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

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

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 Ascensor Río de la Pila or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Santander. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Spain. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Umma is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Santander. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Agua Salada. As a top-rated Bib Gourmand-establishment, it is an ideal choice for contemporary and traditional cuisine in the city.

Continue your lively evening at Kings Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Grog is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, HYGGE COCKTAIL ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 2 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 Cueto. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valladolid, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Plaza Porticada. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,395 visitors.

Mercado del Este is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 7,680 visitors.

Centro Botin is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 111,096 people visit this top attraction every year. This art museum has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 14,508 visitors.

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

Make Centro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor one of your first sightseeing stops in Cueto. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,037 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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 harmony of flavors at Llantén in Valladolid by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Llantén offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Alquimia - Laboratorio, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Trigo, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 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 5 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Alcázar of Segovia is a great place to start. This alcázar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 49,713 visitors. Alcázar of Segovia attracts more than 754,946 visitors every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Segovia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,509 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Aqueduct of Segovia. The stone bridge has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Real Sitio de San Ildefonso, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,635 visitors.

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.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Madrid by booking a table at DiverXO, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience, Smoked Room shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious contemporary cuisine in Madrid. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Paco Roncero is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative cuisine in Madrid. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cafe Madrid is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, 1862 Dry Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Madrid for 4 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Kick off the day at National Archaeological Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This national museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,100 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Puerta de Alcalá. Puerta de Alcalá is a triumphal arch with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 43,833 reviews.

Great Pond of El Retiro is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 22,242 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit El Retiro Park. This urban park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 162,386 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Crystal Palace, a famous building in Madrid. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,270 travelers.

Your discoveries in Madrid do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Madrid on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at La Mi Venta, 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 Mas Al Sur, 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 Prada a Tope Madrid, a hidden gem nestled in Madrid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Madrid has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Madrid by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Take the opportunity to see Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 46,855 visitors and gets around 1 visit every year.

Matadero Madrid is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 24,723 travelers.

Madrid is also the home of plaza de España. Around 98,199 people have rated this square an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Temple of Debod. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from a total of 44,446 reviews, a visit to this egyptian temple is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Madrid is also your chance to admire Western Park. This must-visit park enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 28,992 reviews.

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.

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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at BiBo Dani García, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Malacatín is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Pum Pum Café. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Madrid tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Day 6 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.

Journey into the unknown at Main Square, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 152,388 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Market of San Miguel is a recommended place to visit. This building is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 106,296 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Madrid is Royal Palace of Madrid. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 77,471 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Madrid offers an experience you will remember.

Casa de Campo is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Madrid. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.5 out of 5 stars in 50,826 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Zoo Aquarium de Madrid. Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 33,779 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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.

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 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.

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

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

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Círculo de Bellas Artes. This movie theater is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 27,540 visitors.

When you’re finished at Círculo de Bellas Artes, head to Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. This one-of-a-kind art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 32,846 reviews. Every year, approximately 671,078 travelers come here to experience the art museum for themselves.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Museo del Prado. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 98,929 visitors. Visiting Museo del Prado means you'll be one of 3,497,345 people who do so every year.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This association football venue is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 120,158 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Las Ventas. This famous bullring is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 29,501 travelers.

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.

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 James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid, a top-rated dining spot in Madrid. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurante El Espigón Madrid, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Coque. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Madrid.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Toledo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Segovia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Toledo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Madrid behind. This drive usually takes around 57 min. Toledo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Alcázar of Toledo. This popular alcázar has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,193 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,938 visitors, this church deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Zocodover. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,930 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Puerta de Bisagra. This city gate and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,260 local and international travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Segovia, 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 Segovia's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

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

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

Dive into day 9 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 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Burgos Province. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 14 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take the opportunity to see Puente de Santa María. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 699 visitors.

Arco de Santa María is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This triumphal arch has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,973 travelers.

Burgos Province is also the home of Iglesia Santa María la Real y Antigua de Gamonal. Around 413 people have rated this church an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Vitoria-Gasteiz by booking a table at Zabala. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante-Asador Matxete, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Txiki. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Vitoria-Gasteiz this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Soho Vitoria-Cocktail Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Taberna Txustarra for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Aldapa Taberna is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Vitoria-Gasteiz, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Vitoria-Gasteiz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of San Sebastian. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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

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

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

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Funicular Monte Igueldo. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,567 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Portugalete, 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 San Sebastian to Portugalete may take around 1 hour 22 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Portugalete, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Vizcaya Bridge. This much-appreciated suspension bridge is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 28,202 reviews.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Zaldiaran, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Escotilla offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, El Portalón is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bilbao and Villaescusa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Santander, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Vitoria-Gasteiz, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bilbao. Your travel time is around 1 hour 2 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Guggenheim Museum, a remarkable museum building where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 64,815 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 530,967 visitors.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Puppy. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,913 travelers.

Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,312 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 Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. This well-loved park boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 9,643 reviews.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Villaescusa.

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.

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 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 a delicious meal at El Sol, a highly-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante Posada Del Mar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cadelo Restaurante. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Little Bobby.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Day 12 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.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Paseo Marítimo de Santander. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,078 reviews.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Barruca de Calderón offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Bombi.

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!