Relaxed 12-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Valladolid and Bilbao

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Spain, you’ll explore the area around Santander, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. 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.

Santander is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a palace, a maritime museum, a park, a beach, an art gallery and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the well-known Palacio De La Magdalena and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, an eye-catching maritime museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Parque De Mataleñas, one of the city’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the intriguing Playa De Mataleñas. When you're finished at the beach, Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor awaits your visit. This art gallery is a gorgeous highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Cadelo in Santander by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Cadelo offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Umma, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular Bib Gourmand-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Agua Salada, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional contemporary and traditional menu.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Santander and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Little Bobby, known for its lively atmosphere.

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

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Spain will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Spain, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Santander. Begin your sightseeing with Catedral De Santander. This often recommended church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Plaza Porticada, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Santander, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Mercado Del Este. This curiosity-inducing market is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Centro Botin, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

In the city of Valladolid, 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.

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 Valladolid.

Have a memorable dining experience in Valladolid by booking a table at Llantén, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in Valladolid, Alquimia - Laboratorio shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Trigo is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Valladolid. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Panoramix, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Esgueva provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Largo Adiós offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 4, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Spain and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Valladolid and beyond. With 2 nights left in Valladolid, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Valladolid today. One of the most timeless attractions included on the itinerary is Aqueduct Of Segovia. This historic monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Plaza Mayor and learn what makes this history-steeped public square unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Segovia Cathedral. After exploring the church, head to Alcázar Of Segovia. This top-rated castle is a highlight in Valladolid.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Valladolid and your accommodation.

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 Valladolid.

Don’t miss out on dining at Sercotel Valladolid, a top-rated dining destination in Valladolid. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café & copas Murmullo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at ATYPIKAL. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Valladolid this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Valladolid.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Café Bar Alborada, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Monasterio provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Spain!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Valladolid. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Valladolid. 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 Valladolid!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Valladolid today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Cathedral Of Valladolid. This photogenic church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Plaza De Fuente Dorada, Valladolid and learn what makes this historic public square unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Plaza Mayor. After exploring the public square, head to Plaza De Zorrilla. This frequently visited public square is a highlight in Valladolid. As your day continues, stop by Parque Campo Grande, known for its mesmerizing features.

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.

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 Hotel ELE Enara Boutique, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bar Candilejas is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurante Niza. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Valladolid tonight.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Bodega La Orensana C. B. , known for its lively atmosphere. Rugby Bar The Central is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Villa Gin Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Spain.

Day 6 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Spain gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Burgos Province. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Bilbao, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 5 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Valladolid, including a monastery, a park, a church, an observation deck and much more! Start your day at Abbey Of Santa María La Real De Las Huelgas. This photogenic monastery is a locally appreciated place to see in Valladolid. Then, wander over to Parque De La Isla. If instagrammable sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Burgos Cathedral. This grand church is a favorite among visitors.

Valladolid offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Mirador Del Castillo is a frequently visited spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Bilbao by reserving a table at Mina. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For a different taste experience, head to Zortziko, recognized for its delicious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Etxanobe Atelier, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Bilbao. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative 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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Boss Bilbao after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Stromboli Taberna for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Zuberoa Taberna is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bilbao!

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Bilbao, where you'll stay for 4 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!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Bilbao on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Guggenheim Museum is the first of them. Puppy is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing art installation is one of the best-rated sights in Bilbao.

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 Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This photogenic museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park and Federico Moyúa Enparantza.

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.

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 Café Iruña, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Iturriza Taberna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Antxoa Taberna. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bilbao.

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 Bilbao. The bars in Bilbao make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

Day 8 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Bilbao is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, a frequently visited church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Etxebarri Parkea, enchanting visitors with its awe-inspiring appeal. Continue your exploration at Albiako Lorategiak. This park is one of the city’s most worthwhile 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 Zubizuri. After exploring the art installation, head to the increasingly popular Furnicular Bottom Station.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gaztandegi taberna, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Bar Bilbao, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Laga jatetxea. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

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.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 9 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!

Start your day at Artxanda Funicular. This romantic tramway is a beloved place to see in Bilbao. Then, wander over to Europa Parkea. If gorgeous sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Euskalduna Zubia.

Bilbao offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Itsasmuseum Bilbao is an up-and-coming spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the maritime museum, don’t forget to check out the picture-perfect Museo Athletic Club | Ac Museoa · Tour San Mamés. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this up-and-coming museum.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Spain by joining a traveler-approved tour in Bilbao. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Bilbao 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 Bilbao to find the best options for you!

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at El Globo taberna, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Barraca jatetxea, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Pentxo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bilbao and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Bilbao can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Spain!

On day 10 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Bilbao and visit amazing attractions in Sukarrieta, Bermeo, Getxo, and Portugalete destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Bilbao. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bilbao allows for both. Start by heading to Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba. This interesting nature reserve provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover San Juan De Gaztelugatxe Hermitage, a history-steeped church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Playa De Ereaga, an often recommended beach. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Puerto Viejo. Round off your day at Vizcaya Bridge, another gem in Bilbao with historic features to discover.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Kirol jatetxea, an iconic dining spot in Bilbao. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Arpiku, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Mugi taberna, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Sukarrieta can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Spain!

On day 11 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Spain. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Spain.

Start your day with a visit to Mitológico Mina Pepita Park. This often recommended park is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cabarceno Natural Park, which may be one of the most majestic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bilbao 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 Villapresente's Labyrinth, a locally renowned maze in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón and Cueva El Soplao.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Santander in this laid-back road trip in Spain. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try El Sol? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurante Posada Del Mar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Santander.

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.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Santander as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Spain with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain!