One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Madrid traveling north to Avila, Leon, and Segovia
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Spain on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Madrid, Avila, Salamanca, Leon, Gijon, Valladolid, Segovia, and Real Sitio de San Ildefonso. This road trip itinerary in Spain seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Madrid, 1 night in Avila, 2 nights in Leon, and 1 night in Segovia. 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 Madrid, 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 Madrid, Avila, Salamanca, Leon, Gijon, Valladolid, Segovia, and Real Sitio de San Ildefonso, 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!
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Madrid - arrival day
- Madrid - Arrival day
- More
Say hello to Madrid! 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 Madrid for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Madrid is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Madrid. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurante Taberna Madrid Madriz, a top-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Lamucca del Carmen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at El miniBAR. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Yambala is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Cafe Madrid. 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!
Day 2 – Madrid
- Madrid
- More
Drive 30 km, 1 hour 42 min
- Casa de Campo
- Museo del Prado
- El Retiro Park
- Puerta de Alcalá
- Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
- More
Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Madrid for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Madrid is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a museum, a monument, a stadium and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the spectacular Casa De Campo. Just a short distance away is Museo Del Prado, a heritage-rich museum that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to El Retiro Park, one of the city’s most timeless spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the widely recognized Puerta De Alcalá. Last up on today’s itinerary is a stadium. Make your way to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of 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 you explore more of Madrid, 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 harmony of flavors at DiverXO in Madrid by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, DiverXO offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Smoked Room, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Paco Roncero, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Jazz Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out España Building, 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.
Say good night to Madrid and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 3 – Madrid and Avila
- Madrid
- Ávila
- More
Drive 115 km, 1 hour 33 min
- Main Square
- Market of San Miguel
- Royal Palace of Madrid
- El Retiro Park
- More
On day 3 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 Madrid. In the evening, you’ll end up in Avila, where you will stay for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Madrid today. One of the most globally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Main Square. This awe-inspiring public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Market Of San Miguel and learn what makes this photogenic food market unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the timeless Royal Palace Of Madrid.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Avila, 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 Avila. 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 Avila by securing a table at Barro. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurante Sanjuaniego, another premier location with a delectable menu.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar La Mezquita, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of La Oca Cocktail Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Black Rose likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 4 – Avila, Salamanca, and Leon
- Ávila
- Salamanca
- León
- More
Drive 316 km, 3 hours 21 min
- Walls of Ávila
- Salamanca Cathedral
- Calisto and Melibea Vegetable Garden
- Roman bridge of Salamanca
- More
Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Avila and Salamanca, 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 Leon. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
A blend of a stunning, an instagrammable, a history-steeped, a symbolic, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated await you in Avila on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating monument, Walls Of Ávila. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit.
After soaking in Avila’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Salamanca. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 4 min. When you arrive in Salamanca, it's time to take a break from the road.
Head to Salamanca Cathedral, a well-known church in Salamanca. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Calisto And Melibea Vegetable Garden. This locally renowned botanical garden is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Roman Bridge Of Salamanca is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most respected historical landmark in the region.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Leon. 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 Leon's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Becook, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible fusion and modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pablo is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Leon. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Cocinandos. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café Bar La Dama is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bacanal, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Chelsea. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 5 – Leon and Gijon
- León
- Gijón
- More
Drive 309 km, 4 hours 1 min
- Elogio del horizonte
- Begoña Park
- Atlántico Botanical Garden
- Universidad Laboral
- San Lorenzo Beach
- Catedral de León
- More
Greet day 5 of your road trip in Spain with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Leon for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Gijon and Leon.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, a stunning, an instagrammable, a historically significant, a culturally significant, and a symbolic. Whether you decide to explore Leon on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. León Cathedra is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this symbolic church before continuing your journey.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Leon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gijon may take around 1 hour 46 min. Upon your arrival in Gijon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Elogio Del Horizonte. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the art installation before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Begoña Park. This beloved park is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Jardín Botánico Atlántico. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the botanical garden. Next, continue your journey to Universidad Laboral De Gijón, a frequently visited university. End your day at San Lorenzo Beach, known for its serene features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Leon.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Leon's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at Clandestino Gastrobar, a top-rated dining destination in Leon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Four Lions Brewery, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Agobium. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Leon this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Café Bar Silver, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 6 – Leon, Valladolid, and Segovia
- León
- Valladolid
- Segovia
- More
Drive 256 km, 3 hours 24 min
- Catedral de León
- Basilica of San Isidoro
- Plaza Mayor
- Parque Campo Grande
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Leon and Valladolid. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Segovia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Prepare for a day full of an instagrammable, a standout, a sacred, and a majestic. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Basilica Of San Isidoro. This underrated church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Leon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Valladolid. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 44 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Your self-guided tour starts at Plaza Mayor, an often recommended public square that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Parque Campo Grande and admire its romantic features.
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 Segovia. Segovia 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 explore more of Segovia, 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurante Pasapán, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bar Lozoya offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, El Túnel de Goriche is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Segovia.
Keep the evening going at Shout Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Pub Celia, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Correos, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!
Day 7 – Segovia, Real Sitio de San Ildefonso, and Madrid
- Segovia
- San Ildefonso
- Madrid
- More
Drive 112 km, 2 hours 3 min
- Alcázar of Segovia
- Segovia Cathedral
- Aqueduct of Segovia
- Royal Palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 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 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Segovia. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Alcázar Of Segovia is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Segovia. Next, head to Segovia Cathedral, a captivating church, known for its symbolic features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Aqueduct Of Segovia. This picture-perfect monument offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Real Sitio de San Ildefonso. This drive usually takes around 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Make your way to Royal Palace Of La Granja Of San Ildefonso, a popular palace that draws attention for its enchanting features.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Areia, a highly-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're eager to try something different, consider La MaMá Restaurante, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sacha Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!
Day 8 – Madrid - departure day
- Madrid - Departure day
- More
- plaza de España
- El Retiro Park
- More
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. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a breathtaking, an instagrammable, a history-steeped, a symbolic, and a masterful. 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. Plaza De España is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this remarkable public square before continuing your journey.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Madrid.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Taberna Mozárabe, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante Lakasa is another top choice with a popular menu.
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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Spain
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.