Salamanca 12-Day Trip Itinerary

Drive to Lille

Begin your road trip with a short drive south from Ghent to the vibrant French city of Lille.

Enjoy the changing scenery as you cross the border.

Explore Lille's Grand Place

Wander through the historic Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle), admiring the Flemish Renaissance architecture. Many shops might be open for last-minute Christmas Eve shopping.

Lille usually has a lovely Christmas market, which might still be partially active or decorated on Dec 24th.

Lunch in Lille

Enjoy a traditional French Christmas Eve lunch at a local brasserie, perhaps trying regional specialties like carbonnade flamande.

Drive to Amiens

Continue your journey south to Amiens, a charming city known for its stunning Gothic cathedral.

Amiens Cathedral Visit

Visit the magnificent Amiens Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in France.

Admire its intricate facades and soaring interior.

Check for special Christmas Eve mass timings if you wish to attend. Entrance is typically free for the main nave.

Christmas Eve Dinner

Savor a special Christmas Eve dinner at a restaurant in Amiens.

Booking ahead is highly recommended for this festive evening.

Relaxed Christmas Morning

Enjoy a relaxed Christmas morning, perhaps with a festive breakfast at your hotel or a local boulangerie if open.

Scenic Drive to Loire Valley

Embark on a scenic drive south through the French countryside towards the renowned Loire Valley. Expect limited stops on Christmas Day, so enjoy the journey and the festive atmosphere.

Arrival & Check-in

Arrive in the heart of the Loire Valley (e.

g., near Tours or Amboise), check into your accommodation, and settle in.

Christmas Day Dinner

Enjoy a festive Christmas dinner at a pre-booked restaurant in the Loire Valley.

Many hotels offer special menus.

Château de Chenonceau

Visit the elegant Château de Chenonceau, spanning the River Cher.

Known for its beautiful architecture and rich history, it's often open during the Christmas period and beautifully decorated.

Booking tickets online in advance is advisable, especially during holiday periods.

Lunch near Chenonceau

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or cafe near the chateau.

Amboise Town & Château

Explore the charming town of Amboise and visit the Royal Château of Amboise, which offers panoramic views of the Loire River.

Leonardo da Vinci's tomb is located in its chapel.

The town itself is lovely for a stroll, even if you don't enter the château.

Clos Lucé (Da Vinci's Manor)

Visit the Château du Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci's last residence.

See models of his inventions and learn about his life in France.

Dinner in Amboise

Dine at a restaurant in Amboise, reflecting on the day's historical explorations.

Château de Chambord

Visit the majestic Château de Chambord, the largest and most recognizable château in the Loire Valley, famous for its distinctive French Renaissance architecture.

Explore its vast estate.

Allow plenty of time to explore both the interior and the extensive grounds. It's a grand scale.

Lunch near Chambord

Grab a quick bite or a relaxed lunch near the Château de Chambord.

Drive to La Rochelle

Begin your journey southwest towards the Atlantic coast, aiming for the beautiful port city of La Rochelle.

Enjoy the changing landscapes of western France.

La Rochelle Evening Stroll

Upon arrival, take a leisurely stroll around La Rochelle's picturesque Old Port, enjoying the sea air and the charming evening ambiance.

Seafood Dinner

Indulge in a fresh seafood dinner at one of La Rochelle's many excellent waterfront restaurants.

La Rochelle Towers

Explore the iconic medieval towers guarding the Old Port: Tour Saint-Nicolas, Tour de la Chaîne, and Tour de la Lanterne.

Climb them for fantastic views of the city and the Atlantic.

Lunch by the Port

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many cafes or brasseries lining the Old Port.

Maritime Museum

Visit the Maritime Museum (Musée Maritime) to learn about La Rochelle's rich seafaring history, housed in several ships docked in the Bassin des Chalutiers.

Old Town Exploration

Wander through the arcaded streets of La Rochelle's charming Old Town, discovering hidden courtyards, boutiques, and timber-framed houses.

Dinner in La Rochelle

Enjoy a final dinner in La Rochelle, perhaps trying another local specialty or simply enjoying the evening atmosphere.

Drive to Bordeaux

Start your drive from your previous stop (likely in the Loire Valley region) towards Bordeaux.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you head southwest.

