road trip barcelona to bilbao

10 Days In Northern Spain Road Trip Itinerary, From Barcelona to Bilbao

Planning a road trip in northern Spain? Here’s the perfect 10 day road trip itinerary takes you from the cultured city of Barcelona in Catalonia to the culinary and architectural haven of Bilbao in the Basque region.

These regions are divine, renowned for their sun-kissed beaches, architectural masterpieces, must see art museums, and rich gastronomic traditions. And wine!

A road trip is the perfect way to take in the wide variety of amazing destinations in northern Spain.

Let’s hit the road for the perfect route from Barcelona to Bilbao. You’ll be rewarded with a world rich in contrasts — tranquil medieval villages, golden sand beaches, dazzling contemporary and Gaudi-designed architecture, the best red wine, and some world class art.

Overview Of 10 Days In Northern Spain

Here’s a snapshot glance at the path you’ll follow for this ten days in northern Spain itinerary:

• Day 1 : Explore Barcelona
• Day 2 : Explore Barcelona
• Day 3 : Drive to the La Rioja region, stop in Zaragoza en route
• Day 4 : Explore La Rioja
• Day 5 : Optional Day Trip to Pamplona

Day 6 : Day Trip To Vitoria-Gasteiz

• Day 7 : Drive To San Sebastian
• Day 8 : Explore San Sebastian
• Day 9 : Drive to Bilbao, stop in Getaria en route

Day 10 : Explore Bilbao

This detailed 10 day Spain road trip itinerary is perfectly adjustable. You can make it shorter or longer, depending on your available vacation time or personal fast/slow travel pace. I’ve tried to give you a mix of cities, leisurely villages, and nature.

You’ll have four bases for touring Spain’s northern exposures: Barcelona (2 nights), La Rioja region (4 nights), San Sebastian (2 nights), Bilbao (2 nights). Don’t pick up your rental car until you leave Barcelona and drop it off right away in Bilbao. You won’t want a car in these two cities.

10 Day Itinerary for a Northern Spain Road Trip

Days 1-2: explore barcelona.

You start your ten days in northern Spain in the beautiful city of Barcelona . You could easily spend a week in Barcelona and not get bored.

A city like no other, Barcelona is a non-stop feast for the eyes. Barcelona is rich in historic sites, with some of the world’s most unique and fantastical architecture . The city is bordered on one side by mountains and the other by golden sand beaches. Barcelona has nine UNESCO sites.

Gothic Quarter

Begin day 1 with a stroll down the teeming maze-like Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s most celebrated central artery near the Gothic Quarter.

It’s an almost one mile walk from Placa Catalunya to the old port, taking you past historic sights in a sensory free fall with a dash of carnival atmospherics.

There’s a lot to see in the Gothic Quarter . You may want to book a guided walking tour . You can also book a guided food tour in the evening.

It’s magical and ancient district of history-steeped back streets and charming squares. The must see sites include Barcelona Cathedral, the Picasso Museum, Placa Reial, Palau Guell, La Boqueria, and Palau de la Musica.

You can’t leave Barcelona without visiting two of Gaudi’s most famous masterpieces — Casa Batllo and La Pedrera . They’re only minutes apart on the the Passeig de Gracia in the Eixample neighborhood.

It’s essential to book skip the line tickets for each site well in advance. You can’t miss these two Gaudi gems, which still seem startlingly modern. Click here for skip the lines tickets to Casa Batllo and here for La Pedrera.

Sagrada Familia

A 5 minute taxi ride away is Sagrada Familia. The basilica is Gaudi’s wildly creative and vertigo-inspiring masterpiece.

It’s the undisputed jewel of Barcelona, with its beige-pink spires that culminate in glitter. Despite being under continuous construction, Sagrada Familia is a place of superlatives both inside and out.

The exterior of the basilica is audacious and “gaudy” in appearance, a mountain (or termite hill) almost. But the interior is entirely sublime.

Gaudi intended it to be a retreat into nature. And, indeed, you could be standing in a majestic star-lit white forest. It’s an astonishing space, an alternative reality full of detail.

Here’s my complete guide to Sagrada Familia . You’ll need to book a skip the line ticket to visit.

To complete your Gaudi architectural tour, visit Park Güell, perhaps at sunset. Park Guell also requires a timed entry pre-booked ticket .

Park Guell might be Gaudi’s most fantastical and hyperactive creation. It’s a large 30 acre public park and bejeweled garden complex, with stunning mosaic art, located on Carmel Hill in Barcelona’s Gracia neighborhood.

You should also explore Montjuic one afternoon or evening. You get there via taxi or glass cable car up to the hilly Montjuic area. Click here for information on taking the cable car.

On Montjuic, you’ll find the Miro Foundation, a beautifully designed museum with works by the Surrealist artist Joan Miro. You’ll also find the Magic Fountain, the Mies van der Rohe Pavilion, National Museum of Catalan Art, Olympic sites, and a botanical garden.

Where To Stay In Barcelona : Mandarin Oriental ,  Cotton House ,  Hotel Arts , The Serras ,  Hotel Cataloinia Passeig de Gracia , Hotel Bagues  

Day 3-4: A Sip To Sip Tour of the La Rioja Region

On day 3 of your 10 days in northern Spain itinerary, pick up your car and head west to the La Rioja region. That will be your base for the next 4 nights.

There, you’ll indulge in wine and/or embark on day trips to the beautiful off the radar cities of Pamplona and Vitoria-Gasteiz. This Napa-like region is small and easily covered by car.

La Rioja is one of Europe’s best wine regions, specializing in world famous lush reds and crisp oak-aged whites. There are more than 600 wineries in La Rioja.

Most wineries require an appointment. La Rioja is studded with medieval villages, grape vines, and modernist architectural works by Frank Gehry and Santiago Calatrava.

You may want to book a wine tour .

1. Stop in Zaragoza

It’s an approximately 4.5 drive from Barcelona to the La Rioja region. Break up your drive by stopping for lunch in Zaragoza, a good midway point.

Zaragoza is a lovely hidden gem in Spain. Zaragoza is stuffed with Renaissance and Moorish buildings, wonderful museums, and a grand cathedral.

Zaragoza is known for its gastronomy, so you’ll have a delicious lunch on your stopover. Try Casa Lac, Casa Unai, Montal, Celebris, or Cafe Nolasco.

You can also book a guided walking tour or a guided wine tour in the city.

2. Bases for La Rioja

Here are the best four bases for visiting in and around La Rioja. Pick one that matches your personal taste, and visit the others during your time in La Rioja. Or, pick a couple that appeal, if you don’t mind changing your base.

Logrono is the capital of La Rioja. It’s a small city, but the largest one in the region. You’ll find a fantastic selection of hotels, pintxos bars (Tastavin!), and restaurants.

Logrono has a unique mix of an atmospheric medieval quarter, tree-studded squares, and imaginative modern architecture.

If you’re looking for a relaxed rural atmosphere, this isn’t the place for you. If you’re into night life, then Logrono is the perfect place to stay.

If you’re going car-less, you should stay in Logrono and take buses or taxis to your chosen destinations.

Where To Stay In Logrono : Aurea Palacio de Correos , Hotel Sercotel Calle Mayor

Competing with Logrono, Haro is also frequently dubbed the capital of La Rioja. It’s a smaller town.

But it still has an attractive medieval quarter, an intense concentration of historic wineries, and a fine selection of bars and restaurants. (Try Las Duelas.)

It’s not a big city, but there’s plenty to do, see, eat, and drink. On June 29th each year, you can experience the Haro Wine Festival.

Where To Stay In Haro : Eurostars Los Agustinos

Laguardia is located in the Basque side of Rioja wine region, Rioja Alavesa. It is a beautiful and atmospheric medieval town with loads of charm.

The town was originally built as a fortification against Castilian aggression in the 12th century. Despite its diminutive size, there’s still a decent selection of places to stay, restaurants, and wineries.

The titanium-canopied hotel has a Michelin starred restaurant and a spa. It’s also associated with the historic Marques de Riscal winery, which dates from 1858.

Where To Stay In Laguardia : Casa Rural Eruetxe , Hospederia de los Parajes

For a splurge, check into the Hotel Marques de Riscal , just outside Logrono. Frank Gehry’s stunning redesign of a chateau is a true masterpiece and a La Rioja destination in and of itself.

Click here for a guide to the best wineries in Haro and here for the best wineries in Logrono. Be sure to visit Bodegas Ysios. It’s a boutique winery designed, in futuristic fashion, by famed (but controversial) architect Santiago Calatrava

3. Other La Rioja Destinations

If you’d like to do some castle hopping along with wine imbibing, there are a few castles nearby — Castillo de Sajazarra, Castillo de Briones, and Castillo de Davlillo.

Another place you shouldn’t miss is San Millan de la Cogolla. The UNESCO town is the birthplace of Castellano, the modern written and spoken Spanish language.

Visit both Suso Monastery (book online in advance), consecrated in the 10th century, and the nearby Convent of Canas . Between the monasteries, is another great wine bodega, David Moreno.

Day 5: Day Trip To Pamplona

On day 5, if you can tear yourself away from the wineries, head to Pamplona. Pamplona is the leafy and underrated capital of the Navarre region in greater Basque Spain.

It’s a well-heeled university town, home to one of Spain’s most famous and testosterone-fueled festival, the Running of the Bulls, which takes place one week in July.

The San Fermin Festival, a 24/7 party atmosphere, attracts 1 million visitors annually to watch men outrun bulls (or be gored). If it’s not festival time, you can walk the path men and bull follow, called the Encierro. They run through narrow streets to the bull ring, the Plaza de Toros de Pamplona.

But there’s more to Pamplona than bulls. Even if the bulls aren’t thundering down cobblestone streets, picturesque Pamplona will appeal.

It has a grand Gothic cathedral, well-preserved 16th century fortifications, and medieval streets and squares. Pamplona is also a stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

Pamplona’s old town was beloved by Ernest Hemingway, who used to nibble pintxos and fill up on the local liqueur, Pacharan, at the historic Cafe Iruna. He set part of The Sun Also Rises in the pretty Plaza del Castillo and helped make the San Fermin festival famous.

You’ll also be in foodie heaven in Pamplona. Spain is known for its jamon, queso, and croquettas.

But Navarre is know for the intense freshness and quality of its local produce. If you stay for dinner, try La Olla, Bar Gaucho, El Mercao, or Bodegon Sarria.

Art lovers can head to Pamplona’s Museo de Navarra, which boasts a collection of Goyas, Roman mosaics, and murals. Just outside Pamplona, in the village of Alzuza, there’s a museum dedicated to the great Basque sculptor Jordge Oteiza.

To see it all, you may want to book a guided walking tour .

Vitoria-Gasteiz is a lovely art-filled small city about an hour from Bilbao. It’s surprisingly overlooked by tourists. But perhaps it won’t be for long, with the good press the town has received in the last decade.

In 2012, Vitoria-Gastiez was named Spain’s Green Capital, for its profusion of pedestrianized squares, gardens, and parks. In 2014, the town was named Spain’s Gastronomy Capital for its delicious restaurants and foodie culture.

In 2021, National Geographic named it among the 25 best travel destinations, calling Vitoria a “timeless place the will define our future itineraries.” I recommend booking a  guided walking tour of the historic center .

At the summit of Vitoria’s old town, you can stroll through the impeccably preserved medieval quarter. The streets are named after medieval craftsmen’s guilds.

Gape at the magnificent and imposing Cathedral of Santa Maria. The Gothic cathedral dates from the 13th and 14th centuries. Restoration is ongoing.

Browse in the beautiful Plaza de la Virgen Blanc. In the plaza, you’ll find lots of shops and eateries. Then, take a stroll through the old quarter and under the arcaded passageways of the Paseo de los Arquillos.

Vitoria-Gasteiz is also known as the “painted town” and there are street art murals scattered around the city.

Art lovers can’t miss the Atrium Museum, opened in 2002. In subterranean galleries, you’ll find a fantastic collection of modern art. It includes pieces by Chillada, Miro, and Oteiza. Vitoria-Gasteiz also has a fine arts museum, where you’ll find works by other Spanish artists.

If you stay in town for dinner, head to the Michelin-starred Zaldiaran. Another tasty option is Ikea. If you want pintxos, head to the award winning Sagartoki or Tolono. The tourist office also offers a “Pintxo Map,” so you can do a proper pintxos crawl of the town.

Day 7-8 : Drive To and Explore San Sebastian

From Vitoria-Gasteiz, it’s a 1:20 drive to your next base, San Sebastian. The New York Times says “To visit San Sebastian, is to fall in love.”

San Sebastian is an incredible seaside Basque city, and tourists flock there. San Sebastian is renowned as a foodie resort town and beachy playground.

Its stunning beach, the crescent-shaped La Concha, is world famous and considered one of Europe’s best beaches. The city’s filigreed balconies and Belle Epoque buildings give it a classical elegance.

San Sebastian’s historic center, Parte Vieja, is picturesque. It’s sprinkled with an endless variety of upscale stores, churches, vibrant pintxos bars, and tony restaurants.

Be sure to check out the beautiful Bell Epoque City Hall, the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus, San Vicente Church, and the Cathedral of the Good Shepard.

San Sebastian’s old town also has one of Basque Spain’s best museums, the San Telmo Museum . Housed in a restored convent and a contemporary wing, you’ll find both artifacts and cutting edge modern art.

If you want some exercise to leaven the sunshine and beach time, you can stroll along the dreamy C-shaped beachside trail.

At the far west end, just beyond Ondarreta beach, are metal sculptures — the Comb of the Wind , by renowned Basque artist Eduardo Chillada. It consists of iron installations in the rocks, which seems to “comb” the wind as the water crashes.

Hike up Mount Igueldo for the classic San Sebastian vista. Or, hike up the lesser known Mount Urgull to the local castle, the 12th century Castillo de la Mota. The views are amazing.

If you’re a food traveler, you’ll be in seventh heaven. San Sebastian is frequently called the food capitol of the world. It has 25 Michelin restaurants and boasts three restaurants with the rarest of accolades: a three star Michelin rating. Be sure to book well in advance at Mugaritz, Arzak, or Kokotxa.

San Sebastian also has a thriving pintxos scene. The cardinal rule of Basque pintxos-bar dining is to never stop moving, sampling different haute cuisine bites on your nocturnal journey.

The best ones are Gambara and Txepeta. Or, just wander between Calle Fermin Calbeton and Calle 31 de Agosto and see what’s on offer. You can also go on a guided pintxos and wine tour .

Where To Stay In San Sebastián : Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra ,  Hotel Maria Cristina , Akellare Relais & Chateaux , Hotel La Galeria  

Day 9: Drive To Bilbao, Stop in Getaria

On day 9, you’ll drive from San Sebastian to Bilbao. En route, stop for lunch or a visit in the pretty secret fishing village of Getaria, just 30 minutes from San Sebastian.

Getaria is one of the most charming towns on the Basque coast, jutting out into the sea with an attractive sandy beach (Gaztepe). It’s a pristine medieval fishing village with old world charm, stone houses, and gorgeous landscapes. You’ll have picture-perfect coastline views.

Getaria is home to the Basque regions’s signature drink, txakoli, a sparkling white wine. You can visit several wineries in and around the town. Getaria is also known for its seafood, particularly baby squid and turbot.

Getaria has a pretty Gothic church and is the birthplace of haute couture fashion icon Cristobal Balenciaga. There’s a museum dedicated to his life and work. You get there via an incongruous outdoor escalator at the outer edge of the town.

Try to depart Getaria and arrive in Bilbao by mid afternoon, so you can explore. It’s a one hour drive from Getaria to Bilbao.

Bilbao is an incredibly cool and underrated city in Spain. It’s beautifully situated amid rolling green hills and mountain ranges — an urban landscape in a country setting. Glimmering on the Nervion River, Bilbao is chock full of historic landmarks, Michelin restaurants, and world class museums.

After you’ve arrived and settled in, explore Casco Viejo. Bilbao’s medieval quarter. You’ll find the “seven streets” of the historic center, where Bilbao was born.

They are teeming with lively and quirky cafes, pintxos (tapas) bars, tony shops, and tiny squares. Locals mix with tourists and there’s definitely Basque energy flowing.

The centerpiece of old town is Santiago Cathedral, a 15th century church with a Gothic facade and decorations. It’s free to enter. For 2 euros, you can peak into the cloister from the famous Door of the Angel.

For a pre-dinner cocktail, head to 19th century Plaza Nuevo or the “New Plaza.” It’s a beautiful Neo-Classical arcade square.

Plaza Nuevo is a gourmet heaven. Popular pintxos spots in Plaza Nuevo include Cafe Bar Bilbao, Gure-Tok, and Casa Victor Montes. It’s common custom to hop from bar to bar sampling the wares.

Loosen your belt in Bilbao. Bilbao has 22 Michelin starred restaurants , including one three starred restaurant, and is considered a foodie haven. Azurmendi , with its three Michelin stars, is the jewel of Bilbao. Restaurant Mina is another culinary trendsetter and deserving Michelin star recipient.

Aside from these heavy hitters, Bilbao also has fabulous local restaurants, many scattered throughout its old town. You can find innovative pintxos and food at Irrintzi, La Vina Del Ensanche, Cafe Iruna, and Ledesma No 5.

Bilbao is the Basque region’s premiere city, a foodie destination with great architecture. I advise booking a guided walking tour or a guided food tour .

Guggenheim Museum

Start your final day in northern Spain with a visit to the world famous Guggenheim Museum . It’s locatedin Bilbao’s Abando neighborhood. You can grab breakfast/brunch at the nearby at Sua San, a chic eatery just opposite the museum.

Inaugurated in 1997, Frank Gehry’s twisting shimmering museum is the star of Bilbao. It’s been likened to both a palace and a ship. The museum even has its own Michelin-starred restaurant, Nerua Guggenheim Bilbao, focusing on local Basque ingredients.

The museum exterior courtyards are scattered with world renowned sculptures: Jeff Koon’s massive flowering Puppy, Louise Bourgeois’ 30 foot Maman spider, Anish Kapoor’s Tall Tree and the Eye, and the newest piece Fujiko Nakaya’s The Fog Sculpture.

On the inside, the architecture continues to amaze. There’s a glass-enclosed 50 meter atrium, crowned with a skylight in the shape of a metal flower. Light suffuses the place.

Inside lies a modern art collection on par with Europe’s best modern art museums. You’ll find works by Robert Motherwell, Cy Twombley, Yves Klein, Marc Chagall, Andy Warhol, Eduardo Chillada, and Anselm Kiefer.

A highlight for me was walking through Richard Serra’s outsize and powerful Matter of Time steel sculptures.

Book your skip the line ticket here .

Azkuna Zentroa

To the west of Guggenheim lies what may be Bilbao’s most beautiful and interesting building, Azkuna Zentroa . It’s a bizarre but brilliant culture and leisure center. The building was reimagined by French designer Philippe Starck.

On the outside, it’s a mock medieval castle. On the inside, Azkuna is all Starck, an adventure in experiential contemporary art. Its vast foyer is supported by 43 squat stylized pillars.

It houses a public gym, swimming pool (with a glass bottom), a library, a restaurant, tapas bars, a rooftop terrace, and modern art exhibitions.

Mercado de la Ribera

For lunch, head to the foodie paradise of the Mercado de la Ribera food market on the Nervion River. La Ribera is Europe’s largest indoor food hall.

There’s been a market on this site since the 14th century. Today’s beautiful Art Deco building was built in 1929. As part of Bilbao’s urban renewal, the market was restored and reopened in 2011 to acclaim.

