12-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Valladolid traveling east to Bilbao, Zaragoza, Barcelona, Valencia, and Madrid

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 Valladolid. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bilbao, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with an eye-catching, a heritage-rich, a profound, a majestic, a noteworthy, a romantic, a mesmerizing, and a serene in Valladolid. Begin your sightseeing with Cathedral Of Valladolid. This increasingly popular church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to National Sculpture Museum, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Valladolid, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Plaza De Zorrilla. This frequently visited public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Parque Campo Grande, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Bilbao. Bilbao offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bilbao by securing a table at Mina. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Zortziko, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Bilbao. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Boss Bilbao is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Stromboli Taberna, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Zuberoa Taberna. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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, Bilbao and Portugalete. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zaragoza, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Begin your adventure at Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This is an underrated point of interest you should not miss. Another must-see is Guggenheim Museum, a widely recognized museum building in Bilbao.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Portugalete. This drive usually takes around 22 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Vizcaya Bridge, a well-known monument known for its breathtaking features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Zaragoza. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Gente Rara in Zaragoza by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Gente Rara offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Cancook, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative 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 La Prensa, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional contemporary menu.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Be A Legend Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Aragón Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar El Circo provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Barcelona. You have 2 nights left in Barcelona. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your adventure at Sagrada Família. This is a world-famous church you should not miss. Another must-see is Casa Batlló, a globally renowned museum in Barcelona.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Mercat De La Boqueria. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Magic Fountain Of Montjuïc, another of the city’s famous attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a historic castle. Montjuïc Castle is a truly remarkable place to visit in Barcelona.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Dine in style at Gallery Hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Prado De Flores. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Barcelona.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Les Gens Que J'aime stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bobby's Free offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Old Fashioned Gin Tonic & Cocktail Bar 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!

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Barcelona has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Barcelona by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with a breathtaking, a picture-perfect, a historic, a profound, a symbolic, a romantic, and a remarkable. Start at the timeless Plaça De Catalunya, a respected public square in Barcelona. Next, go to Cathedral Of The Holy Cross And Saint Eulalia.

After visiting Plaça De Catalunya and Cathedral Of The Holy Cross And Saint Eulalia, take time to explore Barcelona's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Plaça Sant Jaume. This standout public square offers a unique experience. Parc De La Ciutadella is another noteworthy stop.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Barcelona. 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Els 4Gats, a top-rated dining destination in Barcelona. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bar El Born, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ocaña. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Barcelona this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Manchester. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dry Martini, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Icebarcelona provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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 7 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Barcelona and Peníscola / Peñíscola. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Valencia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Barcelona, featuring a mesmerizing, an eye-catching, a standout, a culturally significant, a detailed, an UNESCO world heritage-listed, and a charming. Start at Arc De Triomf, an astonishing monument in the city. Then, head to La Pedrera and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Barcelona and when you are ready for more, go to Park Güell. This is one of the city’s most iconic spots.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Barcelona, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Peníscola / Peñíscola. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 35 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make your way to Peniscola Castle, an extraordinary castle that draws attention for its visually striking features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Valencia. Valencia offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. 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 Valencia's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at El Poblet, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ricard Camarena is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Valencia. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Fierro. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pub Pasos offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Clann Bar Tapas is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Café Negrito is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Madrid, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Discover a day packed with a charming, an awe-inspiring, a visually striking, a historic, a culturally significant, a detailed, and an idyllic in Madrid. Begin your sightseeing with Temple Of Debod. This spectacular monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Plaza De España, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Madrid, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to El Retiro Park. This timeless park is a traveler-favorite.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Madrid, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Segovia may take around 1 hour 15 min. Upon your arrival in Segovia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Segovia Cathedral, a well-known church that everyone visiting Segovia should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Aqueduct Of Segovia. This culturally significant monument is one of the most wondrous attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Alcázar Of Segovia, a visually striking castle, popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Alhambra, 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 Restaurante Alabaster, 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 Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix, a hidden gem nestled in Madrid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Jazz Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. España Building 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.

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

On day 10 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Madrid, featuring a breathtaking, an eye-catching, a standout, a romantic, a grand, and a noteworthy. Start at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, an iconic stadium in the city. Then, head to Puerta De Alcalá and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Madrid and when you are ready for more, go to Museo Del Prado. This is one of the city’s most timeless spots. After exploring the museum, visit the well-known Crystal Palace.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Areia, 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 La MaMá Restaurante, 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 Sacha Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Madrid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 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 Valladolid, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Madrid includes a public square, a food market, a museum, a palace and much more! Main Square is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Market Of San Miguel, a wondrous food market, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Thyssen-bornemisza Museum, an eye-catching museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Madrid. If you’re looking for more, Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía is also a top-rated attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Royal Palace Of Madrid, a timeless gem to see in the city.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Valladolid. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Keep the evening going at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Café Bar Alborada, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Monasterio, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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