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 serene beach is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Catedral De Santander, another culturally significant attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Plaza Porticada, one of the village’s most intriguing attractions, known for its respected features.

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

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

Exploring the food culture in Santander 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Cadelo in Santander by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Cadelo offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Umma, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular Bib Gourmand-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Agua Salada, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional contemporary and traditional menu.

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Little Bobby stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip 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 to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Santander, including an art gallery, a beach, a park, a maritime museum and much more! Start your day at Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. This stunning art gallery is a worthwhile place to see in Santander. Then, wander over to Playa De Mataleñas. If instagrammable sites excite you, this beach will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Parque De Mataleñas. This idyllic park is a favorite among visitors.

Santander offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Llamas Park is a curiosity-inducing spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the park, don’t forget to check out the picture-perfect Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this underrated maritime museum.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Santander has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Santander.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Spain.

Day 4 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.

Today’s itinerary in Santander covers several incredible sights, including a nature reserve, a public square, a park, a church and much more! Start your adventure at Salburua. This underrated nature reserve is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the standout wonders of Nueva Square, a must-see public square in the hamlet.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to La Florida. This up-and-coming park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Plaza Virgen Blanca, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Start your culinary exploration in Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Zortziko, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Boss Bilbao, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Stromboli Taberna, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Zuberoa Taberna likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Spain. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Spain tomorrow with new energy.

Day 5 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!

Bilbao is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Albiako Lorategiak, an up-and-coming park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Zubizuri, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at Furnicular Bottom Station. This tramway is one of the city’s most beloved spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bilbao at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Puppy. After exploring the art installation, head to the extraordinary Guggenheim Museum.

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!

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 Bilbao.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café Iruña, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Iturriza Taberna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Antxoa Taberna. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bilbao and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Bilbao. Your adventure starts at Artxanda Funicular, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Europa Parkea. This intriguing park is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bilbao's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Etxebarri Parkea. This awe-inspiring park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala is also worth visiting, along with Pagasarri. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Gaztandegi taberna, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Bar Bilbao, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Laga jatetxea. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bilbao.

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

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Spain will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Spain, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Begin your adventure at Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This is a curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination you should not miss. Another must-see is Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, a locally appreciated museum in Bilbao.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Itsasmuseum Bilbao, another of the city’s locally appreciated attractions.

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

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 Santander, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dine in style at Cadelo Restaurante, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cervecería Kiss boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Santander.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Santander.

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