A Road Trip from Bilbao to Parla: A Guide to Routes and Drive Time
There's no better way to travel across the Iberian Peninsula than a road trip! Be it for business or leisure, Bilbao, País Vasco to Parla, Comunidad de Madrid is an excellent stretch of road that combines a myriad of historical and natural delights. Below is a guide to ensure you make the best of your journey with the different routes, distances, and driving time.
The Route Options:
Route A-1 (588 km) via Burgos:
The A-1 route is the most direct route between Bilbao and Parla. Take the N-637 road from Bilbao and join the A-1 at Burgos. The drive takes approximately 5 hours. This route passes through fascinating towns like Miranda de Ebro, and Burgos city, where you can take a tour of the famous Burgos Cathedral.
Route A-2 (575 km) via Zaragoza:
Take the N-634 road from Bilbao, and after Irún, join the A-15 towards Pamplona. At Tudela, take the A-68 road towards Zaragoza. After Zaragoza, continue on the A-2 towards Madrid. This route takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes.
Route A-3 (573 km) via Soria:
This route is less congested, and it is perfect if you're looking for a peaceful drive through less-visited towns and villages. The route takes you through Logroño, Calahorra, and Soria. Take the N-110 road from Aranda de Duero to Guadalajara. This route takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes.
Places to Stop Along the Way:
A road trip isn't complete without a few stops to explore the fascinating beauty of Spain. While driving from Bilbao to Parla, here are a few places you should consider visiting:
Burgos Cathedral: Make a stopover at Burgos, a UNESCO heritage site, and take a tour of the awe-inspiring gothic cathedral known for its intricate architecture and stunning facade.
Rioja Wine Region: If you're passing through Logroño, make a slight detour and head over to the Rioja Wine Region. Sample the famous Tempranillo wines and visit the hillsides for stunning views of the vineyards.
Toledo: A visit to Spain won't be complete without visiting Toledo, the ancient capital of Spain. Take a stroll through the narrow streets lined with synagogues, mosques, and churches, and experience the fusion of Jewish, Islamic, and Christian culture.
Final Thoughts:
Driving from Bilbao to Parla is an excellent way to discover the hidden beauty of Spain. With the different route options, you can choose the one that suits your preference. The distances vary, but as a rule, you should set aside at least 5 hours for the trip. Don't forget to take a few detours and visit the fascinating sights along the way!