12-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander traveling south to Bilbao, Zaragoza, Valencia, Madrid, 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 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Santander. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, a market, an art gallery, a boardwalk and much more! Begin your adventure at Plaza Porticada. This is a worthwhile public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Mercado Del Este, an intriguing market in Santander.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Centro Botin. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Paseo Marítimo De Santander, another of the city’s often recommended attractions.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Santander and set your GPS to Cueto. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 6 min. Upon reaching Cueto, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Segunda Playa De El Sardinero, an underrated beach that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Zortziko, celebrated for its delectable contemporary 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 Etxanobe Atelier, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

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

On day 3 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 Bilbao and Portugalete. In the evening, you’ll end up in Zaragoza, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bilbao allows for both. Start by heading to Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This locally appreciated sightseeing destination provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Puppy, a gorgeous art installation, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Guggenheim Museum, a widely recognized museum building.

Portugalete’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bilbao behind. This drive usually takes around 24 min. Portugalete welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Vizcaya Bridge, a locally renowned monument known for its historic features.

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

As you explore more of Zaragoza, 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Zaragoza by reserving a table at Gente Rara. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. For a different taste experience, head to Cancook, recognized for its delicious creative dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit La Prensa, a local favorite known for its delightful contemporary cuisine in Zaragoza. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Be A Legend Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Aragón Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar El Circo. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 - Zaragoza. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Valencia. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s itinerary in Zaragoza covers several incredible sights, including a monument, a church, and a park. Start your adventure at Puente De Piedra. This worthwhile monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar, 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 Puerta Del Carmen. This increasingly popular monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park, where you can take in its serene features.

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.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Valencia by booking a table at El Poblet, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ricard Camarena, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Fierro, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Valencia. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Pub Pasos, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Clann Bar Tapas, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Café Negrito likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Valencia. You have 1 night left in Valencia. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Get ready for an exciting day in Valencia. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an aquarium, a science center, a park, a monument, a food market and much more! Begin your adventure at L'oceanogràfic. This is a widely recognized aquarium you should not miss. Another must-see is City Of Arts And Sciences, a globally renowned science center in Valencia.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Instal·lacions Dels Jardins Del Túria. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Serrano Towers, another of the city’s interesting attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a photogenic food market. Mercat Central is a truly remarkable place to visit in Valencia.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at USUAL resto-bar, a top-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Casa Ripoll, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante La Cepa Vieja (Valencia). With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Cosmo Valencia after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Casa Pepe, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cafe De Las Horas also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Valencia, 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 4 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with a romantic, a breathtaking, a picture-perfect, a history-steeped, a symbolic, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated. Start at the well-known Plaça De La Mare De Déu, a romantic public square in Valencia. Next, go to Llotja De La Seda.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at DiverXO, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Smoked Room, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Madrid is Paco Roncero, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative menu.

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

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Madrid. You’ll stay in Madrid for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today's adventure in Madrid promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Main Square. This history-steeped public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Market Of San Miguel, another standout attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Royal Palace Of Madrid, one of the city’s most timeless attractions, known for its visually striking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Plaza De España. This picture-perfect public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Temple Of Debod, a widely recognized monument, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Jazz Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, España Building provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, 1862 Dry Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 8 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.

Madrid is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a beautiful, a gorgeous, an eye-catching, a detailed, and a respected! Start at Great Pond Of El Retiro, an interesting lake that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Crystal Palace, enchanting visitors with its noteworthy appeal. Continue your exploration at Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía. This museum is one of the city’s most impressive 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 Casa De Campo.

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

Savor the flavors at Areia, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La MaMá Restaurante beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sacha Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Madrid tonight.

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

Set out on a day brimming with an enchanting, a visually striking, a standout, a charming, and a majestic. Start at the globally renowned Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, a picture-perfect stadium in Madrid. Next, go to Puerta De Alcalá.

After visiting Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and Puerta De Alcalá, take time to explore Madrid's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Círculo De Bellas Artes. This standout cultural center offers a unique experience. Thyssen-bornemisza Museum is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Museo Del Prado, one of the most instagrammable places to visit in Madrid.

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.

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

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.

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Segovia. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valladolid, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Segovia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Aqueduct Of Segovia is a globally renowned monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour to Plaza Mayor, a visually striking public square that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Segovia Cathedral, a historic church. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Alcázar Of Segovia, a romantic and truly unique castle.

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.

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Panoramix, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Esgueva offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Largo Adiós provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Valladolid, Santillana del Mar, 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.

Start by visiting Plaza Mayor, a prime spot to begin your journey. This culturally significant public square is sure to impress. Next on your list is Plaza De Zorrilla, another must-visit landmark and underrated public square renowned for its detailed features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Valladolid by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Parque Campo Grande. This serene park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience.

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 popular cave that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santillana del Mar, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Villaescusa. This drive usually takes around 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Cabarceno Natural Park is an impressive safari park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its peaceful features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Cadelo in Santander by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Cadelo delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Umma, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local Bib Gourmand establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Agua Salada, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated Bib Gourmand-establishment, it's a top choice for contemporary and traditional cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Little Bobby, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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