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

Day 2 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Bilbao. You have 1 night left in Bilbao. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your adventure at Guggenheim Museum. This is a famous museum building you should not miss. Another must-see is Puppy, an often recommended art installation in Bilbao.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, another of the city’s notable attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Etxebarri Parkea, a visually striking place of interest in the city.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Mina in Bilbao by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Mina delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative and seasonal cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Zortziko, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Etxanobe Atelier, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Villaescusa, Puente Viesgo, and Santillana del Mar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Santander, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Bilbao is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views! Start at Cabarceno Natural Park, a widely recognized safari park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Cave Of El Castillo, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at National Museum And Research Center Of Altamira. This museum is one of the city’s most intriguing 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 Cave Of Altamira. After exploring the cave, head to the underrated Museum Of Torture - Inquisicion.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Santander's best restaurants.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Santander by reserving a table at Cadelo. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Umma, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished Bib Gourmand-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Agua Salada, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Santander.

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

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Santander, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Santander today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Nacimiento Del Rio Ebro. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor and learn what makes this gorgeous art gallery unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Parque De Mataleñas. After exploring the park, head to Llamas Park. This beloved park is a highlight in Santander. As your day continues, stop by Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, known for its eye-catching features.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Santander. 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante Agua Salada, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurante Matices Santander offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Enmienda Dieciocho. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Santander.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Little Bobby, where the evening is just getting started.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

On day 5 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 Santander. In the evening, you’ll end up in San Sebastian, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Santander allows for both. Start by heading to Catedral De Santander. This underrated church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Plaza Porticada, an instagrammable public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Mercado Del Este, a beloved market. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned Centro Botin. Round off your day at Paseo Marítimo De Santander, another gem in Santander with eye-catching features to discover.

At the end of the day, you will drive to San Sebastian, 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 San Sebastian. 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in San Sebastian by booking a table at Arzak, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in San Sebastian, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Kokotxa is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in San Sebastian. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Txiki Taberna Donosti, known for its lively atmosphere. Taberna Barun is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore San Sebastian on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Alderdi Eder Parkea is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic park before continuing your journey. Beach Of La Concha is your next stop. This well-known beach is one of the best-rated sights in San Sebastian.

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 Peine Del Viento Xv. This noteworthy art installation is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba and Vizcaya Bridge.

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 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Gaztandegi taberna, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café Bar Bilbao is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Laga jatetxea. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bilbao tonight.

Say good night to Bilbao and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!