Relaxed 11-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to San Sebastian and Santander

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Bilbao, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Bilbao, and meet locals along the way!

Start your adventure at Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. This beloved church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Etxebarri Parkea located in Bilbao for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Zubizuri. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the art installation, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Puppy. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this art installation. Next up is Guggenheim Museum, a highly recommended museum building.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Bilbao offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Bilbao offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and seasonal menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Zortziko is one of the best restaurants for contemporary cuisine in Bilbao. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Etxanobe Atelier. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Bilbao. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Bilbao. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Bilbao!

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Bilbao. Your adventure starts at Artxanda Funicular, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Europa Parkea. This beloved park is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bilbao's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This picture-perfect museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is also worth visiting, along with Euskalduna Zubia. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Spain. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Bilbao, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Gaztandegi taberna, a top-rated dining spot in Bilbao. If you're in the mood for something new, try Café Bar Bilbao, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Laga jatetxea. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bilbao.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Bilbao and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Spain promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Getxo and drive in the direction of the town of Portugalete for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of San Sebastian, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Bilbao is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Puerto Viejo, a beloved point of interest that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Vizcaya Bridge, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba. This nature reserve is one of the town’s most well-known spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bilbao at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Museo De La Paz De Guernica. After exploring the museum, head to the beloved Urkiola Parke Naturala.

In the city of San Sebastian, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Spain.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, San Sebastian has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Arzak, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in San Sebastian. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Kokotxa. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Txiki Taberna Donosti offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Taberna Barun is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Gorriti Taberna is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in San Sebastian, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Parte Vieja is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in San Sebastian, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Today’s agenda in San Sebastian includes a public square, a beach, a park, an aquarium and much more! Gipuzkoa Plaza is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Beach Of La Concha, a captivating beach, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Alderdi Eder Parkea, a romantic park, also available for your discovery today.

Spain makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Spain also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in San Sebastian.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Federiko Taberna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Cuchara de San Telmo. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in San Sebastian.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of San Sebastian’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Spain.

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into San Sebastian, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in San Sebastian, and meet locals along the way!

A top thing to do today is to explore Gros, a must-see neighborhood in San Sebastian. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in San Sebastian, including an art installation, a heritage railway, a palace, a church and much more! Start your day with a visit to Peine Del Viento Xv. This locally renowned art installation is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Funicular Monte Igueldo, which may be one of the most respected places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring San Sebastian on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Miramar Palace, a notable palace in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cathedral Of The Good Shepherd Of San Sebastian.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Spain by joining a traveler-approved tour in San Sebastian. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in San Sebastian that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Spain more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of San Sebastian to find the best options for you!

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Savor the flavors at Bar Bixigarri, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, SSua Arde Donostia beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Danena. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in San Sebastian tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in San Sebastian.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Spain. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Spain tomorrow with new energy.

Day 7 of your self-drive tour in Spain is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz and end it in the city of Santander. You’ll stay in Santander for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Spain.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in San Sebastian, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at La Florida, a curiosity-inducing park in the city. Then, head to Plaza Virgen Blanca and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting public square.

There are many interesting places to see in San Sebastian, and when you are ready for more, go to Nueva Square. This is one of the city’s most beloved respected spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the beloved Salburua. Not far away, you'll also find Arriagako Donibane Parkea. This park is a majestic highlight in San Sebastian.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Spain at Santander. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Santander, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Santander by reserving a table at Cadelo. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Umma, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Agua Salada, a local favorite known for its delightful contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand awardee is an ideal choice for discerning contemporary and traditional foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kings Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Grog is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip across Spain, you’ll explore the area around Santander, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Santander will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Spain.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the often recommended Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, a visually striking art gallery in Santander. Next, go to Parque De Mataleñas.

After visiting Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor and Parque De Mataleñas, have a stroll along Santander's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Llamas Park. This picturesque park offers a unique experience. Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Palacio De La Magdalena, one of the most visually striking places to visit in Santander.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Santander.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante Matices Santander is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Enmienda Dieciocho. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Santander tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Little Bobby, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Spain.

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Santander. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Santander. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Santander!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Santander on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Centro Botin is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect art gallery before continuing your journey. Catedral De Santander is your next stop. This frequently visited church is one of the best-rated sights in Santander.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Plaza Porticada. This heritage-rich public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Mercado Del Este and Plaza De Pombo.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Santander offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Santander, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a highly-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're eager to try something different, consider El Sol, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Posada Del Mar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Santander. The bars in Santander make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Day 10 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Spain is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Cerrazo and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the city of Cabezón de la Sal and the city of Rionansa. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and natural wonders in the charming hamlet of Santander. Your adventure starts at Villapresente's Labyrinth, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón. This locally renowned nature reserve is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Santander's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Cueva El Soplao. Cave Of El Castillo is also worth visiting, along with Cabarceno Natural Park. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Bilbao. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Spain by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bilbao, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at El Globo taberna, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Barraca jatetxea offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante Pentxo. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bilbao.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Bilbao and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!