Relaxed 11-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Valladolid to Salamanca and Madrid

On day 2 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Spain. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Spain.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a visually striking, a historically significant, a masterful, a profound, a symbolic, a charming, a stunning, and a beautiful. 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. National Sculpture Museum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable museum before continuing your journey. Cathedral Of Valladolid is your next stop. This up-and-coming church is one of the best-rated sights in Valladolid.

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 Plaza De Zorrilla. This enchanting public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Parque Campo Grande and Monumento A Colón.

In the city of Salamanca, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Spain.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Salamanca has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Experience a symphony of flavors at En la Parra in Salamanca by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, En la Parra delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Víctor Gutiérrez, acclaimed for its delectable creative and fusion specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Salamanca. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Vintage Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Café Bar Capitán Haddock offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Mist Cocktail Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Spain promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Salamanca and drive in the direction of the city of Avila for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Madrid, where you’ll stay for 7 nights.

A blend of a charming, a stunning, a picture-perfect, a historically significant, a sacred, a grand, and a scenic await you in Salamanca on today’s itinerary. First up is the notable church, Salamanca Cathedral. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Calisto And Melibea Vegetable Garden. A visit to this botanical garden is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Salamanca’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Roman Bridge Of Salamanca. This notable historical landmark is an essential stop that should not be missed.

When you’ve had your share of Salamanca, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Avila. Your travel time is around 1 hour 1 min.

Walls Of Ávila is a captivating monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-designated features before continuing your self-guided tour to Ávila Cathedral, a picture-perfect church that’s well-regarded in the area.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Madrid in this laid-back road trip in Spain. You'll stay here for 7 nights.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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 dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Madrid and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Yambala. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Cafe Madrid provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 4, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Spain and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Madrid and beyond. With 6 nights left in Madrid, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Madrid. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. El Retiro Park is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most globally renowned places to visit in Madrid.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Madrid, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Toledo may take around 56 min. Upon your arrival in Toledo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Alcantara Bridge, an underrated monument known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Alcázar Of Toledo, an interesting castle that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada De Toledo and uncover the details of this breathtaking church. Make sure to also explore Puerta De Bisagra, an interesting monument that offers a unique experience.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Madrid, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Don’t miss out on dining at Alhambra, a top-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante Alabaster, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Madrid. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Jazz Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, España Building offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. 1862 Dry Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Madrid and visit amazing attractions in Toledo and Madrid destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 5 nights left in Madrid. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Toledo, 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 Madrid to Toledo may take around 57 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Toledo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Mirador Del Valle and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to San Martin's Bridge, another highlight in the city. Nearby, you will also find Monasterio De San Juan De Los Reyes, Toledo. This intriguing monastery is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Iglesia De Santo Tomé, a culturally significant church that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Madrid has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to book a table at Areia, a popular restaurant in Madrid. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Madrid at La MaMá Restaurante, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Sacha Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Madrid tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Madrid.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Madrid, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Set out on a day brimming with a charming, a breathtaking, a photogenic, a historic, a culturally significant, and a profound. Start at the wondrous Main Square, a history-steeped public square in Madrid. Next, go to Market Of San Miguel.

After visiting Main Square and Market Of San Miguel, take time to explore Madrid's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Royal Palace Of Madrid. This visually striking palace offers a unique experience. Almudena Cathedral is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Matadero Madrid, one of the most eye-catching places to visit in Madrid.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Madrid offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Madrid, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at Taberna Mozárabe, 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 Restaurante Lakasa, 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 Lambuzo, a hidden gem nestled in Madrid. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Madrid.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Spain.

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Madrid, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Madrid, and meet locals along the way!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Madrid, including a museum, an art installation, a lake, a stadium and much more! Start your adventure at Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía. This astonishing museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Crystal Palace located in Madrid for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Great Pond Of El Retiro. Its mesmerizing features will captivate you. After the lake, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Las Ventas. This stadium has a breathtaking appeal.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Spain. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring the food culture in Madrid offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at La Mi Venta, a top-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mas Al Sur, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at HanSo Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Madrid.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Madrid as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Spain with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Madrid. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Madrid. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Madrid!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Madrid today. One of the most top-rated attractions included on the itinerary is Casa De Campo. This enchanting park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Zoo Aquarium De Madrid and learn what makes this instagrammable zoo unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the extraordinary Plaza De España. After exploring the public square, head to Temple Of Debod. This astonishing monument is a highlight in Madrid. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the locally renowned Parque Del Oeste. Enjoy exploring this incredible park at your own pace.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Spain by joining a traveler-approved tour in Madrid. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Madrid that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Spain more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Madrid to find the best options for you!

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Madrid, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Prada a Tope Madrid, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante Morgana is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at BiBo Dani García. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Madrid tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Spain.

Day 9 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Madrid, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Madrid is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, a cultural center, a monument, a stadium and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the iconic Museo Del Prado. Just a short distance away is Thyssen-bornemisza Museum, a heritage-rich museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Círculo De Bellas Artes, one of the city’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the top-rated Puerta De Alcalá. Last up on today’s itinerary is a stadium. Make your way to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Madrid.

Spain makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Spain also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Zalacaín Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Madrid. If you're eager to try something different, consider Malacatín, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at DiverXO. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Madrid this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Madrid and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Spain will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Spain, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Real Sitio de San Ildefonso’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Madrid behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 13 min. Real Sitio de San Ildefonso welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make your way to Royal Palace Of La Granja Of San Ildefonso, a well-known palace that draws attention for its romantic features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Segovia. This car ride takes around 17 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Aqueduct Of Segovia. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the monument before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Segovia Cathedral. This locally renowned church is a traveler-favorite in the town. Not far away, you’ll also find Alcázar Of Segovia. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the castle.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Valladolid. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Spain by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Valladolid, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Have a memorable dining experience in Valladolid by booking a table at Llantén, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in Valladolid, Alquimia - Laboratorio shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 1-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, Trigo is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Valladolid. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Valladolid.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Café Bar Alborada provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Monasterio offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Spain. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Spain tomorrow with new energy.