6-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vitoria-Gasteiz traveling west to Valladolid and Santander

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Elorriaga, and Arriaga. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valladolid, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with an eye-catching, a respected, a romantic, a breathtaking, a sacred, and a culturally significant. Start at the frequently visited Nueva Square, a heritage-rich public square in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Next, go to Plaza Virgen Blanca.

After visiting Nueva Square and Plaza Virgen Blanca, take time to explore Vitoria-Gasteiz's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria. This photogenic church offers a unique experience.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Elorriaga, 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz to Elorriaga may take around 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Elorriaga, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Salburua. Spend some time admiring the scenic features of the nature reserve before you continue to your next stop.

Arriaga’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Elorriaga behind. This drive usually takes around 4 min. Arriaga welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your self-guided tour starts at Arriagako Donibane Parkea, an intriguing park 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 Valladolid. Valladolid 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 Valladolid. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Valladolid by reserving a table at Llantén. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of traditional cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Alquimia - Laboratorio, renowned for its delectable creative and modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Trigo, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Valladolid.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Panoramix, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Esgueva is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Largo Adiós offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 2 vibrant destinations - Burgos Province and Villaescusa. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Santander. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Burgos Province promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

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.

Puente De Santa María is an often recommended monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Arco De Santa María, an awe-inspiring monument that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Burgos Cathedral, an UNESCO world heritage-designated church.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Villaescusa. This car ride takes around 1 hour 58 min.

Make your way to Cabarceno Natural Park, an extraordinary safari park that draws attention for its visually striking features.

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

As you explore more of Santander, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby Bib Gourmand-awardee, Umma, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Santander is Agua Salada, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant, known for its delicious contemporary and traditional menu.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Spain. With 1 night left in Santander, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Today’s route brings a stunning, a photogenic, a detailed, and a history-steeped. The first attraction of today is Centro Botin. This notable art gallery is a noteworthy place to see in Santander. Continue your discovery at Mercado Del Este, a standout market with stories to tell.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rionansa, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cerrazo may take around 41 min. Upon your arrival in Cerrazo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your journey at Villapresente's Labyrinth and explore the visually striking features.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante Agua Salada, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurante Matices Santander? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Enmienda Dieciocho as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Santander.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Little Bobby, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

On day 5 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 Bilbao and Portugalete. In the evening, you’ll end up in Vitoria-Gasteiz, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bilbao. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your self-guided tour starts at Zubizuri, a popular art installation that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. When you’re ready, continue to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a notable park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Federico Moyúa Enparantza, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bilbao, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Portugalete. This drive usually takes around 23 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your self-guided tour starts at Vizcaya Bridge, a locally renowned monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Vitoria-Gasteiz, 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz. 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Vitoria-Gasteiz by booking a table at Zabala. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bar Txiki, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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