One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Valladolid traveling south to Salamanca and Madrid
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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 Valladolid, 1 night in Salamanca, and 4 nights in Madrid. 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 Valladolid, 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 Valladolid, Salamanca, San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Madrid, Toledo, and Segovia, 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!
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Day 1 – Valladolid - arrival day
- Valladolid - Arrival day
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- Plaza Mayor
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Welcome to Valladolid, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Valladolid's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Valladolid 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 Plaza Mayor or taking a stroll in the city center. 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 Valladolid. 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 Valladolid. 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 sure to book a table at Restaurante Colombo, a popular restaurant in Valladolid. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Valladolid at Club Lasa Sport, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is The other library Café. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Valladolid tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Panoramix, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Esgueva, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Largo Adiós provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2 – Valladolid and Salamanca
- Valladolid
- Salamanca
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Drive 125 km, 1 hour 59 min
- Cathedral of Valladolid
- Museo Nacional de Escultura
- Plaza de Zorrilla
- Parque Campo Grande
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Valladolid, 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 Salamanca. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Valladolid. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a museum, a public square, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Cathedral Of Valladolid. This is a curiosity-inducing church you should not miss. Another must-see is National Sculpture Museum, a worthwhile museum in Valladolid.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Plaza De Zorrilla. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Parque Campo Grande, another of the city’s interesting attractions.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Salamanca. 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 Salamanca's best restaurants.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Salamanca by booking a table at En la Parra, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Víctor Gutiérrez, renowned for its delectable creative and fusion dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Vintage Cocktail Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Café Bar Capitán Haddock offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Salamanca. Mist Cocktail Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
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 – Salamanca, San Lorenzo de El Escorial, and Madrid
- Salamanca
- San Lorenzo de El Escorial
- Madrid
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Drive 233 km, 2 hours 55 min
- Salamanca Cathedral
- Calisto and Melibea Vegetable Garden
- Roman bridge of Salamanca
- Royal Basilica of San Lorenzo de El Escorial
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Salamanca and San Lorenzo de El Escorial. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Madrid, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Salamanca today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Salamanca Cathedral. This enchanting church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Calisto And Melibea Vegetable Garden and learn what makes this eye-catching botanical garden unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Roman Bridge Of Salamanca.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, San Lorenzo de El Escorial. This car ride takes around 1 hour 45 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Royal Monastery Of San Lorenzo De El Escorial, an interesting monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Madrid. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.
Day 4 – Madrid and Toledo
- Madrid
- Toledo
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Drive 150 km, 2 hours 38 min
- Puerta de Bisagra
- Alcázar of Toledo
- Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo
- San Martin's Bridge
- El Retiro Park
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Greet day 4 of your road trip in Spain with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Madrid for your remaining 3 nights 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 Toledo and Madrid.
Begin your adventure at El Retiro Park. This is a timeless park you should not miss.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Madrid and set your GPS to Toledo. 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 57 min. Upon reaching Toledo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Make your way to Puerta De Bisagra, a popular monument that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Alcázar Of Toledo, a historic castle that stands out in the city. Next, visit Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada De Toledo, a well-known church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore San Martin's Bridge, a nearby monument, which is highly recommended by other travelers.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Madrid.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Alhambra, a top-rated dining spot in Madrid. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurante Alabaster, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Madrid.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Jazz Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to España Building. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at 1862 Dry Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!
Day 5 – Madrid
- Madrid
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Drive 26 km, 1 hour 27 min
- Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
- Museo del Prado
- Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
- Casa de Campo
- El Retiro Park
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On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Madrid. You’ll stay in Madrid for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Madrid. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is the perfect place to start. This stadium is one of the most timeless places to visit in Madrid. Next, head to Museo Del Prado, an iconic museum, known for its standout 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 Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía. This visually striking museum offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Casa De Campo adds its own distinct charm to your journey.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Madrid's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Areia, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La MaMá Restaurante offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sacha Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Madrid.
Say good night to Madrid and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 6 – Madrid
- Madrid
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Drive 7 km, 49 min
- Main Square
- Market of San Miguel
- El Retiro Park
- Puerta de Alcalá
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Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Madrid has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Madrid by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Madrid, featuring a charming, a mesmerizing, a picture-perfect, a historic, and a majestic. Start at Main Square, a globally renowned public square in the city. Then, head to Market Of San Miguel and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic food market.
There are many interesting places to see in Madrid and when you are ready for more, go to Puerta De Alcalá. This is one of the city’s most spectacular spots.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Taberna Mozárabe, a top-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante Lakasa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Lambuzo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!
Day 7 – Madrid, Segovia, and Valladolid
- Madrid
- Segovia
- Valladolid
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Drive 210 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Royal Palace of Madrid
- plaza de España
- Alcázar of Segovia
- Aqueduct of Segovia
- El Retiro Park
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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 Madrid and Segovia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valladolid, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Madrid, featuring a romantic, a gorgeous, a photogenic, a history-steeped, a symbolic, and a masterful. Start at Royal Palace Of Madrid, an iconic palace in the city. Then, head to Plaza De España and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect public square.
Segovia’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Madrid behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. Segovia welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Alcázar Of Segovia is a famous castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Aqueduct Of Segovia, an UNESCO world heritage-listed monument that’s well-regarded in the area.
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.
As you explore more of Valladolid, 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.
Begin your culinary exploration in Valladolid by securing a reservation at Llantén. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Alquimia - Laboratorio, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern 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 Trigo, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional 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.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!
Day 8 – Valladolid - departure day
- Valladolid - Departure day
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- La Rosaleda
- Parque Campo Grande
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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 Valladolid 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 Valladolid’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a romantic, an enchanting, a photogenic, and a remarkable. Whether you decide to explore Valladolid on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. La Rosaleda is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic park 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 Valladolid.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hotel ELE Enara Boutique, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bar Candilejas? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Valladolid. 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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