You’ll see goat carcasses and pig heads. But you can also check out the beautiful stained glass panels. Bilbao’s wolfish coat of arms is in the largest panel. Across from the Ribera you can admire the beautiful Neo-Baroque Teatro Arriaga, modeled after the Opera Garnier in Paris .

El Ensanche

After lunch, take a stroll through Bilbao’s El Ensache neighborhood. The main boulevard of this tony neighborhood, known as the Gran Via, is Gran Via Don Diego Lopez de Haro. It’s the most cosmopolitan area of the city. There are lots of first rate shops, restaurants, and bars.

On Gran Via, you can also inspect Bilbao’s “Fosteritos.” This is the nickname given to the graceful and sensuous segmented glass entrances to Bilbao’s metro system, designed by architect Norman Foster. The “Fosteritos” were built at the same time as the Guggenheim and are part of Bilbao’s urban architecture.

This area contains some of Bilbao’s most important renovated and eye catching buildings: La Equativo (by Manuel Galíndez), the Banco de Bilbao (by Pedro Guimón), the Naviera de la Sota y Aznar building (by Manuel María Smith Ibarra), and Bilbao Department of Health Building (by Juan Coll-Barreu).

Plaza San Jose is also a must visit square in El Ensanche. It was named after the brilliantly white Church of San Jose.

In the square, you’ll find three over-sized bronze sculptures by Vicente Larrea. Commissioned between 2003-05, the sculptures are made of folded sheets of steel resembling rock formations.

Funicular & Zubizuri Bridge

In the late afternoon, take a funicular ride from the Bilbao’s city center to Mount Artxanda for an aerial view of the city. It’s a must do activity in Bilbao. From the Guggenheim, cross the stark white Zubizuri footbridge and it’s a short walk to the funicular.

The Zubuzuri was designed by the acclaimed (but controversial) Santiago Calatrava, a Neo-Futuristic architect. It’s popularly known as the Calatrava Bridge. The bridge connects El Ensanche with the Calle Campo de Volatin, where you can take a pedestrianized stroll along the Nervion River.

The bridge almost looks like a sailboat on the river. Residents either hate it or love it. The glass tiled footpath became known as the “wipeout bridge” because of its slipperiness after frequent rain in Bilbao.

After enjoying the views, pick another of Bilbao’s fine restaurants for dinner. Or go on a pintxos crawl.

Where To Stay In Bilbao : Hotel Carlton , Vincci Consulado de Bilbao , Occidental Bilbao , Hotel Miro

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 day road trip itinerary for northern Spain. You may enjoy these other Spain travel guides and resources:

• Day Trips From Bilbao
• 3 Day Seville Itinerary
• 2 Day Itinerary for Madrid
• 10 Day Road Trip From Madrid to Seville
• 10 Day Itinerary for Basque Spain
• Six 1 Week Itineraries for Spain
• 25 Famous Landmarks in Spain
• 10 Day Itinerary for Andalusia
• 30+ Hidden Gems in Spain

If you’d like to road trip in northern Spain, pin it for later.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Last Updated on March 27, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Barcelona to Bilbao: The Ultimate 1 Week Road Trip in Northern Spain

Catalonia and Basque country totally blew me away. I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but I had heard great things from trusted travel friends who raved about it. I knew I would be eating and drinking well, but other than that, I was open to the surprise. Whatever expectations I did have, northern Spain absolutely exceeded them. The cityscapes and beautiful architecture alone are worth a visit, but when you combine that with delectable Basque cuisine and crazy good wine, northern Spain is an unbeatable, and frankly underrated, destination for a getaway.

I am sharing all the insights I gained on the road so that you can plan the perfect road trip in northern Spain. This epic journey will take you through a diverse range of destinations, from the vibrant streets of Barcelona to the breathtaking coastal beauty of San Sebastian and the cultural gems of Bilbao. Along the way, you'll also have the opportunity to explore the renowned wine region of Rioja and dive into delectable dining experiences.

With this blog post, I’ll explore the highlights of each destination, provide insider tips, and share practical information to help you plan the perfect week-long road trip through the enchanting landscapes of Northern Spain. Embark on an unforgettable road trip with this ultimate 1-week itinerary from Barcelona to Bilbao. Get ready for an incredible adventure filled with stunning scenery, mouthwatering cuisine, and unique experiences.

What You'll Find In This Post

The Ultimate 1 Week Road Trip in Northern Spain

Overview of this itinerary.

I planned this itinerary as a road trip because I think a car is the most convenient way to get between these locations, especially the small towns and wineries. There are train and bus connections between the major cities, so you could theoretically do this itinerary without a rental car, although you may need to adjust the Rioja days. 

This itinerary can be done in reverse, starting in Bilbao and ending in Barcelona. You could also do this itinerary as a round trip from the same city (ex: start & end in Barcelona), although that will increase the driving time significantly. Currently, the total drive time is around 9 hours , with the longest drive being from Barcelona to Rioja on day 2.

1 Week Itinerary for Northern Spain Road Trip

Day 1: barcelona.

With a large airport and excellent flight connections around the world, Barcelona is a logical place to start your road trip of northern Spain. Rental cars are available in the city or at the airport. Barcelona is certainly a destination in its own right. You could easily spend a few extra days at the beginning of your trip exploring. If you want to spend more time in Barcelona, I’ve got lots more suggestions on what to see and do during a long weekend visit. 

But for my American friends who have limited vacation time, I see you. If you only have one day in Barcelona, maximize your 24 hours by exploring the city's iconic attractions. Start with a visit to the breathtaking Sagrada Familia. You’ll want to book tickets in advance to guarantee availability. Then stroll through the Gothic Quarter's narrow streets and the enchanting Barcelona Cathedral. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the trendy El Born neighborhood, followed by a visit to Park Güell for panoramic views. End your day with a relaxing walk along Barceloneta Beach and savor delicious tapas at a local restaurant.

Day 2 & 3: Rioja Wine Valley

Exploring the Rioja wine valley is a must-do activity on a road trip in northern Spain. Rioja is the beating heart of Spain’s wine industry with a number of world-renowned wineries . Additionally, this region offers breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Two days won’t feel like enough in the Rioja and you’ll be dying to come back! 

I would recommend choosing a town as a jumping off point in the Rioja. The medieval village of Laguardia is a great option. It is nestled amidst vineyards and olive groves. Plus, the well-preserved architecture is picturesque for a nighttime stroll. I can also recommend Logroño , the capital of the Rioja region. Its lively streets are lined with charming shops, cafes, and bars. You can also visit the Mercado de San Blas there, a vibrant market where you can sample local produce and cheeses.

You can also stay at a winery, finca or bodega for a really immersive experience in the Rioja! Set among vineyards and olive groves, I am obsessed with Hotel Bodega Finca de los Arandinos' . We stayed at this boutique hotel and I was so impressed with the personalized attention, stellar modern facilities, and luxury experience. Hotel Bodega Finca de los Arandinos is the first wine tourism project in La Rioja that integrates a winery, hotel, restaurant and spa, fusing some of my favorite things in life – design, gastronomy, wine tourism and nature. Plus, the sunsets here are amazing!

Now that we've covered where you'll be staying in the Rioja, let's talk about what you'll be doing there. I would recommend spending your two days exploring wineries, bodegas and small towns. This is a great place to slow down a bit, relax in the scenery and sip some of the best wine Spain has to offer. Choose a few wineries that sound good to you, and then plan your days accordingly based on the tour time slots.

Don’t worry if you aren’t a wine expert – I wasn’t either ! The Rioja is a great destination to learn about wine production and viticulture through fun and educational tours. You can also head to the acclaimed Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture . This museum offers a comprehensive journey through the world of wine, from the history of winemaking to the art and science behind it. 

In general, it's a good idea to make reservations for winery tours and tastings in advance, especially during the peak summer and harvest seasons. It is reasonable to visit 2 wineries per day, or 3 if you are really ambitious. I highlight my favorite wineries for first timers in a separate blog post. 

Day 4: Pamplona

I added Pamplona to my northern Spain road trip itinerary spontaneously at the last minute, and I am so glad that I did – it turned out to be one of the cutest cities I visited! Pamplona is the capital of the Navarre Basque region of Northern Spain. It is actually the region’s third largest city. With a rich history and culture, Pamplona is a great destination for those looking to experience an off-the-beaten path city in Spain.

Although Pamplona is practically synonymous with its annual Running of the Bulls festival, the charming city has a lot more to offer. Start your day in the iconic Plaza del Castillo, the city's main square, surrounded by picturesque buildings and lively cafés. You’ll also want to see the City Walls and Citadel which surround old town Pamplona. And finally, learn about the history of the famous San Fermín festival. For more details about how to structure your 24 hours in Pamplona, I actually wrote a separate blog post that breaks down everything that you need to see, eat and do in Pamplona in just one day. 

Day 5 & 6: San Sebastian

I had heard wonderful things about San Sebastian from a number of trusted travel buddies, so my expectations were high. Most of my days in San Sebastian were food-focused because it is the foodiest of foodie cities! More on what to eat in a minute.

Basically, my suggestion is to punctuate your foodie stops with some walks and cultural attractions. Start your first day in San Sebastian by exploring the picturesque old town.  Go inside the impressive San Sebastian Cathedral and climb up to the rooftop for stunning views of the city. Visit the San Telmo Museum to learn about the history and culture of the Basque Country. Wander through its narrow streets filled with charming shops and crowded bars, popping in for a pintxo or two. 

Pintxos, or Basque-style tapas, are the name of the game when it comes to experiencing San Sebastian’s food scene like a local. There are a ton to choose from in the old town. Have pintxo, walk to a church. Have a pintxo, wander the museum. You get the idea. I went on a pintxos food tour with Mimo that I absolutely loved, because it took me to unique taverns and cafes that I might have normally overlooked. I summarized all my favorite San Sebastian pintxos in a separate blog post so that you can have the perfect afternoon sampling the best food in the city.

On your second day, head to La Concha Beach, one of the most beautiful urban beaches in Europe. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade or relax on the golden sand. If you're feeling adventurous, hike to the top of Monte Urgull for panoramic views of the city. Not looking for a steep uphill climb but still want a view? Monte Igueldo is perfect for you! There is a charming (albiet rickety) funicular ride to the top where you can wander through a vintage theme park with a backdrop of Bay of La Concha. 

Another thing that is well-worth splurging on in San Sebastian is a Michelin star meal. The city boasts more Michelin stars per capita than any other place in the world! I was traveling in Spain with some friends who had never experienced a Michelin-star meal before, so I was really excited to go with them as first-timers. While it can feel like an intimidating experience, it is easy to prepare for your first Michelin dining experience with a few simple pointers and suggestions. We booked a table at Arzak , a female-run 3 star restaurant on the outskirts of San Sebastian. It was incredible!

Day 7: Bilbao

The final stop on your one week road trip to northern Spain is Bilbao. Nestled in the heart of the Basque Country, Bilbao is a gritty yet special city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern architectural wonders. With a captivating mix of culture, art, and gastronomy, Bilbao is one of the most overlooked but worthwhile destinations for travelers seeking an authentic Spanish experience.

Bilbao's history can be traced back to the 14th century; however, it was the transformation of the city in recent decades that truly put Bilbao on the map. The iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao stands as a symbol of the city's reinvention and artistic prowess. Stay at the Gran Hotel Domine , a modern five-star hotel right across the street from the Guggenheim, to enjoy breakfast on the roof top terrace with views of the museum.

Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry (who also has buildings in my neighboring city of Düsseldorf ), one of the best things to do in Bilbao is to explore the Guggenheim Museum itself. Its striking architecture is of course impressive, as are the modern and contemporary art collections inside. The permanent collection includes paintings by Andy Warhol, Cy Twombly, Mark Rothko, and Gerhard Richter. 

The museum is just the tip of the cultural iceberg in Bilbao. Take a stroll through the Old Town (Casco Viejo) and immerse yourself in its charming medieval streets, filled with pintxos bars, traditional shops, and the stunning Santiago Cathedral. Much like San Sebastian, Bilbao is a foodie city with lots of exceptional gastronomy. Be sure to try local specialties like bacalao al pil-pil (codfish in garlic and olive oil sauce) and txangurro (stuffed crab).

Road Trip Suggestions in Spain

Overall, the roads in northern Spain are in great condition. We didn’t have any issues on the highway, and navigation was pretty straightforward. There are a number of service stations and gas stations along the highway, so you can easily fill up on gas whenever you need.

I was quite surprised by the cost of tolls on this journey. There were a number of toll stops, especially outside of Barcelona. They were more a lot expensive than I expected – we spent around 100 euros in total on tolls... Most accepted card, but not all. Have spare cash on hand in the car.

When to Go to Northern Spain?

The best time to visit northern Spain is during the grape harvest season from September to October. There will be a lot of things happening, and the weather is still warm and sunny. With that said, the region is manageable all year round. It will be most crowded in July and August, and it is likely to be quite rainy in the winter from January - March.

Have questions or comments about a road trip in Northern Spain? Tell me below!

Share this story

FIND SIMILAR POSTS

How to Plan the Perfect 1 Week Sri Lanka Trip

How to See the Best of Finnish Lapland in 7 Days

2 Weeks in Spain | A First Timer’s Ideal Itinerary

Cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

The Ultimate Northern Spain Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From Catalonia’s unspoilt coastline and Aragon’s scenic architecture to quaint cities in the Basque Country, this northern Spain road trip offers something for everyone.

Is there any better way to see a country than grabbing a set of car keys and having the freedom to explore at your own pace? If this is your favourite way to travel, then how about exploring the north of Spain?

Often it’s when you decide to travel slowly and go off the beaten track, you start stumbling across hidden gems. You’ll take a wrong turning and end up in an authentic Spanish town that isn’t in any of the tourist guide books!

While this road trip through northern Spain takes you to a few famous places, it also gives you the opportunity to explore lesser-known regions. You’ll experience spectacular vineyards a short drive from San Sebastian, the hiker’s paradise that is Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park and stop by some truly underrated Spanish cities.

A road trip here through the north of Spain offers so much. Spend your time admiring the scenic coastlines in Catalonia and Asturias, before marvelling at the architecture of Castille and León.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll fall in love with the culinary scene in the Basque Country. It’s absolute pintxos heaven! Meanwhile, if you’re keen on the great outdoors, there are plenty of gorgeous green spaces and natural wonders to explore.

Spain is often associated with summer beach holidays, but it’s worth remembering that many of the interior parts of the country offer just as much natural beauty, with vineyards, mountains, canyons, olive groves and picturesque towns! This road trip itinerary will introduce you to several authentic experiences.

So, whether you’re looking for travel inspiration or you want to start planning your itinerary, this guide will cover all of the best places to visit in Northern Spain on a road trip.

Weather in Northern Spain

This region of Europe has warm summers and cool winters. The majority of people visit during the summer holiday season, when the weather is warmest.

If you want to make the most of the great outdoors, time your trip between May and September. It’s the ideal time for beach days or countryside hikes. During this time, temperatures range between lows of 16°C (61°F) and highs of 26°C (79°F). If possible, I’d suggest avoiding the peak summer (July and August) and travel in May, June or September. You’ll enjoy cheaper prices and won’t be battling against big crowds at the big attractions!

It gets pretty chilly in Spain in winter , but there’s a bit of magic to it! Between January and March the temperatures in the north of Spain range from 4°C (39°F) to 15°C (59°F).

Northern Spain Road Trip Map

If you’re happy to move at a pretty moderate pace, moving on every single day, you could just about fit this itinerary into one week.

However, I’d recommend moving a little slower so you can soak up all the little details in each destination.

Here’s a handy map to go with this northern Spain road trip itinerary, which you can save to make your planning stress-free.

What to pack for your road trip

If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, this guide to road trip essentials has you covered. From portable chargers to ways to stay entertained on long journeys, it’ll help you create your road trip packing list.

Northern Spain Road Trip Itinerary – Places to Visit in Northern Spain

Northern spain road trip: stop 1 – barcelona.

Barcelona is a great city to start your road trip from. Not only is it an incredible destination in its own right, but it’s also easy to reach by plane. There are lots of car rental options too, both from the airport or the city centre.

Marking the start of your Catalonia road trip , you’ll quickly fall in love with Barcelona’s scenic shoreline with sweeping views of the Balearic Sea. Enjoy the city’s unique ambience courtesy of street musicians and tapas bars dotted in the atmospheric Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets. I challenge you not to get lost in this mini maze – it’s very easily done, especially after a few glasses of Cava!

At the centre of Barcelona’s bustling social scene is tree-lined La Rambla, which boasts restaurants, cafés, and avant-garde architecture. It’s always busy with tourists, but I’d avoid most of the restaurants around here! Many are classic tourist traps, serving vats of low-quality paella at inflated prices. You’ll find more authentic dining experiences in the small bars in the Gothic Quarter.

La Boqueria food market is located just off this main street and is an excellent place to take in the amazing ingredients of Catalonia. For a very special meal, book in for a tasting menu experience at Michelin-starred Disfrutar . I’ve been lucky enough to visit twice and I would regard these meals as the best meals I’ve ever eaten! Genuinely!

If you’re interested in art there are lots of great attractions in Barcelona. You could visit the Picasso Museum , the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya or the Fundacio Joan Miro . Oh, and don’t miss a visit to one of Gaudi’s many masterpieces. His unique style is visible throughout the city at locations such as La Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell. I was enchanted by these spots – I’m sure you will be too!

If you fancy a beach day, there’s also a large beach in the city centre, lined with beach bars. It’s amazing how much there is to do in this Spanish city. There really is something for everyone!

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 2 – Costa Brava or Catalonia

If time permits, you might want to head north of Barcelona to Costa Brava, before heading to Montserrat. One of Spain’s most mesmerising coastlines, the area oozes charm with its whitewashed towns and fishing villages.

Alternatively, I loved the area south of here, which includes the underrated Tarragona, Reus and Siurana.

Siurana was a new discovery for me on one of my most recent trips. It’s one of the prettiest villages in Spain and sits on top of a hill in the Prades Mountains. I’d recommend spending a couple of hours there. It’s pretty small so you can wander the streets looking at the Moorish castle, the pretty houses and perhaps stop for a coffee.

The best part about Siurana? The views! Head towards the rocky cliffs and look out over the huge gorge which is filled with a bright turquoise reservoir. I’d suggest visiting first thing in the morning and you should have it all to yourself!

If you want to learn more about Gaudi, but don’t fancy tackling the crowds in Barcelona, I’d suggest stopping by Reus. This small city is where Gaudi was born. You can learn all about his life and architectural wonders at The Gaudi Centre , before checking out some of the city’s buildings which inspired him.

You can read my detailed guide on how to tour this region by car in my Catalonia road trip post.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 3 – Montserrat

Montserrat is another must-visit on your road trip through Northern Spain. The area’s top attraction is the Benedictine Montserrat Monastery, perched on a rocky crag surrounded by magnificent cliffs.

Just getting there is a bit of an adventure, as you reach the monastery via cable car! Once there, enjoy panoramic views of the Catalonian countryside while soaking in the sights and history of the monastery.

Montserrat to Zaragoza: 266 km / 2h 46min approx.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 4 – Zaragoza

Next stop on your journey from Montserrat is Zaragoza, the capital of the Aragon region. This is a great place for museums, architecture, and historical monuments, including the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar .

In between sightseeing, I’d recommend a bit of restaurant-hopping at Plaza del Pilar so you can taste some authentically Spanish delights. For a real flavour of the region, sit down to dinner at Restaurante La Borde de Chema . This rustic restaurant offers Aragonese dishes including roast goat, along with plenty of regional wines.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 5 – Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park

Step away from the glitz and glamour of city life with a visit to the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park. This hiker’s paradise has several trails to choose from, each leading to sweeping views of the mountains.  

Be sure to pack your camera for this stop on your road trip! It’s one of the most photogenic places on this itinerary, so no doubt you’ll want to snap a lot of photos!

Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park to San Sebastian: 252 km / 3h 10 min approx.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 6 – San Sebastian

The Basque Country is renowned for its food scene. Every year, many people visit Northern Spain (myself included!) purely for a wining and dining experience like no other. It’s hardly surprising, after all San Sebastian in the Basque Country has the most Michelin-starred eateries per capita in Europe! In fact, there are more in this one city per capita than in London, and that’s really saying something!

The Basque Country even has two restaurants with ‘Green Stars’, Azurmendi and Enoko, which have been recognised for their sustainable, ethical and environmental approach.

There are two sides to eating out in San Sebastian. You can either go high end with Michelin starred tasting menus, or eat the local way with dish after dish of pintxos (small dishes).

The old town of San Sebastian is filled with tiny restaurants specialising in individual dishes such as Spanish tortillas, prawns on skewers and slow cooked pork. The best way to enjoy a trip like this, is by stopping for food and drinks at multiple bars across an evening – like your very own pintxos tour .

It can be difficult knowing what to eat at each place, so I’d thoroughly recommend a pintxos tour like this one . The guide will give you tips on what to order, how to eat it and all the insider knowledge to make the most of your time in San Sebastian.

While you can’t go wrong with most restaurants here, I’d recommend the incredible steak, tomatoes and fried padron peppers at Bar Nestor as well as the famous San Sebastian cheesecake at La Viña! I popped all my top recommendations together in my post about the best pintxos in San Sebastian .

Also, if you’re looking for an extra special meal, how about going for a Michelin Starred meal with a view at Mirador de Ulia? We had a very memorable meal there!

San Sebastian is also a great beach destination, with turquoise waters, white sand and some great surf spots too!

If you want to get off the beaten track in this region, how about spending a day wine tasting? Just 30-minutes away by car you’ll find wineries including   Hirutza , where the local Txakoli wine is produced. This is a dry and lightly sparkling white wine, which is absolutely delicious!

The vineyards are in a really spectacular location too, with huge mountains and lush green valleys all around. Once you’ve toured the winery, you’ll get to taste some of the wines for yourself, paired with a few pintxos of course!

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 7 – Bilbao

Bilbao, the capital of the Basque Country, is home to centuries-old alleyways and modern-day architecture. The bustling city is small enough that you can explore it on foot, but big enough to keep you entertained for many hours.

One place you simple have to visit is the world-famous Guggenheim Museum , set by the Nervión River. This art gallery has an incredible collection, as well as being housed inside a curved metal masterpiece by one of my favourite architects, Frank Gehry.

This is another great city for pintxos, so be sure to spend some time in the Old Town refuelling. You could also dine at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in Bilbao.

For one of the best viewpoints in the Basque Country, make your way to Gaztelugatxeko Doniene, made famous by Game of Thrones. The scenic hike is around 3km and features several fortified viewpoints. The views are worth the tired legs, I promise you!

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 8 – Santander

Afterwards, stop by Santander, where you can enjoy some seaside fun on the small town’s myriad of beaches. Dive into the water or enjoy a trek to the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse.

Away from the coastline, grab a bite at Plaza de Canadio before exploring Santander’s Cathedral. It features two churches built on top of one another.

Santander to Llanes: 89 km / 56 min approx.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 9 – Llanes and Piloña

As you drive from Bilbao to Llanes and Piloña, the road trip scenery really steps up a notch! Take in the views of the mountains and rolling hills which serve as the ultimate driving backdrop!

Llanes is a small-town region boasting medieval magic at every corner, as well as beautiful beach views. After some of the more touristy stops on this trip, this area is more chilled out and authentic.

Once in Piloña, you could hike up to the Area Recreativa del Monte Cayon, where sweeping views over Asturias’ Picos de Europa await. Alternatively, opt for a more strenuous hike at Picos de Europa, a green paradise surrounded by mountains.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 10 – Gijon and Oviedo

Gijon has a whole load of charm! The city’s old town, nestled on top of a cliff, is filled with a mix of fine-dining and casual eateries and boasts iconic Roman baths and a scenic promenade.

Oviedo, the region’s capital, is a compact city with a lively atmosphere owing to its student population. Enjoy a culinary extravaganza at the city’s many tapas bars ( Gloria Oviedo isn’t to be missed) and fine dining spots. There’s plenty more to do in Oviedo too, including shopping, museum-hopping, and marvelling at the city’s architecture.

Oviedo to León: 125 km / 1h 28 min approx.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 11 – León

León, the northernmost city in the region, is ready to welcome you with open arms. Top of the list of attractions here is the Catedral de León, which boasts impressive towers and colourful windows.

For a quintessential Leon experience, stroll through Plaza Mayor and enjoy a bit of people watching. This is also a great area for trendy restaurants, tapas bars, and impressive architecture.

Northern Spain Road Trip: Stop 12 – Valladolid and Salamanca

South of León is Valladolid, a small city famed for its architecture. The Cathedral of Valladolid is a sight to behold, as is the Museo Nacional de Escultura and the exhibits inside.

The final stop in the region is Salamanca, which has a burgeoning foodie scene that really delivers the heart and soul of Northern Spanish cuisine. In between the culinary experiences, enjoy visits to the Old and New Cathedral , Clerecía Church, and the Convento de San Esteban’s plateresque. For incredible viewpoints over some of the city’s attractions, be sure to visit the Roman Bridge.

Where to Stay on a Northern Spain Road Trip

If you’re wondering where to stay in northern Spain, here are a few of my top choices along this route.

Hotel Palafox , Zaragoza

This is a great luxury hotel, offering sweeping city views from the rooftop pool.

Hotel Carlton , Bilbao

This grand hotel in Bilbao offers spacious rooms with chic decor and a great restaurant serving regional delicacies.

Hotel Villa Soro , San Sebastian

Enjoy a tranquil and chic hotel stay, just a short walk from the old town. This smart villa offers a country-house feel for your foodie city trip. Wondering how to get around? This hotel offers free bikes, making it easy to get around and see the sights. 

Parador de Turismo de León , León

This luxury hotel’s rooms feature antique furnishings and a balcony. There’s also a restaurant serving the region’s top wines.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading my Northern Spain road trip itinerary. There are so many great places you could visit, it’s been hard to narrow it down to just a handful.

My best advice is to use this guide as a starting point, but don’t be afraid to add some extra spots along the way too. If you’re wondering where else to visit in Spain, check out my southern Spain road trip itinerary .

For more great road trip itineraries, check out my detailed guides to driving northern Italy and southern Italy .

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Incredible Northern Spain Road Trip: 7-Day Itinerary

Please note that some of the links may be affiliate links , and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products & companies I love and use, and the income goes back into making this little blog successful!

The wonderful surprise about this 7-day Northern Spain road trip is that the farther west you move from Bilbao to Santiago, the more remote and authentically Spanish it gets. Be prepared for small towns along rocky coastlines, delicious meals of octopus and pintxos in standalone restaurants tucked in the cliffside ( nothing fancy, rather deliciously local ), and a generally serene and slow, non-connected world.

I spent about a month doing this route in September last year because I like to travel slowly and meet friends along the way. This weeklong, more off-the-beaten-path itinerary is the best of the best stuff that I liked, and it optimizes the drive times so you’re not constantly on the road. Here’s the high-level itinerary:

• 2 Days: Basque Country – Bilbao – Guggenheim Museum – Gaztelugatxeko – San Sebastian
• 2 Days: Asturias – Picos de Europa Hikes – Town of Llanes – Gijon
• 3 Days: Galicia – Playa de las Catedrales – Santiago De Compostela

I would recommend more time in Bilbao, San Sebastian , and the region around Llanes , especially if you’re keen on hiking portions of the Picos de Europa mountains.

Table of Contents

Northern Spain Road Trip: Full 7-Day Itinerary

You can land in Madrid or Barcelona and take a connecting flight to Bilbao Airport or San Sebastian Airport (smaller, but services a lot of European airlines). I started in Bilbao, rented a car, and went wild on this itinerary.

DRIVING TIP : Driving from one end of northern Spain to another, from Bilbao to Santiago de Compostela, takes about 6 hours , so nothing on this road trip is too long of a drive when you break it up into 7 days.

Day 1: Bilbao & Guggenheim Museum

Today is about exploring the food scene (tapas and pintxos) of the Basque Region and visiting one of the most famous museums in Spain.

I booked a guided tour because it came recommended by a local friend, and headed towards the big dog built of flowers, where the museum is located. It is one thing to wander the Guggenheim Museum on your own looking at the pretty pieces of art and saying “ ooo !”, and it’s another completely to have an art history guru walk you through the context and purpose of each piece and have a discussion around it.

➡️ Book a guided tour, as there’s a lot of context behind the art: Guggenheim Museum Private Tour with Admission . ⬅️

I spent the afternoon walking around and getting acquainted with the vibe of the city. I loved Casilda Iturrizar Park .

You are in the Basque Region now, and it is all about the Pintxos ( adorably pronounced “pinch-ohs” ), the most intelligent way to eat a variety of foods and not over-stuff yourself. These are small snackies, bites of meats, cheeses, and pickled delicacies on fresh toasty bread.

If it’s a bar-hopping kind of night, start at La Antigua Cigarreria  and make your way around the winding streets, grabbing pintxos as you go.

PRO TIP : Order a “Marianito Preparado” and enjoy a super yummy spin on the Italian negroni with Spanish flair!

Day 2: San Sebastian & San Juan de Gaztelugatxeko

Today is a little road trip east to San Sebastian, where the drive is 1.5 hours each way. On the way to San Sebastian, stop at Gaztelugatxeko ! I spent a couple of hours on the hillside overlooking the sea and grabbing lunch at the restaurant there.

In San Sebastian, here are some of my favorite places to visit:

• La Concha Beach : Renowned for its picturesque bay and fine sands, La Concha is perfect for sunbathing, and enjoying the views.
• Parte Vieja (Old Town) : Explore the little streets, filled with historic buildings, busy pintxo bars, and trendy shops.
• Monte Igueldo : Offers panoramic views of the city and coast. Accessible by a funicular, it’s a great spot for photos and lazy walks.
• Miramar Palace : A historic building with beautiful gardens with splendid views over La Concha Bay.

I would make a reservation and grab dinner at one of the many Michelin-rated restaurants in town. To be honest, no matter where you eat, low-key or high-end, know that this is one of the biggest gastronomic towns in Spain, backed by Anthony Bourdain himself. Mornings or late afternoons are best for popular spots to avoid crowds.

For pintxos, visiting during traditional meal times will have you feeling the Spanish vibe. It’s an easy 1-hour, 15-minute drive back to Bilbao afterward.

Day 3: Explore Llanes

A little hidden gem on the northern Spain road trip is the town of Llanes in the mountainous Asturias Region, just 2 hours away from Bilbao. Llanes is known for its beautiful beaches around town, a well-preserved old town with medieval streets, traditional architecture, and the impressive Basílica de Santa María, and the stunning Picos de Europa mountains are nearby, which we are hiking tomorrow.

Here are the best things to do in Llanes:

• Playa de Toró : A unique beach known for its peculiar rock formations
• Playa de Gulpiyuri : A hidden and unusual inland beach, set in a meadow and accessible only by foot.
• Cuevas del Mar Beach : A stunning beach known for its natural caves.
• The Historic Center : Stroll through the charming streets, visit the Basilica, and see the ancient defensive tower, Torre de Llanes.
• Paseo de San Pedro : A scenic cliffside walkway with spectacular views of the Cantabrian Sea and the town – I did this after lunch and it was great!

Don’t leave Llanes without sampling the local Asturian cuisine, including fresh seafood, cheeses (like the famous Cabrales), and sidra (cider).

Or grab a bocadillo from the bakery, and head to one of the beaches above. Bocadillos are little sandwiches on fresh baguettes filled with meat (Fuet salami or Jamon Iberico) and a spread (tomato or butter). They are delicious, fresh, and always cheap!

Day 4: Hike the Picos de Europa

You’ve been eating like a little chunk this whole time, so it’s time to hit the trails! Get into the mountains and do a hike in the Picos de Europa.

➡️ Book a Guide for a Day Hike in the Picos de Europe Mountains. ⬅️

Either choose your own adventure or grab a professional mountain guide and journey through the Vega del Torro and down to Lake Moneta – this was one of the highlights of my trip.

Here are some AllTrails treks that I also have my eye on for next time:

• Ruta del Cares (Hard, 13 miles) : Known as the “Divine Gorge,” this trail is one of the most popular hikes, offering stunning views of the gorges (a shorter, easier alternative ).
• Lagos de Covadonga (Hard, 10 miles) : This hike includes the famous glacial lakes of Enol and Ercina and offers spectacular mountain views.
• Fuente Dé – Cable Car and Hike (Hard, 4.6 miles): Take the cable car up and hike around the upper parts of the mountains for breathtaking views.

Day 5: Gijon & Playa Madre

The drive from Llanes to the first stop of the day, Playa Madre, is 40 minutes. I spent the morning on Playa Madre, and if you’re up for a little detour drive, this is worth it: Mirador del Fitu . The drive from Playa Madre to Gijon for the afternoon is another 40 minutes

I spent a few lazy days in this cute city just wandering, doing a little shopping, sleeping, and bar hopping. Plenty of brewpubs and delicious restaurants around.

My best advice is to visit a Sidrería to see how cider is poured from a height to aerate it (similar to Turkish tea ). I also love walking around Cimavilla , the old fisherman’s quarter, full of narrow streets, colorful houses, and sidrerías (cider bars). I recommend eating your way through Gijon at night, especially fresh seafood and traditional dishes like fabada Asturiana.

Day 6 : Playa de las Catedrales

The drive from Gijon to Playa de las Catedrales is 1.5 hours along the coast. After you explore the caves and arches, it’s another 1.5 hours on to Santiago de Compostela, where I made a home base for the last bit of the road trip.

Playa de las Catedrales , or the Beach of the Cathedrals, is a stunning natural wonder located in Galicia, Spain. Known for its awe-inspiring rock formations, this beach is famous for its towering arches and cave-like structures that resemble the buttresses of a cathedral, hence its name.

The beauty of Playa de Las Catedrales is dramatically altered by the tide , so best to visit during the morning. During high tide, it appears just like a regular beach, but low tide reveals the magnificent arches and caves.

➡️ Local Site To Schedule a Time To Visit Playa de Las Catedrales ⬅️

There is also a wooden walkway about 12km long along the coast next to the entrance to the beach and a few local restaurants in the nearby little town of Rinlo – I loved Restaurante a Mirandilla . Go for the baked octopus ( pulpo ), it’s a specialty of Galicia!

Spend the afternoon making your way to Santiago de Compostela for dinner in the old town. This is where I spent a few days diving into the history around El Camino pilgrimage walk and the Galician culture.

Day 7: Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a destination of its own, not just the end of our road trip. This is where all the pilgrimages and caminos end and the capital of the Galician region. Most, if not all, of Santiago de Compostela’s top tourist attractions are located in the Old Town.

The Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is a ‘holy moly’ sight to see. Looking up at the massive cathedral literally left me as breathless as when I saw the Vatican for the first time. The tomb beneath the cathedral’s main altar is the burial site of St. James, and it’s the final destination of all pilgrimage walks in the region.

FUN FACT: It is just one of three known churches built over the remains of an apostle. The other two are St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City and St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica in Chennai, India.

➡️ Grab A Guided Cathedral Tour for more fun facts. It’s super cheap and educational! ⬅️

After the Cathedral tour, walk around the old town and explore the little shops and wine bars. Right around sunset, head into the Parque de Alameda for a walk.

Grab dinner at O Gato Negro and try percebes . Percebes, or “Lucifer’s Fingers”, is a delicacy along the Galician and southern Portuguese coasts. They are nicknamed not just because of their devilish appearance, but because they’re super hard to get. Give it a go – it’s an unusual regional food that you can’t have just anywhere.

Map: Road Trip Through Northern Spain

If you were to drive from one end to another, from Bilbao to Santiago de Compostela, it would take you 6 hours total.

Unique Places I ❤️ In Northern Spain

Beyond the major cities of San Sebastian, Bilbao, Gijon and Santiago de Compostela, which are all amazing, here are my favorite little places to visit on this northern Spain road trip.

✅ Gaztelugatxeko

Gaztelugatxe is not a town but a small islet on the coast of Biscay in the Basque Country, Spain, about 30 minutes from Bilbao. The islet is connected to the mainland by a man-made bridge, which leads to a narrow path with over 240 steps.

It’s best known for being the hermitage of Saint John the Baptiste de Gaztelugatxe. This place has gained international fame, especially after being featured in Game of Thrones as the fictional Dragonstone.

✅ Town of Llanes

Llanes is an ideal destination for people looking for a blend of beach time, hiking the Picos de Europa, and a fish-forward foodie scene. It’s a small town, but the combo of natural beauty and traditional Asturian charm makes it a memorable stop in northern Spain.

✅ Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao is an iconic symbol of modern and contemporary art. It’s one of those museums you should visit once in your lifetime, similar to the Prado in Madrid and the Louvre in Paris.

My Favorite Thing: Outside the museum stands one of its most famous installations, “Puppy” by Jeff Koons, a gigantic floral sculpture of a West Highland Terrier, showcasing a living, organic artwork contrasting with the metallic facade of the museum.

Designed by Frank Gehry, the museum is a masterpiece of 20th-century architecture. Not only that, but it has played a pivotal role in the transformation and revitalization of Bilbao from an industrial city into a cultural hub. It houses an impressive collection of thought-provoking modern and contemporary art, and its exhibitions are constantly evolving.

✅ Picos de Europa Mountains

The Picos de Europa mountains, located in Northern Spain, are a part of the Cantabrian Mountains. The highest peak is Torre de Cerredo, standing at 2,650 meters (8,690 feet). It’s a popular destination for hikers and there are plenty of day hikes to go on.

✅ Playa de las Catedrales

Playa de las Catedrales is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in Galicia. The beach is renowned for its massive rock arches and caves, which can be seen and explored at low tide. These formations resemble the flying buttresses of Gothic cathedrals, giving the beach its name. I think the beach provides an interesting glimpse into the power of the sea and what erosion and tides can show you.

PRO TIP: It’s crucial to check the tide schedule before planning your visit. The times for low tide change daily, so it’s important to align your visit accordingly. Also, wear water shoes when you visit, lots of slippery rocks.

During peak times, a free ticketing system is in place to protect the beach from overcrowding. You can reserve these online through the official website of the Xunta de Galicia.

Where To Stay in Northern Spain

Following the weeklong Northern Spain road trip, here is where I stayed each night, with hotel recommendations I loved.

Bilbao [2 nights]

From Bilbao, I made a day trip to San Sebastian, which is 1.5 hours away. I opted to drive back to Bilbao because it was more cost-effective, and I liked the grungy vibe in Bilbao better.

📍 Luxury: Vincci Consulado de Bilbao – View of the Guggenheim Museum, a fantastic hotel with great services, breakfast, and breakfast. 📍 Mid-Range: Bilder Boutique Hotel – Charming and modern hotel in Old Town Bilbao, great value and service.

Llanes [2 nights]

This was my home base in the Asturias region, opting for one day of beach hopping in Llanes and one day of hiking the Picos de Europa Mountains.

📍 Luxury: Hotel Rural La Lluriga – A country estate, this family-run, cozy hotel is an amazing little nature escape, with a pool, gardens, 100-year-old trees, a reading room, and a fireplace. Great home base for exploring the region. 📍 Mid-Range: Don Paco – Right in the heart of town, this hotel is actually a restored convent. Think high vaulted ceilings, exposed brick, and fireplaces with modern furniture and decor.

Gijon [1 night]

To break up the drive from Llanes to Santiago de Compostela, I spent a day in Gijon and took a little cooking class.

📍 Mid-Range & Chic: El Moderne Hotel – great for a night, has a dark masculine modern vibe to it, great price for the amenities and location.

Santiago de Compostela [2 nights]

On the way from Gijon to Santiago de Compostela, I stopped and spent a morning at Playa de Las Catedrales, but because there is not much else around, I kept driving the 2 hours all the way to Santiago and spending the last 2 nights sleeping in the beautiful town.

📍 Chic & Cozy: RoomPEDRA – A super nice little apartment, great for a 2-night stay, 5 minutes walk from the Cathedral. It’s not the usual luxury hotel I recommend, but I really liked how clean and cozy it was, and the fact that it had a kitchen because I was a bit tired of eating all my meals out. 📍 Mid-Range: Hotel Altaïr – cute boutique hotel just outside Casco Viejo (Old Town) so you can actually find parking. Comfy rooms, beds, and all the exposed brick you can get.

Getting Around Northern Spain

This route can be done by either renting a car or sorting out the public transportation – busses and trains – from city to city. I recommend renting a car and doing this as a road trip.

This is what I personally use to check prices: Discover Cars: Rental for Northern Spain Road Trip

The public transportation and Uber in Spain , especially up north in the more rural areas of this road trip are not great (or existent).

Where should I start my road trip?

I recommend starting in Bilbao or San Sebastian and renting a car to take you along the road trip to Santiago de Compostela. From here, you can either take half a day to drive back or return the car in Santiago de Compostela and fly back home.

There is a small fee that rental car companies impose if you rent in one city and return it in another, but it should not be much because you’re in the same country.

Is Driving in Northern Spain easy?

Yes, it is. Not only are the roads in good condition, but the northern Spain road trip has you driving along the rocky coastline for a few hours every couple of days.

For the longer drives from Gijon to Playa de las Catedrales, here are a few unique ways to pass the time – from road trip games to documenting your trip for friends and family!

Budgeting For A Northern Spain Road Trip

General costs depend on the time of year you go. I went in September and the weather was gorgeous, still good for the beaches and hiking, and a little past the high summer season. That said, here are some numbers and tips for you.

TOTAL COST : ~€1,200 for a weeklong road trip.

• Car Rental: $100/week
• Hotels : $60-90/night
• Food : $30-50 a day per person
• Wine : About $2 for a glass of amazing Rioja wine ( and Spaniards have a very generous pour!)

FAQ: Northern Spain Road Trip

Here are a few frequently asked questions about going on this road trip.

Is Northern Spain worth visiting?

Firstly, this region is fairly inexpensive and scenically gorgeous – you’ll have the sea on your right and the mountains on your left as you make your way west along the coast. Best of all, cell reception is spotty ( nightmare for some, heaven for others ), but it forces an unplug from a hectic world, which I truly appreciate.

And secondly, you’ll be driving, hiking, and eating along the 1,000-year-old pilgrimage route to the shrine of St. James in Santiago de Compostela . This is known as the Way of St. James or the Camino de Santiago in Spanish.

Over 200,000 pilgrims (people like you and me) travel to the city each year from various starting points all over Europe. I would love to do this walk one day for many reasons – health, inner peace, being one with nature, be one with myself.

All in all, Northern Spain is more than just Barcelona and San Sebastian. Be brave, and come see for yourself!

When Is The Best Time to Visit Northern Spain?

The best times for hiking, beach days, and generally sunniness will be in the summer or fall seasons. I went in September and the weather was a little chilly at night but sunny and warm during the day.

How Many Days Do I Need To Visit Northern Spain?

To really give it a solid go, from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela, I recommend a minimum of 1 week . You can follow the 7-day itinerary of my road trip through Northern Spain above. I spent 3 weeks altogether doing this same route, spending 3x the time in each place, and I still felt like there were things I was missing.

Do I Need Travel Insurance For This Trip?

If you’re traveling outside of your home country, and especially if you’re out there hiking and adventuring, I recommend getting some travel insurance for the duration of your stay.

SAFETYWING: Nomad Travel Insurance

Travel medical insurance with SafetyWing is my favorite because it’s flexible, less expensive than the other big insurance companies at ~$40 a month worldwide, and it covers COVID-19 quarantine situations. Here’s the link so you can look into it.

What should I pack for this road trip?

This northern Spain road trip is about a few nights out in towns like San Sebastian and Bilbao (where people dress nice), beach life, a day of hiking the Picos de Europa and visiting the famous Santiago de Compostela church. A lot to pack for, but here’s my packing list beyond the basics like toothbrush and passport:

• Backpack : A comfortable daypack for hiking and city exploring.
• Casual Outfits: T-shirts, tank tops, and comfortable shirts for the daytime.
• Nicer Outfit : A couple of dressier outfits for nights out in San Sebastian and Bilbao. Think smart-casual – a nice dress or blouse and skirt for ladies, and chinos with a polo or button-up shirt for men.
• Swimsuit : At least 1 swimsuit, cover-up, and one pair of flip-flops, a compact and quick-drying towel
• Hiking Gear : A pair of good hiking pants and a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt to protect against the sun and brush. I hiked in my sneakers and opted to leave the hiking boots at home.
• Types of Shoes : Comfortable walking shoes like sneakers (that you can do a day hike in the mountains in), one pair of flip-flops, and a pair of nicer shoes for evenings (I did opt for a low heel and it was ok).
• Light Jacket : A lightweight, waterproof jacket for unpredictable weather, especially in the mountains and coastal areas. Sometimes at night, even in the summer, there’s a chill in the air.
• Accessories : Sunglasses, a hat or cap for sun protection, and a lightweight scarf for cooler evenings.
• Travel Adapters : If you’re coming from outside Europe.

👉 PRO TIP: Pack light, because you’ll be moving your luggage frequently on the road trip. Opt for a carry-on suitcase or backpack that’s easy to handle.

Final Thoughts: Northern Spain Road Trip

I loved road-tripping through Northern Spain. I spent 3 weeks going from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela, and have put together a maximized 7-day Northern Spain itinerary that hits all the good spots.

This road trip also highlights some of the churches and cities famous for their history and food. Speaking of, most of this road trip is an adventure into the world of pintxos, riojas, and ciders of the Basque and Galician regions. So if this is your vibe, take the trip!

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

Casa Batlló, Barcelona

Basilica of El Pilar, Zaragoza

Aljafería Palace, Zaragoza.

Plaza del Castillo, Pamplona

General view of Donostia-San Sebastián

Hondarribia

View of the Bilbao Estuary

San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

View of Ordesa and Monte Perdido, Huesca

8 days – Barcelona & North of Spain by car

Pick up your rent a car in Barcelona and head north to the gastronomic gems of San Sebastian and Bilbao in Basque Country, stopping in the historic city of Zaragaza and the town of Pamplona, known for the San Fermin bull running, enroute. The route continues to the majestic Pyrenees mountains, where a few nights are spent exploring the Ordesa y Monte Perdido national park before heading back to the city.

route PROGRAMME

Day 1: barcelona.

Arrive at Barcelona El Prat airport. Overnight in Barcelona.

Day 2: Barcelona – Zaragoza

Leave the city lights and drive to Zaragoza (309 kms/3 hrs), capital of the Aragon region and a melting pot of Jewish, Roman, Christian & Islamic cultures. Visit the beautiful Cathedral of Our Lady of Pillar, the Aljafería Palace, one of the best preserved Moorish architectures outside Andalucia and sample the city’s unique cuisine. Overnight in Zaragoza.

Day 3: Zaragoza – Pamplona – San Sebastian

Today, head to Basque country onto the city of San Sebastian (267 kms /2.5 hrs). Enroute, stop at Pamplona (178 kms/1 hr 45 mins), world famous for the San Fermin running of the bulls event that takes place in July. Outside of the festival dates, the city is a quiet place with cobbled streets and a historic city centre for a rest stop – don’t forget to walk the Estafeta street, where the bulls run along. Overnight in San Sebastian.

Day 4: San Sebastian & Hondarribia

Also known as Donostia, this city is a gastronomic jewel that boasts a significant number of Michelin stars. Eating at one of these restaurants is a simply unique experience. Visit the Old Town ( Parte Vieja ), sample Pintxos (tapas) in Casco Viejo (Downtown), stroll around La Concha Beach, one of the most beautiful bays in the world or take the funicular to Monte Igueldo for fantastic views of the city.

If there is time, drive 23 kms (30 mins) near the French border to the lovely town of Hondarribia , known for its seafaring tradition and a must visit. Overnight in San Sebastian.

Day 5: Full day trip to Bilbao

Drive along the dramatic coastline of the Basque Country to Bilbao (102 kms/1 hr 10 mins), also famous for multiple Michelin star restaurants and the Guggenheim Museum. Visit the Ribera market, one of Europe´s largest indoor food market, sample the pintxos in the Old Town and admire its unique architecture found all over the city. Enroute to Bilbao, you can also choose to stop by at the colourful coastal village of Bermeo , the surfer’s paradise of Mundaca , the lovely islet of San Juan de Gaztelugaxte or the charming town of Lekeitio . Overnight in San Sebastian.

Day 6: Bilbao – Pyrenees (Ordesa y Monte Perdido national park)

Leave the coast today and head to the majestic Pyrenees mountains which runs across the Spanish regions of Catalonia, Aragon and Navarra. The most famous point in the Aragon Pyreness is the Ordesa y Monte Perdido national park and you can base yourself in any of the villages surrounding the park.

Bilbao – Torla – 324 kms/3 hrs 40 mins Bilbao – Boltaña : 333 kms/3.5 hrs Bilbao – Bielsa : 374 kms/4 hrs 15 mins

Enroute, you can also take a break in the Pyrenees town of Jaca . Overnight in Pyrenees.

Day 7: Pyrenees (Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park)

Head to the national park known for its spectacular scenery, beautiful lakes and wildlife. You can enjoy hiking, trekking, biking or any of its walking trails. Overnight in Pyrenees.

Day 8: Pyrenees – Barcelona

Today, head back to Barcelona (288-325 kms/3-3.5 hrs). You may wish to extend your stay and spend more time visiting this iconic city or depart to Barcelona El Prat airport for your flight back home.

main DESTINATIONS

One of the most modern, active and cosmopolitan European cities on the Mediterranean.

The Pyrenees

Just a two-hour drive from Barcelona, this is one of Spain’s most beautiful mountain areas.

All rights reserved. Turespaña©2024

How to Travel from Barcelona to Bilbao by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Tim Graham / Getty Images

Bilbao is the largest city and cultural capital of Spain's Basque Country, known for its superb gastronomy, breathtaking scenery, and world-renowned art scene. Many visitors travel to this northern city just to visit the Guggenheim Museum, an architectural wonder that houses some of Spain's most celebrated art pieces. Once an industrial city, Bilbao blends its 20th-century vigor with a modern-day focus on the arts for a truly unique experience.

Trains and buses will both get you directly from Barcelona to Bilbao, although the train is faster, more comfortable, and usually cheaper. A flight is the fastest way between these two cities, and there are several direct flights per day. The car will cost quite a bit more, but it gives you the freedom to control your schedule, make interesting stops along the way, and get around quickly once you arrive in Bilbao.

How to Get from Barcelona to Bilbao

• Train: 6 hours, 35 minutes, from $22
• Flight: 1 hour, 15 minutes, from $28
• Bus: 8 hours, from $56
• Car: 5 hours, 30 minutes, 380 miles (611 kilometers)

At six and a half hours, the high-speed train is one of the longer options for travel to Bilbao. However, most travelers consider the train to be the most comfortable method of transportation, and the route from Barcelona is one of the most beautiful in all of Europe, passing through Spain's premier wine region before curving through the luscious mountains that populate the north. It's a pleasant ride, and you can purchase snacks and drinks onboard the train or bring your own to enjoy.

Train tickets start as low as $22 for a one-way journey when they are first released, but get more and more expensive as the travel date gets closer. However, if you are flexible with your departure date, it's often possible to find tickets for under $40, even if you're reserving your tickets at the last minute or a few days before.

The train stations in both Barcelona and Bilbao are centrally located and are easily accessible by public transportation. Since Bilbao is a much smaller city, many popular areas can be easily reached by foot from the train station.

Low-cost airline Vueling flies several times a day from Barcelona to Bilbao, with one-way tickets starting as low as $28. The flight is a little over an hour, so it's by far the quickest way to travel between the two cities. Even once you factor in the time it takes to check in, go through security, and wait at your gate, flying is still significantly faster than the train. Although the train stations are both centrally located, the airports aren't far and are easily reached via public transit. Barcelona's El Prat Airport is only about 30 minutes from the city center by train, while the local bus in Bilbao gets you there from the airport in under 25 minutes.

While buses are usually the most budget-friendly option, the bus from Barcelona to Bilbao is surprisingly expensive and also the longest journey. It takes about eight hours and the price starts at $60, significantly more than the starting price for both the train and flights. If you are making very last-minute plans and it's summer or during a holiday weekend, the bus may be your only option if trains and flights are sold out or soar in price. Otherwise, the bus should be your last resort choice.

Buses depart from Barcelona at either Barcelona-Sants or Barcelona-Nord stations, so be aware of which one you're choosing when reserving your ticket. Both are located in central and well-connected locations, so choose whichever one is most convenient for you. All buses arrive at the main bus depot in Bilbao, which is on the west side of town. To get to the city center or Historic Quarter, you can take the tram or a taxi.

If you're up for a leisurely drive across Northern Spain, rent a car, fire up the GPS, and hit the road. The 380-mile drive from Barcelona to Bilbao takes about five and a half hours, traveling mainly on the AP-2 and AP-68 highways, which are toll roads. When you arrive at the toll booths, you'll have the option to pay with a credit card or cash, but American credit cards aren't always accepted. Carry some euros with you just in case so you aren't stuck at a toll unable to pay.

The best part of driving your own vehicle is being able to stop and explore in the many cities you'll pass along the way. You'll drive right through Zaragoza, one of Spain's largest cities also known for its medieval landmarks and massive cathedral, and a perfect place to stop for lunch to break up the drive. Before entering the Basque Country, you'll also pass through La Rioja, one of Spain's top wine-producing regions. Wine lovers should make a stop in the capital city, Logroño, and spend a night tasting some of the local blends.

If you have a car, you can also explore more of the Basque Country after arriving to Bilbao. San Sebastian is one of the area's most beautiful cities, and is only an hour's drive away from Bilbao. Another option that requires a car to visit is San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a stunning viewpoint that fans of "Games of Thrones" will recognize.

What to See in Bilbao

Architect Frank Gehry's Bilbao Guggenheim Museum, built of titanium, glass, and limestone, is at the top of the list of must-sees in all of Spain, for its architecture as well as its magnificent art collection. If that's not enough to lure you, there are 40 Michelin-starred restaurants in Bilbao and the surrounding Basque Country. Bars in Bilbao are famous for their mouthwatering pintxos , the Basque version of Spanish tapas. So if you're into food and art, Bilbao is not to be missed.

Tickets on the high-speed train start at 18 euros (around $22) for a one-way ticket when they're first released. If you have flexible travel plans it's possible to snag a last-minute ticket for 33 euros ($40) or less.

The flight takes an hour and 15 minutes, not including time to get to and from the airports and through security.

Bilbao is 380 miles (611 kilometers) away from Barcelona by car.

How to Travel From Barcelona to Bordeaux by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Traveling by Train in Europe: Where, Why, and How

Plan the Perfect Trip to Spain

How to Travel from Washington, DC to New York City by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Get from City to City in Spain

How to Travel from Barcelona to San Sebastian by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel from Frankfurt to Paris by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel From London to Paris by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

How to Travel From Rome to Naples by Train, Plane, Bus, or Car

How to Travel from Barcelona to Alicante by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel From Madrid to Bilbao by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel From Barcelona to Zaragoza by Train, Bus, and Car

How to Travel from Madrid to Barcelona by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel from Barcelona to Marseille by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel From Barcelona to Seville by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel From Barcelona to Toulouse by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

• Fueteventura
• Gran Canaria
• All Portugal Tours
• All Spain Tours
• All Azores Islands
• Santa Maria
• All Portugal
• Castro Marim
• São Brás de Alportel
• Vila do Bispo
• Vila Real de Santo António
• Sintra & Cascais
• Azeitão & Sesimbra
• Ericeira, Peniche & Mafra
• Douro Valley
• Braga & Gerês
• Costa Verde
• Spanish Border
• Viana do Castelo
• All Northern Spain
• San Sebastian
• Vitoria-Gasteiz
• Castro Urdiales
• Santiago de Compostela
• Picos de Europa
• Ciudad Real
• Guadalajara
• All Andalucia
• Jerez de la Fronteira
• Sherry Route
• Sierra Nevada
• All Canary Islands
• Fuerteventura
• Lanzarote & Graciosa

Design Your Next Adventure

Request a quote>

Northern Spain Road Trip Itinerary

Most people that travel to Spain end up in the south enjoying the sun-drenched beaches of Costa del Sol and the Moorish heritage of Andalucia, or in the big cities like Madrid and Barcelona, ​​but there's much more to discover in this Iberian country. We're heading North this time on a road trip from the Basque Country to Navarra, passing through picturesque medieval villages, wild beaches and charming wine regions.

We'll admire Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum and explore all the corners of the Picos de Europa National Park, all while tasting delicious pintxos and Rioja wine.

Our Northern Spain road trip starts in Bilbao and ends in Pamplona, lasting for about three weeks. But you can absolutely make this a shorter trip by skipping a few cities if you don’t have that much time. There are also several possible starting points, so you can follow along or choose a city that fits you and go from there.

Note: The links on this article will take you to a personalised itinerary of each city, which include tips on what to see, where to eat, and where to stay.

Where to Start and End Your Northern Spain Road Trip

We started our trip in Bilbao, as this is one of the major cities in Northern Spain. The city has an airport with international flights but it is also connected to the UK via ferries that depart from Portsmouth. You can also start in San Sebastián, another Basque city, but this one only has a domestic airport, so you'll need to arrange transportation there from another city like Madrid. Another alternative is to begin in the Cantabria region around Santander, which also has ferries from the UK starting in Plymouth or Portsmouth. Depending on where you start your trip, you'll have a different ending point. When returning home, it's best to choose a city with flights or ferry access to your country. There are international airports in Bilbao (Basque Country), Santander (Cantabria) and Santiago de Compostela (Galicia).

Northern Spain Road Trip Duration

It's worth spending at least a week exploring Northern Spain. The area covers eight regions including the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, Galicia, Castilla y León, La Rioja, Aragon and Navarra. You can start with a tour to the major cities within each region, such as Bilbao, San Sebastián, Santander, Gijón, Santiago de Compostela, León and Logroño, and spend a couple of days exploring its monuments. Then, you can plan short trips to smaller towns and cities like Zaragoza and Pamplona. Our journey stretches for 23 days and covers most of the region, including the Picos de Europa National Park and the beaches of Cantabria, but you can cut it down to two weeks or less depending on how much time you got.

