13-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santiago De Compostela traveling east to Gijon, Santander, Bilbao, and Leon

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Santiago De Compostela. You’ll stay in Santiago De Compostela for 1 night.

Start your day at Contemporary Art Center Of Galicia. This photogenic art gallery is a locally appreciated place to see in Santiago De Compostela. Then, wander over to Museo Del Pueblo Gallego. If heritage-rich sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cervantes Square. This photogenic public square is a favorite among visitors.

Santiago De Compostela offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Praza Da Quintana De Vivos is an underrated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the public square, don’t forget to check out the stunning Cathedral Of Santiago De Compostela. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this astonishing church. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Santiago De Compostela's top attractions with a visit to Glory's Portico.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Spain. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

For an unforgettable shopping experience, visit Rua do Franco, the top shopping destination in Santiago De Compostela. Browse local boutique shops and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Rua do Franco has to offer, including restaurants, attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Los Caracoles Restaurante, a highly-rated dining destination in Santiago De Compostela. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante Pedro Roca, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Tarará. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Santiago De Compostela this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar O´46, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Forest is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Fuco Lois is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Spain includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of A Coruña, O Portiño, and Bens. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in A Gramela, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Santiago De Compostela and set your GPS to A Coruña. 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 49 min. Upon reaching A Coruña, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Méndez Núñez Garden, an increasingly popular park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Beach Of Orzán, where you can soak in the peaceful surroundings.

Next, explore María Pita Square, yet another locally renowned place to see in the area. After the public square, make time to go to Tower Of Hercules. This awe-inspiring lighthouse is well worth the visit.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to O Portiño may take around 14 min. Upon your arrival in O Portiño, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Monte De San Pedro, a notable park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Bens’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of O Portiño behind. This drive usually takes around 6 min. Bens welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Fervenza Do Parque De Bens, a worthwhile waterfall in Bens. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in A Gramela. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Gijon. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Gijon, where you'll spend 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of A Gramela, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gijon. Your travel time is around 2 hours 52 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Laboral Ciudad De La Cultura. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the cultural center before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Jardín Botánico Atlántico. This increasingly popular botanical garden is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to San Lorenzo Beach. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the beach. Next, take your journey to Museo Ferrocarril, an increasingly popular museum. Conclude your sightseeing at Elogio Del Horizonte, known for its visually striking features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Gijon. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Zio Pig, Italian Delicatessen, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurante El Borne by Galán de Alejandro? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at BIOPARC Acuario de Gijón as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Gijon.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Sergio after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Honky Tonk Gijón for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, El Andén is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 5 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Oviedo and La Peña'l Fuelle. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Gijon, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Oviedo may take around 31 min. Upon your arrival in Oviedo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Parque De Invierno and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Mafalda Statue, another highlight in Oviedo. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to Fine Arts Museum Of Asturias, a visually striking museum.

Nearby, you will also find Plaza De La Catedral. This curiosity-inducing public square is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to El Fontán Market, a history-steeped market that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

When you’ve had your share of Oviedo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Peña'l Fuelle. Your travel time is around 13 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Santa María Del Naranjo, an often recommended church that everyone visiting La Peña'l Fuelle should see. Next, head to San Miguel De Lillo. This majestic church is one of the most worthwhile attractions in the region.

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

Gijon is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Gijon.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Peak & McQueen, a top-rated dining spot in Gijon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cervecería bar La Mina, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Que no te lo cuenten Gastrobar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Gijon.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 6 of your road trip in Spain, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Villaescusa, Santander, and Cueto are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Villaescusa may take around 1 hour 52 min. Upon your arrival in Villaescusa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Cabarceno Natural Park, a widely recognized safari park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Santander’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Villaescusa behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Santander welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Palacio De La Magdalena, a popular palace that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Plaza De Pombo, where you can soak in the photogenic surroundings.

Next, explore Centro Botin, yet another locally renowned place to see in the area. After the art gallery, make time to go to Catedral De Santander. This grand church is well worth the visit.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Cueto, home to many well-known sights in the region. Upon arrival in Cueto, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Segunda Playa De El Sardinero. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the beach before you continue to your next stop.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Santander's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurante la Mayor, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Santa & Co, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Marcello Restaurante. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Kings Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Grog is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 1 place, which are Bilbao. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao, where will spend 3 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bilbao, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Santander to Bilbao may take around 1 hour 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bilbao, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Artxanda Funicular, a worthwhile tramway that everyone visiting Bilbao should see. Next, head to Zubizuri. This enchanting art installation is one of the most popular attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, an instagrammable museum popular among locals as well as travelers. Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this popular park before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bilbao. Bilbao 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 Bilbao. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

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

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including San Sebastian.

Parte Vieja is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in San Sebastian, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bilbao. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

San Telmo Museum is an underrated museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Gipuzkoa Plaza, a picture-perfect public square that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Alderdi Eder Parkea, a serene park. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Beach Of La Concha, a serene and truly unique beach. End your sightseeing at Funicular Monte Igueldo, a locally renowned heritage railway that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Café Iruña, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Iturriza Taberna offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Antxoa Taberna is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bilbao.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, where you have 1 night left to stay.

After soaking in Bilbao’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Burgos Province. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 44 min. When you arrive in Burgos Province, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Abbey Of Santa María La Real De Las Huelgas, an intriguing monastery that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Parque De La Isla, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.

Next, explore Burgos Cathedral, yet another popular place to see in the area. After the church, make time to go to Arco De San Esteban. This culturally significant monument is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Mirador Del Castillo, a frequently visited observation deck you won’t want to miss.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Leon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Leon, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

After soaking in Bilbao’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Leon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 17 min. When you arrive in Leon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Leon is Plaza Del Grano, León, an intriguing public square that draws attention for its instagrammable features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Casa De Los Botines, a symbolic museum that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Basilica Of San Isidoro, a locally appreciated church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore León Cathedra, a nearby church, highly recommended by other travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Leon. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Leon is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Leon.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Parrilla Louzao, a top-rated dining spot in Leon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bar Nápoles, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Flecha 1957 Panadería Pastelería Cafetería. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Leon.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café Bar La Dama stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bacanal offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Chelsea is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 11 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Leon, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Leon, there’s no need to rush. Experience Carracedo del Monasterio and Ponferrada to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Carracedo del Monasterio. This car ride takes around 1 hour 18 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Monasterio Santa María De Carracedo, an up-and-coming monastery known for its symbolic features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ponferrada may take around 16 min. Upon your arrival in Ponferrada, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Museo De El Bierzo, a beloved museum in Ponferrada. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Basílica Nuestra Señora De La Encina. This up-and-coming church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Museo De La Radio is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most heritage-rich museum in the region.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Clandestino Gastrobar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Four Lions Brewery? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Agobium as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Leon.

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

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