West Spain Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on a fantastic journey through Spain's western regions with the West Spain Road Trip! This two week long trip takes you on a 2189 km route from Madrid to Madrid, taking in some of Spain's most stunning towns, monuments and attractions along the way. Starting in Madrid, you will make your way to Ávila and take in the beautiful medieval walls that have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From there, you will continue to León, known for its stunning Romanesque churches and cathedrals. Next, you will journey to Santiago de Compostela, renowned for its iconic cathedral and the end of the pilgrimage route. Then, you will travel to Oviedo and take in the stunning architecture of the city, as well as its many monuments and churches. Finally, your trip will end in Santillana del Mar, a picturesque medieval town filled with cobbled streets and historic buildings.
The best time of the year to take this road trip is during the spring or autumn months, when the weather is milder. Throughout the journey, you will find excellent road conditions and many historical sites to explore. You will also have the chance to visit several UNESCO Heritage Monuments, making this trip an unforgettable experience.
The West Spain Road Trip is suitable for every driver and can be managed with a moderate budget. Prepare to be amazed by the stunning scenery and create lasting memories with this incredible road trip.
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number of days
2,189 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
Madrid/El Retiro Park/Photo by nperron22 on Pixabay
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START
Madrid
Distance 2,189 km
Driving time 41.7 h
Pace: modest
569.1 kWh
Airports
MAD
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Madrid, the capital of Spain, is a vibrant city teeming with life and history. Located in the heart of the Iberian Peninsula, Madrid is the ideal starting point for a road trip to the west of Spain. From the magnificent Plaza Mayor to the magnificent buildings of Gran Via, Madrid has a variety of sights to explore.
The city is also home to some of Spain's most popular museums, including the Prado Museum, Reina Sofia National Art Center, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. Visitors can also explore the old city of Madrid, including the Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace, and the Almudena Cathedral.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD). Car rental services are available at the airport, making it easy to start your West Spain Road Trip.
Once you have the car, Madrid is the perfect starting point for a road trip to the west of Spain. Traveling through the countryside, you can visit the beautiful cities of Toledo, Segovia, Salamanca, and Avila. Each of these cities has a unique charm and interesting sights to explore, from the Alcázar of Toledo to the Roman aqueduct of Segovia.
Madrid is the perfect starting point for your West Spain Road Trip. With its vibrant culture, beautiful sights, and convenient car rental services, Madrid is the ideal place to start your journey.
1
Madrid
- Ávila
Distance 153 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
46.0 kWh
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Embark on an amazing road trip from Madrid to Ávila! This 153 km journey will take you less than two hours and you will get to explore some of the most fascinating historical sites in Spain. Start your journey by visiting the Royal Palace of Madrid and the Plaza Mayor, and then head towards the iconic Catedral de Ávila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you drive, don't forget to take a look at the walled city of Ávila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, you can also visit the Monasterio de San José, a former monastery that is now a museum. Finally, you can explore the Convento de San José and the Monasterio de Santa Teresa, both of which are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary for this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Ávila - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
Ávila - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Ávila
- Salamanca
Distance 114 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: modest
29.7 kWh
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Are you ready for a memorable road trip from Ávila to Salamanca? This 114km journey can be completed in less than 3 hours, so you can take your time to explore the stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites along the way.
Start your journey in Ávila, the medieval walled city. Here you can visit the Cathedral of Ávila, the Convent of Santa Teresa, and the Basilica de San Vicente.
Continue your journey to Salamanca. Here, you can explore the Plaza Mayor, the University of Salamanca, the New Cathedral and the Old Cathedral.
Take a break to explore the nearby villages, such as San Martín del Castañar, San Miguel de Serrezuela, and El Tiemblo.
On your way back to Ávila, you can visit the Monastery of San Pedro de Cova in El Tiemblo and the Monastery of San Andrés de Arroyo.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Salamanca - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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3
Salamanca
- Zamora
- León
Distance 218 km
Driving time 5.4 h
Pace: modest
56.6 kWh
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Embark on a 218km journey from Salamanca to León, passing through Zamora. This road trip will take you less than 6 hours and will be filled with breathtaking views, historical sites, and picturesque landscapes. Start your journey in Salamanca, a city full of history and culture with its stunning cathedrals and monuments. Then, make your way to Zamora, a city full of old churches, castles, and monuments. Finally, make your way to León, a city with a rich cultural and architectural heritage. Along the way, you will find some UNESCO World Heritage sites, making this journey even more memorable. Don't forget to take some time to admire the beautiful countryside and enjoy the fresh air. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route can be found in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for a road trip full of adventure and culture!
León - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
León
- Astorga
- Lugo
Distance 238 km
Driving time 3.8 h
Pace: fast
71.5 kWh
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Start your journey in the beautiful city of León, Spain and explore the historical sites and monuments that make it unique. In just a few hours, you'll reach Astorga, a small but charming city with plenty of attractions to explore. Make sure to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Episcopal Palace of Astorga, and the Roman walls. Then, continue your journey to Lugo, a city known for its historical sites and monuments. Don't miss the Roman walls of Lugo, which are the only ones in the world that are still intact. While here, make sure to also visit the Cathedral of Lugo, the Church of San Pedro, and the Church of San Francisco. With a total distance of 238km and a driving time of fewer than 4 hours, this road trip is an ideal way to explore the beauty of Spain. Along the way, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore some of the most interesting historical sites. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Lugo - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Lugo
- Santiago de Compostela
Distance 117 km
Driving time 3.1 h
Pace: slow
27.0 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Lugo to Santiago de Compostela! This 117 km journey takes less than three hours to complete and is packed with interesting sights and attractions. Along the way, you will pass by some of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites, including the historic Roman walls of Lugo, the Monastery of San Clodio, and the Tower of Hercules in A Coruña. Be sure to keep your eyes open for the stunning landscapes of the Galician countryside, as well as the traditional villages and churches that dot the route. As you approach Santiago de Compostela, you will be able to explore the city's old quarter, where you can find beautiful churches, plazas, and monuments. For more detailed information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Santiago de Compostela - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
Santiago de Compostela - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
Santiago de Compostela - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Santiago de Compostela
- La Coruña
Distance 244 km
Driving time 7.2 h
Pace: slow
56.2 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Santiago de Compostela to La Coruña? This 244 km journey will take you less than 8 hours and will be full of exciting stops! Start your journey in Santiago de Compostela, a beautiful city with a rich cultural and religious heritage. Take your time to explore the Old Town, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Galician countryside and visit the charming towns of Padrón and Betanzos. Don't forget to stop in A Coruña, a beautiful port city full of history and monuments. Finally, don't miss the chance to visit the Tower of Hercules, the oldest Roman lighthouse still in use. Along the way, you will find plenty of attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites. For more information, please check the itinerary of this stage. Get ready for a memorable road trip!
La Coruña - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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7
La Coruña
- Oviedo
Distance 344 km
Driving time 6.5 h
Pace: modest
89.4 kWh
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Embark on an amazing 344 km road trip from La Coruña to Oviedo! Along the way, you'll be able to visit some of the most beautiful places in Spain, including historical sites and UNESCO Heritage sites. Start your journey in La Coruña, a port city known for its iconic Tower of Hercules, a Roman lighthouse that is the oldest still standing in the world. Explore the city's charming streets and take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. From La Coruña, head to the city of Lugo, where you can visit the ancient Roman walls that have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, take a drive to the city of Astorga, a charming city with beautiful architecture and a rich history. Finally, arrive in Oviedo, the capital of Asturias, where you can explore its old town and visit its famous cathedral. Along the way, you'll also get to visit some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, so don't forget to bring your swimsuit! With so much to see and do, this road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Oviedo - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - www.piqsels.com
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8
Oviedo
- Llanes
- Santillana del Mar
Distance 198 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: fast
59.4 kWh
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Start your road trip in Oviedo, a city full of history and culture, and drive 198 km through the beautiful landscapes of Asturias. On your way, you will pass through Llanes, a charming fishing village, and end in Santillana del Mar, a picturesque town. The entire drive will take less than 3 hours, so you will have plenty of time to explore and take in the sights.
In Oviedo, be sure to visit the Cathedral of San Salvador, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Campo de San Francisco, a beautiful park. In Llanes, you can explore the old fishing port and the stunning beaches of the Cantabrian Sea. And in Santillana del Mar, you can admire the Plaza Mayor, the Colegiata de Santa Juliana, and the Palacio del Marques de Santillana.
Along the route, you will also find many other attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. For more information, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your road trip today and enjoy the beauty of Asturias!
Santillana del Mar - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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9
Santillana del Mar
- Burgos
Distance 167 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: fast
50.1 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Santillana del Mar to Burgos, a 167 km drive that won't take you more than 3 hours. Along the way, you will have the chance to visit some of the most beautiful places in Spain, including UNESCO Heritage sites. Start your journey in Santillana del Mar and visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana, a 12th-century Romanesque church, and the nearby Altamira Cave, a prehistoric art site. Then, head to the city of Comillas, where you can explore the Gaudi-designed El Capricho and the Pontifical University. As you make your way to Burgos, don't miss the Monastery of San Pedro de Cardeña, a former Benedictine monastery, and the beautiful Cathedral of Burgos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, you'll also have the chance to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Burgos - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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10
Burgos
- Segovia
Distance 215 km
Driving time 3.1 h
Pace: fast
64.4 kWh
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Welcome to the enchanting road trip from Burgos to Segovia, a journey of 215km that will take you less than 3 hours! This is one of the most beautiful stages of your tour, where you can explore the historical sites of two of the most iconic cities in Spain.