Day 1-6: Basque Country Road Trip

As the biggest city in the Basque Country, Bilbao is the perfect starting point for a Northern Spain road trip. Once an industrial metropolis, this city dazzles visitors today with its striking architecture. Most people come here to see the Guggenheim museum, but there's much more to cover, including the viewpoint at Mount Artxanda or the 16th-century Basilica de Begoña. We're spending three days here but on this last one, we're heading to the outskirts to visit the towns of Getxo and Portugalete.

After Bilbao, head to San Sebastián , where you can spend some time by the beach and enjoy a meal at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants . Stay here for two days, and then move on to Vitoria-Gasteiz . Despite being the official capital of the Basque Country, Vitoria is the least visited city in the region. One day is enough to visit the city's top attractions including its Gothic cathedral and the lively food market.

Day 7-8: Cantabria

Our road trip continues in Cantabria with a visit to Castro Urdiales , a seaside town with a medieval vibe. Most of its top sites are located on a headland overlooking the water, including the Gothic Church of Santa María and the castle of Santa Ana. Spend one day here and then move on to Santander , the region's capital. Vast sandy beaches, modern art museums and delicious seafood await you in this coastal city facing the Cantabrian Sea. Beyond the beaches, there are also other noteworthy sights such as the cathedral and the Palacio de la Magdalena.

Day 9-11: Asturias

Further west from Cantabria is the region of Asturias. Gijón is the largest city here, featuring lively restaurants and seafront promenades. It's worth visiting the old fisherman's quarter known as Cimadevilla, where you'll find the Cerro de Santa Catalina park and an ancient fort.

After one day in Gijón, drive to Oviedo , the region's capital. Visit its pre-Romanesque churches and get lost in the narrow medieval lanes. Asturias is also famous for its cider, so do not leave without trying this refreshing drink. From Oviedo, you can set off to the Picos de Europa National Park. Part of the Cantabrian Mountains, this mountain range crosses the regions of Cantabria, Asturias and Castilla y León. Here you can visit charming hilltop villages or follow one of the many hiking trails.

Day 12-17: Galicia Road Trip

The next stop is the region of Galicia. We start with a trip to another coastal city, A Coruña . Here you can enjoy a 1.4km sandy stretch, drink Estrella beer and capture landmarks such as the Torre de Hércules, one of the oldest working lighthouses in the world.

Spend two days here and then make your way to Santiago de Compostela , Galicia's capital and a famous pilgrimage site. While you're here, do not miss a visit to the stunning Cathedral and the city's monasteries. If you plan on walking the Camino de Santiago we've also included some tips for you.

After exploring Santiago for two days, move on to Vigo. Standing on the west coast of Spain, Vigo is also blessed with many beaches and provides easy access to the paradisiacal Cíes islands. Spend one day exploring the old town and then explore the outskirts on your second day, visiting places like the Ermida da Nosa Señora da Guía or the Museo Quiñones de León.

Day 18-19: Castilla y León

If you drive inland, you'll end up in the region of Castilla y León. The most northern city here is León , which is also a stop on the Camino de Santiago. The Gothic cathedral is the city's main attraction, but there are other places worth visiting including the Basilica de San Isidoro and the Casa Botines, a striking building designed by Gaudí. For food, make sure to check out the tapas bars at the historic neighborhood of Barrio Húmedo. Our two-day itinerary includes tips on where to eat, so you will not miss a thing.

Day 20: La Rioja

The journey continues in Logroño, the capital of La Rioja. This is the perfect base to explore the charming wine region of the same name. It's worth spending a day in Logroño exploring the city's picturesque squares and churches, before moving on to the vineyards. There are over 500 wineries spread across this region, but also covering Navarra and the Basque Country. If you want to learn more about this Spanish wine and the best local wineries, make sure to check out our La Rioja Wine Route Guide.

Day 21-22: Aragon

From La Rioja, head south to the region of Aragon, where you'll spend two days exploring its capital, Zaragoza. This riverside city is halfway between Madrid and Barcelona. Much less popular than those two major cities, Zaragoza deserves a visit for its historical heritage. Here, Roman theaters, Moorish fortresses and Baroque churches stand alongside each other. Noteworthy sites include La Seo Cathedral, the Aljafería Palace and the Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar. The Spanish artist Goya was also born nearby, so many of the city's museums showcase his work.

Day 23: Navarre

The last stop on the road trip is Pamplona . This small town is mostly famous for hosting San Fermín, a bull-running festival that has been celebrated here for more than 200 years. If you miss this summer event, you can still enjoy the city's landmarks, such as the cathedral and the surrounding medieval streets. The city is also home to a series of parks, including a Japanese-style garden called Yamaguchi.

Note: The closest airports to Pamplona are San Sebastián and Bilbao, so you can get a flight home from either one of those cities or head further out to the Santander airport.

Northern Spain Train Journeys

Trains are also another alternative when exploring the North of Spain. You can pick the luxurious Transcantábrico train , which travels from the Basque Country to Galicia in about eight days and includes fine dining meals and city tours. Another alternative is the Narrow-Gauge Railways , a slow-paced journey that begins in San Sebastián and ends in the town of Ferrol in Galicia. You can also prolong your trip, by starting in France at the Hendaye railway station. Whichever train you choose, you can expect stunning scenic views along the way.

Northern Spain Road Trip Map From Bilbao

At our office

Send an inquiry

Return to Spain Tours

Iberian Escapes and Algarve Lifestyle are the brand names of APCS Lda and Travel Iberica Ltd. We are a travel agency fully authorized by Turismo de Portugal RNAVT / 6867

PRIVACY POLICY

NEWSLETTER SIGN UP

© 2024 iberian-escapes.com. All rights reserved. 

The Best Road Trips in Spain and Their Self-Drive Itineraries

March 11, 2021

From rocky volcanic coasts to medieval city charm, driving in Spain can be an absolute joy. After years on the road as a travel writer and resident, I bring you the best road trips in Spain, plus the ultimate Spanish road trip itinerary. Bucket lists at the ready? Let’s go!   Updated 2021.

Table of Contents

THE BEST ROAD TRIPS IN SPAIN

If walking is one of the best ways to see a city, then driving is one of the best ways to see a country. Driving in Spain has brought me deep, deep joy, rising through the red dust of Andalusia and plunging through the deep green of Galicia. 

You can find the separate road trip itineraries through Spain dotted throughout the article, but this article focuses on the best road trips in Spain. 

• Download your free road trip essentials list and road trip packing list.
• Download the road trip planner and toolkit here.

Recommended

I love sharing the best travel resources I can find. 

• I never book a flight without looking on Skyscanner first
• My favourite one stop shop for airport transfers, food tours & excursions is Get Your Guide
• Out of the big accommodation machines, I use Expedia and Booking.com the most
• I’ve hand-picked useful travel gear and tools for you in my Amazon shop . Never leave home without a travel adapter or collapsible water bottle . I’d also recommend these soft ear plugs and a sleep mask .
• Access all our planners and budget spreadsheets in the Travel Toolbox ©
• Plan the perfect road trip with our Road Trip Planner & Toolkit ©
• Use these packing cubes to make life so much easier on the road.
• Save on mobile phone roaming charges with an eSIM from Airalo .

TRAVEL SPAIN BY CAR

We start with the ultimate Spain road trip itinerary, taking in the mainland for first time visitors. But don’t forget Spain’s islands, not to mention delving deeper into the regions to find a richer, more authentic experience when you have more time. 

Whether you call it fly-drive, self drive or want someone else to help you travel Spain by car, this is the collection of the best road trips in Spain. 

Happy planning!

The Ultimate Spain Road Trip Itinerary

If all you have is two weeks, then this is the best Spain road trip itinerary for you. This two week self-drive Spain itinerary brings you the highlights of the country at a reasonable, but not relaxed, pace. 

However, I’d always advise that you take is slow if you can. It’s far more enjoyable to spend more time out of the car than in. With that in mind, check out some of the other regional road trip ideas below.  

Of all the places in the world, Spain is disinclined to rush. People here like to take their time and savour the joys of everyday life. Racing to fit your busy schedule does not usually rank highly in that regard.

The Ultimate Spain Road Trip Itinerary At a Glance

• Day 1: Arrive Barcelona
• Day 2: Barcelona
• Day 3: Girona and the Pyrenees
• Day 4: Valencia
• Day 5: Valencia to Madrid
• Day 6: Madrid
• Day 7: Madrid to Toledo
• Day 8: Toledo to Granada
• Day 9: Granada and the Alhambra
• Day 10: Alpujarras Mountains
• Day 11: Seville via Cordoba
• Day 12: Seville
• Day 13: Cadiz via Doñana National Park
• Day 14: Malaga to fly home

Historical city centres in Spain were designed for pedestrians and, at a stretch, horses. They were not designed for cars! Be careful when following SatNav instructions into steep, old towns. You can find yourself unable to make some tight turns and then somehow need to reverse backwards down a narrow road. Stick to the main roads in town!

Southern Spain Road Trip Through Andalusia

A road trip through Andalusia, Spain’s biggest region, unsurprisingly covers a lot of ground. This passionate place is the home of flamenco, jamon and sherry, as well as staggering, world-renowned monuments. 

You can easily fill two weeks with UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Alhambra in Granada, the Real Alcazar in Seville and the unbeatable mosque turned cathedral in Cordoba. 

But a self-drive road trip through Spain allows you to visit off the radar places and explore local traditions like joining the olive oil harvest in the mountains. From the beaches to the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada, driving through Andalusia really is one of the best road trips in Spain.

Andalusia Road Trip Itinerary At a Glance

• Day 1: Arrive Malaga.
• Day 2: Drive to Cadiz
• Day 3: Cadiz to Seville via Doñana National Park
• Day 4: Seville
• Day 5: Seville to Granada via Cordoba
• Day 6: Granada & Alpujarras Mountains
• Day 7: Back to Malaga to fly home. Find the complete southern Spain road trip itinerary here.
• Malaga is the biggest international airport but you can also fly into Seville and Granada with relative ease.

How about the Madrid to Seville drive?

With so many international flights arriving in Madrid, you may be wondering whether or not you should drive from Madrid to Seville or take the train instead. 

A Madrid-Seville Road Trip can pass through many off the beaten path destinations, like Zafra and Merida, but in my opinion, it’s not one of Spain’s best road trips. 

If you are short on time, I’d highly recommend taking the extremely fast and efficient Madrid-Seville train and then picking up your rental car in Seville to tour Andalusia.

It’s also possible to drive from Madrid to Granada by car, swerving up and down the Alpujarras Mountains, but again, I’d suggest picking up your wheels in Andalusia instead.

The Sanctuary of Dismembered Wax Body Parts

Northern Spain Road Trip Itinerary

Prepare to be surprised when you find out what makes this one of the best road trips in Spain.

The northern area of Spain swaps dry plains for rocky coves, and bull rings for lighthouses and salt marshes amid the green. Famed for its seafood and as the finishing point for the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route, this northern Spain road trip itinerary will show you a different side of the country.

• Want more detail? Explore this Galicia road trip itinerary.

Northern Spain Road Trip Itinerary At a Glance

• Day 1: Arrive San Sebastian
• Day 2: San Sebastian to Bilbao
• Day 3: Bilbao to Aviles
• Day 4: Aviles to A Coruña
• Day 5: A Coruña to Santiago de Compostela
• Day 6: Santiago de Compostela to Vigo
• Day 7: Back to San Sebastian to fly home

Recommended reading:  Road Trip Galicia, Spain; The Undiscovered Northern Coast

View above the clouds on El Teide in Tenerife

Road Trip Through Tenerife (Canary Islands)

As the largest Canary Island off the northwest coast of Africa, Tenerife is famous for its fly and flop beach holidays. But there are so many unusual things to do in Tenerife , from UNESCO World Heritage cities like Laguna to primitive biosphere reserves in Anaga. It’s a hiking paradise and if tight turns and steep roads don’t phase you, a great wild landscape awaits.

Driving through Spain takes on new and heady heights when you’re bounding over black volcanic stones and watching the clouds appear beneath you. This is one of the best road trips in Spain because it is also one of the most beautiful. 

It’s also easy to combine with staying in one place and organising a series of day trips around the island. So if packing and unpacking on a road trip becomes a chore for you, try this instead. 

Road Trip Through Tenerife at a Glance

• Day 1: Arrive and stay in UNESCO World Heritage La Laguna
• Day 2: Drive El Teide Volcano
• Day 3: Los Gigantes for a whale watching excursion
• Day 4: Hiking in Anaga National Park
• Day 5: Orotava, Icod de los Vinos and Garachico
• Day 6: Pyramids of Guimar
• Day 7: Explore La Laguna and fly home

Casa Mila: worth it on any Barcelona itinerary

Road Trip Through Catalonia (Catalunya)

Barcelona is the most famous part of Catalunya but to see more of the Catalan character, get behind the wheel and enjoy one of the best road trips in Spain.

Travel by car in Spain to discover the curious city of Girona, the sandy coast of Costa Brava and the smoky peaks of the Pyrenees.  

Costa Brava offers volcanoes, sleepy coves and some of the best restaurants in the world. That’s not a boast. That’s actually a validated claim (read more about that here. )

You’ll also find flamboyant artwork from local household name Salvador Dalí, a great spot for a hot air balloon ride and a renewed appreciation for the difference between Catalan and Castilian Spanish.

• How to spend three days in Barcelona, an inside guide
• Unusual things to do in Barcelona

Road Trip from Barcelona At a Glance

• Day 3: Barcelona to Girona
• Day 4: Figueres and Cadaques
• Day 5: Garrotxa Natural Park
• Day 6: Tarragona
• Day 7: Return Barcelona to fly home

Road Trip Through Central Spain

Treat yourself to a literary, gastronomic and thoroughly authentic journey through this central part of Spain, the region of Castilla La Mancha. It’s one of the best road trips in Spain for hidden gems and a sense of exploration. 

Take in Toledo, the former capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Search the hills for the windmills made famous by Don Quixote. Hike through one of the best bird reserves in the country. And relish taking your time amid small Spanish villages, far from the crowds. 

Road Trip Through Central Spain at a Glance

• Day 1: Arrive Madrid
• Day 2: Madrid
• Day 3: Madrid to Toledo
• Day 4: Toledo
• Day 5: Don Quixote Countryside
• Day 6: Hike through the Tablas de Daimiel
• Day 7: Return Madrid to fly home

Both islands have stunning coastlines (but this place is Menorca!)

Driving the Balearic Islands

One of the best road trips in Spain involves flying to one of her smaller islands and taking a laid back approach to plans and itineraries all together. Mallorca and Menorca are the two main Balearic Islands and each has a distinctive character. Mallorca has party spots, UNESCO World Heritage and wild hiking routes. Menorca specialises more in family beaches, quiet streets, small towns and an awful lot of gin.

• Menorca or Mallorca for your Balearic Island holiday?

Set yourself up with one home base for a week and take a series of day trips to explore either island.

One of the best things about Barcelona is that it leads right onto a sandy beach…

Road Trip Along Spain’s East Mediterranean Coast

Drive from Barcelona to Valencia to experience two of Spain’s most interesting cities and her sparkling coastline as well. Find the Roman amphitheatre at Tarragona and the rice fields that gave us paella outside Valencia. If you have more than one week to ten days, continue south to the Moorish fortress in Amería as part of a road trip through Andalusia. 

Road Trip Through the East Coast of Spain At a Glance

• Day 2: Barcelona and Girona
• Day 3: Valencia via Tarragona
• Day 5: Alicante and the Costa Blanca
• Day 6: Almeria and Cabo de Gata
• Day 7: Back to Barcelona to fly home (or to Malaga)

Road Trip Across Galicia

Decked out in deep green hues and bursting with salty seafood, a road trip through Galicia provides a completely different experience of Spain. 

With a coastline more reminiscent of the rugged, craggy inlets of Ireland than the white sand of the south,  it’s no surprise that Galicia offers seafood to make even the uncertain smile. Expect lighthouses, green fields, great walking routes and great food. 

• A Galicia Road Trip: Northern Spain’s Rugged Green Coast

Road Trip Around Galicia at a Glance

• Day 1: Arrive La Coruña
• Day 2: Pontedeume and Redes
• Day 3: Porto do Barqueiro &  Viveiro
• Day 4: Praia das Catedrais
• Day 5: Torre de Hercules Lighthouse & home

Road Trip Around the Basque Country

Link up San Sebastián, Bilbao and Santander for an epic road trip through Spain’s Basque country. Taste arguably the best food in the country in the pintxos bars in San Seb and take in the curls and swirls of the Guggenheim in Bilbao. 

Add in secluded coastal curves and surprise museums, like the Balenciaga museum in Getaria , and you will find yourself with an unforgettable Spanish Road Trip.

Road Trip Through the Basque Country at a Glance

• Day 1: Arrive Bilbao
• Day 2: Bilbao
• Day 3: Bilbao to Logroño via Pamplona
• Day 4: Logroño to San Sebastian
• Day 5: San Sebastian
• Day 6: Hiking in Getaria
• Day 7: Back to Bilbao to fly home

What to know if you travel Spain by car

Cars drive on the right and you’ll need a full and valid driving license.

Tips for Spain Road Trip Itineraries

If you book through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Cheers!

Typically, it’s best to pick up a vehicle at at the airport unless you have your heart set on exploring an historic city centre first. Bring your full driving license and book in advance. I’d highly recommend booking your car rental through Hertz.

Planning in Detail

I rely on the AA Route Planner to give me times and directions in Spain. Make sure you check for:

• Tolls (or factor them into your budget anyway)

What You Need to Drive in Spain

For a robust rundown of what you need to drive in Spain head to the Government website . From here you can check the latest recommendations and legal requirements, including information on an international driving permit.

Booking Hotels

Many smaller, boutique hotels in the centre of cities will not have parking options. It’s best to either park on the outskirts of town and walk in (in some places, such as Seville, taxis will struggle to get in as well) or if that’s too difficult for you then book a hotel on the outskirts of town and use their transport to travel in. 

Highlights of Driving in Spain

Travel Spain by car and you’ll find all the following benefits.

While the big cities can get the pulse racing, for the most part, driving in Spain is a beautiful experience. Here are five reasons why:

1) THE ROADS ARE EMPTY

Outside the main cities that is. Gleaming wide main roads covered with smooth tarmac are the rule rather than the exception. Drive from  Granada  to  Seville  or Segovia to Merida and you’ll hardly see another car for miles.

2) THE SCENERY IS STUNNING

Low swirling mist rising over olive groves, intense sunshine hugging the contours of rust-red rock. Sparkling coastlines and white-washed towns with church towers spiking out of scorched plains. The green cloaked mountains of Galicia, the almond-scented mountains of Alpujarras and the Catalan curves of  the eastern Pyrenees.  Unlike driving in some countries, these views are visible from the windscreen of the car – you don’t have to wait until you park and get away from the roads.

3) GIANT BULLS ON THE HORIZON

Not real ones, of course. But building-sized, black, one-dimensional bull cutouts. Apparently, these first appeared as part of an advertising campaign for sherry. They were due to be removed until people clamoured for them to stay. Now, they add to the fun, as you never quite know when the next one will appear.

4) FRESH TAPAS AT SERVICE STATIONS

Forget about crisps, biscuits and overpriced coffee. Most petrol stations along the road in Spain are family run affairs with a chef on site. Coffee costs less than a euro while a plateful of patatas bravas, chocos, gambas or more is only a few minutes away. And if you’re feeling too hot? Try refreshing gazpacho instead.

5) FREEDOM AND GETTING OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

For reasons I’ll never quite understand, Spain has a reputation as a sand-and-sea destination and that’s about it. Visitors tend to cling to the coast and never realise just what they’re missing. Hiring a car and hitting the roads is the first step towards fixing that. Stop off in one of Andalucia’s pueblos blancos, for example, and you’ll probably be the only foreigner in town.

