One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from San Sebastian traveling south to Valladolid, Madrid, and Zaragoza
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Spain. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in San Sebastian, 1 night in Valladolid, 3 nights in Madrid, and 1 night in Zaragoza. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Spain. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in San Sebastian, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Spain on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Spain. El Retiro Park and Main Square are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through San Sebastian, Valladolid, Segovia, Real Sitio de San Ildefonso, Madrid, Zaragoza, and Pamplona, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Spain. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Spain.
Throughout your road trip in Spain, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Spain.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Spain fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Spain today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Donostia / San Sebastián - Arrival day
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- Alderdi Eder Parkea
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Say hello to San Sebastian! Your exciting road trip through Spain is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in San Sebastian for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
San Sebastian 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 Alderdi Eder Parkea or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in San Sebastian. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in San Sebastian. 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Polka San Sebastián, a top-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Antonio. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Txiki Taberna Donosti, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Taberna Barun offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Gorriti Taberna. 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 8-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Valladolid
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Drive 337 km, 3 hours 43 min
- Beach of La Concha
- Miramar Palace
- Loretopeko tunela
- Funicular Monte Igueldo
- Peine del Viento XV
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, San Sebastian. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valladolid, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Beach Of La Concha is must-visit beach and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Miramar Palace, a well-known palace, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Antiguoko Tunela, a romantic point of interest, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for San Sebastian. If you’re looking for more, Funicular Monte Igueldo is also a captivating attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Peine Del Viento Xv, a notable gem to see in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Valladolid. 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 Valladolid. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Llantén in Valladolid by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Llantén offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Alquimia - Laboratorio, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and modern 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 Trigo, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Panoramix, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Esgueva, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Largo Adiós likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 3
- Valladolid
- Segovia
- San Ildefonso
- Madrid
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Drive 230 km, 3 hours 8 min
- Alcázar of Segovia
- Segovia Cathedral
- Aqueduct of Segovia
- Royal Palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Segovia and Real Sitio de San Ildefonso. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Madrid, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.
Segovia’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Valladolid behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min. Segovia welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to Alcázar Of Segovia, a top-rated castle that everyone visiting Segovia should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Segovia Cathedral. This grand church is one of the most captivating attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Aqueduct Of Segovia, a picture-perfect monument, popular among locals as well as travelers.
Real Sitio de San Ildefonso’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Segovia behind. This drive usually takes around 17 min. Real Sitio de San Ildefonso welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Head to Royal Palace Of La Granja Of San Ildefonso, a locally renowned palace in Real Sitio de San Ildefonso. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Madrid, 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 Madrid's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Madrid by booking a table at DiverXO, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Smoked Room, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Paco Roncero, a local gem known for its delightful creative cuisine in Madrid. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Yambala. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Cafe Madrid provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Head back to your accommodation in Madrid and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 4
- Madrid
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Drive 19 km, 59 min
- Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
- Las Ventas
- Puerta de Alcalá
- Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
- Museo del Prado
- El Retiro Park
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Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Madrid has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Madrid by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Madrid is home to plenty of attractions that offer a gorgeous, a visually striking, a standout, a symbolic, a romantic, a majestic, and a remarkable! Start at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, a wondrous stadium that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Las Ventas, enchanting visitors with its awe-inspiring appeal. Continue your exploration at Puerta De Alcalá. This monument is one of the city’s most top-rated spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Madrid at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Thyssen-bornemisza Museum. After exploring the museum, head to the wondrous Museo Del Prado. This museum will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.
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 Madrid. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Alhambra, a highly-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante Alabaster, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Jazz Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, España Building offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Madrid. 1862 Dry Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 5
- Madrid
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Drive 9 km, 37 min
- El Retiro Park
- Great Pond of El Retiro
- Crystal Palace
- Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
- Toledo Gate
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Day 5 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Madrid. You have 1 night left in Madrid. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today’s route brings a romantic, a peaceful, an enchanting, a visually striking, a noteworthy, a heritage-rich, and a grand. The first attraction of today is Great Pond Of El Retiro. This locally renowned lake is a mesmerizing place to see in Madrid. Continue your discovery at Crystal Palace, a stunning art installation with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Madrid, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía. This spectacular museum offers an instagrammable encounter with Madrid. Toledo Gate is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Madrid.
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 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Areia, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La MaMá Restaurante is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Sacha Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Madrid tonight.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 6
- Madrid
- Zaragoza
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Drive 327 km, 3 hours 52 min
- Main Square
- Market of San Miguel
- Royal Palace of Madrid
- Temple of Debod
- plaza de España
- El Retiro Park
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Madrid, 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 Zaragoza. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Madrid. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, a food market, a palace, a monument and much more! Begin your adventure at Main Square. This is an iconic public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Market Of San Miguel, a wondrous food market in Madrid.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Royal Palace Of Madrid. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Temple Of Debod, another of the city’s spectacular attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a detailed public square. Plaza De España is a truly remarkable place to visit in Madrid.
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 Zaragoza. Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Gente Rara, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cancook is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Zaragoza. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Prensa. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for contemporary cuisine in the city.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Be A Legend Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Aragón Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar El Circo also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
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.
Day 7
- Zaragoza
- Pamplona
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 273 km, 3 hours 44 min
- Plaza de Nuestra Señora del Pilar
- José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park
- Puerta del Carmen
- Castle Square
- Citadel of Pamplona
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Zaragoza and Pamplona. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in San Sebastian. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings an enchanting, an instagrammable, a historically significant, a stunning, a symbolic, a romantic, a serene, and a masterful. The first attraction of today is Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar. This interesting church is a respected place to see in Zaragoza. Continue your discovery at José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park, a noteworthy park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Zaragoza, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Puerta Del Carmen. This locally appreciated monument offers a photogenic encounter with Zaragoza.
After soaking in Zaragoza’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Pamplona. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 51 min. When you arrive in Pamplona, it's time to take a break from the road.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Castle Square, an interesting public square that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Citadel Of Pamplona, where you can soak in the instagrammable surroundings.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in San Sebastian. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of San Sebastian's best restaurants.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Arzak in San Sebastian by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Arzak delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative and traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Kokotxa, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 8
- Donostia / San Sebastián - Departure day
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- Gipuzkoa Plaza
- Peine del Viento XV
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Day 8 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of San Sebastian before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
As your final day in Spain unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in San Sebastian's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Spain.
Discover a day packed with an instagrammable and much more in San Sebastian. Begin your sightseeing with Gipuzkoa Plaza. This interesting public square is one of the top attractions in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in San Sebastian.
You’ll then say farewell to San Sebastian. 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!
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