7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Oviedo and Bilbao and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Santander. You’ll stay in Santander for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Santander, including a public square, a market, an art gallery, a maritime museum, a palace and much more! Start your day with a visit to Plaza Porticada. This curiosity-inducing public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Mercado Del Este, which may be one of the most respected 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 Centro Botin, a captivating art gallery in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico and Palacio De La Magdalena.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Visit Centro Comercial Bahía de Santander in Santander for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Centro Comercial Bahía de Santander has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Santander. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Santander by booking a table at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Umma, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Agua Salada, a local gem known for its delightful contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Nestled in the city's heart, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Little Bobby offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Cangas de Onís, Cuadonga/Covadonga, Ribeseya, and Gijon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Oviedo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Roman Bridge In Cangas De Onis. This well-known monument is a romantic place to see in Santander. Continue your discovery at Sanctuary Of Covadonga, an enchanting church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Santander, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Mirador Del Fitu. This well-known observation deck offers a romantic encounter with Santander. Next, make your way to San Lorenzo Beach to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Santander.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Oviedo, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Oviedo. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Astur. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Bodegón offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Baam, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Cabezón de la Sal, Cerrazo, Santillana del Mar, and Villaescusa, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bilbao. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Oviedo on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant nature reserve before continuing your journey. Villapresente's Labyrinth is your next stop. This interesting maze is one of the best-rated sights in Oviedo.

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 Cave Of Altamira. This historic cave is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Cabarceno Natural Park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bilbao. Bilbao 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 Bilbao. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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 your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Boss Bilbao, known for its inviting atmosphere. Stromboli Taberna is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bilbao has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bilbao by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Immerse yourself in Bilbao’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Zubizuri. This culturally significant art installation is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the gorgeous features of Puppy, 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 Guggenheim Museum, an extraordinary museum building. For a change of scene, check out Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, known for its instagrammable features. We also recommend visiting Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This park is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Bilbao, Sukarrieta, Getxo, and Portugalete. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Santander. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Next, go to Etxebarri Parkea.

After visiting Federico Moyúa Enparantza and Etxebarri Parkea, have a stroll along Bilbao's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba. This serene nature reserve offers a unique experience. Puerto Viejo is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Vizcaya Bridge, one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Bilbao.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Santander. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Santander, 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.

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.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!