And that’s just for starters.

What is the best way to travel across Spain? Road trip or by train?

Great question. And the answer is: it depends. 

Driving through Spain is an absolute joy, once you are out of the cities. Road tripping through Spain allows you to reach hidden villages and hike through unspoilt landscapes. It also makes life much easier if you are travelling with your children. 

If you mainly wish to city hop between the big cities like Madrid, Barcelona and Seville, then the train is the better option. If you want to get off the beaten track and explore, go for a road trip.

Tools & Planners for the Best Road Trips in Spain

You’re in road trip heaven here, as we have everything from a full list of road trip essentials to the Ultimate Road Trip Planner for people who love freedom and hate spreadsheets.

And just for fun, we have the best road trip quotes and some road trip questions and games to help everyone get along.

Also, check out our road trip planning series on YouTube:

• The 5 biggest road trip planning mistakes people make (and how to fix them)
• The 7 best road trip planning tools.

1 thought on “The Best Road Trips in Spain and Their Self-Drive Itineraries”

The scenery is stunning indeed. I didn’t have to go driving to notice that. It’s wonderful!

Comments are closed.

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

Bilbao to Barcelona drive

Bilbao to barcelona road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Bilbao to Barcelona. If you're planning a road trip to Barcelona, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

11:00 am  start in Bilbao drive for about 1 hour

12:06 pm   Haro stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:06 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

2:42 pm   Tudela stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:42 pm drive for about 1 hour

day 1 driving ≈ 4 hours find more stops

11:00 am  leave from Saragoça drive for about 55 minutes

11:55 am   Bar El Tubo stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:55 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

2:32 pm   Valls stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:32 pm drive for about 1 hour

4:36 pm  arrive in Barcelona stay at W Barcelona

day 2 driving ≈ 3.5 hours find more stops

Bilbao to Barcelona questions

Where should I stop along the way?

Haro   (4 answers)     Bodega López De Heredia   (2 mentions) Tudela Saragoça   (6 answers)     questions about Saragoça:         What is your favorite restaurant in Saragoça?         What's the best neighborhood in Saragoça for a first time visitor? Bar El Tubo Valls   (2 answers)

Where's the best place to stay in Barcelona?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in Barcelona .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out W Barcelona , which was mentioned 10 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in Barcelona? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in Barcelona?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Ciudad Condal , which was mentioned 18 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Barcelona? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Barcelona?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Barcelona. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Barcelona.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Barcelona to Bilbao drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Bilbao to Barcelona . Or get a full Bilbao to Barcelona flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Bilbao well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Bilbao!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Bilbao to Barcelona

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

Driving directions

The route deemed to be the safest and simplest with minimal scope for error along the way. The default recommended route from Michelin.

The route offering the shortest distance to a destination via the most accessible roads. Journey times for this option will tend to be longer.

The most fuel-efficient route that also avoids toll roads.

My cost options

• B7 (Diesel)
• E5 (Unleaded)
• E85 (superethanol)
• CNG (Biomethane)
• H2 (Hydrogen)

My route options

• E5 (Unleaded) €1.700
• Route : Fast
• Distance in : Kilometres
• No restrictions

Services at Bilbao

Accommodation.

• RIBERA MARKET by ALOHA Bilbao
• La puerta verde - CASCO VIEJO-OLD TOWN
• Casual Serantes

Restaurants

• Ola Martín Berasategui

Tourist Attractions

• Begoña Sanctuary
• Plaza Moyúa
• Artxanda funicular railway
• Route from this place
• Directions to this place
• Route via this place
• Nearby hotels
• Nearby restaurants

Alternative travel

Arrive at bilbao organise your trip, other services, restaurants at bilbao.

• See restaurants from the Michelin selection

Tourist Attractions at Bilbao

• View the must-see tourist sites

Accommodation Where to sleep in Bilbao

• From €74 Centro del Casco viejo Órigenes y tradición Fabulous 8.9 24 m - 33 Artekale Kalea, 48005 Bilbao Book details 
• From €89 Old Town Madari by People Rentals Good 7.2 58 m - 22 Calle Belosticalle 1º Dcha, 48005 Bilbao Book details 
• From €98 Loft 7calles, Casco Viejo. Bio Suberb 9 60 m - Belosticalle 19, 1 izq, 48005 Bilbao Book details 

More hotels in Bilbao

Restaurants Where to eat Bilbao

• Around €30 Aura 9.5 (587 reviews) 116 m - Calle Torre Nº 7, 48005 Bilbo Book details 
• Around €25 Lurrina 8.7 (357 reviews) 146 m - Barrenkale Barrena, 16, 48005 Bilbo Book details 
• Around €23 Kalderapeko 8.6 (329 reviews) 148 m - C/ Perro, 1, 48005 Bilbao Book details 

More restaurants in Bilbao

Tourist Attractions Things to see and do Bilbao

• Santiago Cathedral The Green Guide 34 m - Pl. de Santiago, 1, Bilbao activities details 
• Bilbao VascoMuseum The Green Guide 183 m - Plaza Miguel de Unamuno, 4, 48005 Bilbao activities details 
• Bilbao's Museum of Sacred art The Green Guide 410 m - Plaza de la Encarnación, 9B, 48006 Bilbao activities details 

More tourist attractions in Bilbao

Keep in contact

My michelin account.

Work in progress.

10 Epic Spain Road Trips - Maps, Itineraries and Tips

Want to experience an amazing Spain road trip but not sure where to go? Choose from these 10 stunning routes for your road trip in Spain with our guides, detailed itineraries and insider tips.

Whether you're looking to relax in the mountains off the Costa del Sol, navigate the narrow streets of Toledo or take a stroll down Barcelona's Las Ramblas, we can help you plan the perfect Spanish road trip for you.

Best Spain road trips comparison

We have driven up and down and across Spain a lot of times over the past 15 years. Before we dive into the ideas, here's the complete list of the best road trip routes with key information. Scroll down to see more detail on each one.

Whether you want a relaxing drive along the coast or drive around the entire country of Spain, here are the 10 amazing options for a Spain road trip to pick from.

1. Andalucia road trip

A perfect way to explore Spain is to drive around Andalucia . If you love the sun, beaches and perfect mountain hideaways overlooking the sea, Andalucia is the place for you.

If you are more into culture and love grandiose cathedrals, medieval fortresses and jaw dropping architecture, Andalucia is also a place for you.

If, however, you just want to walk around historic towns and love traditional hearty Spanish food, you guessed it - Andalucia is your perfect destination.

The perfect Andalucia road trip will take you on a loop including coastal destinations such as Nerja, Malaga, Marbella, Gibraltar and Cadiz before going inland to discover Ronda, Seville, Cordoba and Granada.

This drive will scale mountains with breathtaking views and take you to the mesmerising Mezquita cathedral in Cordoba and the unique Moorish Alhambra complex in Granada.

You'll relax in the world famous Andalucian white villages of Mijas, Benahavis and Casares and mingle with new money in Puerto Banus' marina full of expensive supercars, people with too much plastic surgery and the world's biggest yachts.

Road trip length: 11 days

Total distance: 518 miles

2. Drive Spain's Mediterranean coast

Spain's Mediterranean coast is perfect for a Spanish road trip - just make sure you put sun screen on your left arm if you're driving - the sun gets hot!

Start your road trip with a mini-break in Barcelona where you can visit sights such as La Sagrada Familia, Las Ramblas and unique buildings designed by Gaudi. There are few cities that offer as much as Barcelona so it's a perfect start to the Mediterranean coast trip.

Next leg takes you south to Valencia - a seriously underrated Spanish city that offers culture, food and sunshine aplenty with an amazing historical centre.

Once you've crossed over the Sierra Nevada mountains, your trip continues to Granada, Costa del Sol, Seville and Cordoba.

You will do an abridged version of the Andalucia road trip above, but get a much broader view of Spain having driven from one corner to another.

Hugging the coast for virtually the entire trip means that you are always a few minutes away from a beach - something that can provide welcome distractions on your way.

This road trip is a perfect mix of culture and relaxation so if you want to blend the two, give it a go. You will see the world's finest architecture in Barcelona, La Mezquita in Cordoba, the Seville Cathedral and Granada's Alhambra fortress but have time to relax in Puerto Banus, lay on the beach in Nerja and roam the narrow streets of Andalucian white villages.

Road trip length: 14 days

Total distance: 1,385 miles

3. Castille Leon - visit the heart of Spain

If you're flying in and out of Madrid, the Castille and Leon road trip can be an amazing way to explore Spain without having to drive all the way to the coast or spend weeks on the road.

This road trip through Spain's heartland comes in a loop that starts and ends in the Segovia province.

You will start in the historic city of Segovia itself - famous for some of Spain's best architecture and declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

After a day of exploring, the route heads west towards Salamanca via Arévalo. Arévalo is a small historic town famous for its Mudejar architecture and art giving it a special protected status in Spain and Salamanca is an ancient city with two cathedrals - the New one (it is actually called that) began construction in 1513!

From Salamanca, you can check out other beautiful historic towns of Ledesma and Zamora before a stop in Valladolid - the assumed capital of the Castille and Leon province. Its medieval history can be seen throughout the city - the Spanish Monarchy even made Valladolid their home in the 17th century!

After a visit to the city that shares its name with the Castile and Leon region, the trip ends with a drive through the Ribera del Duero wine region - hugely underrated relative to Rioja and the Portuguese Douro wine further down the same river valley.

The end of the trip gets you to Pedraza back in the Segovia province before taking a short drive back to Madrid's airport.

You can extend this road trip to include the historic Spanish cities of Leon and Burgos in the north of the province, but that will add a lot of mileage and time to your trip and southern Castille and Leon has a huge amount to see already - you can easily spend 2 weeks exploring this part of Spain and see new places every day.

Road trip length: 7 days

Total distance: 345 miles

4. Northern Spain road trip

So often overlooked in favour of Costa Brava, Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca, Spain's northern coast makes for an amazing road trip exploring the mix of cultures, fantastic food and rocky shore scenery.

The road trip starts in the capital of Spain's Basque country - Bilbao. This is a place worth spending a couple of days in to explore its old historic centre, the surrounding mountains and the spectacular world-famous Guggenheim museum.

There is something for everybody in Bilbao with superb pintxos in street bars and michelin-starred restaurants, medieval streets and modern boulevards.

The road trip then moves west along the coast to Santander, before further stops in Santillana del Mar, the Picos de Europa national park and Gijon.

This trip includes a mix of beaches, historic Spanish cities and exploring nature - a perfect mix for a Spanish road trip!

Once you've hiked amazing gorges and filled yourself with pastries, it's time to hit the road and drive on to Oviedo and La Coruna.

Finishing off with a day trip inland to Santiago de Compostela, you will travel the entire length of Spain's Bay of Biscay coastline with everything to see along the way.

Depending on your flights, you might have to do a drive back along the coast to Bilbao or down to Porto or Madrid - this is one heck of a trip that you won't find in many recommendations or guides!

Road trip length: 10 days

Total distance: 737 miles

5. Basque country and Pyrenees

Spain's north-west corner lying on the Bay of Biscay and bordering France is full of history, tradition and... mountains.

The Basque country is a unique part of Spain - they have a prominent local language, cities that make up two prominent medieval kingdoms (Basque and Navarre) and a unique link to the Pyrenees. In medieval times, Basque country spanned the mountain range, including parts of France on the other side.

Today the region fervently focuses on its culture. As you travel in major cities such as Bilbao, San Sebastian and Pamplona, you will get to try the local pintxos tradition. In some ways similar to tapas popular in the rest of Spain, pintxos are smaller bite-size snacks served in bars and charged by number or by plate.

If you get out of the tourist areas, you will find local pintxo bars where the snacks are free as long as you keep buying the drinks!

The Pyrenees are an amazing mountain range that is not high on many tourists' radars.

Often overlooked in favour of trips to the Alps or even Sierra Nevada further south in Spain, the Pyrenees are an older mountain range with a lot of peaks over 3,000m above sea level.

The roads through the Pyrenees are fantastic and can make for really great road trips with the added bonus of hardly any other cars as you drive around. There are some fantastic hotels if you want to really relax and go off the grid for a few days - we have stayed at The Arantza Hotela in the foothills of Pyrenees and cannot recommend it highly enough - it is expensive but super luxurious and worth it!

A small number of rooms have stunning views of the surrounding hills with morning fog climbing towards the peaks and you can relax in a jacuzzi looking out over the landscape before having an amazing dinner in the hotel's gastro restaurant.

After a few days of luxuriating, it's time to drive down from the mountainside and make your way to Pamplona - a historic city famous for its July bull running festival has far more to offer than the medieval tradition. Narrow streets, beautiful stone buildings and fantastic local coffee shops are great for unwinding in late morning.

The drive back to Bilbao airport is a little under 2 hours to get you back home!

Total distance: 240 miles

6. Driving tour of Catalonia

There is a whole lot more to Spain's Catalonia region than Barcelona. You can spend weeks travelling around the area and still not see dozens of amazing villages, secret beaches, mountain waterfalls or quirky museums.

If you want to base yourself in Barcelona, instead of going on a road trip, check out our 40 day trips from Barcelona for inspiration on where you can get to!

A great route around the region can start and end in Barcelona to make it easy with flights.

From Barcelona, head south along the coast to Tarragona with a stop in Sitges and the option of relaxing in one of a few great beaches along the way.

From Tarragona, this trip goes inland towards Montblanc and all the way to La Seu d'Urgell in the Pyrenees via Solsona.

On your route across the north of Catalonia, you are spoilt for choice with the Garrotxa volcanic national park and the village of Santa Pau worth visiting, a detour into Andorra and towns like Besalu and Castellfollit de la Roca all great options before you arrive in Figueres.

After some cultural sightseeing, head on to Cadaques on the coast - there are some great beaches and a Salvador Dali House Museum.

The rest of the road trip follows the Costa Brava back down to Barcelona. There are tonnes of great places to stop including Roses resort, the canals of Empuriabrava, L'Escala and Begur. A drive inland to Girona is optional before you make it down to the relaxation end of the journey with beach stops in Tossa de Mar and Lloret de Mar on the menu.

There are few parts of the world which have so much to see in such a compact region both culturally and in nature. If you love the mountains, hiking and being off the beaten track, a road trip around Catalonia is definitely the best choice in Spain.

Road trip length: 9 days

Total distance: 520 miles

7. Historic central Spain - Castilla-La Mancha

Castilla - La Mancha is one of the largest regions of Spain and also one of the least well known by tourists.

Hidden away in plain sight right next to Madrid, it stretches almost as far as Valencia and Murcia in Spain's south east.

Exploring this region brings a mix of natural sights and beautiful historic Spanish cities. As with the Castille Leon trip, it's easy to start and finish in Madrid if that's where you can get easy flights to.

This Spain road trip starts in the most famous city in the La Mancha region - Toledo. Toledo is famous as a blend of Christian, Muslim and Jewish religions and cultures. It was the capital city of the Visigoth Empire, Spanish Moors and later of Spain at some points during the course of history.

After a couple days of sightseeing, it's time to hit the road and head on south to Ciudad Real via Consuegra and Daimiel.

There is a lot to see in this part of Spain including the infamous windmills made famous by Miguel de Cervantes' Don Quixote. The majority of the region is set on a plateau with occasional barren hills.

The trip continues east to Cuenca and Siguenza - both stunning towns but in completely different ways and both very different from a lot of typical Spanish destinations.

If you're feeling adventurous, there are a number of national parks on the way where you can stretch your legs on a hike or just take a scenic detour.

Total distance: 380 miles

8. Galicia road trip

Getting to and from the region can be tough so you might have to adjust the route depending on where you're travelling from.

The plan with this road trip is to go all the way round the Galician coastline starting from As Catedrais beach. If you don't know it by name, you've definitely seen pictures of giant rocks and archways on the sandy beach before.

Although this trip is only 5 days long, you'll spend a few of these driving along small coastal roads. Our tip is to ignore the navigator which will send you inland along faster roads. Keep the sea to your right as you go and you're unlikely to go too far wrong.

After passing the Vixia Herbeira cliffs, you'll arrive in A Coruña. Other than the Hercules Tower, the main sight here is the light house. Naturally.

Take a day to see the city and its surroundings - seafood here is amazing as it's a functioning port supplying much of the region and beyond.

The trip then continues around the coast to Santiago de Compostela. You can take the direct short cut but you will miss out on a whole lot of stunning scenery, ocean-facing cliffs and spectacular locations for light houses - on the shoreline, on cliffs and even on their own islands.

After exploring the historic and religiously important city, the route goes back towards the coast and passes Pontevedra on the way to the pretty town of Vigo.

This might not be so much of a Spanish road trip as a gentle breeze along the coast (and there will be a lot of breeze!), but it's definitely one to keep in mind if you want to unwind and keep yourself away from the tourist traps around Spain.

Road trip length: 5 days

Total distance: 322 miles

9. Road trip around Mallorca

Many don't associate Mallorca with a road trip, but the island has a huge amount to offer beside the beaches and clubs.

Flying in and out of Palma means that's a great place to start and finish your trip.

Palma is the capital and often overlooked by visitors who go straight from airport to their preferred corner of the island. The city actually has a lot to offer so it's great to spend the first or last night here depending on your flight times.

Make sure you check out the huge Cathedral (you really can't miss it) and the part of the city around the market (only open in the morning).

Once you set off, the best way to see the island is to drive all the way around.

Start by heading along the narrow cliff roads along the coast to Valdemossa and Soler - the two very popular destinations to the north of Palma. After that the road trip continues all the way to Port de Pollença before heading across the island to Cala Mesquida.

Once you've navigated the tourists, a short drive down the coast takes you to Cala Agulla where the beaches are empty and the sun is just as hot for some relaxation.

To wrap up the trip, you've got to stop off at the resort town of Cala d'Or before making your way back to Palma.

A short trip with a lot of breathtaking views and cliffs in the north and resorts with fantastic beaches on the south can be the perfect way to unwind on a short break!

Total distance: 175 miles

10. The full circle - A complete road trip around Spain

If you have time on your hands and feel adventurous, a road trip around the entirety of Spain can be an amazing way to delve into the culture, see all the corners of this amazing country and really get immersed.

One key disclaimer is that while this one sits high on our list of bucket list trips, we haven't actually done the full trip - it's a long drive!

But if you're brave enough, you can start wherever along the route you like as you it goes in a loop.

Barcelona and Madrid are likely to be the best hubs for getting in and out of Spain and the route cycles down through Valencia to an Andalucian tour before heading back north from Cordoba.

After exploring central Spain with stops in Toledo and surrounding towns and a tour of Madrid, the drive continues into Spain's Duero valley, Valladolid and on to Galicia's Vigo, Santiago de Compostela and A Coruna while taking in breathtaking views of ocean-facing cliffs and huge waves.

The trip continues along the north coast stopping off at Santander, Bilbao and San Sebastian before detouring off into the Pyrenees and the historic cities of Pamplona and Zaragoza. A mini Catalonia tour to end the trip wraps up the route that will take at least a month to complete if you want to do things other than driving.

If you do end up doing this one, please let us know! We'd love to see how you get on!

Road trip length: 35 days

Total distance: 2,800 miles

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

Global Gallivanting

Our epic spain and portugal road trip route & itinerary.

In September 2021 we drove an epic 3,500 km in 1 month visiting 12 destinations on an amazing whirlwind Spain and Portugal road trip.

We had the time of our life exploring the beautiful cities, landscapes and historical sights, eating as many tapas and pasteis de nata as possible, visiting offbeat communities and catching up with friends who have moved out there.

