Road-Tripping Across Spain: Driving Time from Bilbao to Valence

Looking to go on a road trip from Bilbao to Valence in Spain? This scenic drive takes you through rolling hills, coastlines, and some of the beautiful Spanish landscapes along the way. Spanning more than 700km and several different regions, there are a few routes you can take to make this journey. Here is all the information you need to make the most of your road trip, including the fastest and slowest routes, distance, time it takes, and peak traffic times.

Fastest Route: AP-7 and A-23 (via Zaragoza)

The quickest way to reach Valence from Bilbao is via the AP-7 and A-23 highways, which take you through Zaragoza, the capital of Aragon. The journey covers a distance of around 750km and takes approximately 7-8 hours, depending on how much you stop along the way. Traffic can get heavy, especially during the peak hours, which might add an extra hour or two to your journey. However, the scenic landscapes and glimpses of the Spanish countryside make this a worthwhile road trip.

Shortest Route: A-68 and AP-15 (via Pamplona)

The shortest route from Bilbao to Valence takes you via Pamplona and is approximately 680km in distance. This route is relatively quick and takes around 7 hours of driving time. Heavy traffic can cause intermittent delays, particularly when passing through Madrid and other cities. Still, the sights and sounds of Pamplona, one of Spain's most iconic regions, make this journey one you won't soon forget.

The Slowest Route: N-121 and N-240 (via Logroño)

For those who have more time on their hands and wish to explore the Spanish landscapes, the slowest route from Bilbao to Valence is via Logroño. Covering a distance of approximately 880km, this route takes about 9 hours of driving time, including several stops to enjoy the beautiful Spanish countryside along the way. Traffic along this route is relatively light, even during peak hours, which makes for a more enjoyable journey.

Peak Traffic Times and Best Time to Travel

The best time to travel on this route is during the cooler months, such as September to May, when traffic is lighter, and you can enjoy the scenic views comfortably. If you plan to travel during the summer months (June-August), be prepared for intense heat, high traffic, and longer travel times. Traffic congestion is a significant contributor to slow travel times, with peak traffic occurring during rush hours in major cities like Zaragoza and Madrid.

Conclusion

No matter which route you choose, Bilbao to Valence is an incredible journey that allows you to see some of Spain's most beautiful landscapes and iconic regions. With many possible routes to choose from and varying traffic conditions, it's best to plan your journey before embarking on this adventure. Regardless of whether you opt for the fastest or slowest route, take your time and enjoy all the sights that the Spanish countryside has to offer along the way.