7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander traveling south to Bilbao and Valladolid

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

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Santander. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Plaza Porticada is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Santander. Next, head to Centro Botin, a captivating art gallery, known for its instagrammable 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 Palacio De La Magdalena. This awe-inspiring palace offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico adds its own distinct charm to your journey.

Upon your arrival in Cueto, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Llamas Park is an intriguing park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picturesque features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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 Bilbao. Bilbao 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 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.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Boss Bilbao, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Stromboli Taberna provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Zuberoa Taberna offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bilbao for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Bilbao is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a tramway, a church, and an art installation. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the frequently visited Artxanda Funicular. Just a short distance away is Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, a romantic church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Zubizuri, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Café Iruña, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Iturriza Taberna is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Antxoa Taberna. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bilbao tonight.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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 Valladolid. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings a romantic, a picturesque, a gorgeous, and an eye-catching. The first attraction of today is Federico Moyúa Enparantza.

As you stroll around Bilbao, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Carola Garabia. Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bilbao.

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 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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Panoramix, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Esgueva is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Largo Adiós is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Valladolid, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, an idyllic, a gorgeous, and an instagrammable. Whether you decide to explore Valladolid on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Parque Campo Grande is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this mesmerizing park before continuing your journey.

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 Madrid may take around 2 hours 15 min. Upon your arrival in Madrid, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Main Square, a timeless public square known for its visually striking features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Market Of San Miguel, a wondrous food market that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Royal Palace Of Madrid and uncover the details of this symbolic palace. Make sure to also explore Plaza De España, an extraordinary public square that offers a unique experience.

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

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

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Café Bar Alborada offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Valladolid. Monasterio is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Valladolid, Santillana del Mar, and Villaescusa, 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 Santander. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your day at Plaza Mayor. This enchanting public square is a frequently visited place to see in Valladolid. Then, wander over to Plaza De Zorrilla. If romantic sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Valladolid, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Santillana del Mar. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 18 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make your way to Cave Of Altamira, a locally renowned cave that draws attention for its historic features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Villaescusa, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Santillana del Mar to Villaescusa may take around 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Villaescusa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Cabarceno Natural Park, a widely recognized safari park that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

Discover the culinary delights of Santander by securing a reservation at Cadelo. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Umma, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Agua Salada, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering contemporary and traditional menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Little Bobby. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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