6-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Valladolid and Bilbao

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 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Santander allows for both. Start by heading to Centro Botin. This captivating art gallery provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, an instagrammable maritime museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Set your GPS to Cueto and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cueto beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Parque De Mataleñas, an underrated park known for its romantic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, a curiosity-inducing art gallery that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Valladolid by securing a reservation at Llantén. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Alquimia - Laboratorio, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Trigo, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Valladolid, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Start your adventure at Parque Campo Grande. This captivating park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Segovia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 19 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Aqueduct Of Segovia, an iconic monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Segovia Cathedral and admire its breathtaking features. When you’re ready, continue to Alcázar Of Segovia, an astonishing castle beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Sercotel Valladolid, a popular restaurant in Valladolid. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Valladolid at Café & copas Murmullo, 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 ATYPIKAL. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Valladolid tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Café Bar Alborada is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Monasterio also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Burgos Province and Portugalete. 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.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Valladolid, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Burgos Province may take around 1 hour 23 min. Upon your arrival in Burgos Province, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your journey at Puente De Santa María and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Arco De Santa María, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to Burgos Cathedral, an inviting church.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Burgos Province and set your GPS to Portugalete. 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 1 hour 55 min. Upon reaching Portugalete, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take your self-guided tour to Vizcaya Bridge, a notable monument that everyone visiting Portugalete should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Mina in Bilbao by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Mina delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative and seasonal cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Zortziko, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary 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 Etxanobe Atelier, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Boss Bilbao, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Stromboli Taberna, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Zuberoa Taberna likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Bilbao, Villaescusa, and Rionansa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Santander, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Bilbao promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Federico Moyúa Enparantza. Then, enjoy Puppy, another awe-inspiring attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Villaescusa, 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 Bilbao to Villaescusa may take around 1 hour 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Villaescusa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Cabarceno Natural Park is a famous safari park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picturesque features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Villaescusa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rionansa. This drive usually takes around 57 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your self-guided tour starts at Cueva El Soplao, a captivating sightseeing destination that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Santander by securing a table at Cadelo. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Umma, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Agua Salada, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Located in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is an ideal pick for contemporary and traditional cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Little Bobby offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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