6-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao traveling west to Santander and Valladolid

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Spain includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Bilbao. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Santander, where you'll spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the famous Guggenheim Museum and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Puppy, a detailed art installation that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, one of the city’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. When you're finished at the park, Etxebarri Parkea awaits your visit. This park is an eye-catching highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Santander by reserving a table at Cadelo. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Umma, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Agua Salada, a local favorite known for its delightful contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand awardee is an ideal choice for contemporary and traditional foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kings Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Grog, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Hygge Cocktail likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your road trip in Spain, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Santander and Cueto are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valladolid, where you will stay for 2 nights.

To truly experience Santander, make sure to drop by Plaza Porticada. This frequently visited public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Mercado Del Este, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Centro Botin, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Santander. This art gallery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Palacio De La Magdalena. Wander around and soak in the awe-inspiring atmosphere this palace offers.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cueto may take around 11 min. Upon your arrival in Cueto, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Llamas Park, an increasingly popular park that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Llantén in Valladolid by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Llantén offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Alquimia - Laboratorio, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Trigo, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Valladolid, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Segovia and Valladolid.

Experience Parque Campo Grande, a captivating park in the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Valladolid, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Segovia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 19 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Aqueduct Of Segovia. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the monument before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Segovia Cathedral. This interesting church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Alcázar Of Segovia. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the castle.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Sercotel Valladolid, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Café & copas Murmullo beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider ATYPIKAL. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Valladolid tonight.

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.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Spain.

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Burgos Province and Portugalete. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Burgos Province may take around 1 hour 23 min. Upon your arrival in Burgos Province, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Puente De Santa María, a frequently visited monument that everyone visiting Burgos Province should see. Next, head to Arco De Santa María. This historic monument is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Burgos Cathedral, a grand church popular among locals as well as travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Portugalete. This car ride takes around 1 hour 55 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Portugalete is Vizcaya Bridge, a popular monument that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Bilbao 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 Bilbao.

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.

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