9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, and Zaragoza

Day 2 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Bilbao. You have 1 night left in Bilbao. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bilbao allows for both. Start by heading to Artxanda Funicular. This frequently visited tramway provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Puppy, a beloved art installation. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. Round off your day at Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, another gem in Bilbao with serene features to discover.

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 Bilbao. 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 culinary delights of Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative and seasonal cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Zortziko, renowned for its delicious contemporary 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 Etxanobe Atelier, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

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 Burgos Province. In the evening, you’ll end up in Madrid, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bilbao and set your GPS to Burgos Province. 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 43 min. Upon reaching Burgos Province, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Puente De Santa María. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the monument before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Arco De Santa María. This up-and-coming monument is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Burgos Cathedral. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church.

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.

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 an outstanding dining experience at DiverXO, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Smoked Room, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Madrid is Paco Roncero, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Yambala, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cafe Madrid offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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.

Today’s itinerary in Madrid covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a park, a stadium, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Main Square. This globally renowned public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of El Retiro Park, a must-see park in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This wondrous stadium offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Museo Del Prado, where you can take in its standout features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Valencia. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Valencia. 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 harmony of flavors at El Poblet in Valencia by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, El Poblet offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ricard Camarena, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative 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 Fierro, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Pub Pasos, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Clann Bar Tapas, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Café Negrito provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Valencia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Barcelona, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Valencia, including a food market, a monument, and a science center. Start your day at Mercat Central. This heritage-rich food market is a widely recognized place to see in Valencia. Then, wander over to Serrano Towers. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find City Of Arts And Sciences. This instagrammable science center is a favorite among visitors.

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 Barcelona. Barcelona 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 Barcelona. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Lasarte, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, ABaC is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Barcelona. This 3-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Cocina Hermanos Torres. As a top-rated establishment with 3 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Casa Gràcia, known for its inviting atmosphere. Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bloody Mary Cocktail Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Barcelona. You’ll stay in Barcelona for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Begin your adventure at Park Güell. This is a timeless park you should not miss. Another must-see is Sagrada Família, a world-famous church in Barcelona.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to La Pedrera. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Casa Batlló, another of the city’s wondrous attractions. Magic Fountain Of Montjuïc is a truly remarkable place to visit in Barcelona.

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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Barcelona. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Gallery Hotel, a popular restaurant in Barcelona. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Barcelona at La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restaurant Prado De Flores. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Barcelona tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Les Gens Que J'aime is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bobby's Free, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Old Fashioned Gin Tonic & Cocktail Bar. 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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Barcelona. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Zaragoza, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and wallet-friendly activities await you in Barcelona on today’s itinerary. First up is the timeless food market, Mercat De La Boqueria. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Plaça De Catalunya. A visit to this public square is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Barcelona’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Arc De Triomf. This top-rated monument is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Parc De La Ciutadella, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza by securing a reservation at Gente Rara. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and contemporary cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Cancook, celebrated for its delectable creative 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 La Prensa, a top local spot known for its tantalizing contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Be A Legend Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Aragón Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar El Circo likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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.

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Zaragoza and Portugalete, 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 Bilbao. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Zaragoza. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Puente De Piedra is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most beloved places to visit in Zaragoza. Next, head to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar, a locally renowned church, known for its historic 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 José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park. This serene park offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Zaragoza, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Portugalete may take around 3 hours 16 min. Upon your arrival in Portugalete, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Vizcaya Bridge is a notable monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bilbao. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Gaztandegi taberna, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Café Bar Bilbao? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Laga jatetxea as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bilbao.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!