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

On day 2 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 Cueto. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valladolid, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start by visiting Centro Botin, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picture-perfect art gallery is sure to impress. Next on your list is Plaza De Pombo, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated public square renowned for its photogenic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Santander by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Paseo Marítimo De Santander. This eye-catching boardwalk is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Santander experience. We also recommend visiting Palacio De La Magdalena, a well-known palace. Nearby, you'll also find Llamas Park, ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Valladolid by securing a reservation at Llantén. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Alquimia - Laboratorio, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern 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 Trigo, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Panoramix, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Esgueva is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Largo Adiós offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 2 vibrant destinations - Segovia and San Lorenzo de El Escorial. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Madrid. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Aqueduct Of Segovia. This world-famous monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Segovia Cathedral, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Alcázar Of Segovia, one of the most impressive places to see in Valladolid. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Royal Monastery Of San Lorenzo De El Escorial. Wander around and soak in the historic atmosphere this monastery offers.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at DiverXO, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Smoked Room is one of the best restaurants for contemporary cuisine in Madrid. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Paco Roncero. As a top-rated establishment with 2 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 Bar Yambala, known for its inviting atmosphere. Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cafe Madrid provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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.

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Madrid has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Madrid by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Gran Vía is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Madrid. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Get ready for an exciting day in Madrid. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an art installation, a park, a monument, a museum and much more! 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 Thyssen-bornemisza Museum, another of the city’s notable 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.

As you explore more of Madrid, 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.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Jazz Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out España Building, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, 1862 Dry Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 5 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.

Madrid is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Museo Del Prado, a globally renowned museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía, enchanting visitors with its heritage-rich appeal. Continue your exploration at Royal Palace Of Madrid. This palace is one of the city’s most world-famous spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Madrid at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Plaza De España. After exploring the public square, head to the astonishing Temple Of Debod.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Areia, an iconic dining spot in Madrid. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La MaMá Restaurante, a popular restaurant in Madrid. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Sacha Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Madrid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Madrid. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Main Square is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most globally renowned places to visit in Madrid. Next, head to Market Of San Miguel, a globally renowned food market, known for its heritage-rich 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 Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This historic stadium is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 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.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Zaragoza and Olite/Erriberri. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pamplona, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Calatayud is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park, a captivating park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Caixaforum Zaragoza, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar. This church is one of the city’s most well-known spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Calatayud at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Puente De Piedra. After exploring the monument, head to the well-known Royal Palace Of Olite.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Pamplona. 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 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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Krawill, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Montblanc is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Vermutería Río also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bilbao and Villaescusa. 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.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in Pamplona. Begin your sightseeing with Guggenheim Museum. This famous museum building is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Puppy, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Pamplona, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This well-known park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Cabarceno Natural Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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

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.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!