12-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao, San Sebastian, Pamplona, Zaragoza, Barcelona, Valencia, and Madrid

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Santander, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Santander and Cueto. You still have 1 night left in Santander.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Santander allows for both. Start by heading to Palacio De La Magdalena. This locally renowned palace provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Segunda Playa De El Sardinero, an eye-catching beach, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Plaza De Pombo, an often recommended public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the popular Centro Botin.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante Matices Santander is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Enmienda Dieciocho. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Santander tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Little Bobby, known for its lively atmosphere.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bilbao. 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.

Start your adventure at Artxanda Funicular. This underrated tramway is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala located in Santander for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Zubizuri. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the art installation, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Guggenheim Museum. Next up is Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, a highly recommended museum. For a change of pace, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. As one of the most notable attractions in Santander, this park is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bilbao. Bilbao offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at La Viña del Ensanche, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Marinela jatetxea beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bilbao tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Boss Bilbao, known for its inviting atmosphere. Stromboli Taberna is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 San Sebastian. In the evening, you’ll end up in San Sebastian, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bilbao. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Funicular Monte Igueldo is the perfect place to start. This heritage railway is one of the most well-known places to visit in Bilbao. Next, head to San Telmo Museum, a worthwhile museum, known for its standout 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 Donostiako Hondartza. This serene beach is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Beach Of La Concha. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Polka San Sebastián, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bar Antonio as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in San Sebastian.

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

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Pamplona. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pamplona, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in San Sebastian. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a historical landmark, a monument, a public square, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Parque Yamaguchi. This is an up-and-coming park you should not miss. Another must-see is Citadel Of Pamplona, a captivating historical landmark in San Sebastian.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Monumento Al Encierro. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Castle Square, another of the city’s notable attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Corrales De Santo Domingo, a history-steeped place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Museum Of Navarre to your itinerary. This curiosity-inducing museum offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in San Sebastian.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pamplona, 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 Pamplona's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Mandarra de La Ramos, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hotel Alma Pamplona offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante Melbourne. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Pamplona.

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

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 Zaragoza, 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.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Pamplona. Begin your sightseeing with Parque De La Aljafería. This underrated castle is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Ancient Roman Wall Of Zaragoza, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Pamplona, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar. This notable church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Puente De Piedra, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Zaragoza Museum is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Plaza De Los Sitios and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most curiosity-inducing attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Zaragoza. Zaragoza offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurante Quema, a top-rated dining spot in Zaragoza. If you're in the mood for something new, try Doña Tapa, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Casa Unai. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Zaragoza.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Be A Legend Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Aragón Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar El Circo also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Barcelona. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Barcelona. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Zaragoza, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Barceloneta Beach, a well-known beach in the city. Then, head to Mercat De La Boqueria and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable food market.

There are many interesting places to see in Zaragoza, and when you are ready for more, go to Museu Picasso. This is one of the city’s most notable eye-catching spots of interest.

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.

As you explore more of Barcelona, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at 2254 Barcelona Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Barcelona. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Porteño Bar, a popular restaurant in Barcelona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Cerveseria Catalana, a hidden gem nestled in Barcelona. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Casa Gràcia is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bloody Mary Cocktail Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 8 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 aside time today to explore Passeig de Gràcia, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Park Güell. This world-famous park is a romantic place to see in Barcelona. Continue your discovery at Sagrada Família, a history-steeped church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Barcelona, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Casa Batlló. This wondrous museum offers an UNESCO world heritage-designated encounter with Barcelona. Next, make your way to Plaça De Catalunya to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Montjuïc Castle, a spectacular castle that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day 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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gallery Hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Barcelona. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Prado De Flores. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Barcelona this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Les Gens Que J'aime, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bobby's Free offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Barcelona. Old Fashioned Gin Tonic & Cocktail Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Valencia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Valencia, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Barcelona promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Platja De La Malva-rosa. This mesmerizing beach is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Jardín Del Turia, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Valencia Cathedral, one of the city’s most popular attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Plaça De La Mare De Déu. This romantic public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante RiFF, a top-rated dining destination in Valencia. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Poblet, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ubik Cafè Cafeteria Llibreria. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Valencia this evening.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

On day 11 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 Santander, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the widely recognized Alcázar Of Segovia, an enchanting castle in Madrid. Next, go to Segovia Cathedral.

After visiting Alcázar Of Segovia and Segovia Cathedral, have a stroll along Madrid's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Plaza De Medina Del Campo. This picture-perfect public square offers a unique experience. Aqueduct Of Segovia is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

Dine in style at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, El Sol boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurante Posada Del Mar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Santander.

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