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2-Day Road Trip from Santander to Nerja via Bardenas Reales and Madrid

Viewed by 293 travelers

Day 1: Drive and Nature Visit

Santander to Bardenas Reales to Madrid area, Spain on May 11, 2025

2:00pm

Departure from Santander

Begin your road trip from Santander heading southeast on the A-67 and AP-68 towards the Bardenas Reales Natural Park area.
0EUR, 0h0m

3:30pm

Break Stop at Logroño

Stop in Logroño for a short break. Grab a coffee or a snack and stretch your legs in this charming town in La Rioja region.
Approx. 5EUR, 0h30m

4:00pm

Drive to Bardenas Reales Natural Park

Continue your journey towards the stunning semi-desert natural reserve, Bardenas Reales, famous for its unique landscape and rock formations.
Park entry free, 1h30m

5:30pm

Explore Bardenas Reales Natural Park

Take a short walking or driving tour within the park to see the iconic Cabezo de Castildetierra and the varied nature of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
0EUR, 1h

6:30pm

Drive to hotel near Madrid

After your nature visit, drive approximately 90 minutes to your hotel located near Madrid for the night to rest before city sightseeing.
0EUR, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner Recommendation - Restaurante El Buey, Madrid suburbs

Enjoy a hearty traditional Spanish dinner featuring local meats and wines in a welcoming atmosphere close to your hotel.
Approx. 25-35EUR per person, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Santander to Bardenas Reales to Madrid area

Day 2: Madrid to Nerja

Madrid and onwards to Nerja, Spain on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or nearby Café

Start your day with a traditional Spanish breakfast such as tostada with tomato and jamón or churros at a local café.
Approx. 8EUR, 0h45m

9:00am

Explore Madrid City Centre

Spend the morning visiting iconic sites such as Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and the Royal Palace. Many sites open from 10am.
Royal Palace approx. 13EUR, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Enjoy a variety of Spanish tapas and fresh foods at this vibrant and renowned food market right in the heart of Madrid.
Approx. 15-20EUR, 1h

1:00pm

Departure to Nerja

Begin the drive south towards Nerja, along the A-4 and A-45. The journey takes approximately 5.5 hours without prolonged stops.
0EUR, 5h30m

6:30pm

Arrival and Check-in in Nerja

Check in to your accommodation in Nerja and take time to relax after the long drive.
Varies by hotel, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at El Refugio, Nerja

Dine on fresh Mediterranean seafood and local Andalusian dishes while enjoying views of the coast.
Approx. 25-40EUR per person, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Madrid and onwards to Nerja
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