Plan for comfort breaks and fuel stops. Consider potential tolls on French motorways.

Explore Bordeaux City

Discover the elegant city of Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Wander through the historic center, visit the iconic Place de la Bourse and its stunning Miroir d'eau, and admire the grand architecture.

Parking can be found underground near the city center. Many attractions are free to view from outside. Consider a brief visit to the Bordeaux Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-André).

Lunch in Bordeaux

Enjoy a traditional French lunch in Bordeaux.

Try local specialties or a classic bistro experience.

Drive to Les Landes Coast

Continue your journey south towards the beautiful Atlantic coast in the Les Landes region.

The scenery transitions to pine forests and expansive beaches.

Settle into Campsite

Find and set up camp at a site near the coast in Les Landes, such as around Mimizan or Biscarrosse.

Check ahead for winter opening hours and availability.

Winter camping in this region might mean fewer sites are open. Look for municipal campsites or those catering to campervans with basic amenities. Prepare for cooler temperatures.

Visit Dune du Pilat

Experience the majestic Dune du Pilat, Europe's tallest sand dune.

Climb to the top for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Landes forest, and Arcachon Bay. Dress warmly for potentially windy conditions.

There is a parking fee. Check opening hours and accessibility in winter. The climb can be strenuous but rewarding.

Arcachon Bay & Lunch

Explore the charming seaside town of Arcachon, famous for its oyster farming.

Enjoy a walk along the promenade and find a cozy spot for lunch, perhaps sampling some fresh seafood.

Drive to Bayonne

Embark on a scenic drive south along the coast and then inland slightly to the French Basque city of Bayonne.

Enjoy the transition from sandy beaches to the greener, hilly landscapes of the Basque region.

This route may involve some tolls. Take the opportunity to enjoy the diverse scenery.

Explore Historic Bayonne

Wander through the picturesque streets of Bayonne, known for its vibrant atmosphere, colorful half-timbered houses, and impressive Gothic cathedral. Stroll along the Nive River and discover local shops.

Visit the Cathédrale Sainte-Marie de Bayonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the Petit Bayonne and Grand Bayonne districts.

Settle into Campsite

Find a campsite or accommodation near Bayonne or its coastal neighbor, Biarritz.

Many sites in this area cater to winter campers, but booking ahead is advisable.

Look for campsites with good amenities to stay warm and comfortable during winter.

Biarritz Coastal Walk

Explore the elegant seaside town of Biarritz.

Walk along the Grande Plage, visit the iconic Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin's Rock) for stunning ocean views, and soak in the city's unique surfing culture.

Lunch in Biarritz

Enjoy lunch in Biarritz, choosing from a variety of cafes and restaurants that offer views of the ocean or the lively town squares.

Relax & New Year's Prep

Spend the afternoon relaxing, perhaps visiting a local market, or preparing for your New Year's Eve celebrations. This is a good time to stock up on supplies or make dinner arrangements.

Many shops may close earlier on New Year's Eve. Check local listings for any special events or dinner options.

New Year's Eve Celebrations

Welcome the New Year!

Enjoy a festive dinner at a restaurant or a cozy meal at your campsite/accommodation. Look for local events or fireworks displays if available in the Biarritz/Bayonne area to ring in 2026.

Drive to San Sebastián

After a festive New Year's Eve, enjoy a relaxed morning before a short drive across the border into Spain, heading to the culinary capital of San Sebastián in the Spanish Basque Country.

The border crossing is typically seamless. Remember to adjust to Spanish driving rules and potentially tolls.

La Concha Beach Stroll

Walk along the magnificent La Concha Bay, one of Europe's most beautiful urban beaches.

Even in winter, it offers refreshing sea air and stunning views. You might consider the funicular up Monte Igueldo for panoramic city views (check New Year's Day opening hours).

New Year's Day means many businesses may be closed. Focus on outdoor activities and pre-check any specific attractions.

New Year's Pintxos

Explore San Sebastián's Parte Vieja (Old Town) and seek out open pintxos bars.

While many might be closed on New Year's Day, some popular spots often open later in the afternoon. Enjoy this unique Basque culinary experience.

Evening City Exploration

Continue exploring the charming streets of San Sebastián, enjoy the festive lights (if still up), and soak in the evening atmosphere of this beautiful city.

