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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bilbao. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Santander. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Bilbao. Your adventure starts at Zubizuri, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Puppy. This frequently visited art installation is known for its culturally significant appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bilbao's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Guggenheim Museum. Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is also worth visiting, along with Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Santander, 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 Santander's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kings Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Grog provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Hygge Cocktail 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.

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 Santander and Villaescusa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valladolid, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Santander covers several incredible sights, including a market, an art gallery, a palace, a safari park and much more! Start your adventure at Mercado Del Este. This underrated market is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the detailed wonders of Centro Botin, a must-see art gallery 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 Palacio De La Magdalena. This captivating palace offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Cabarceno Natural Park, where you can take in peaceful features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Valladolid by reserving a table at Llantén. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional traditional menu. For a different taste experience, head to Alquimia - Laboratorio, recognized for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Trigo, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Valladolid. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Panoramix, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Esgueva is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Largo Adiós provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Segovia 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 2 nights.

Valladolid is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Aqueduct Of Segovia, a wondrous monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Segovia Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its respected appeal. Continue your exploration at Alcázar Of Segovia. This castle is one of the city’s most widely recognized spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Valladolid at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Royal Monastery Of San Lorenzo De El Escorial.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Madrid. Madrid offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Madrid by securing a table at DiverXO. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Smoked Room, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Paco Roncero, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Madrid. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Yambala, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cafe Madrid is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Madrid. You have 1 night left in Madrid. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Madrid is La Latina. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Madrid today. One of the most world-famous attractions included on the itinerary is Main Square. This romantic 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 standout food market unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the wondrous Royal Palace Of Madrid. After exploring the palace, head to Plaza De España. This spectacular public square is a highlight in 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.

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 Alhambra, a top-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante Alabaster, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Jazz Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, España Building offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, 1862 Dry Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Madrid, including a museum, a park, and a stadium. Start your day with a visit to Museo Del Prado. This world-famous museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to El Retiro Park, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Madrid on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, a world-famous stadium in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Calatayud, 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 Calatayud. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

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 Zaragoza and Olite/Erriberri. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pamplona, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Calatayud today. One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park. This eye-catching park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar and learn what makes this symbolic church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Sala De Exposiciones La Lonja. After exploring the exposition center, head to Puente De Piedra. This intriguing monument is a highlight in Calatayud. As your day continues, stop by Royal Palace Of Olite, known for its grand features.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Pamplona. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a harmony of flavors at El Merca'o in Pamplona by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, El Merca'o offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Europa, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Rodero, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - San Sebastian and Portugalete. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Alderdi Eder Parkea. This interesting park is a peaceful place to see in Pamplona. Continue your discovery at Beach Of La Concha, a romantic beach with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Pamplona, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Peine Del Viento Xv. This popular art installation offers an enchanting encounter with Pamplona. Next, make your way to Vizcaya Bridge to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Pamplona.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bilbao. Bilbao offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and seasonal menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Zortziko is one of the best restaurants for contemporary cuisine in Bilbao. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Etxanobe Atelier. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!