One-Week Relaxed Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to 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's adventure in Santander promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at La Maruca. This mesmerizing beach is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Catedral De Santander, another symbolic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Plaza Porticada, one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its standout features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Mercado Del Este. This eye-catching market is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Centro Botin, a notable art gallery, and take a stroll around the area.

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

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.

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.

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 your lively evening at Little Bobby, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Santander and visit amazing attractions in Cueto and Santander 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 for an exciting day in Santander. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an art gallery, a beach, a park, a maritime museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. This is an underrated art gallery you should not miss. Another must-see is Playa De Mataleñas, an intriguing beach in Santander.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Parque De Mataleñas. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Llamas Park, another of the village’s curiosity-inducing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, an instagrammable place of interest in the village.

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

Savor the flavors at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, El Sol beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante Posada Del Mar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining 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.

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

Day 4 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 Elorriaga and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz and the city of Bilbao. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 3 nights.

Santander is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views! Start at Salburua, a worthwhile nature reserve that is worthwhile a visit in the hamlet. Nearby, you’ll find Nueva Square, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at La Florida. This park is one of the hamlet’s most up-and-coming spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Santander at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Plaza Virgen Blanca. After exploring the public square, head to the frequently visited Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria.

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

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Bilbao by reserving a table at Mina. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Zortziko, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Etxanobe Atelier, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bilbao.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Boss Bilbao, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Stromboli Taberna. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Zuberoa Taberna, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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

Immerse yourself in Bilbao’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Albiako Lorategiak. Next, dive into the awe-inspiring features of Zubizuri, a must-visit art installation in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Furnicular Bottom Station, an often recommended tramway. For a change of scene, check out Puppy, known for its breathtaking features. We also recommend visiting Guggenheim Museum. This museum building is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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 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 a wonderful meal at Café Iruña, a top-rated dining spot in Bilbao. If you're in the mood for something new, try Iturriza Taberna, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Antxoa Taberna. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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 6 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!

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Artxanda Funicular. This up-and-coming tramway is a visually striking place to see in Bilbao. Continue your discovery at Europa Parkea, a mesmerizing park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bilbao, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Etxebarri Parkea. This frequently visited park offers a picture-perfect encounter with Bilbao. Next, make your way to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Pagasarri, an underrated hiking area that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bilbao.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Gaztandegi taberna, 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 Café Bar Bilbao, 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 Laga jatetxea, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

On day 7 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.

Today's adventure in Bilbao promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Federico Moyúa Enparantza. Then, enjoy Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, one of the city’s most popular attractions, known for its serene features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Itsasmuseum Bilbao. This standout maritime museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Euskalduna Zubia, a beloved sightseeing destination, and take a stroll around the area.

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 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 Santander.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cadelo Restaurante, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cervecería Kiss offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Santander.

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

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