9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from San Sebastian traveling south to Bilbao, Valladolid, Madrid, and Calatayud
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Spain as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like San Sebastian, Bilbao, Burgos Province, Valladolid, Segovia, San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Madrid, Calatayud, Olite/Erriberri, and Pamplona.
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 San Sebastian, 1 night in Bilbao, 1 night in Valladolid, 3 nights in Madrid, and 1 night in Calatayud. 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 San Sebastian, 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. Marvel at the remarkable Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, learn more about the unique Market Of San Miguel, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Museo Del Prado.
As you hit the open road and drive through San Sebastian, Bilbao, Burgos Province, Valladolid, Segovia, San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Madrid, Calatayud, Olite/Erriberri, and Pamplona, 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!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Donostia / San Sebastián - Arrival day
- More
- Gros
- More
Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach San Sebastian and pick up your car. You’ll stay in San Sebastian for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
San Sebastian 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 Gros, a must-see neighborhood, and 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 San Sebastian. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in San Sebastian, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Polka San Sebastián, a popular restaurant in San Sebastian. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of San Sebastian at ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food, 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 Bar Antonio. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in San Sebastian tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Txiki Taberna Donosti, known for its inviting atmosphere. Taberna Barun is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Bilbao
- More
Drive 105 km, 1 hour 44 min
- Gipuzkoa Plaza
- Beach of La Concha
- Alderdi Eder Parkea
- Aquarium
- More
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 San Sebastian. 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.
San Sebastian is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square, a beach, a park, an aquarium and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the captivating Gipuzkoa Plaza and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Beach Of La Concha, a mesmerizing beach that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Alderdi Eder Parkea, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Aquarium.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Bilbao by booking a table at Mina. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Zortziko, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Boss Bilbao, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Stromboli Taberna. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Zuberoa Taberna, another top-rated place in the area.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.
Day 3
- Bilbao
- Valladolid
- More
Drive 290 km, 3 hours 24 min
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
- Puppy
- Guggenheim Museum
- Burgos Cathedral
- More
On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bilbao and Burgos Province. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valladolid, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Bilbao’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Federico Moyúa Enparantza. Next, dive into the breathtaking features of Puppy, a must-visit art installation in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Guggenheim Museum, a widely recognized museum building. For a change of scene, check out Burgos Cathedral, known for its history-steeped features.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Valladolid's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Valladolid by reserving a table at Llantén. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of traditional cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Alquimia - Laboratorio, renowned for its delectable creative and modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Trigo, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-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 Valladolid.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Panoramix offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Esgueva is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Largo Adiós is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Say good night to Valladolid and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 4
- Valladolid
- Madrid
- More
Drive 229 km, 3 hours 16 min
- Aqueduct of Segovia
- Segovia Cathedral
- Alcázar of Segovia
- Royal Basilica of San Lorenzo de El Escorial
- More
Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Segovia and San Lorenzo de El Escorial, 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 Madrid. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.
Valladolid is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Aqueduct Of Segovia, a timeless monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Segovia Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its historic 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.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Madrid's best restaurants.
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.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!
Day 5
- Madrid
- More
Drive 21 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Crystal Palace
- El Retiro Park
- Puerta de Alcalá
- Casa de Campo
- La Latina
- More
Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Madrid for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Don’t miss La Latina in Madrid today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.
Get ready for an exciting day in Madrid. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an art installation, a park, and a monument. Begin your adventure at Crystal Palace. This is a locally renowned art installation you should not miss. Another must-see is El Retiro Park, a timeless park in Madrid.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Puerta De Alcalá. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Casa De Campo, another of the city’s spectacular attractions.
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 lovely meal at Alhambra, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante Alabaster is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Madrid tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Jazz Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. España Building is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, 1862 Dry Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 6
- Madrid
- More
Drive 13 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
- Museo del Prado
- Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
- Gran Vía
- Malasaña
- More
On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Madrid. You’ll stay in Madrid for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Gran Vía is a fantastic place you can explore today in Madrid. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Madrid-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Malasaña, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Madrid on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich museum before continuing your journey. Museo Del Prado is your next stop. This iconic museum is one of the best-rated sights in Madrid.
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 Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This picture-perfect stadium is a sight to behold.
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 wonderful meal at Areia, a top-rated dining spot in Madrid. If you're in the mood for something new, try La MaMá Restaurante, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Sacha Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Madrid.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Madrid
- Calatayud
- More
Drive 242 km, 2 hours 57 min
- Main Square
- Market of San Miguel
- Royal Palace of Madrid
- plaza de España
- Temple of Debod
- More
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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Calatayud, where you will stay for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Madrid, including a public square, a food market, a palace, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Main Square. This globally renowned public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Market Of San Miguel located in Madrid for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Royal Palace Of Madrid. Its symbolic features will captivate you. After the palace, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Plaza De España. Visitors usually appreciate the respected features of this public square. Next up is Temple Of Debod, a highly recommended monument.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Calatayud. Calatayud offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of Calatayud, 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.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 8
- Calatayud
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- More
Drive 308 km, 3 hours 53 min
- Royal Palace of Olite
- Encierro/Entzierroa Monument
- Plaza de Toros
- Castle Square
- More
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 - Olite/Erriberri and Pamplona. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in San Sebastian. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s agenda in Calatayud includes a palace, a monument, a stadium, a public square and much more! Royal Palace Of Olite is must-visit palace and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Monumento Al Encierro, a frequently visited monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Plaza De Toros De Pamplona, an eye-catching stadium, also available for your discovery today.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in San Sebastian. 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 San Sebastian. 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 San Sebastian by booking a table at Arzak, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in San Sebastian, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-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, Kokotxa is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in San Sebastian. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 9
- Donostia / San Sebastián - Departure day
- More
- Miramar Palace
- More
Day 9 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of San Sebastian before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Miramar Palace, an instagrammable palace before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in San Sebastian’s shopping center, the lively Gros District. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Spain.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in San Sebastian.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Bar Bixigarri, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, SSua Arde Donostia offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to San Sebastian. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Spain
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.