9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Valladolid traveling north to Santander, Oviedo, Lugo, and Leon

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Valladolid. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Santander, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Valladolid allows for both. Start by heading to Plaza De Zorrilla. This locally appreciated public square provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Parque Campo Grande, a romantic park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cathedral Of Valladolid, a curiosity-inducing church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally appreciated National Sculpture Museum.

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 Santander. Santander 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 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Santander by securing a reservation at Cadelo. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Umma, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Agua Salada, a top local spot known for its tantalizing contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Santander, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a breathtaking, a photogenic, a detailed, a respected, a monumental, and a culturally significant. Whether you decide to explore Santander on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Centro Botin is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking art gallery before continuing your journey. Catedral De Santander is your next stop. This increasingly popular church is one of the best-rated sights in Santander.

After soaking in Santander’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Fontibre. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 59 min. When you arrive in Fontibre, it's time to take a break from the road.

Nacimiento Del Rio Ebro is a popular park we recommend making time to visit today.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Fontibre and set your GPS to Santillana del Mar. 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 47 min. Upon reaching Santillana del Mar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cave Of Altamira. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the cave before you continue to your next stop.

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.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cabarceno Natural Park. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the safari park before you continue to your next stop.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurante Matices Santander beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider La Enmienda Dieciocho. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Santander tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Little Bobby, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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

On day 4 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 Cerrazo, Rionansa, and Gijon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oviedo, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cerrazo today.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cerrazo. This car ride takes around 29 min.

Begin your journey at Villapresente's Labyrinth and explore the picture-perfect features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Rionansa, 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 Cerrazo to Rionansa may take around 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rionansa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Cueva El Soplao, an interesting sightseeing destination that everyone visiting Rionansa should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rionansa and set your GPS to Gijon. 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 1 hour 27 min. Upon reaching Gijon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Universidad Laboral De Gijón, a locally appreciated university known for its breathtaking features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to San Lorenzo Beach, an interesting beach that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Elogio Del Horizonte and uncover the details of this enchanting art installation.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Oviedo. 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 Oviedo. 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.

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

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Coruño, Aviles, and Taramundi. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lugo, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Coruño’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Oviedo behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Coruño welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Museo Y Circuito Fernando Alonso is an intriguing museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Aviles. This drive usually takes around 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your journey at Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Parque De Ferrera, Avilés, another highlight in the hamlet.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Taramundi, 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 Aviles to Taramundi may take around 1 hour 33 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Taramundi, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Mills Museum Mazonovo. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lugo, 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 Lugo. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Spain. With 1 night left in Lugo, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Lugo is home to plenty of attractions that offer a breathtaking, a visually striking, a historically significant, a majestic, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed! Start at Roman Walls Of Lugo, an interesting historical landmark that is worthwhile a visit in the city.

La Coruña’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lugo behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 12 min. La Coruña welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make your way to Tower Of Hercules, a popular lighthouse that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to María Pita Square, a visually striking public square that stands out in the city.

Santiago De Compostela’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of La Coruña behind. This drive usually takes around 50 min. Santiago De Compostela welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your self-guided tour starts at Parque Da Alameda, a locally renowned park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Cathedral Of Santiago De Compostela and admire its historic features.

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

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

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

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

Today’s route brings a mesmerizing, an instagrammable, a historically significant, a profound, a majestic, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, a romantic, and an idyllic. The first attraction of today is Lugo Cathedral. This underrated church is an UNESCO world heritage-listed place to see in Lugo. Continue your discovery at Porta De Santiago, a breathtaking historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Lugo, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Parque De Rosalía De Castro. This frequently visited park offers a serene encounter with Lugo.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lugo, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Astorga may take around 1 hour 49 min. Upon your arrival in Astorga, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Palace Of Gaudí Astorga is a popular palace we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect 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 Leon. Leon 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Leon's best restaurants.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Becook in Leon by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Becook delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious fusion and modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Pablo, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at ConMimo, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated Bib Gourmand-establishment, it's a top choice for international cuisine in the city.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Leon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Valladolid. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with a charming, an enchanting, a visually striking, a history-steeped, a culturally significant, and a symbolic in the charming city of Leon. Your adventure starts at León Cathedra, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Basilica Of San Isidoro. This up-and-coming church is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Leon's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Casa De Los Botines. This symbolic museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Plaza Del Grano, León is also worth visiting.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Valladolid by securing a table at Llantén. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Alquimia - Laboratorio, famous for its scrumptious creative and modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Trigo, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Valladolid. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Café Bar Alborada. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Monasterio, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!