Your journey starts in Burgos, the capital of the province of Burgos and home to the magnificent Cathedral of Burgos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From here, you can also visit the Royal Monastery of Las Huelgas and the Cartuja de Miraflores, both of which are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The next stop is Segovia, a city full of history and culture. Here, you can admire the iconic Roman Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the Alcazar castle and the city’s beautiful old town.
This stage of your journey is truly magical and you will not want to miss out on any of the sites. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please refer to the ‘Itinerary’ of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Segovia - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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11
Segovia
- El Escorial
- Madrid
Distance 181 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: modest
46.9 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip? Start your journey in Segovia, Spain, and enjoy the stunning views of the city along your way to El Escorial. Here, you'll find some of the most famous historical sites, including the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial and the Valley of the Fallen. Take your time to explore these magnificent monuments and capture the most beautiful moments! The next stop is Madrid, which is only a few hours away. On the way, you'll have the chance to admire the breathtaking landscapes of the Spanish countryside. Once you arrive, you'll be amazed by the variety of attractions that this vibrant city has to offer. Visit the iconic Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace, and the Prado Museum. Don't forget to wander around the narrow streets of the old city and enjoy the unique atmosphere. The total distance of this road trip is 181 km and it should take you less than 4 hours to reach Madrid. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Let's hit the road!
Madrid - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Madrid
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The West Spain Road Trip has been an incredible journey and Madrid is the perfect ending point. Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain, is a city full of culture, art and history. From the Royal Palace, the largest in Europe, to the bustling Gran Vía, Madrid has something for everyone.
For art lovers, a must-see is the Prado Museum, with its world-renowned collection of Spanish, Italian and Flemish masterpieces. For those who prefer something a bit more modern, Madrid has plenty of modern art galleries, such as the Reina Sofia Museum, which houses works by Picasso, Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró.
Sports fans will be in their element in Madrid, with two of the world’s biggest football clubs, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid, located right in the city center. The Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid, is a great place to experience the atmosphere of Spanish football.
When it comes to nightlife, Madrid has something for everyone. From traditional tapas bars and lively nightclubs to live music venues, Madrid has something for everyone.
Finally, Madrid is served by Barajas International Airport (IATA code MAD), making it a convenient and accessible destination for travelers from all over the world.
The West Spain Road Trip has been an incredible journey and Madrid is the perfect ending point. From its world-class art galleries, to its lively nightlife, Madrid is a city full of culture, art, history and fun.
West Spain Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Madrid
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End:
Madrid
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Distance:
2,189 km
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Stay:
14 days
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Getting there:
Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Spain's western regions with the West Spain Road Trip, a two-week excursion that stretches over 2,189 km (1,360 miles). Beginning and concluding in the vibrant capital city of Madrid, this Road Trip is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, celebrated architecture, and monuments steeped in history.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Madrid: As the starting and ending point, Madrid is renowned for its pulsating art scene, elegant boulevards, and sprawling parks. Don't miss the Prado Museum, Royal Palace, and the bustling Plaza Mayor.
- Ávila: Known for its perfectly preserved medieval walls, Ávila is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its 11th-century walls feature 80-plus turrets and several gates, encircling the old town.
- León: A city with a rich history, León is home to some of the most beautiful Romanesque architecture in Europe, including the awe-inspiring León Cathedral, famous for its stunning stained glass windows.
- Santiago de Compostela: End point of the legendary Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, its cathedral is a masterpiece of Romanesque art and a repository of pilgrimage history.
- Oviedo: This city boasts a unique collection of pre-Romanesque churches, such as San Julián de los Prados, and is also noted for its Asturian cider.
- Santillana del Mar: A charming cobblestoned medieval town, often described as 'the town of three lies' because it's neither a saint (Santo), nor flat (llana), nor by the sea (Mar) as its name suggests. Its historic buildings and the nearby Altamira Caves, famous for prehistoric paintings, are a delight to explore.
Best Time to Go:
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are ideal for the West Spain Road Trip, offering pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and the beauty of seasonal changes.
Potential Risks:
The Roads are generally in excellent condition, but travelers should be mindful of local driving laws, occasional unpredictable weather, especially in mountainous areas, and the necessity of keeping their vehicles well-maintained.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- It's an accessible route for drivers of all skill levels.
- The Trip can be tailored to fit a moderate budget with various accommodation and dining options.
- There are numerous chances to visit impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- It offers a deep dive into the richness of Spanish culture, gastronomy, and historical legacy.
A good choice for:
Featuring an array of breathtaking landscapes, the West Spain Road Trip is an unforgettable journey that weaves through the tapestry of Spain's illustrious past and present. It's an essential experience for those seeking to soak in the country's historical grandeur, architectural wonders, and the diverse cultural narratives that have shaped Western Spain.
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