Luxury 12-Day Spain Road Trip from Bilbao to Santander, Valladolid, Madrid, Arévalo, and Vitoria-Gasteiz

Your luxury holiday in Spain begins as soon as you reach the city of Bilbao, where you'll be staying for 1 night. There, you’ll pick up the luxury rental vehicle of your choice and hit the roads!

Tonight, you will be treated to a stay at one of the best luxury hotels in Bilbao. We have picked out three of the most exclusive luxury lodging and hotel options for you to choose from.

After a long day of sightseeing, try one of the best restaurants in Bilbao.

Do not miss out on an incredible dining experience at Mina, one of the finest Bib Gourmand restaurants in Bilbao, boasting 1 Michelin stars. Featuring delightful food options and creative and seasonal offerings, Mina has garnered acclaim from numerous satisfied diners.

For local recommendations, look no further than Zortziko. This food haven in Bilbao has been awarded 1 Michelin stars. Featuring contemporary cuisine, this well-loved Bib Gourmand restaurant stands out as a favorite among local and international customers.

In the mood for something different? Consider reserving a table at Etxanobe Atelier. This celebrated dining spot in Bilbao is renowned for its sumptuous meals and creative menu. Countless patrons sing this Bib Gourmand restaurant's praises, adding to its 1 Michelin-star prestige.

As your first day in Bilbao is coming to an end, retreat to a bar for some celebration. Immerse yourself in the local culture by sampling a signature cocktail or regional specialty.

Whether you’d like to relax with a drink or you’re in the mood for some celebration, Stromboli taberna is a great place to end your evening at. Not sure whether this is a bar worth checking out? Then the average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,133 in reviews might help make your mind up.

Alternatively, check out Mugi taberna, a place many locals consider their favorite in Bilbao. Mugi taberna offers plenty of drink options for every taste and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,133 guests.

If you want to continue your celebrations at another bar, try Arpiku. This bar is one of the best drinking spots in Bilbao and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 571 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day luxury vacation in Spain and look forward to more fantastic days to come!

Wake up to day 2 of your luxury holiday in Spain! Remember to have a hearty breakfast because today will be filled with memorable adventures in Bilbao and Santander. With a flexible itinerary, you're free to adapt and explore additional attractions or enjoy spontaneous discoveries. Your stay of 1 night at a luxury hotel in Santander adds a touch of comfort to your journey.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Guggenheim Museum. This extraordinary museum building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 64,815 visitors. Each year, around 530,967 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Puppy. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,913 reviews.

While in Bilbao, we also recommend a visit to Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao. This museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,312 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,643 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Bilbao.

Make your way to Etxebarria parkea, perhaps the most famous park in Bilbao. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,229 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Santander. This car ride takes around 1 hour 13 min.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Santander.

Exploring new destinations can leave you craving great food and drinks. Satisfy your cravings and unwind by visiting the finest restaurants and bars in Santander.

Locals enjoy eating at Cadelo Restaurante, one of the most recommended restaurants in Santander. This city restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 855 customers.

If you have an appetite for something else, check out Casa Lita. Around 6,651 customers have given this fantastic restaurant an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,193 customers, Cañadío is another excellent alternative that serves a whole menu of delectable dishes. Many patrons praise its unique ambiance and attentive service, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.

As the day is coming to an end, you can head back to your hotel to relax, or, go out for a drink.

When an after-dinner drink sounds enticing, visit La Magnolia, one of the best bars in the city of Santander. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,129 customers.

Get drinks as good as this day's adventure at Little Bobby. Considered one of the most popular bars in the city of Santander, this bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 920 customers.

Kings Pub is also a great bar where you can have nice chats over delicious bites. Kings Pub has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 857 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your luxury holiday in Spain!

On day 3 of your luxury holiday in Spain, your road trip route will take you exploring the best of Santander, Villaescusa, and Valladolid. The day's journey will conclude in Valladolid, a city that offers you comfort and relaxation for 1 night. With a day brimming with amazing attractions ahead, fuel up with a hearty breakfast to savor every moment of your luxury vacation in Spain.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Valladolid.

After a long day of discovering the unique quirks of Spain, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely meal or enjoy a refreshing drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended dining and drinking spots in the city so you can check out the menus and make advance reservations.

