Guide to Road-Tripping in Spain

Get lost in Seville’s Barrio Santa Cruz
This is the part of Seville that makes you fall in love with Spain. The narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed walls, and the sound of guitars around every corner make you want to slow down and stay a while.

Visit the Mezquita in Córdoba early
Go right when it opens. The mix of arches, light, and silence feels surreal, like stepping into a living piece of history before the city wakes up.

Spend a slow morning at the Alhambra in Granada
Walk through the palaces and gardens at your own pace. Every tile and view feels perfectly designed to make you pause and take it all in.

Lunch and sunshine in Valencia
After exploring the City of Arts and Sciences, head to the beach for paella the way it’s meant to be eaten: with friends, sunshine, and no rush.

Wander Cuenca’s hanging houses
This little hilltop town feels frozen in time. Cross the bridges, find a quiet café, and take in the view that seems to stretch forever.

Tapas and river views in Zaragoza
It’s worth stopping for the Basilica del Pilar and a walk along the Ebro River. Grab a drink outside and enjoy a city that feels both lively and peaceful.

Wine day in La Rioja
Dedicate a full day here. We visited Marqués de Riscal, RODA, and CVNE, and every tasting came with views that made it hard to leave.

Day trip to Tolosa and the Basque coast
We drove from San Sebastián to Tolosa for the famous steak at Casa Julián. It was easily one of the best meals of the trip. End the day walking along La Concha Beach at sunset.

Tapas crawl in Burgos
Burgos was such a surprise. The cathedral is breathtaking, but the best part was ending the night moving from bar to bar with locals, a glass of wine in hand.

Begin and end in Madrid
Start with a walk in Retiro Park and end with a glass of vermut. Madrid feels like the perfect hello and goodbye to Spain.

Bar Alfalfa, Seville
Tiny, lively, and full of charm. Order montaditos, grab a glass of wine, and let the night unfold around you.

El Librero Tapas y Queso, Seville
If you love cheese, this place is heaven. Ask for a tasting board and a local sherry, and you’ll understand why I still dream about it.

Carmen de Aben Humeya, Granada
Dinner here feels like something out of a movie. Sit on the terrace at sunset and watch the Alhambra light up.

Casa Carmela, Valencia
Paella the traditional way: cooked over wood fire near the beach. It’s one of those meals that makes you want to cancel the rest of your plans.

Casa Julián, Tolosa
The steak here is legendary, and for good reason. It’s simple, smoky, and perfectly cooked. If you only plan one big meal, make it this one.

Melt, San Sebastián
A cozy café near the water that’s perfect for a slow breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up after exploring the old town.

Boca del Lobo, Cáceres
A small, creative spot that feels modern but still deeply local. Every dish was thoughtful and full of flavor.

Inkieto, Seville
One of my favorite meals of the trip. Beautiful food, relaxed energy, and a staff that makes you feel like you’ve been there before.

Perromedio, Seville
Fun, casual, and full of life. The kind of place where you start with tapas and end up staying for another bottle.

Tapas Sin Nombre, Seville
A true local gem. No frills, no menus—just trust the bar and enjoy whatever comes out.

Crudo, Valencia
Bright seafood and fresh flavors that pair perfectly with a cold glass of white wine. Simple, clean, and delicious.

Sal Gorda, Seville
Always buzzing, always good. Order a little of everything and let the table fill up.

Rio Grande, Seville
Right on the river with views of the Torre del Oro. Go at golden hour and stay for dessert.

Marqués de Riscal, RODA, and CVNE, La Rioja
Three iconic wineries that balance beautiful architecture, world-class wine, and that signature Rioja warmth. Spend a day tasting and wandering the vineyards.