9-Day Spain Road Trip from Bilbao traveling south to Santander, Valladolid, Madrid, Calatayud, and Pamplona

Welcome to Bilbao, 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 Bilbao's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bilbao 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 Federiko Moiua Enparantza or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Bilbao. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Spain. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Viña del Ensanche, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Iruña, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Iturriza Taberna. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Stromboli Taberna offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bilbao. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Santander, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Guggenheim Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 64,815 reviews. Every year, Guggenheim Museum welcomes more than 530,967 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Puppy is a recommended place to visit. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,913 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Bilbao is Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,312 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Bilbao offers an experience you will remember.

Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Bilbao. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,643 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Etxebarria Parkea. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,229 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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 Santander. Santander 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 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 memorable dining experience in Santander by booking a table at Cadelo, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Santander, Umma shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Agua Salada is known as a top local spot for its delicious contemporary, and traditional cuisine in Santander. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Continue your lively evening at Kings Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Grog is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Hygge Cocktail ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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

Kick off the day at Centro Botin, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 111,096 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This art museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,508 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico is a maritime museum with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,771 reviews.

After soaking in Santander’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Villaescusa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 26 min. When you arrive in Villaescusa, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Cabarceno Natural Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 45,839 reviews.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Llantén, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Alquimia - Laboratorio is one of the best restaurants for creative, and modern cuisine in Valladolid. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Trigo. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Café Bar Alborada is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Monasterio offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Segovia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Madrid, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Valladolid, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Segovia may take around 1 hour 21 min. Upon your arrival in Segovia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Alcázar Of Segovia. This alcázar typically receives around 754,946 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 49,713 reviews.

Continue your journey at Segovia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,509 travelers from near and far.

Segovia is also the home of Plaza Mayor. This plaza mayor has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,239 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Aqueduct Of Segovia. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 95,202 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Madrid by reserving a table at DiverXO. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Smoked Room, renowned for its delectable contemporary 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 Paco Roncero, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative menu. With a 2-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 Madrid.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Cafe Madrid is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. 1862 Dry Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!

Day 5 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Puerta De Alcalá. This triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 43,833 reviews.

Next up, make your way to El Retiro Park. This urban park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 162,386 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Museo Del Prado. This art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 98,929 visitors. Up to 3,497,345 people visit this place of interest annually.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 46,855 visitors. Visiting Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía means you'll be one of 1 person who do so every year.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Casa De Campo. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 50,826 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Mi Venta, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Mas Al Sur offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Prada a Tope Madrid. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Madrid.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Madrid, 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 Calatayud. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Main Square is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 152,388 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Market Of San Miguel. This building has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Royal Palace Of Madrid. The royal palace has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 77,471 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Plaza De España. This square is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 98,199 reviews.

Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this association football venue, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 120,158 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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 Calatayud. Calatayud 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.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 Zaragoza, and Olite/Erriberri. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pamplona, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Calatayud and set your GPS to Zaragoza. 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 4 min. Upon reaching Zaragoza, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,535 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar. Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar is a co-cathedral with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 34,215 reviews.

Puente De Piedra is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,689 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Zaragoza, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Olite/Erriberri. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 27 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Royal Palace Of Olite. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,713 reviews.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at El Merca'o in Pamplona by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, El Merca'o delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Europa, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Rodero, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Keep the evening going at Vermutería Río, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Hawái, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pamplona, you’ll hit the road in the direction of San Sebastian. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 7 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Gipuzkoa Plaza. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,940 visitors.

Next, make your way to Alderdi Eder Parkea. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,442 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Beach Of La Concha. This natural feature is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,054 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of San Sebastian, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sukarrieta may take around 1 hour 19 min. Upon your arrival in Sukarrieta, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,342 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bilbao, 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 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. An esteemed 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.

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

Day 9 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bilbao before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Bilbao's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Spain.

Journey into the unknown at Zubizuri, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable footbridge has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 10,295 reviews.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante Pentxo, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kirol jatetxea? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bilbao. 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!