. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Madrid tonight.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Madrid. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Calatayud. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Main Square. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 152,388 visitors.

Market of San Miguel is another popular attraction you could visit today. This building has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 visitors.

Círculo de Bellas Artes is also highly recommended by travelers. This movie theater has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,540 visitors.

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum is an attraction you won’t want to miss. Around 671,078 people visit this place every year. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 32,846 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This association football venue has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 120,158 travelers.

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

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city.

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 11 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Olite/Erriberri, Puente la Reina/Gares, and Noain. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pamplona, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Calatayud, 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 1 hour 59 min. Upon your arrival in Olite/Erriberri, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Royal Palace of Olite, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,713 reviews.

After soaking in Olite/Erriberri’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Puente la Reina/Gares. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 30 min. When you arrive in Puente la Reina/Gares, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Puente Románico de Puente la Reina. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,235 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pamplona, 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 Pamplona.

Don’t miss out on dining at Café Iruña, a top-rated dining destination in Pamplona. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante Anttonenea, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Baserriberri. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pamplona this evening.

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

Day 12 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Pamplona 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 Pamplona’s best shopping location. 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.

Kick off the day at Taconera, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,567 reviews.

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

Dine in style at Alhambra, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bar Restaurante -San Nicolás La Cocina Vasca- Jatetxea boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Pamplona. 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!