9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander traveling east to Valladolid, Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, and Zaragoza

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 Santander. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Valladolid, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Santander. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Plaza De Pombo is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Santander. Next, head to Catedral De Santander, a frequently visited church, known for its picture-perfect 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 Centro Botin. This stunning art gallery offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Paseo Marítimo De Santander adds its own distinct 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.

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.

Start 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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Panoramix. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Esgueva offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Largo Adiós, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Segovia’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 21 min. Segovia welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your self-guided tour starts at Alcázar Of Segovia, a widely recognized castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Segovia Cathedral and admire its breathtaking features. When you’re ready, continue to Aqueduct Of Segovia, a globally renowned monument beloved by locals and tourists alike.

When you’ve had your share of Segovia, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Your travel time is around 47 min.

Head to Royal Monastery Of San Lorenzo De El Escorial, a well-known monastery in San Lorenzo de El Escorial. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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 Madrid. Madrid 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.

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 symphony of flavors at DiverXO in Madrid by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, DiverXO delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Smoked Room, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Paco Roncero, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Yambala, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cafe Madrid offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Madrid. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valencia, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Madrid includes a public square, a museum, a park, a stadium and much more! Main Square is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Museo Del Prado, a timeless museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to El Retiro Park, a historic park, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Madrid. If you’re looking for more, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is also a globally renowned attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at El Poblet, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ricard Camarena is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Valencia. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Fierro. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 5 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 Valencia. In the evening, you’ll end up in Barcelona, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with a visually striking, a heritage-rich, an awe-inspiring, and a culturally significant in Valencia. Begin your sightseeing with Mercat Central. This top-rated food market is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Serrano Towers, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Valencia, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to City Of Arts And Sciences. This world-famous science center is a traveler-favorite.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Barcelona by securing a reservation at Lasarte. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit ABaC, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Cocina Hermanos Torres, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 3-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Casa Gràcia. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bloody Mary Cocktail Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Barcelona. You have 1 night left in Barcelona. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with an enchanting, an instagrammable, a heritage-rich, a charming, a majestic, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and a noteworthy. Next, go to Plaça De Catalunya.

After visiting Magic Fountain Of Montjuïc and Plaça De Catalunya, take time to explore Barcelona's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Casa Batlló. This romantic museum offers a unique experience. Mercat De La Boqueria is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Parc De La Ciutadella, one of the most visually striking places to visit in Barcelona.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Gallery Hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Prado De Flores. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Barcelona tonight.

Keep the evening going at Les Gens Que J'aime, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bobby's Free, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Old Fashioned Gin Tonic & Cocktail Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Barcelona, 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 Zaragoza. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Barcelona covers several incredible sights, including a monument, a church, a museum, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Arc De Triomf. This famous monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the inviting wonders of Sagrada Família, a must-see church 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 La Pedrera. This astonishing museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Park Güell, where you can take in its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

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 Zaragoza. Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza by securing a table at Gente Rara. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Cancook, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover La Prensa, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite contemporary cuisine in Zaragoza. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for contemporary cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

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

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 Zaragoza and Bilbao. 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Zaragoza allows for both. Start by heading to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar. This well-known church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity.

Set your GPS to Bilbao and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 59 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bilbao beckons with new experiences!

Your self-guided tour starts at Federico Moyúa Enparantza, an often recommended sightseeing destination that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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.

As you explore more of Santander, 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Santander by booking a table at Cadelo. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Umma, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Agua Salada, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Little Bobby, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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.