13-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao, San Sebastian, Zaragoza, Barcelona, Valencia, and Madrid

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

Santander is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a palace, a beach, a park, an art gallery and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Palacio De La Magdalena and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Segunda Playa De El Sardinero, a serene beach that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Parque De Mataleñas, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Centro Botin.

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

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

Dine in style at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante Matices Santander boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Enmienda Dieciocho. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Santander.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Little Bobby, a prime location for a drink.

Say good night to Santander and look forward to another great 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 1 vibrant destinations - Bilbao. 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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Santander today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Artxanda Funicular. This romantic tramway will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Zubizuri and learn what makes this culturally significant art installation unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Puppy. After exploring the art installation, head to Guggenheim Museum. This famous museum building is a highlight in Santander. As your day continues, stop by Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, known for its photogenic features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the often recommended Federico Moyúa Enparantza. Enjoy exploring this incredible sightseeing destination at your own pace.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Viña del Ensanche, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Marinela jatetxea offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bilbao.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of San Sebastian. 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 2 nights.

Bilbao is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a heritage railway, a beach, a public square, a church, a museum and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the popular Funicular Monte Igueldo and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Beach Of La Concha, an idyllic beach that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Gipuzkoa Plaza, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Church Of San Bizente Martiria-san Vicente Mártir, Donostia-san Sebastián. When you're finished at the church, San Telmo Museum awaits your visit. This museum is a standout highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Polka San Sebastián, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar Antonio. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in San Sebastian tonight.

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

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 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in San Sebastian, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in San Sebastian, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Taconera, a curiosity-inducing park in the city. Then, head to Citadel Of Pamplona and soak in the ambiance of this stunning historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in San Sebastian, and when you are ready for more, go to Monumento Al Encierro. This is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing instagrammable spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the popular Castle Square.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, an iconic dining spot in San Sebastian. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Federiko Taberna, a popular restaurant in San Sebastian. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La Cuchara de San Telmo, a hidden gem nestled in San Sebastian. 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!

On day 6 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 Zaragoza. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zaragoza, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in San Sebastian, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park, a captivating park in the city. Then, head to Parque De La Aljafería and soak in the ambiance of this historic castle.

There are many interesting places to see in San Sebastian, and when you are ready for more, go to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar. This is one of the city’s most notable stunning spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the beloved Puente De Piedra. Not far away, you'll also find Zaragoza Museum. This museum is a visually striking highlight in San Sebastian.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zaragoza. Zaragoza offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zaragoza. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurante Quema, a popular restaurant in Zaragoza. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Zaragoza at Doña Tapa, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Casa Unai. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Zaragoza tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Be A Legend Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Aragón Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar El Circo 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 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Barcelona for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

La Rambla is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Barcelona, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city. Be sure to also visit Passeig de Gràcia, a street that showcases another side of Barcelona.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Barcelona today. One of the most world-famous attractions included on the itinerary is Casa Batlló. This romantic museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Plaça De Catalunya and learn what makes this gorgeous public square unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the timeless Mercat De La Boqueria. After exploring the food market, head to Montjuïc Castle. This spectacular castle is a highlight 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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Gallery Hotel, a popular restaurant in Barcelona. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Barcelona at La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restaurant Prado De Flores. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Barcelona tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Les Gens Que J'aime, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bobby's Free, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Old Fashioned Gin Tonic & Cocktail Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Barcelona 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 Valencia, 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 Valencia. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Barcelona is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at City Of Arts And Sciences, a globally renowned science center that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Llotja De La Seda, enchanting visitors with its UNESCO world heritage-designated appeal. Continue your exploration at Plaça De L'ajuntament. This public square is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante RiFF, an iconic dining spot in Valencia. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of El Poblet, a popular restaurant in Valencia. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ubik Cafè Cafeteria Llibreria, a hidden gem nestled in Valencia. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pub Pasos, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Clann Bar Tapas offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Café Negrito 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.

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Valencia, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Beniferri and Valencia. You still have 1 night left in Valencia.

Set aside time today to explore El Carmen, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Valencia. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Valencia Bioparc is the perfect place to start. This zoo is one of the most top-rated places to visit in Valencia. Next, head to L'oceanogràfic, an impressive aquarium, known for its picture-perfect features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Jardín Del Turia. This instagrammable park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Valencia Cathedral. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Valencia. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at USUAL resto-bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're eager to try something different, consider Casa Ripoll, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante La Cepa Vieja (Valencia). With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Cosmo Valencia stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Casa Pepe offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cafe De Las Horas is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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 11 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 Madrid. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Valencia. Your adventure starts at Museo Del Prado, an iconic local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is El Retiro Park. This timeless park is known for its standout appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Valencia's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Puerta De Alcalá. This enchanting monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Statue Of The Bear And The Strawberry Tree is also worth visiting.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Madrid. Madrid offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Dine in style at Restaurante Taberna Madrid Madriz, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Lamucca del Carmen boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out El miniBAR. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Madrid.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Yambala, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cafe Madrid, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 12 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Segovia. 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.

Today’s agenda in Madrid includes a castle, a church, and a monument. Alcázar Of Segovia is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Segovia Cathedral, a captivating church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Aqueduct Of Segovia, an UNESCO world heritage-designated monument, also available for your discovery today.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, an iconic dining spot in Santander. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of El Sol, a popular restaurant in Santander. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurante Posada Del Mar, a hidden gem nestled in Santander. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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