Relaxed 13-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to San Sebastian 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 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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Santander, including a palace, a beach, a maritime museum, an art gallery and much more! Start your day with a visit to Palacio De La Magdalena. This notable palace is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Playa Del Camello, which may be one of the most mesmerizing places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Santander 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 Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, a worthwhile maritime museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Playa De Mataleñas and Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor.

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

Exploring the food culture in Santander 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Santander by securing a table at Cadelo. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Umma, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Agua Salada, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Located in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is an ideal pick for contemporary and traditional cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Little Bobby, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Santander and visit amazing attractions in Santander and Cueto destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Santander. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Santander, including a church, a public square, a market, an art gallery, a park and much more! Start your day at Catedral De Santander. This breathtaking church is a locally appreciated place to see in Santander. Then, wander over to Plaza Porticada. If photogenic sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Mercado Del Este. This instagrammable market is a favorite among visitors.

Santander offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Centro Botin is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the art gallery, don’t forget to check out the romantic Parque De Mataleñas. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally appreciated park.

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

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.

Dine in style at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, El Sol boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurante Posada Del Mar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Santander.

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.

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

On day 4 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Santander, including a park, a public square, and a nature reserve. Start your day at Martin Deunako Parkea. This mesmerizing park is an intriguing place to see in Santander. Then, wander over to La Florida. If mesmerizing sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Plaza Virgen Blanca. This enchanting public square is a favorite among visitors.

Santander offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Nueva Square is an intriguing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the public square, don’t forget to check out the stunning Salburua. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this worthwhile nature reserve.

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.

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 San Sebastian, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Start your culinary exploration in San Sebastian by securing a reservation at Arzak. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Kokotxa, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Txiki Taberna Donosti, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Taberna Barun offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Gorriti Taberna. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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

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

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in San Sebastian, including an aquarium, a park, a beach, a public square and much more! Start your day at Aquarium. This stunning aquarium is a captivating place to see in San Sebastian. Then, wander over to Alderdi Eder Parkea. If idyllic sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Beach Of La Concha. This majestic beach is a favorite among visitors.

San Sebastian offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Gipuzkoa Plaza is a captivating spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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.

Dine in style at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Federiko Taberna boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Cuchara de San Telmo. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in San Sebastian.

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

Soak in the unique atmosphere of San Sebastian 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!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into San Sebastian, 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 San Sebastian, and meet locals along the way!

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Aiete Parkea. This beloved park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Miramar Palace, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Funicular Monte Igueldo, one of the most well-known places to see in San Sebastian. This heritage railway is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Peine Del Viento Xv. Wander around and soak in the stunning atmosphere this art installation offers. Then, head to Igeldo Mendiko Behatokia, a top-rated observation deck that adds another dimension to your day.

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!

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 San Sebastian, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bar Bixigarri, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? SSua Arde Donostia offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Danena. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in San Sebastian.

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

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

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in San Sebastian, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Gros is a fantastic place you can explore today in San Sebastian. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the San Sebastian-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Get ready for an exciting day in San Sebastian. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a monument, a church, a science center and much more! Begin your adventure at Cristina Enea Parkea. This is a worthwhile park you should not miss. Another must-see is Maria Kristina Zubia, a curiosity-inducing monument in San Sebastian.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Cathedral Of The Good Shepherd Of San Sebastian. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Eureka! Zientzia Museoa, another of the city’s worthwhile attractions.

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.

Exploring the food culture in San Sebastian 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Narru Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Lukainkategi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante JATETXEA TOLOSA. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

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.

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

Day 8 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!

Begin your adventure at Urkiola Parke Naturala. This is a frequently visited national park you should not miss. Another must-see is Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, a captivating nature reserve in San Sebastian.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Playa De Ereaga. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Puerto Viejo, another of the hamlet’s beloved attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Vizcaya Bridge, a historic place of interest in the hamlet.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Bilbao in this laid-back road trip in Spain. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative and seasonal cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Zortziko, renowned for its delicious contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Etxanobe Atelier, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Boss Bilbao, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Stromboli Taberna offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bilbao. Zuberoa Taberna is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Next, go to Puppy.

Etxebarri Parkea is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, one of the most visually striking places to visit in Bilbao.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Café Iruña, 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 Iturriza Taberna, 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 Antxoa 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.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bilbao’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 10 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!

Furnicular Bottom Station is must-visit tramway and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Zubizuri, a well-known art installation, located just a leisurely stroll away.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Bilbao. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the frequently visited Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. If you’re looking for more, Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is also a popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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.

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 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.

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.

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

Day 11 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bilbao today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Artxanda Funicular. This enchanting tramway will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Europa Parkea and learn what makes this mesmerizing park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Euskalduna Zubia. After exploring the sightseeing destination, head to Itsasmuseum Bilbao. This beloved maritime museum is a highlight in Bilbao. As your day continues, stop by Museo Athletic Club | Ac Museoa · Tour San Mamés, known for its breathtaking features.

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!

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 Bilbao.

Have a fantastic dining experience at El Globo taberna, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Barraca jatetxea offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurante Pentxo is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bilbao.

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 in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 12 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 Villaescusa and end it in the hamlet of Cerrazo. You’ll stay in Santander for 1 night. 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.

Cabarceno Natural Park is must-visit safari park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón, an interesting nature reserve, located just a leisurely stroll away.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Bilbao. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the interesting Villapresente's Labyrinth. If you’re looking for more, Suances Pueblo is also a worthwhile attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Santander. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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 dining experience at Cadelo Restaurante, a popular restaurant in Santander. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Santander at Cervecería Kiss, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Santander tonight.

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.

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!