Settle into Campsite

Locate and settle into your campsite or accommodation near San Sebastián.

Options might be more limited in winter, so advance booking is highly recommended.

Research campsites in advance as not all may be open on January 1st. Consider a hotel or guesthouse as a backup.

Morning in San Sebastián

Enjoy a final morning in San Sebastián.

Perhaps visit the Mercado de la Bretxa for local produce or take a final stroll along Zurriola beach, known for its surfing.

Drive Towards Castille & León

Begin a significant drive inland from the Basque Country towards the vast plains of Castille and León.

This leg of the journey will see the landscape change from coastal hills to a more expansive, rugged interior.

This is a key driving day. Plan for fuel and comfort stops. The route will likely take you via Vitoria-Gasteiz and Burgos.

Lunch Stop

Stop for lunch in a town along your route, such as Burgos.

Find a local restaurant to refuel before continuing your journey.

Burgos Cathedral Visit (Optional)

If time and energy permit, make a brief stop to admire the magnificent Burgos Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Even viewing from the outside is impressive.

Continue Drive to Accommodation

Complete the final leg of today's drive, aiming for a campsite or accommodation further into the Castille and León region, positioning yourselves well for the final stretch to Salamanca tomorrow.

Settle into Campsite

Set up camp or check into your chosen accommodation in the heart of Castille and León.

This is a good opportunity to experience the more rural Spanish landscape.

Campsites in the interior might be simpler or require more advance booking in winter. Always have a backup hotel option.

Scenic Drive & Covarrubias

Continue your journey through the picturesque Spanish countryside.

Stop in Covarrubias, a beautifully preserved medieval village in the Burgos province. Explore its charming Plaza Mayor, unique Castilian architecture, and the Collegiate Church of San Cosme y San Damián.

Enjoy the relaxed pace of rural Spain. Covarrubias is known as the 'Cradle of Castile'.

Lunch in Lerma

Drive to Lerma, another historic ducal town, and savor a traditional Castilian lunch at a local restaurant, famous for its regional cuisine.

Look for local specialties like 'lechazo asado' (roast lamb).

Scenic Drive Towards Salamanca

Enjoy a scenic drive further south into the heart of Castile and León, heading towards Salamanca.

Take in the expansive landscapes and perhaps catch a glimpse of the impressive Castillo de Peñafiel in the distance (if on route or a slight detour is made).

Campsite near Salamanca

Arrive at a suitable campsite near Salamanca.

Set up your camp and prepare for a relaxing evening, reflecting on the journey so far. Ensure the campsite has amenities suitable for winter camping.

Confirm campsite opening hours and facilities for early January in advance. Winter camping can be chilly, so be prepared with warm gear.

Must See Salamanca Walking Tour

Begin your exploration of Salamanca with a comprehensive walking tour.

A local guide will bring the city's golden history to life, highlighting its essential landmarks and hidden gems. This is a perfect introduction to the city.

Book online in advance to secure your spots. The tour provides an excellent overview for first-time visitors.

Plaza Mayor & University Quarter

Immerse yourselves in the grandeur of Salamanca's Plaza Mayor, considered one of the most beautiful squares in Spain.

Afterward, stroll through the historic university quarter, admiring the intricate facades and trying to spot the famous frog on the University's main facade.

Traditional Salamanca Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Spanish lunch at a local restaurant in Salamanca.

Don't miss the opportunity to try 'Hornazo,' a savory meat pie, or other regional delights.

Many restaurants around Plaza Mayor or the university quarter offer excellent local cuisine.

Salamanca Cathedral Complex

Visit the magnificent Old and New Cathedrals of Salamanca, which are interconnected.

Marvel at their contrasting architectural styles, from Romanesque to Gothic and Baroque, and explore the intricate details and chapels within.

Climb the towers (Torres de la Catedral) for breathtaking panoramic views of the city (check opening times and separate ticket if interested).

Puente Romano & Riverside Farewell

Conclude your road trip with a leisurely walk across the ancient Roman Bridge (Puente Romano). This offers splendid views of Salamanca's 'golden city' skyline, especially beautiful as evening lights begin to illuminate the historical buildings. This is a perfect moment to reflect on your incredible journey.

Capture some memorable photos of the city from the bridge.