One of the top restaurants in the area is La Parrilla De San Lorenzo. This amazing restaurant offers great food meticulously prepared with the freshest ingredients. Over 3,433 diners have left the restaurant with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another restaurant that many travelers recommend is Restaurante Jero. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,796 customers, this restaurant is praised for its variety of dishes, warm ambiance, and amazing service.

You can also try the delicious food served at La Tasquita for a unique dining experience. 3,612 tourists and locals alike have approved of this restaurant by giving it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Valladolid also has several great bars that will fit every travel budget.

If you’re up for classic drinks with a modern flair, consider going to Villa Paramesa. Around 2,082 customers have given this incredible bar an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Locals of Valladolid also enjoy the cocktails at Café Bar Alborada. This place is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,054 customers and is one of the best you can experience in the city.

Another top-rated alternative for an expertly crafted celebratory drink is Restaurante Pide por esa Boquita. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 669 customers.

Celebrate another great day of your luxury holiday in Spain with a toast! Enjoy a great night’s sleep at your lovely hotel and get ready for another fun day to come.

Wake up to day 4 of your luxury road trip holiday in Spain! Today, you will get the opportunity to visit multiple fantastic bucket-list destinations in the country as you head towards the city of Madrid, where you'll be staying for 5 nights. The day's itinerary unfolds with a diverse array of experiences in Segovia, Real Sitio de San Ildefonso, and Madrid.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Valladolid and set your GPS to Segovia. 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 21 min. Upon reaching Segovia, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Real Sitio de San Ildefonso. This drive usually takes around 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

After soaking in Real Sitio de San Ildefonso’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Madrid. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 14 min. When you arrive in Madrid, it's time to take a break from the road.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Madrid.

After a day filled with travel and exploration, we recommend you treat yourself to a meal or a drink at the finest restaurants and bars in Madrid. Savor the local cuisine and relax as you recount the day's experiences.

At the top-rated restaurant Salmon Guru, you can enjoy a mouthwatering selection of both food and drinks. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,802 customers.

If you feel like having something else, Coque is another great option. This fantastic restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,191 customers.

A third restaurant you could check out is El Social. El Social offers a menu of delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy your hunger. We’ll let its excellent rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 944 customers speak for itself.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Madrid.

One of the top bars in Madrid is El miniBAR. This claim is supported by 4,297 customers who have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another great bar with an extensive drink menu is Areia. If you ask the 3,973 customers who have rated it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars, Areia is the perfect place for a unique drinking experience.

Locals also enjoy James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid, a great place to experience the local scene and unwind during your visit. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,124 customers.

Reminisce about your day, look through photos, and prepare for another great day to come! Your stress-free luxury holiday in Spain has plenty more in store for you.

On day 5 of your luxury holiday, you’ll get the opportunity to experience the spectacular city of Madrid. You’ll stay in Madrid for 4 nights, which gives you enough time to discover some of the most amazing things to see and do in the city. Start your morning with a hearty breakfast and get ready for an entire day of enjoying Madrid to the fullest.

This activity is one of many you can add to your luxury travel plan to make your vacation in Spain truly memorable.

After a day filled with travel and exploration, we recommend you treat yourself to a meal or a drink at the finest restaurants and bars in Madrid. Savor the local cuisine and relax as you recount the day's experiences.

As your day in Madrid is coming to an end, retreat to a bar where you can celebrate the start of your exciting luxury holiday in Spain. Enjoy a signature cocktail or a glass of fine wine as you toast to the adventures that await you.

Cap off the evening at 1862 Dry Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,987 customers and is one of the best bars in Madrid.

Another popular place to go for refreshing drinks and delicious bites is Taberna del Alabardero de Madrid. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,525 customers, this spot offers customers an unforgettable bar experience.

Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is a great bar with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 966 customers. With this impressive average rating, Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is certainly a great place to indulge in an exquisite glass of a cold, bubbly drink.

Celebrate another great day of your luxury holiday in Spain with a toast! Enjoy a great night’s sleep at your lovely hotel and get ready for another fun day to come.

Day 6 of your luxury itinerary in Madrid will be filled with memorable experiences. With magnificent attractions, delicious food, and great entertainment, you're guaranteed a lovely day in the city. Make the most out of the 3 nights you have left of your luxury holiday in Madrid.

This activity is one of many you can add to your luxury travel plan to make your vacation in Spain truly memorable.

After exploring the unique sights of Spain, savor a delicious meal or get refreshed with a drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended restaurants and bars in the city of Madrid for you so you can browse their menus in advance and make a reservation.

