Relaxed 7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from San Sebastian to Bilbao

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Photo of panoramic aerial view of San Sebastian (Donostia) in a beautiful summer day, Spain.
Photo of Santa Clara Island and San Sebastian Donostia city aerial panoramic view, Basque country in Spain.
San Sebastian,Spain
Photo of Maria Cristina Bridge over the Urumea river in San Sebastian, Spain.
Photo of San Sebastian city beach in the Donostia San Sebastian city, Basque Country in northern Spain.
Photo of San Sebastian, Spain.
 San Sebastián City Hall
Urgull Mountain peak,San Sebastian
Photo of San Sebastian Castle at sunrise, Cadiz, Andalusia, Spain.
Photo of La Concha beach in autumn day at San Sebastian. Spain.
Photo of san sebastian old town views.
Alderdi Eder parkea
photo of view  of Majestic New Gothic Cathedral Towering Over the City Streets on a Sunny Day, San Sebastián Donostia, Spain
photo of view  of Zurriola beach in Spanish town San Sebastian.
Photo of City Hall in Bulbao in Spain by Juan Manuel Garcia Bilbao
Photo of ribera market in the spanish city Bilbao.
Photo of Zubizuri bridge in Bilbao, Spain.
Photo of street of the city Bilbao.
Photo of aerial view of Bilbao, Spain city downtown with a Nevion River, Zubizuri Bridge and promenade. Mountain at the background.
Photo of La salve zubia bridge in the spanish city Bilbao.
Photo of tourist woman walking in Bilbao city, summer holiday vacation in Spain.
Photo of Bilbao old town on a sunny day, Spain
Photo of Chavarri Palace or Palacio Chavarri is a building around the Moyua Square in Bilbao.
Photo of Mausoleum in Bilbao's cemetery, Spain. Built in 1914.
Photo of Bilbao city.
Photo of sunset in the city of Bilbao in the Basque Country ,Spain.
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Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 7-day road trip in Spain with this laid-back self-drive vacation.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Spain at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in San Sebastian, Bilbao, Santander, Cueto, and Vitoria-Gasteiz. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in San Sebastian and 3 nights in Bilbao. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Spain.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Spain. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in San Sebastian, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Spain and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Spain with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Spain.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Spain. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Guggenheim Museum. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Palacio De La Magdalena.

Traveling leisurely through Spain means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Beach Of La Concha. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Centro Botin. Get close to the spectacular Peine Del Viento Xv and the wonderful Aquarium. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through Spain's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Spain.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Spain. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Spain's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Spain.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Spain. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Spain. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Spain and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Beach of La Concha
UrgullAquariumSan Telmo MuseoaMiramar PalacePeine del Viento XVParte Vieja
Bilboko Donejakue katedralaParque EtxebarriaArtxandako funikularra GeltokiaZubizuriAlbiako LorategiakFederiko Moiua enparantza
Doña Casilda Iturrizar parkMuseum of Fine Arts of BilbaoPaseo de la MemoriaPuppyGuggenheim Museum
Palacio de la MagdalenaSegunda Playa del SardineroPaseo Marítimo de SantanderBotin CentrePlaza Porticada
Cathedral María Inmaculada of VitoriaLa FloridaPlaza Virgen BlancaPlaza EspañaSanta Maria CathedralParque Salburua
Gipuzkoa Plaza

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Donostia / San Sebastián - Arrival day
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  • Beach of La Concha
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Your relaxed road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of San Sebastian, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in San Sebastian and begin your adventure in Spain.

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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in San Sebastian. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Polka San Sebastián, a popular restaurant in San Sebastian. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of San Sebastian at ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food, 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 Antonio. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in San Sebastian tonight.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Txiki Taberna Donosti. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Taberna Barun, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain. Enjoy your first taste of San Sebastian as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 50 min

  • Urgull
  • Aquarium
  • San Telmo Museoa
  • Miramar Palace
  • Peine del Viento XV
  • Parte Vieja
  • More

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in San Sebastian, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Parte Vieja, 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.

