11-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Madrid traveling north to Valencia, Barcelona, Zaragoza, Santander, Oviedo, and Leon

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Madrid. You’ll stay in Madrid for 1 night.

Make time for Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, an iconic stadium that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Museo Del Prado, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía. This museum is one of the city’s most top-rated 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 Royal Palace Of Madrid. After exploring the palace, head to the extraordinary Temple Of Debod.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Spain. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

For an unforgettable shopping experience, visit Plaza Mayor, the top shopping destination in Madrid. Browse local shops and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Plaza Mayor has to offer, including restaurants, attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Madrid, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Madrid by booking a table at DiverXO. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Smoked Room, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Paco Roncero, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Jazz Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, España Building offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook 1862 Dry Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Head back to your accommodation in Madrid and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Spain.

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Spain includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Madrid. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Valencia, where you'll spend 1 night.

Main Square leaves a lasting impression. This public square is one of the most globally renowned places to visit in Madrid. Next, head to Market Of San Miguel, a world-famous food market, known for its photogenic 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 Puerta De Alcalá. This symbolic monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Crystal Palace Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

Valencia is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Valencia.

Have a memorable dining experience in Valencia by booking a table at El Poblet, a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Valencia, Ricard Camarena shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Fierro is known as a top local spot in Valencia for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Pub Pasos. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Clann Bar Tapas, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Café Negrito provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Spain, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Valencia and Beniferri are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Barcelona, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Experience Mercat Central, a spectacular food market in the city. Then, head to City Of Arts And Sciences and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching science center.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Beniferri.

Spend your afternoon discovering Valencia Bioparc, a widely recognized zoo known for its picture-perfect features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Barcelona. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Barcelona by securing a reservation at Lasarte. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit ABaC, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Cocina Hermanos Torres, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 3-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Casa Gràcia after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bloody Mary Cocktail Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 5 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Madrid. You’ll stay in Barcelona for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make a stop at Park Güell. This globally renowned park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Sagrada Família located in Barcelona for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of La Pedrera. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Casa Batlló. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this museum. Next up is Cathedral Of The Holy Cross And Saint Eulalia, a highly recommended church.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Spain. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Barcelona. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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 your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Les Gens Que J'aime, known for its lively atmosphere. Bobby's Free is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Old Fashioned Gin Tonic & Cocktail Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Barcelona. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zaragoza, where will spend 1 night.

No visit to Barcelona is complete without Parc De La Ciutadella. This widely recognized park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Arc De Triomf, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Barcelona, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Plaça De Catalunya. This timeless public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Mercat De La Boqueria, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Magic Fountain Of Montjuïc is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Gente Rara, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Cancook, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Zaragoza is La Prensa, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious contemporary menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Be A Legend Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Aragón Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar El Circo. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Bilbao. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Santander, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Zaragoza, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bilbao. Your travel time is around 3 hours 3 min.

Next, make your way to Guggenheim Museum, another highlight in Bilbao. When you’re done exploring the museum building, continue to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a majestic park.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Santander, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Start 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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kings Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Grog for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Hygge Cocktail is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you'll explore 4 destinations, including Cangas de Onís, Cuadonga/Covadonga, Ribeseya, and Coruño. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Oviedo, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cangas de Onís. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 33 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Cangas de Onís is Roman Bridge In Cangas De Onis, a captivating monument that draws attention for its symbolic features.

After soaking in Cangas de Onís’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cuadonga/Covadonga. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 14 min. When you arrive in Cuadonga/Covadonga, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Sanctuary Of Covadonga, an interesting church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cuadonga/Covadonga, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ribeseya. This drive usually takes around 36 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Mirador Del Fitu and explore the idyllic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Oviedo. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Oviedo's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante Doña Concha, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Quemedás offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Oveja Negra. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Oviedo.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Astur, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Bodegón is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Baam also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Your itinerary for day 9 of your road trip in Spain includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Oviedo and La Peña'l Fuelle. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Leon, where you'll spend 1 night.

Let El Fontán Market set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich market before continuing your journey. Plaza Del Fontán is your next stop. This locally appreciated public square is one of the best-rated sights in Oviedo.

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 Mafalda Statue. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Parque De Invierno.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — La Peña'l Fuelle, home to many well-known sights in the region. Upon arrival in La Peña'l Fuelle, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in La Peña'l Fuelle is Santa María Del Naranjo, an underrated church that draws attention for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Leon, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Leon by booking a table at Becook. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of fusion and modern cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Pablo, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Cocinandos, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue your lively evening at Café Bar La Dama, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bacanal is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Chelsea ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 10 of your road trip in Spain, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Leon and San Lorenzo de El Escorial are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Madrid, where you will stay for 1 night.

Check out the popular church, León Cathedra. Afterward, continue to Basilica Of San Isidoro, a church every traveler should visit. As you explore Leon’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Leon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 54 min.

Royal Monastery Of San Lorenzo De El Escorial is a well-known monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Madrid is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Madrid.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Areia, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La MaMá Restaurante offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Sacha Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Madrid.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!