We didn’t find many articles online about driving around both Spain and Portugal in one trip and I didn’t find any Spain and Portugal itinerary that started from the ferry ports in Northern Spain.

So in this blog post I’ll share our route, itinerary and tips for an epic Spain and Portugal road trip – what we loved and what we would have done differently another time.

Our 1 Month Spain and Portugal Road Trip Route

We got the ferry from the UK to Spain and this was our 1 month Spain and Portugal road trip route:

Portsmouth (UK) – ferry to – Bilbao (Spain) – San Sebastian – Madrid – Granada – Orgiva – Seville – Algarve – Lisbon – Fundao – Porto – Braga – Oviedo – Bilbao – ferry to – Portsmouth.

We had wanted to do this in 2020, but it looked too difficult with the constantly changing Covid restrictions, but in 2021 the dream finally came a reality and Covid really didn’t affect our trip too much. I’ll explain more about what it’s like traveling nowadays later on in this post.

My Top Tips for Driving in Spain and Portugal

The best time to travel around Spain and Portugal is during the shoulder seasons like May – June and September – October. During this time the weather is the most pleasant and the crowds are less than during the summer holidays.

To see all of Spain and Portugal you need at least 1 month, but you could see the highlights like Barcelona, Madrid, Granada, Seville, Lisbon and Porto in 2 weeks.

We spent 1 month in Spain and Portugal, 3 weeks traveling and 10 days visiting a friend’s farm in Portugal towards the end of our trip. 3 weeks allowed us to have a few days to relax and really explore each place.

If you have time, I would recommend spending 1 month as there is plenty to see and do in both beautiful countries. If you have 1 week then just do a road trip around Andalusia or travel from Lagos to Porto or you’ll be spending more time driving than enjoying!

Car or Camper?

Whether I travel by car or campervan, my favourite way travel experiences are always road trips. Nothing can beat the freedom of exploring with your own set of wheels.

We took our own car over on the ferry from the UK, but when we’ve rented cars on previous trips to Europe we used Discover Cars because they compare all the major car hire companies and got us the best price with and no hidden fees.

A campervan or motorhome is even better for this route as your transport, accommodation and kitchen are all on wheels for the ultimate freedom! Check out Motorhome Republic to compare and find the best deals for campervans, motorhomes and RVs.

The free roads in Spain were great, but in Portugal we had to take some toll roads if we didn’t want to spend double the time driving.

Pin me for later! 🙂

To Book or Not To Book?

Europe is very popular in the summer so, especially if you are traveling in the peak season of July and August, you should book your accommodation and tickets for popular sights and attractions to avoid disappointment.

I usually prefer Booking.com to book accommodation, but for a road trip I like how Agoda has a handy filter to find hotels with car parks. The downside of taking a road trip is navigating confusing city center one way systems and finding affordable places to park.

To avoid this we stayed at hotels a little outside the city center with parking and took public transport to save us the hassle of driving in. I’ll mention the car friendly hotels with parking and easy access from the motorways that we stayed at in each destination in this post.

Be aware that tickets for some of the most famous attractions do sell out and some, like the Alhambra (a highlight of my trip) have to be arranged at least 3 days before visiting. I use Viator and Get Your Guide , to find skip the line tickets to make the most of your time and avoid queues.

There’s more practical Spain and Portugal itinerary and road trip tips at the end of the post but lets get on with my Spain and Portugal road trip route!

Our Spain Road Trip

We began our Spain and Portugal road trip taking the 24 hour ferry with Brittany Ferries from Portsmouth (UK) to Bilbao (Spain). Bilbao is a buzzing port city in the Basque region of Northern Spain and home to the Guggenheim Museum.

From Bilbao we drove through the mountainous landscape to San Sebastian. Driving a British right hand drive car on the right side of the road and figuring out the different road signs, in Spanish and Basque, was a bit confusing at first!

But Spanish roads are great and we soon got the hang of driving in Europe. It was useful to have someone in the passenger seat when merging into motorways or overtaking but over all it was fine once we got used to it.

Still, I would recommend allowing time in your Spain and Portugal itinerary so that you don’t have to rush on the first day and can acclimatize to the different driving conditions.

Bilbao to San Sebastian: 127km –  2 hours

San sebastian.

Donostia San Sebastian was a perfect start to our Spain and Portugal road trip adventure!

Only 2 hours driving (avoiding tolls) from the ferry port at Bilbao is this pretty seaside town with lovely beaches, stunning views and a fab foodie scene.

San Sebastian’s Old Town is lovely to wander while sampling the delicious Pintxos (tasty tapas-like bar snacks) in the bars and the harbour treated us to a spectacular sunset.

Our highlight was taking the historic funicular railway up to Monte Igueldo to see the quirky amusement park and incredible views from there.

Best Things to Do in San Sebastian

• Wander through the Old Town or take a walking tour
• Go up to Monte Igueldo for the views and amusement park
• Taste the best pintxos in the city – we took this food tour
• Laze on La Concha Beach or stroll along the Paseo De La Concha.

Check out more things to do in San Sebastian and  book tours here.

Where to Stay in San Sebastian –  Mercure Monte Igueldo Hotel 

The Mercure Monte Igueldo Hotel has the best views over San Sebastian, a lovely outdoor swimming pool, great breakfasts and free parking.

Also Visit: Barcelona is one of my all time favourite cities in the world for it’s combination of beautiful and unique art and architecture, beaches, food and all round amazing vibes.

Barcelona shouldn’t be missed off any Spain and Portugal itinerary but as I’ve been to Barcelona many times before we skipped it on this trip, but if you haven’t been you could skip Madrid and visit Barcelona instead and then head down the coast visiting Valencia and then heading to Granada.

San Sebastian to Madrid: 471km – 4.75 hours

From San Sebastian we drove almost 5 hours through the country to Madrid, the Spanish Capital, to break up the journey south to Andalusia.

Madrid is a beautiful, classy city with grand architecture, amazing parks, some of the most impressive art galleries and museums in the world and the largest Royal Palace in Western Europe.

Our highlight was visiting the Prado and exploring the Parque de El Retiro. This huge city center park, originally a pleasure grounds for King Felipe IV in the 17th century, is one of Madrid’s most well loved hang outs. It’s full of interesting statues, monuments, palaces, gardens, museums, galleries and activities. You can even row a boat on the lake.

Best Things to do in Madrid

• Explore Madrid’s Art Triangle; the Prado Museum , the Reina Sofía and the Thyssen-Bornemisza are considered the best art galleries. The Art Walk Pass gives you entrance and queue jump at all three.
• Marvel at Madrid’s Royal Palace – the largest in Western Europe.
• Stroll around the Gran Vía, Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor
• Relax and explore Parque El Retiro and row a boat on the lake
• Visit IKONO and the Museum of Illusions
• Sample Madrid’s best wine and tapas – we took this fun tapas crawl tour.

Check out more things to do in Madrid and  book your tickets and tours here.

Where to Stay in Madrid – Barcelo Imagine

Not wanting to drive right into Madrid we stayed at the Barcelo Imagine. It’s close to the motorways and Chamartin metro station with parking available onsite. The stylish rooftop pool, gardens and interiors also made this hotel a winner.

Madrid to Granada: 420 km – 4 hours

After a 4 hour drive from Madrid we reached Andalusia – Spain’s most flamboyant region and somewhere not to be missed of any Spain and Portugal itinerary. If you didn’t have time to travel around the whole of Spain, Andalusia is my top choice for a short Spain road trip.

From the Sierra Nevada mountains to the Mediterranean Coast, the beautiful landscapes, sun soaked white-washed villages, Moorish forts and palaces make Andalusia one of the most bewitching regions of Spain and my personal favourite.

Granada is home to  The Alhambra , a vast palace and fortress perched imposingly on a rocky outcrop against the backdrop of the mountains.

The Alhambra’s long and storied history dates back to 899 AD. It was once home to Granada’s Nasrid rulers in the 14th century and contains some amazingly intricate architecture and palaces inside.

As one of the finest and largest Moorish Islamic buildings in Europe it’s almost overwhelming how much there is to see here. The Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba, Carlos V Palace and the gardens at Generalife are all must sees.

When planning your Spain and Portugal itinerary take into account that you must book at least a few days in advance to get a time slot for the Nasrid Palaces and have your passport with you when you visit.The audio guide isn’t the best so I recommend taking a guided tour so you know more about what you are looking at!

This Alhambra guided tour has great reviews and includes the admission ticket and allows you to skip the line. I’d definitely do that next time.

Best Things to do in Granada

• Explore the magnificent Alhambra – book your fast track tickets here.
• Take a photo from the Plaza Mirador de San Nicolas for the best viewpoint of the Alhambra
• Join a sunset walking tour or a fun Segway tour of Albaicín & Sacromonte – Granada’s medieval neighbourhoods
• Visit the Sacromonte Cave Museum and see how people used to live in cave houses.
• Visit Granada Cathedral – Spain’s 2 nd largest cathedral
• Relax in a traditional Arabic Hammam

Check out more things to do in Granada and  book your tickets and tours here.

Where to Stay in Granada –  Hotel Andalusia Center 

Parking is difficult in Granada so we stayed at this comfortable, modern, good value hotel on the outskirts with a rooftop pool and on site parking only 15 minutes walk into town.

One of our reasons for taking a road trip through Spain and Portugal is because we wanted to visit some alternative communities, friends and more remote regions that would have been difficult to access by bus.

Orgiva is a small town tucked away in a beautiful valley between the Sierra Nevada mountains about 1 hour from Granada.

I’d heard about the alternative communities around Orgiva from friends in Goa and wanted to check it out for myself.

I loved how people were able to build their own unique homes and form a community in this beautiful valley. It was really inspiring for me but if you’re not into this kind of stuff and just want to focus on seeing the sights then you can skip this part for your own Spain and Portugal itinerary.

The town, and it’s interesting mixture of inhabitants, is also brought to life in the book – Driving Over Lemons by Chris Stewart which is now being made into a TV series.

Where to Stay in Orgiva –  Casa Jazmin

A lovely traditional Spanish house with beautiful swimming pool and gardens. Situated close to town with free street parking and friendly hosts

Granada to Seville: 250 km – 2.5 hours

Andalusia, and especially Seville , really captures the essence of Spain. As both the Moorish capital and later a 16th-century metropolis rich on the back of trade with the New World, flamboyant Seville has no shortage of sights and was one of the highlights of our trip.

You can see Seville’s sights on a horse and carriage ride or simply wander in the sunshine, admiring the incredible architecture and beautiful parks like Parque de María Luisa.

Don’t miss the Plaza de Espana, the Royal Alcazar and the massive Seville Cathedral – it’s the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and was even built to ‘make something so beautiful and so magnificent that those who see it will think we are mad!’

Soaking up Spanish culture, eating tapas washed down with sangria and watching flamenco is the perfect way to spend an evening in Seville.

I really fell in love with Seville, it’s became my favourite place on this trip and I already can’t wait to return. Definitely allow at least 3 days to explore Seville into your Spain and Portugal itinerary.

Best Things to do in Seville

• Marvel at The Royal Alcázar of Seville – Europe’s oldest royal palace still in continual use
• See Seville’s sights on a romantic horse drawn carriage ride
• Explore the Plaza de Espana and the beautiful Parque de Maria Luisa
• Visit Seville Cathedral and climb the La Giralda Tower
• Watch a traditional Flamenco performance in the home of Flamenco
• Visit the futuristic Metropol Parasol , also known as Setas de Sevilla, at night.

Check out more things to do in Seville and  book your skip the queue tickets and tours here.

Read More: My Perfect 3 Day Seville Itinerary and Tips

Where to Stay in Seville – Exe Isla Cartuja

The historic centre of Seville is another place where it’s hard to find hotels with parking. Exe Isla Cartuja is a good value modern hotel located near the stadium with plenty of free parking. It also offers easy access from the motorway and a quick bus into town

Seville to Carvoeiro, Algarve: 250km – 3.5 hours (avoiding tolls)

We just drove straight over the bridge and crossed the border from Spain into Portugal – there were no checks or Covid documentation required.

Our Portugal Road Trip

The Algarve

We started the Portugal part of our road trip with a much needed beach day in the Algarve! If you’re following a packed Spain and Portugal itinerary like us you’ll probably want to factor in some rest days too!

Even though it was warm in the September sun, the sea was really quite cold already so it was a super refreshing swim. The turquoise water and golden cliffs, a quintessential Algarve beach scene, made a stunning backdrop.

We only had a couple of days to spend in the Algarve to we stayed in the center of the region near the fishing village of Carvoeiro.

There is still no shortage of beautiful beaches in the Algarve , but sadly a lot of this region has been blighted with developments of towering white concrete apartment blocks (which looked empty)

But Carvoeiro retains it’s charm and made a good base to explore the nearby beaches like Praia da Marinha, kayak to Benagil Caves and to walk the Seven Hanging Valleys hiking trail to soak up the stunning views and rock formations that the Algarve is known for.

Best Things to do in the Algarve

• Relax on the beaches
• Take a boat tour  or kayak to visit Benagil Caves
• Take your Benagil Cave tour to the next level by travelling on a pirate ship!
• Walk the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
• Learn to surf by taking a surf lesson or joining a surf camp

Check out more things to do in the Algarve and find the best deals for activities and day tours here .

Where to Stay in Carvoerio –  Castelo Guest House

A unique castle themed hotel in a central location with free street parking. Soak up the stunning views over the beach from the rooms and terraces and enjoy the wonderful breakfast and hosts.

Carvoeiro, Algarve to Lisbon: 307km – 2.75 hours

(4.25 hours avoiding tolls).

Taking the toll road from the Algarve to Lisbon will cut your journey time in half.

Or, if you have more time for your Spain and Portugal itinerary and want to take the scenic route you could visit the historic town of Evora on the way from the Algarve to Lisbon.

It’s one of the most picturesque and best preserved medieval walled towns in Portugal and a UNESCO world heritage site.

One of Europe’s most distinctive, colourful and picturesque cities. Old yellow trams rattle and screech up and down along Lisbon’s cobbled streets, terracotta rooftops sprawl across the hillsides, while tile covered, pastel coloured buildings part to reveal glimpses of the shimmering Tagus river.

It’s hard not to fall in love with Lisbon. Plan to spend at least 3 days here in your Spain and Portugal itinerary.

Best Things to do in Lisbon

• Wander and explore or join a walking tour through Lisbon’s most historic and storied districts – this is the tour we took
• Ride the historic Route 28 tram through Lisbon’s most iconic districts. Or, if you’d rather avoid cramming in with the crowds take a tram tour or follow the route in Tuk Tuk!
• See the Belem Tower and marvel at the 16th-century Manueline architecture of the Jerónimos Monastery
• Take in the beautiful, heart-felt sounds of a traditional acoustic Fado show.
• Explore Lisbon from land and water in adventurous style on an amphibious vehicle
• Take a day trip to Sintra to explore the colourful fairytale castles and palaces.

Check out more things to do in Lisbon and book your skip the queue tickets and tours here.

After spending so long in Goa , and falling in love with the unique blend of Indian and Portuguese influences there, it was interesting to learn about the history and culture of Portugal on a guided walking tour of Lisbon and to explore the narrow streets of Alfama (the only part of the Old city to survive the devastating 1755 earthquake)

The waterside district of Belem is definitely worth the short tram ride out of Lisbon’s city center. This was the place where many of the Portuguese maritime explorers left from to explore the world and is a lot more spacious and relaxing than the city center.

Don’t miss the marvelling at the Belem Tower and walking along the Tagus River to the Discoveries Monument. There’s also a huge world map in mosaics on the floor behind showing all the places the Portuguese explored which was eye opening to see.

The Jeronimos Monastery , also in Belem, has beautiful nautical themed details and you can try the original recipe pasteis de natas at Pasteis de Belem nearby.

Our Highlight: Lisbon’s old yellow trams have become an icon of the city and quite the tourist attraction. Riding the scenic tram route 28 as it twists like a rollercoaster through the historic neighbourhoods like Alfama, Baixa and Chiado was one of the highlights of my time in Lisbon.

You can buy a Viva Viagem 24 hour unlimited ticket for only €6.40 which includes all trams, metros, buses and elevadors in Lisbon. But you can only buy it at a metro station not on the tram. Or you could get a Lisbon Card which gives you free access to Lisbon’s top attractions as well as free public transport.

It’s so popular its actually difficult to get on! Board at Martim Moniz, where the metro meets the tram terminus, for a good chance of getting a seat. Standing is quite the experience as the tram lurches, screeches and rattles around.

Or, to be guaranteed a seat and learn something about the streets you travel though, I recommend taking the  tram tour for a better experience.

Day Trips from Lisbon

Lisbon is also a great base to explore the many beautiful places nearby. Most of these are easily accessible with a day trip tour.

Don’t miss Sintra , a town and former royal retreat in the Sintra Mountains just 30 minutes from Lisbon. The colourful, fairy-tale like castles and mansions at Sintra are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most enchanting places in Portugal. This is the Sintra day trip we took.

You could also combine Sintra with a stop at Cabo da Rocha and the seaside town of Cascais or the picturesque Azenhas do Mar.  Find more Sintra day trips here.

Visit the surfing capital of Europe – the surf reserve of Ericeria only 45 minutes away. It’s a charming historic blue and white fishing town with beautiful beaches and one of the best places to learn to surf in Portugal – more about surf camps in Portugal here.

Where to Stay in Lisbon –  Inspira Liberdade Boutique Hotel

An elegant hotel with free parking located near Marques de Pombal so it’s easy to drive to and also close to the metro station. Some balconies have hot tubs.

For more on the different areas of Lisbon and the best hotels check out my post on Where to Stay in Lisbon.

Lisbon to Porto: 317km – 3 hours (5.5 hours avoiding tolls)

After Lisbon we headed inland to the region of Castelo Branco to visit friends on their farm near Fundao.

If you didn’t want to go into the countryside the route up the coast from Lisbon to Porto is only about 320 km which takes 3 hours driving on toll roads, or 5.5 hours without tolls.

There’s plenty of stunning beaches, legendary surf spots like Peniche and Nazare and historic towns to visit on the way including picture perfect Obidos , the historic university city of Coimbra and Aveiro , the Venice of Portugal.

A Lisbon to Porto road trip is one of the highlights of many people’s Spain and Portugal itineraries, but this time we went inland to see what life was like on the farm so check out this blog for more about the Lisbon – Porto route.

Lisbon to Fundao: 260 km – 2.5 hours (4.5 hrs avoiding tolls)

Portuguese farm life, castelo branco.

One of our main reasons for taking this Portugal road trip was to visit friends who bought an old farm near Fundao in Castelo Branco, Central Portugal and to check out what the lifestyle is like there.

This area is pretty remote with just a few small villages and plenty of nature backed by the mountains of the Serra da Estrela . There’s alot of ruins and cheap land in this area of Portugal (find them on Pure Portugal ) and its inspiring to hear and see how people have moved out here to renovate the ruins and farms to build self sufficient homesteads and live off grid.

Some are also building eco villages, communities and yoga retreats and it’s been a dream of mine for a long time to come and see what farm life in Portugal is like for myself.

Our home for the week was this self contained cabin on our friend’s farm. It’s a beautiful area and it’s really inspiring to see what’s going on here but it’s also a reality check of how much money, time and hard work it takes to make it happen.

If you aren’t lucky enough to have a friend with a farm in Portugal but still want to have this experience you can find hosts on Worldpackers looking for volunteers and you’ll receive free food and accommodation in return for your help.

