9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao traveling west to Valladolid, Oviedo, and Santander

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Bilbao. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 1 night.

Whether you decide to explore Bilbao on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Next, go to Puppy.

After visiting Guggenheim Museum and Puppy, have a stroll along Bilbao's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This instagrammable museum offers a unique experience. Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Etxebarri Parkea, one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Bilbao.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Spain. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Spain includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Burgos Province. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Valladolid, where you'll spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Burgos Province, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bilbao to Burgos Province may take around 1 hour 47 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Burgos Province, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Mirador Del Castillo, an intriguing observation deck that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Burgos Cathedral, where you can soak in the history-steeped surroundings.

Next, explore Parque De La Isla, yet another increasingly popular place to see in the area. After the park, make time to go to Abbey Of Santa María La Real De Las Huelgas. This photogenic monastery is well worth the visit.

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.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Valladolid by securing a reservation at Llantén. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of traditional cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Alquimia - Laboratorio, renowned for its delicious creative and modern 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 Trigo, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Leon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Oviedo, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Leon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Valladolid behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 40 min. Leon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is León Cathedra. Spend some time admiring the inviting features of the church before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Casa De Los Botines. This intriguing museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Basilica Of San Isidoro. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Oviedo. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Oviedo, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurante Doña Concha, a popular restaurant in Oviedo. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Oviedo at Quemedás, 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 La Oveja Negra. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Oviedo tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Astur after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Bodegón, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Baam also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Spain with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 2 nights to stay in Oviedo, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Oviedo and La Peña'l Fuelle.

Make time for Fine Arts Museum Of Asturias, a curiosity-inducing museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Plaza Del Fontán, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at El Fontán Market. This market is one of the city’s most beloved spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Oviedo at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Mafalda Statue.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to La Peña'l Fuelle may take around 10 min. Upon your arrival in La Peña'l Fuelle, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Santa María Del Naranjo and explore the historic features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Oviedo.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Oviedo, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurante La Tagliatella | Oviedo / Uviéu, a top-rated dining spot in Oviedo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurante Al Baile La Temprana, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Mesón El Viso. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Oviedo.

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

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

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in Spain. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Cuadonga/Covadonga, Cangas de Onís, Ribeseya, and Gijon. With 1 night to stay in Oviedo, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Cuadonga/Covadonga is brimming with adventures.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

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 1 hour 14 min. Upon your arrival in Cuadonga/Covadonga, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Cuadonga/Covadonga is Sanctuary Of Covadonga, a captivating church that draws attention for its inviting features.

After soaking in Cuadonga/Covadonga’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cangas de Onís. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in Cangas de Onís, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Roman Bridge In Cangas De Onis, a well-known monument known for its romantic features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ribeseya. This car ride takes around 25 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Mirador Del Fitu, a notable observation deck that everyone visiting Ribeseya should see.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Oviedo and your accommodation.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Oviedo's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Arrocería La Genuina de Cimadevilla, a popular restaurant in Oviedo. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Oviedo at Sidrería Marcelino, 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 La Raposa. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Oviedo tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at L'esperteyu Pub - Cervecería, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Black Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Per Se Café, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you'll explore 5 destinations, including Rionansa, Ruente, Cabezón de la Sal, Cerrazo, and Villaescusa. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Santander, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Oviedo and set your GPS to Rionansa. 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 45 min. Upon reaching Rionansa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Cueva El Soplao is a notable sightseeing destination we recommend visiting today.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ruente. This car ride takes around 37 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to La Fuentona De Ruente, a worthwhile lake that everyone visiting Ruente should see.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ruente, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cabezón de la Sal. This drive usually takes around 14 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón, a notable nature reserve that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Santander. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Santander by securing a table at Cadelo. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Umma, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Agua Salada, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Located in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is an ideal pick for contemporary and traditional cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Kings Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Grog is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Hygge Cocktail 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.

On day 8 of your road trip in Spain, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Santander and Portugalete are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 1 night.

Let Mercado Del Este set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable market before continuing your journey. Centro Botin is your next stop. This interesting art gallery is one of the best-rated sights in Santander.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. This respected maritime museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Palacio De La Magdalena.

Set your GPS to Portugalete and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Portugalete beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Vizcaya Bridge and explore the picture-perfect features.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Gaztandegi taberna, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Bar Bilbao, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Laga jatetxea. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!