After dinner, you can enjoy some downtime at your hotel or head out to a bar for a couple of drinks. Immerse yourself in the local culture by sampling a signature cocktail or regional specialty.

When an after-dinner drink sounds enticing, visit Harvey's Cocktail Bar, one of the best bars in the city of Madrid. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,137 customers.

Get drinks as good as this day's adventure at Cafe Madrid. Considered one of the most popular bars in the city of Madrid, this bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 662 customers.

Inclán Brutal Bar is also a great bar where you can have nice chats over delicious bites. Inclán Brutal Bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,713 customers.

Raise a toast to another amazing day of your luxury holiday in Madrid, Spain and seize the opportunity to celebrate.

On day 7 of your luxury holiday, you’ll get the opportunity to experience the spectacular city of Madrid. You’ll stay in Madrid for 2 nights, which gives you enough time to discover some of the most amazing things to see and do in the city. Start your morning with a hearty breakfast and get ready for an entire day of enjoying Madrid to the fullest.

This activity is one of many you can add to your luxury travel plan to make your vacation in Spain truly memorable.

After a full day of exploring, treat yourself to a delightful dinner or a refreshing drink at the best spots in Madrid. Choose from a selection of excellent restaurants and bars and find the perfect place for your evening.

Go back to your hotel, take a stroll through the city, or head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day of your luxury vacation in Madrid.

Many locals go to Taberna El Sur for an evening cocktail or glass of wine. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,959 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the city is Mercado de la Reina 12. This bar has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 6,470 customers.

Café Central is another great option in Madrid, offering excellent drinks and a great atmosphere. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 5,181 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your luxury holiday in Spain!

On day 8 of your exciting luxury holiday across Spain, you will continue exploring the city of Madrid. You still have 1 night left in the city. Enjoy your break from the road and spend this day sightseeing and eating at some of the best restaurants in Madrid. Your accommodation will be conveniently located close to several of the best attractions in the city.

This activity is one of many you can add to your luxury travel plan to make your vacation in Spain truly memorable.

Treat yourself after a day of exploration. Make a reservation at the finest dining and drinking spots in Madrid.

As your first day in Madrid is coming to an end, retreat to a bar for some celebration. Immerse yourself in the local culture by sampling a signature cocktail or regional specialty.

Whether you prefer your drink shaken or stirred, Mas Al Sur is a great place to enjoy a well-deserved celebratory drink. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,973 customers.

Alternatively, check out Cervantes Cervecería, a place many travelers consider their favorite in Madrid. Cervantes Cervecería offers drinks for every taste and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,973 guests.

If you want to continue your night at another bar, try Sagaretxe and soak in its inviting ambiance. This bar is one of the best drinking spots in Madrid and is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 3,358 reviews.

Reminisce about your day, look through photos, and prepare for another great day to come! Your stress-free luxury holiday in Spain has plenty more in store for you.

Wake up to day 9 of your luxury holiday in Spain! Remember to have a hearty breakfast because today will be filled with memorable adventures in Toledo and Arévalo. With a flexible itinerary, you're free to adapt and explore additional attractions or enjoy spontaneous discoveries. Your stay of 1 night at a luxury hotel in Arévalo adds a touch of comfort to your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Toledo. This drive usually takes around 57 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Puerta de Bisagra, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This city gate is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,260 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Zocodover. Zocodover is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,930 reviews.

Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,938 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Alcázar of Toledo. This alcázar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,193 visitors.

Arévalo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Toledo behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours. Arévalo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Arévalo.

Treat yourself after a day of exploration. Make a reservation at the finest dining and drinking spots in Arévalo.

This is one of the most recommended restaurants in the city.

Arévalo also has many fantastic bars that cater to all travel budgets.

Raise a toast to another amazing day of your luxury holiday in Toledo, Spain and seize the opportunity to celebrate.

On day 10 of your luxury holiday in Spain, your road trip route will take you exploring the best of Burgos Province and Vitoria-Gasteiz. The day's journey will conclude in Vitoria-Gasteiz, a town that offers you comfort and relaxation for 1 night. With a day brimming with amazing attractions ahead, fuel up with a hearty breakfast to savor every moment of your luxury vacation in Spain.

When you’ve had your share of Arévalo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Burgos Province. Your travel time is around 2 hours 5 min.