(Use the code ‘GLOBALGALLIVANTING’ to get $20 off membership with Worldpackers.) 

Where to Stay in Castelo Branco –  Natura Glamping

Natura Glamping is an amazing example of a new eco resort with white geometric domes, spa baths, infinity pool, amazing views and free onsite parking.

Monsanto, Castelo Branco

While staying on the farm we took a day trip to the historic village of Monsanto – a village in Central Portugal that won the award of ‘ the most Portuguese village in Portugal ‘ and was one of the coolest places we’ve seen in the country.

Yes, the Portuguese seem to like building settlements on steep hills, but Monsanto isn’t really your typical Portuguese village. Actually it’s quite unique and even the Game of Thrones are filming the ‘House of The Dragon’ here!

I loved exploring the historic village of cobble stoned pathways and houses built around the boulders. The ruins of Monsanto castle perch high above the village with amazing views and an old church with spooky graves cut out from the rock.

Best of all it just felt like we were exploring, it doesn’t feel like a tourist attraction. Monsanto is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the Castelo Branco region.

Due to the steep, narrow, historic lanes you can’t drive into Monsanto village. There is car parking and a shuttle bus slightly down the hill.

Where to Stay in Monsanto –  Casa Mont’Santo

A cute historic fully equipped 3 bedroom cottage, accessible by car with parking, large terraces and great views

Fundao to Porto: 259 km – 2.5 hrs (4.5 hrs without tolls)

Portugal’s 2 nd city is worth visiting just as much as Lisbon and mustn’t be missed from your Spain and Portugal itinerary!

Explore the grand cathedrals, blue mosaic covered churches and the colourful buildings of the historic Ribeira district that tumble down to the Douro River where port barges would have awaited their cargo.

Nowadays you can take a cruise along the river , ride the old trams, funiculars and the modern Gaia Cable Car to explore Porto and stop in at cellar doors to taste Port wine in the city that it was invented.

Did you also know that author JK Rowling taught English and lived in Porto for a while and found inspiration for the Harry Potter series in the enchanting bookstores here like the Livraria Lello and in the uniforms of the university students.

Best Things to do in Porto

• Cross over the river on the Ponte de Dom Luis I Bridge for magnificent views
• Take the 6 bridges cruise down the Douro River
• Visit the port wine cellars and taste the best wines of Portugal on a wine tour
• Explore the historic Ribeira district or join a walking tour.
• Enjoy panoramic views of Porto from the top of the Torre dos Clérigos
• Watch the sunset from the Jardim do Morro.
• See the places that inspired JK Rowling on a Harry Potter tour
• Visit the World of Discoveries museum 

Check out more things to do in Porto and find the best deals on tours and attraction tickets here.

Our Highlight: The iconic Ponte de Dom Luis I Bridge is rated on Trip Advisor as the best thing to do in Porto and I can see why. Whether admiring it from below or walking along the top soaking up the sweeping views of this beautiful and unique city and watching the sunset from Jardim do Morro.

Soaking up the picturesque views and riverside vibes while tasting port wine in Vila Nova de Gaia and riding the cable car up to the bridge was another highlight.

Where to Stay in Porto –  Vincci Porto 

Amazing art deco style hotel in a stylishly renovated landmark building with easy access from motorway, onsite parking and opposite a tram stop. The panoramic river views from the terrace were a highlight.

Porto to Braga: 54 km – 1 hour without tolls

We made a short stop in Braga to meet a friend’s 2 week old baby! Braga looked like a lovely, historic city but it was raining most of the time we were there so we spent most of the time inside catching up and playing with the little ones.

One thing I couldn’t miss when in Braga is the UNESCO listed Bom Jesus do Monte! The wedding cake like layered steps remind me of the Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church – the famous church in Panjim, Goa.

If you’re not keen on walking up the 577 steps you can take the historic wooden funicular railway up to the top. Dating back to 1882 it’s the oldest in the world that moves using water counter balancing.

Where to Stay in Braga –  Vila Gale Collection Braga

Located in an amazing heritage building that used to be a church! With a beautiful swimming pool and gardens, fantastic central location and free onsite parking

Braga to Oviedo: 479 km – 4.5 hours (6 hours without tolls)

As we hadn’t planned enough time for our epic Spain and Portugal itinerary, after Braga we only had a few days to drive the 700km back to Bilbao for the ferry so we had to put our foot down if we were going to make it back to the ferry on time and sadly has to skip Santiago de Compostela.

We wound our way over the mountains of Northern Portugal and crossed over the border into Spain without any border checks or paperwork.

Oviedo, Spain

Northern Spain and the regions of Galicia, Asturias and Cantabria are beautiful, green and alpine-like – very different from the rest of the Spain.

We stayed 1 night in Oviedo , the unpretentious capital of the Asturias region, and had a bit of time to look around the compact and characterful old town, wander the Campo de San Francisco park and try the local food and cider.

There’s plenty to keep you occupied for a few days in Oviedo. It’s also part of the pilgrims route – the camino (way) to Santiago de Compostela and the cathedral at sunset was a mesmerising sight.

Where to Stay in Oviedo –  Exe Oviedo Centro

Great value modern hotel with spacious, comfortable rooms and free onsite parking, close to train station and 15 mins walk to the cathedral

Oviedo to Bilbao: 280 km – 3 hours

I would have loved to spend more time in Northern Spain but sadly we had our return ferry booked. The ferry departed at 8pm so the next day we drove the 3 hours along the coast from Oviedo to Bilbao.

We stopped for lunch at the pretty seaside town of San Vicente de la Barquera . The harbour, beaches, old village and castle amongst the backdrop of the mountains of the Picos de Europa make it one of the most picturesque sights on the Cantabrian coast.

Other places to visit

If we had planned our Spain and Portugal itinerary better we would have loved to visit Santiago de Compostela and spend some time walking the Camino , the historic pilgrimage route, but we didn’t have time. Plus, it feels a bit like cheating to drive there instead of walk! I’ll save it for another trip when I have enough time to walk the camino properly!

We also wished we’d had more time to explore the coastline of Northern Spain and Picos de Europa – we didn’t know the region would be so beautiful so I recommend that you leave more time in your Spain and Portugal road trip itinerary for Northern Spain than we did.

FAQs and Tips for Planning a Spain and Portugal Road Trip

Why take a road trip around spain and portugal.

There are many ways to travel around Europe – flights are cheap, an interrail pass is fun and convenient and buses are affordable.

But for this trip as we wanted to visit a lot of places in a small amount of time, including some communities and friends off the beaten track. Doing this would be difficult, time consuming and expensive without our own transport.

Nothing beats the freedom of having your own set of wheels and being able to go wherever you want, whenever you want.

Plus, there was less chance of catching Covid or dealing with Covid related paperwork when traveling in the safety of our own vehicle. When we crossed the borders between Spain and Portugal there were no checks or controls at all – we just flew straight through.

Where’s the best place to rent a car or campervan in Spain and Portugal?

We took our own car from the UK on the ferry from Portsmouth to Spain but it’s sometimes cheaper and more convenient to take a cheap flight and then rent a car when you get there.

The benefit of this is that you can drop it off in a different location from where you picked it up saving time and money on fuel (you may have to pay a one way hire charge though)

To find the best deals on rental cars I recommend Discover Cars. They compare all the best deals from the best companies which can save you alot of money – sometimes even 70%, Best of all there are no hidden fees so you can easily see the total price you’ll pay.

Traveling in a campervan, RV or motorhome is also an amazing way to explore and road trip in Europe. You can save money on accommodation and eating out when staying in a campervan or motorhome.

I use Motorhome Republic to find the best deals for motorhome and RV rental. As one of the largest motorhome rental agencies they have a price beat guarantee and the biggest choice from reputable and trusted companies.

You can find places to camp on the Park 4 Night app .  It’s easy to find places to camp for free in Spain but Portugal made wild camping illegal in 2021. There’s plenty of campsites which are still a fun, friendly and affordable option. Many have swimming pools, bars and restaurants and feel more like a resort.

How much does the fuel for a Spain and Portugal road trip cost?

We spent €300 on fuel for this 3,500 km trip.

When’s the best time for a Spain and Portugal road trip?

The Summer months of July and August are the peak season for traveling in Spain and Portugal but I think the best time for a Spain and Portugal road trip is the Spring or Autumn as it won’t be so hot and the sights will be less crowded, plus you’ll get cheaper rates on accommodation.

How to plan a Spain and Portugal itinerary? How long should we spend in each destination?

When planning an itinerary you’ll need to research what you want to see and do so you know how many days to spend in each destination.

As a general rule of thumb I usually recommend spending at least 2 nights/ 3 days  in each destination so that you have enough time to explore and relax and don’t feel like you’re spending most of your time driving.

We took 1 month for this trip but we spent 10 days with friends on their Portuguese farm, so we only had 3 weeks to travel. Although we tried to fit as much in as possible, there are still places we sadly had to skip because, to be honest, we didn’t plan our Spain and Portugal itinerary very well! So I would recommend spending at least 1 month to see the highlights of both Spain and Portugal.

If you have less time maybe just concentrate on one region like Northern Spain, Andalusia or Lisbon to Porto.

Did you use toll roads in Spain and Portugal?

To keep costs down and to see more of the countryside we tried to avoid toll roads on our Spain and Portugal road trip. This was easy to do in Spain because the free roads were so good and, on the motorways, there were petrol stations literally every 10 kms.

Portugal was a different story though and by avoiding toll roads in Portugal we would have ended spending double the time driving.

The Portuguese toll system is a bit tricky, especially if you are driving an non-Portuguese registered vehicle and don’t have an electronic transponder in your car, so it’s worth getting acquainted with it before you go for a hassle free trip . Read this article for tips.

If you rent a car in Portugal you can rent a transponder from the car hire company.

Is it more expensive to take your car on the ferry straight to Spain or to drive through France?

This is a question we spent alot of time deliberating on. Driving all the way through France looked fun with plenty to stop and see but would ultimately end up being exhausting and costly so we decided to take the car on the ferry from Portsmouth, UK to Bilbao in Northern Spain.

We estimated how much we would have spent in 5 or so days traveling through France in fuel, tolls, eating and accommodation (not to mention attractions and sightseeing) and it made more sense to take the ferry instead.

We paid £780 for return ferry tickets for 2 people, 1 car and cabins on each crossing. We found it useful to compare the routes available and get the best deal on Ferry Savers.

This 24 hour crossing is known for being rough at times but it was nice and calm and I didn’t feel sea sick at all. We had a comfortable en-suite cabin and enjoyed exploring the ferry. It felt like a mini cruise with the bars, restaurants, sun decks and even a small swimming pool.

Taking the ferry made it feel like much more of an adventure than flying!

What was it like traveling in Spain and Portugal during Covid in 2021?

The Covid situation and rules are always changing and you should always check the most up to date news before traveling.

But in our experience, in September and October 2021, Covid didn’t adversely affect our Spain and Portugal road trip too much,

We had to present either a negative test, proof of vaccination or proof of recovery and fill out a health form to enter Spain. The process of checking in and disembarking from the ferry was quick and simple. You don’t even need to get out of your car to go through immigration.

Our passports did get stamped at the Spanish border (due to Brexit UK citizens are only allowed 90 days out of 180 in the Shengen zone now.)

Apart from people wearing masks both inside and outside on the street (even though it was not a legal requirement to wear them outside) we didn’t notice many differences from traveling Europe before Covid.

Everything was open, people were friendly and happy to see tourists and, apart from wearing face masks in supermarkets and on public transport, Covid didn’t restrict or impact on our trip too much.

The restrictions had recently been relaxed in Portugal so we no longer need any tests or proof of vaccination to stay in a hotel or eat in a restaurant. There was no Covid pass in Spain.

When returning to the UK we had to fill out a passenger locator form and book a test to do on day 2 after we arrived back. We didn’t need to isolate or quarantine.

Covid doesn’t have to ruin your travels, but it’s really important these days to always check the most up to date rules before traveling!

Do you have any more tips or questions about our Spain and Portugal road trip?

I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Read More Travel Blogs:

• Discovering the Cheaper, Quieter, Hippie Side to Ibiza 
• Best places to visit in Europe

Where to Stay in Puerto Escondido: Best Beaches, Areas & Hotels (2024)

My pick of the best horse riding holidays in the uk.

Related posts

5 ideal destinations for the ultimate adventure holiday, india for beginners – why kerala is the perfect introduction to traveling in india, the ultimate 7 day phuket itinerary + koh phi phi & krabi (2024), 11 comments.

[…] Also Read: Our 2021 Epic Spain and Portugal Road Trip – Route, Itinerary and Tips! […]

Always beautiful article.

Thanks for your really interesting blog on Spain and Portugal road trip. We are travelling over from Australia in September/October for a 6 week road trip and your blog was very insightful and informative. It will help us immensely. Thanks for making our travel plans a bit easier. Nicky

Hey Nicky! So nice to hear that my blogs been useful for you! Thank you! 🙂 Hope you have a great trip 🙂

Great blog post. Really informative. Keep up the good work.

[…] was my favourite place on our epic Spain and Portugal road trip and I hope this post will give you all the tips you need to love it as much as we […]

Thanks so much for this write up. My partner and I have just decided (literally today) to do a 25 day or so road trip through Portugal and Spain and your article is really helping us plan. We fly to Seville in a week and have absolutely zero plan. Luckily car rentals are very very cheap. I was initially feeling motivated to do Southern Spain, Andalusia, Algarve, up through Lisbon and Porto and then NW Spain to San Sebastian/Bilbao/etc. But in reading your article I’m starting to think the smart thing to do is cut out NW Spain. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. It sounds like you really enjoyed Seville. My girlfriend loves beaches, and I know that NW Spain has fantastic ones, but I also imagine that late September might be too cold. Anyways, thanks again for sharing your story!

Hi Peter Thanks so much – it’s great to hear that my blog has helped you plan what sounds like an epic trip. Andalusia and Southern Portugal were my highlights of this trip and unfortunately we stayed longer than planned and ran out of time to stop at some of the beautiful places we drove through in Northern Spain when we drove back to the ferry. If you have time I think the north is a bit of a hidden gem but you can’t miss places like Seville and Lisbon – I never wanted to leave. Hope you have an amazing trip 🙂

Am interested in a road trip tour package to spain and Portugal to include catholic pilgrimage sites. Group of 4-6 pax. September-October 2024.

Nice to hear your thinking of a group pilgrimage trip to Spain and Portugal! Sorry, I travelled independently so I don’t know any package tour operator for this. Good luck 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Yes, send me the newsletter.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

40 Best Stops Between Barcelona and Porto

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

How long is the drive from Barcelona to Porto?

The direct drive from Barcelona to Porto is 700 mi (1,127 km) , and should have a drive time of 10 hrs 22 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Barcelona to Porto, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Bilbao , Salou , Zaragoza , San Sebastian - Donostia , Salamanca , Segovia , Burgos , Santander , Leon , and Avila , as well as top places to visit like Passeig Marítim and Naturlandia, or the ever-popular Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey.

Top cities between Barcelona and Porto

Donostia-San Sebastian

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Best stops along Barcelona to Porto drive

Santa maria de montserrat abbey.

Passeig Marítim

Naturlandia, portaventura world, oficina de turisme de salou, cathedral of st. mary of la seu vella, peniscola castle.

Monasterio nuevo de San Juan de la peña

Basílica de nuestra señora del pilar.

Aljafería Palace

Le train de la rhune, pamplona catedral hotel, royal palace of olite, beach of la concha.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Calle del Laurel

Santa maria cathedral, gaztelugatxe, casco viejo, guggenheim museum bilbao.

Burgos Cathedral

Magdalena Peninsula

Parque de la naturaleza de cabárceno, roman aqueduct of segovia, alcázar de segovia.

All travel reservations in 1 place

Never dig through your emails again — access all your flights, lodging, and any reservations in 1 place.

Walls of Ávila

Plaza mayor de valladolid, catedral de león, plaza mayor, catedral vieja de santa maria de la sede de salamanca, top searches in porto, other popular road trips from barcelona, explore nearby places.

• Vila Nova de Gaia
• Sao Mamede de Infesta
• Aguas Santas
• Leca da Palmeira
• Pacos de Brandao
• Santo Tirso
• Pacos de Ferreira
• Vila do Conde
• Santa Maria da Feira

All related maps of Porto

• Map of Porto
• Map of Vila Nova de Gaia
• Map of Sao Mamede de Infesta
• Map of Rio Tinto
• Map of Valadares
• Map of Gondomar
• Map of Lavra
• Map of Matosinhos
• Map of Aguas Santas
• Map of Ermesinde
• Map of Leca da Palmeira
• Map of Maia
• Map of Arcozelo
• Map of Valongo
• Map of Argoncilhe
• Map of Espinho
• Map of Gandra
• Map of Mozelos
• Map of Lordelo
• Map of Fiaes
• Map of Pacos de Brandao
• Map of Mosteiro
• Map of Mindelo
• Map of Trofa
• Map of Esmoriz
• Map of Cortegaca
• Map of Santo Tirso
• Map of Azurara
• Map of Pacos de Ferreira
• Map of Vila do Conde
• Map of Santa Maria da Feira

Porto throughout the year

• Porto in January
• Porto in February
• Porto in March
• Porto in April
• Porto in May
• Porto in June
• Porto in July
• Porto in August
• Porto in September
• Porto in October
• Porto in November
• Porto in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Porto?

Get inspired for your trip to Porto with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Porto Itinerary
• 2-Day Porto Itinerary
• 3-Day Porto Itinerary
• 4-Day Porto Itinerary
• 5-Day Porto Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from barcelona to porto.

Yes! You can drive from Barcelona to Porto.

How far is Porto from Barcelona by car?

The drive from Barcelona to Porto is 700 miles (1,127 km).

How long does it take to drive from Barcelona to Porto?

Driving from Barcelona to Porto should take you 10 hrs 22 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Barcelona to Porto?

Gas from Barcelona to Porto would cost around $61 to $143 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Barcelona to Porto?

You could check out Passeig Marítim and Naturlandia, or the always popular Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey!

What are the best cities to visit between Barcelona and Porto?

People love visiting Bilbao, Salou, and Zaragoza, among others.

What's the weather like in Barcelona?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Barcelona in January
• Weather in Barcelona in February
• Weather in Barcelona in March
• Weather in Barcelona in April
• Weather in Barcelona in May
• Weather in Barcelona in June
• Weather in Barcelona in July
• Weather in Barcelona in August
• Weather in Barcelona in September
• Weather in Barcelona in October
• Weather in Barcelona in November
• Weather in Barcelona in December

What are some other road trips from Barcelona?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Barcelona.

• Barcelona to Paris drive
• Barcelona to London drive
• Barcelona to Madrid drive
• Barcelona to Rome drive
• Barcelona to Valencia drive
• Barcelona to Florence drive
• Barcelona to Amsterdam drive
• Barcelona to Lisbon drive
• Barcelona to Milan drive
• Barcelona to Berlin drive
• Barcelona to Prague drive
• Barcelona to Venice drive
• Barcelona to Palma de Mallorca drive
• Barcelona to Salou drive
• Barcelona to Seville drive
• Barcelona to Budapest drive
• Barcelona to Vienna drive
• Barcelona to Edinburgh drive
• Barcelona to Dublin drive
• Barcelona to Turin drive
• Barcelona to Granada drive
• Barcelona to Marseille drive
• Barcelona to Zaragoza drive
• Barcelona to Brussels drive
• Barcelona to Nice drive
• Barcelona to Munich drive
• Barcelona to Porto drive
• Barcelona to Istanbul drive
• Barcelona to Benidorm drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places