5-Day Spain Road Trip from Santander traveling west to Valladolid, and Oviedo

Welcome to Santander, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Santander's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 Plaza Porticada or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Santander. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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 Mayor, 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 Santa & Co, 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 Agua Salada, a hidden gem nestled in Santander. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Santander, and Cueto, 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 Valladolid. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Centro Botin. This art museum typically receives around 111,096 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,508 reviews.

Continue your journey at Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. This maritime museum is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,771 travelers from near and far.

After soaking in Santander’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cueto. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 13 min. When you arrive in Cueto, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,037 reviews.

Next up is Parque De Mataleñas. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,724 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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Llantén, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional traditional menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Alquimia - Laboratorio, known for its delicious creative, and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Valladolid is Trigo, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Café Bar Alborada is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Monasterio is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 3 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 Leon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oviedo, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Valladolid’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 1 hour 39 min. When you arrive in Leon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Plaza Del Grano, León, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,643 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at León Cathedra. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 30,058 travelers.

Basilica Of San Isidoro is another must-visit attraction. This renowned collegiate church offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,015 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 Plaza De La Inmaculada. This well-loved sightseeing destination boasts a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,765 reviews.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurante Doña Concha, a top-rated dining destination in Oviedo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Oveja Negra, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante La Tagliatella | Oviedo / Uviéu. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Oviedo this evening.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ribeseya, Cangas de Onís, Cuadonga/Covadonga, 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.

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

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Mirador Del Fito. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,162 reviews.

Cangas de Onís’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ribeseya behind. This drive usually takes around 23 min. Cangas de Onís welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Roman Bridge In Cangas De Onis, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,965 reviews.

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 Santander. Santander 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 Santander. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Little Bobby stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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

Day 5 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. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try La Barruca de Calderón, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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!