5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from San Sebastian traveling west to Bilbao and Santander
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Spain as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like San Sebastian, Bilbao, Santander, Santillana del Mar, and Getaria.
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 San Sebastian, 1 night in Bilbao, and 1 night in Santander. 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 San Sebastian, 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 Cave Of Altamira, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Centro Botin.
As you hit the open road and drive through San Sebastian, Bilbao, Santander, Santillana del Mar, and Getaria, 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
- Donostia / San Sebastián - Arrival day
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- Beach of La Concha
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Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach San Sebastian and pick up your car. You’ll stay in San Sebastian 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.
San Sebastian 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 Beach Of La Concha, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in San Sebastian. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Spain. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 San Sebastian, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Polka San Sebastián, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar Antonio. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in San Sebastian.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Txiki Taberna Donosti, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Taberna Barun provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Gorriti Taberna offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Bilbao
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Drive 108 km, 2 hours 18 min
- San Telmo Museoa
- Urgull
- Peine del Viento XV
- Funicular Monte Igueldo
- Guggenheim Museum
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On day 2 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 San Sebastian and Bilbao. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 1 night.
Start your day with a visit to San Telmo Museum. This often recommended museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Urgull, which may be one of the most serene places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring San Sebastian 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 Peine Del Viento Xv, a captivating art installation in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Funicular Monte Igueldo and Guggenheim Museum.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bilbao. 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 La Viña del Ensanche, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Marinela jatetxea, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.
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.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Bilbao
- Santander
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Drive 109 km, 1 hour 51 min
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Palacio de la Magdalena
- Botin Centre
- Catedral de Santander
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Bilbao and Santander, 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 Santander. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Start your adventure at Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This underrated sightseeing destination is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao located in Bilbao for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Palacio De La Magdalena. Visitors usually appreciate the enchanting features of this palace. Next up is Centro Botin, a highly recommended art gallery. For a change of pace, head to Catedral De Santander. As one of the most beloved attractions in Bilbao, this church is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Santander's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurante la Mayor, 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 Santa & Co, 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 Marcello Restaurante. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Santander tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kings Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Grog offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 4
- Santander
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 264 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Palacio de Los Velarde
- Cave of Altamira
- Laberinto De Villapresente
- Museo Cristóbal Balenciaga
- Getaria
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Santillana del Mar, Cerrazo, and Getaria. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in San Sebastian. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Immerse yourself in Santander’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Palacio De Los Velarde. This standout palace is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the historic features of Cave Of Altamira, a must-visit cave in the village.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Villapresente's Labyrinth, a locally renowned maze. For a change of scene, check out Museo Cristóbal Balenciaga, known for its gorgeous features. We also recommend visiting Getaria. This historical landmark is a must for anyone looking to experience the village to the fullest.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in San Sebastian. San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, a highly-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're eager to try something different, consider Federiko Taberna, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Cuchara de San Telmo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!
Day 5
- Donostia / San Sebastián - Departure day
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- Gros
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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 San Sebastian before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Gros, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of San Sebastian. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in San Sebastian.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider SSua Arde Donostia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to San Sebastian. 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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