Make Puente de Santa María one of your first sightseeing stops in Burgos Province. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 699 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Arco de Santa María is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This triumphal arch is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,973 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Burgos Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 28,435 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Mirador Del Castillo. A trip to this popular point of interest is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 3,666 previous visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Burgos Province, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Vitoria-Gasteiz. Your travel time is around 1 hour 24 min.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

After a full day of exploring, treat yourself to a delightful dinner or a refreshing drink at the best spots in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Choose from a selection of excellent restaurants and bars and find the perfect place for your evening.

Check out PerretxiCo. This restaurant offers a fantastic menu and impeccable service, deserving of its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,156 reviews.

Locals also recommend El Toloño taberna as one of the best restaurants to have dinner at in Vitoria-Gasteiz. El Toloño taberna is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,240 customers, including locals as well as travelers.

Alternatively, for another culinary experience you will remember, book a table at El Portalón. This popular restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,631 customers.

After an incredible dinner, cap off the night with a glass of beer, cocktail, or any refreshing drink.

Cap off the evening at Sagartoki erretegia. This bar has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 7,472 customers and is one of the best bars in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Another popular place to go for refreshing drinks and delicious bites is El Siete tapas bar. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,630 customers, this spot offers customers an unforgettable bar experience.

La Escotilla is a great bar with a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 1,905 customers. With this impressive average rating, La Escotilla is certainly a great place to indulge in an exquisite glass of a cold, bubbly drink.

Reminisce about your day, look through photos, and prepare for another great day to come! Your luxury holiday in Spain has plenty more in store for you.

Wake up to day 11 of your luxury road trip holiday in Spain! Today, you will get the opportunity to visit multiple fantastic bucket-list destinations in the country as you head towards the city of Bilbao, where you'll be staying for 1 night. The day's itinerary unfolds with a diverse array of experiences in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Portugalete, Sukarrieta, and Bilbao.

When you're ready to see some sights, Plaza Virgen Blanca is a great place to start with. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,751 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is La Florida. This urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,409 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Cathedral of Santa María de Vitoria. The catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,503 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sukarrieta, 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz to Sukarrieta may take around 1 hour 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sukarrieta, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Portugalete may take around 53 min. Upon your arrival in Portugalete, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Portugalete, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bilbao. This drive usually takes around 21 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in in Bilbao.

After exploring the unique sights of Spain, savor a delicious meal or get refreshed with a drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended restaurants and bars in the city of Bilbao for you so you can browse their menus in advance and make a reservation.

According to reviews, Gure Kabi jatetxea is one of the absolute best places to eat in Bilbao. This restaurant offers a fantastic menu and impeccable service, deserving of its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,296 reviews.

Alternatively, if you’re curious to try a local favorite, check out La Barraca jatetxea. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 842 customers and guarantees you a nice dining experience to end your day.

If your taste buds call for something different, book a table at Zurima jatetxea. This popular restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 784 customers.

When you’ve finished your dinner at the best restaurant of your choice, and you’re in the mood for a drink, check out some of the best bars in the city.

Whether you’d like to relax with a drink or you’re in the mood for some celebration, Café Iruña is a great place to end your evening at. Not sure whether this is a bar worth checking out? Then the average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 11,699 in reviews might help make your mind up.

Alternatively, check out Café Bar Bilbao, a place many locals consider their favorite in Bilbao. Café Bar Bilbao offers plenty of drink options for every taste and is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 11,699 guests.

If you want to continue your celebrations at another bar, try Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao. This bar is one of the best drinking spots in Bilbao and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,714 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your luxury holiday in Spain!

Today is the last day of your 12-day luxury holiday in Spain and it’s soon time to start your journey home. This is your chance to get one last glimpse of Bilbao before saying goodbye.

Optimize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Bilbao’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Spain, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery.

Don’t travel hungry. Take the opportunity to savor the local cuisine in Bilbao one last time before you head to the airport.

Check out Nura jatetxea. This restaurant offers a fantastic menu and impeccable service, deserving of its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 586 reviews.

Zarate jatetxea is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 525 customers, including locals as well as travelers.

Alternatively, for another culinary experience you will remember, book a table at Ágape jatetxea. This popular restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,513 customers.

You will then say farewell to Bilbao and begin your journey home. We wish you safe travels and a warm welcome home, with unforgettable memories and incredible photos from your luxury holiday in Spain in your luggage!