Start by visiting Urgull, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Aquarium, another must-visit landmark and popular aquarium renowned for its picture-perfect features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of San Sebastian by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to San Telmo Museum. This photogenic museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full San Sebastian experience. We also recommend visiting Miramar Palace, an interesting palace. Nearby, you'll also find Peine Del Viento Xv, ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

Bring home unique finds from San Sebastian's bustling shopping hub, San Martin Shopping Centre. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, San Martin Shopping Centre offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

Savor the flavors at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Federiko Taberna beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider La Cuchara de San Telmo. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in San Sebastian tonight.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
  • Bilbao
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Drive 102 km, 2 hours 7 min

  • Bilboko Donejakue katedrala
  • Parque Etxebarria
  • Artxandako funikularra Geltokia
  • Zubizuri
  • Albiako Lorategiak
  • Federiko Moiua enparantza
  • More

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Spain is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 3 nights. 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around San Sebastian. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in San Sebastian. Next, head to Etxebarri Parkea, a curiosity-inducing park, known for its breathtaking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Furnicular Bottom Station. This awe-inspiring tramway is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Zubizuri and Albiako Lorategiak. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Bilbao. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Spain by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Boss Bilbao, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Stromboli Taberna provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Zuberoa Taberna offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Spain!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bilbao
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Drive 2 km, 35 min

  • Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
  • Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
  • Paseo de la Memoria
  • Puppy
  • Guggenheim Museum
  • More

Day 4 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 fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the interesting Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a romantic park in Bilbao. Next, go to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao.

Puppy is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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!

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Café Iruña, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Iturriza Taberna is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Antxoa Taberna. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bilbao 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 Bilbao. The bars in Bilbao make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bilbao
  • More

Drive 210 km, 3 hours 5 min

  • Palacio de la Magdalena
  • Segunda Playa del Sardinero
  • Paseo Marítimo de Santander
  • Botin Centre
  • Plaza Porticada
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Bilbao and visit amazing attractions in Santander and Cueto destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Bilbao. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bilbao, including a palace, a beach, a boardwalk, an art gallery, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Palacio De La Magdalena. This notable palace is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Segunda Playa De El Sardinero located in Bilbao for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Paseo Marítimo De Santander. Its awe-inspiring features will captivate you. After the boardwalk, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Centro Botin. Visitors usually appreciate the breathtaking features of this art gallery. Next up is Plaza Porticada, a highly recommended public square.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Gaztandegi taberna, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bilbao at Café Bar Bilbao, 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 Laga jatetxea. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bilbao tonight.

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.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bilbao!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bilbao
  • Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 169 km, 2 hours 39 min

  • Cathedral María Inmaculada of Vitoria
  • La Florida
  • Plaza Virgen Blanca
  • Plaza España
  • Santa Maria Cathedral
  • Parque Salburua
  • More

Day 6 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the hamlet of Elorriaga and the city of San Sebastian. You’ll stay in San Sebastian for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Bilbao includes a church, a park, a public square, a nature reserve and much more! Cathedral María Inmaculada Of Vitoria is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to La Florida, a beloved park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Plaza Virgen Blanca, a standout public square, also available for your discovery today.

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 worthwhile Nueva Square. If you’re looking for more, Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria is also an intriguing attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Salburua, a place of visually striking interest in the city.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Spain at San Sebastian. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Bar Bixigarri, a top-rated dining destination 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 might also want to secure a reservation at Danena. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

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

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Donostia / San Sebastián - Departure day
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  • Gipuzkoa Plaza
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Spain is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in San Sebastian.

Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting San Sebastian’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing La Bretxa. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Gipuzkoa Plaza, an eye-catching public square before you head out.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in San Sebastian or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Lukainkategi, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to San Sebastian and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Spain is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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