5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao
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Description
Explore the best of Spain on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cueto, Santander, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Pamplona, and Santillana del Mar. This road trip itinerary in Spain seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Santander and 2 nights in Bilbao. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Spain. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Santander, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Spain on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Spain. Guggenheim Museum and Palacio De La Magdalena are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Beach Of La Concha, learn more about the unique Citadel Of Pamplona, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cave Of Altamira.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cueto, Santander, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Pamplona, and Santillana del Mar, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Spain. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Spain.
Throughout your road trip in Spain, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Spain.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Spain fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Spain today!
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Day 1
- Santander - Arrival day
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- Segunda Playa del Sardinero
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Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Santander and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Santander for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Santander is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Segunda Playa De El Sardinero, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Santander. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Santander, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurante la Mayor, a top-rated dining spot in Santander. If you're in the mood for something new, try Santa & Co, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Marcello Restaurante. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Santander.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kings Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Grog offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Hygge Cocktail is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Santander
- Bilbao
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Drive 109 km, 2 hours 9 min
- Botin Centre
- Palacio de la Magdalena
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Zubizuri
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Santander and Bilbao. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bilbao, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Start your adventure at Centro Botin. This notable art gallery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Palacio De La Magdalena located in Santander for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this museum. Next up is Zubizuri, a highly recommended art installation. For a change of pace, head to Federico Moyúa Enparantza. As one of the most beloved attractions in Santander, this sightseeing destination is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bilbao, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Viña del Ensanche, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Marinela jatetxea? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bilbao.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Boss Bilbao offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Stromboli Taberna is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Zuberoa Taberna is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 3
- Bilbao
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Drive 207 km, 3 hours 10 min
- Guggenheim Museum
- Gipuzkoa Plaza
- Beach of La Concha
- Funicular Monte Igueldo
- Peine del Viento XV
- Parte Vieja
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
A top thing to do today is to explore Parte Vieja, a must-see neighborhood in Bilbao. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.
Immerse yourself in Bilbao’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Guggenheim Museum. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Gipuzkoa Plaza, a must-visit public square 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 Beach Of La Concha, a locally renowned beach. For a change of scene, check out Funicular Monte Igueldo, known for its instagrammable features. We also recommend visiting Peine Del Viento Xv. This art installation is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bilbao.
As you explore more of Bilbao, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
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 draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.
Day 4
- Bilbao
- Santander
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Drive 469 km, 5 hours 41 min
- Citadel of Pamplona
- Plaza de Toros
- Castle Square
- Cave of Altamira
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On day 4 of your road trip in Spain, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Pamplona and Santillana del Mar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Bilbao includes a historical landmark, a stadium, a public square, a cave and much more! Citadel Of Pamplona is must-visit historical landmark and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Plaza De Toros De Pamplona, a notable stadium, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Castle Square, a romantic public square, also available for your discovery today.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Santander. Santander offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Santander. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante Agua Salada, an iconic dining spot in Santander. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurante Matices Santander, a popular restaurant in Santander. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La Enmienda Dieciocho, a hidden gem nestled in Santander. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Little Bobby, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 5
- Santander - Departure day
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- Plaza Porticada
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Day 5 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Santander before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Plaza Porticada, a photogenic public square before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Santander.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Sol, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Santander. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Spain!
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