One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to Madrid, Valencia, and Zaragoza

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bilbao has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bilbao by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Bilbao on today’s itinerary. First up is the impressive museum building, Guggenheim Museum. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Puppy. A visit to this art installation is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Bilbao’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This curiosity-inducing museum is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Etxebarri Parkea and learn why this park is renowned as one of the city's most beloved attractions.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Zortziko, celebrated for its delectable contemporary 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 Etxanobe Atelier, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Burgos Province, 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 Madrid. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Burgos Province. This car ride takes around 1 hour 43 min.

Arco 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 Burgos Cathedral, a history-steeped church that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Parque De La Isla, a romantic park.

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 Madrid. Madrid 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 Madrid. 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Madrid by reserving a table at DiverXO. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Smoked Room, recognized for its delicious contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Paco Roncero, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Madrid. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Yambala, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cafe Madrid also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Madrid. You’ll stay in Madrid for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Madrid on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this gorgeous stadium before continuing your journey. Puerta De Alcalá is your next stop. This impressive monument is one of the best-rated sights in Madrid.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit El Retiro Park. This masterful park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Museo Del Prado and Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Alhambra, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurante Alabaster beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Madrid tonight.

Keep the evening going at Jazz Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to España Building, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is 1862 Dry Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Madrid. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Valencia, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Madrid, including a public square, a food market, and a palace. Start your day with a visit to Main Square. This world-famous public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Market Of San Miguel, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Madrid on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Royal Palace Of Madrid, one of the city’s most world-famous palace. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Plaza De España.

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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Valencia by booking a table at El Poblet, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Valencia, Ricard Camarena shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Fierro is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Valencia. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Pub Pasos is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Clann Bar Tapas, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Café Negrito. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Valencia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zaragoza, where you will stay for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Valencia, including a food market, an aquarium, and a science center. Start your adventure at Mercat Central. This top-rated food market is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to L'oceanogràfic located in Valencia for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of City Of Arts And Sciences. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you.

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

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Gente Rara in Zaragoza by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Gente Rara offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and contemporary menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Cancook, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at La Prensa, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional contemporary menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Be A Legend Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Aragón Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar El Circo provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Zaragoza and Portugalete. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zaragoza today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Puente De Piedra. This romantic monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar and learn what makes this historic church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park.

Set your GPS to Portugalete and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Portugalete beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Vizcaya Bridge. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gaztandegi taberna, a highly-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're eager to try something different, consider Café Bar Bilbao, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Laga jatetxea. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

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