One-Week Spain Road Trip from Madrid traveling north to Valencia, Zaragoza, Bilbao, and Valladolid

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Madrid and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Madrid for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Madrid 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 El Retiro Park 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 Madrid. 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 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Madrid by securing a table at DiverXO. Esteemed as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Smoked Room, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Paco Roncero, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Madrid. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cafe Madrid, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is 1862 Dry Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Spain!

On day 2 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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is a great place to start. This association football venue is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 120,158 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Museo del Prado. This art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 98,929 travelers. Every year, 3,497,345 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Madrid.

We also recommend a stop at Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. This site gets more than 1 visitor annually. The art museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 46,855 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Royal Palace of Madrid. This royal palace is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,471 reviews.

Temple of Debod is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this egyptian temple, rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,446 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at La Mi Venta, an iconic dining spot in Madrid. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mas Al Sur, a popular restaurant in Madrid. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Prada a Tope Madrid, a hidden gem nestled in Madrid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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 1 vibrant destinations - Madrid. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Valencia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Main Square. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Madrid, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 152,388 visitors.

Market of San Miguel is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Puerta de Alcalá. Visitors have rated this triumphal arch an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 43,833 reviews.

Crystal Palace is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a building rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,270 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Valencia, 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 Valencia's best restaurants.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Valencia by reserving a table at El Poblet. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ricard Camarena, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Fierro, 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 Valencia.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Negrito, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Cafe de las Horas, a bar that offers unique local touches.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 4 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mercat Central. This market hall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 79,570 visitors.

City of Arts and Sciences is another popular attraction you could visit today. This tourist destination has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 125,881 visitors.

L'Oceanogràfic is also highly recommended by travelers. This public aquarium has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 76,085 visitors.

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

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Zaragoza by booking a table at Gente Rara, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Cancook, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Prensa, a local gem known for its delightful contemporary cuisine in Zaragoza. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Be A Legend Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar El Circo is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Rock & Blues Cafe provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Pamplona 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.

Pamplona’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zaragoza behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 55 min. Pamplona welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Castle Square is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,066 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Citadel of Pamplona. This citadel has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,829 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Taconera. The urban park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,567 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Portugalete. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 52 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Vizcaya Bridge. This suspension bridge is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Portugalete, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 28,202 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Bilbao. Bilbao offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Bilbao, 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bilbao by securing a table at Mina. Esteemed as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Zortziko, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Bilbao. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Keep the evening going at Stromboli taberna, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Bilbao and Villaescusa, 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 Federiko Moiua enparantza. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,235 reviews.

Continue your journey at Guggenheim Museum. This museum building is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 64,815 travelers from near and far. Approximately 530,967 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Bilbao.

Bilbao is also the home of Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,643 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Villaescusa.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Cabarceno Natural Park. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 45,839 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Valladolid by securing a reservation at Llantén. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of traditional cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Alquimia - Laboratorio, renowned for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Trigo, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Café Bar Alborada offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Monasterio is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Valladolid and set your GPS to Segovia. 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 21 min. Upon reaching Segovia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Alcázar of Segovia, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 754,946 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This alcázar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 49,713 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Segovia Cathedral. Segovia Cathedral is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,509 reviews.

Aqueduct of Segovia is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 95,202 visitors.

Set your GPS to Real Sitio de San Ildefonso and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Real Sitio de San Ildefonso beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Royal Palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,635 visitors.

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

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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at BiBo Dani García, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Malacatín is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Pum Pum Café. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Madrid tonight.

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

Day 8 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Madrid before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Madrid’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Spain. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Spain forever.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to plaza de España. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 98,199 reviews.

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

Savor the flavors at Sagaretxe, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Arrabal Madrid beckons with its unique menu offerings.

You’ll then say farewell to Madrid. 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!