One-Week Spain Road Trip from Santander traveling west to Valladolid, Leon, and Oviedo

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Santander and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Santander 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.

Santander is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Santander. 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 Santander. 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.

Make your stay in Santander one for the books by indulging in an unforgettable culinary experience at Cadelo, a gem acclaimed by food experts. Its delightful modern cuisine and the praise from satisfied patrons speak of its outstanding quality. Cadelo promises exceptional dishes and ensures your dining experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a day, pop into La Magnolia. This bar is considered one of the best in Santander and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,129 customers.

You may also want to check out Little Bobby. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. Little Bobby is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 920 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Kings Pub. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 857 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

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 Santander. You’ll stay in Santander for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Santander, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Santander below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Santander. 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.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Restaurante Los Peñucas. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Santander boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from around 4,136 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Santander is Bodega del Riojano. It has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,195 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Taberna La Radio, in Santander. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,408 satisfied customers.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a day, pop into Santa & Co. This bar is considered one of the best in Santander and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 887 customers.

You may also want to check out La Barruca de Calderón. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. La Barruca de Calderón is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,014 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Cantabria Restaurant. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,226 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Spain, where you’ll be making 4 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Villaescusa, Cerrazo, Santillana del Mar, and Valladolid. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Valladolid. Valladolid will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cerrazo. This car ride takes around 6 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Laberinto De Villapresente is a great place to start with. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,994 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Valladolid, 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 Cerrazo to Valladolid may take around 2 hours 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Valladolid. Valladolid 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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Llantén, a luxury dining venue in Valladolid. This local gem’s delectable traditional cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression. Llantén is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Treat yourself to culinary excellence at Alquimia - Laboratorio. With its 1 Michelin star rating, it caters to the most discerning palates. The incredible creative and modern cuisine at Alquimia - Laboratorio has earned praise globally.

If you're in the mood for something different, consider reserving a table at Trigo. This celebrated dining spot in Valladolid is renowned for its sumptuous meals and modern menu. Countless patrons sing this restaurant's praises, adding to its 1 Michelin-star prestige.

Villa Paramesa is a must-visit. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,082 customers.

You can also enjoy having some snacks and drinks at Café Bar Alborada. This bar is a popular hangout spot among locals and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,054 customers.

Restaurante Pide por esa Boquita is another top-rated city bar we recommend in Valladolid. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 669 customers, this bar is a great place to cap off the night.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Segovia. You have 1 night left in Segovia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

You can learn more about Segovia today by going on a tour. Segovia offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Restaurante Niza, a distinguished dining establishment in Valladolid. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 2,745 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Valladolid is Eh Voilà! Crêpstaurante Casual. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 2,277 happy diners.

Restaurante asador El Figón de Recoletos stands out as a local favorite in Valladolid. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,744 customers.

El Corcho is an excellent example. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,211 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like La Pícara. This bar has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 2,498 customers.

ATYPIKAL is another of the best bars in the city of Valladolid that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 2,104 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Valladolid and Leon, 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 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Plaza Mayor. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,713 reviews.

Next up is Plaza de Zorrilla. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,590 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Parque Campo Grande. This park has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,850 reviews.

Cathedral of Valladolid is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 5,791 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to National Sculpture Museum. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,935 reviews. Approximately 145,606 people come to see this attraction every year.

Set your GPS to Leon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Leon beckons with new experiences!

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Leon, 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 Leon. 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.

Discover the essence of culinary excellence at Becook, a luxury local dining experience. Renowned for its prestigious rating and impressive menu, Becook consistently impresses both foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional fusion and modern cuisine.

Also highly recommended is Pablo, one of the best 1-star Michelin establishments in Leon. Take your pick from the modern menu, which has consistently earned Pablo high ratings and praise from satisfied guests.

Experience the best local flavors while in Leon and reserve a table at ConMimo. Its delectable international offerings have contributed to impressive reviews from numerous patrons who’ve already savored its meals. At this lavish dining spot, expect a perfect blend of sumptuous cuisine and exceptional service.

Clandestino Gastrobar is an excellent example. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,610 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Bar Chelsea. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 911 customers.

Taxman Beatles Bar is another of the best bars in the city of Leon that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 834 customers.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Leon and Oviedo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Oviedo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your day with a visit to León Cathedra. This extraordinary catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 30,058 visitors.

Next, make your way to Basilica of San Isidoro. This top attraction is a collegiate church with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,015 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Casa de los Botines. This building is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,594 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Plaza del Grano, León. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,643 travelers.

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 Oviedo may take around 1 hour 27 min. Upon your arrival in Oviedo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Oviedo.

Make sure to book a table at Casa Fermín, a popular restaurant in Oviedo. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 671 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at La Finca Sidrería Agrobar during your stay in Oviedo. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 1,955 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Restaurante La Tagliatella | Oviedo / Uviéu, a renowned dining destination in Oviedo. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,123 satisfied guests.

To get a drink at one of the best bars in the city, go to Per Se Café. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,642 customers.

If you’d like to continue your evening somewhere else, we recommend heading to Mala Saña. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,642 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is L'Esperteyu Pub - Cervecería. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 778 customers.

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

On day 7 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 Cuadonga/Covadonga, Cangas de Onís, Ribeseya, Colunga, and Santander. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Oviedo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Colunga. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 51 min. When you arrive in Colunga, it's time to take a break from the road.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cangas de Onís, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cuadonga/Covadonga may take around 14 min. Upon your arrival in Cuadonga/Covadonga, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Sanctuary of Covadonga. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 34,049 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Santander. Santander 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.

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

Reserve your spot at La Bombi, a popular local restaurant in Santander. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,500 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Restaurante Posada Del Mar during your stay in Santander. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 993 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Restaurante la Mayor, a popular local gem in Santander. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 921 satisfied guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Santander. El Sol is a fantastic option, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,098 customers.

To end your night the best way possible, don't forget to check out Grog. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 1,162 customers.

Another bar with a great atmosphere is Daría. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 409 customers.

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

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

Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Santander’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Santander. 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!