5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Oviedo and Bilbao and surrounding area
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Description
Explore the best of Spain on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cueto, Santander, Oviedo, Gijon, Cabezón de la Sal, Villaescusa, Bilbao, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete. This road trip itinerary in Spain seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Santander, 1 night in Oviedo, and 1 night in Bilbao. 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 Santander, 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 Cabarceno Natural Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Vizcaya Bridge, learn more about the unique Palacio De La Magdalena, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Centro Botin.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cueto, Santander, Oviedo, Gijon, Cabezón de la Sal, Villaescusa, Bilbao, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete, 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
- Santander - Arrival day
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- Llamas Park
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Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Santander and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Santander 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.
Santander 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 Llamas Park, 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 Santander. 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 Santander, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurante la Mayor, a top-rated dining spot in Santander. If you're in the mood for something new, try Santa & Co, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Marcello Restaurante. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Santander.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Kings Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Grog is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Santander
- Oviedo
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Drive 202 km, 2 hours 34 min
- Plaza Porticada
- Mercado del Este
- Botin Centre
- Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
- Palacio de la Magdalena
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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 Santander. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oviedo, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Santander promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Plaza Porticada. This eye-catching public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Mercado Del Este, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Centro Botin, one of the city’s most popular attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. This respected maritime museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Palacio De La Magdalena, a popular palace, and take a stroll around the area.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Oviedo. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante Doña Concha, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Quemedás? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Oveja Negra as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Oviedo.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Astur, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Bodegón offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Baam. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Oviedo
- Bilbao
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Drive 313 km, 3 hours 46 min
- San Lorenzo Beach
- Atlántico Botanical Garden
- Universidad Laboral
- Natural Monument of the Sequoias of Monte Cabezón
- Cabarceno Natural Park
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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 Gijon, Cabezón de la Sal, and Villaescusa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bilbao, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Oviedo. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a beach, a botanical garden, a university, a nature reserve, a safari park and much more! Begin your adventure at San Lorenzo Beach. This is an interesting beach you should not miss. Another must-see is Jardín Botánico Atlántico, an up-and-coming botanical garden in Oviedo.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Universidad Laboral De Gijón. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón, another of the city’s popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Cabarceno Natural Park, a picturesque place of interest in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bilbao. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Mina in Bilbao by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Mina offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and seasonal menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Zortziko, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Etxanobe Atelier, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Boss Bilbao, known for its lively atmosphere. Stromboli Taberna is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 4
- Bilbao
- Santander
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Drive 183 km, 3 hours 16 min
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Guggenheim Museum
- Zubizuri
- Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
- Vizcaya Bridge
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Bilbao, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete, 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.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bilbao. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most interesting places to visit in Bilbao.
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 Zubizuri. This remarkable art installation is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba and Vizcaya Bridge. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Santander. Santander offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Little Bobby offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.
Head back to your accommodation in Santander and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 5
- Santander - Departure day
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- Parque de Mataleñas
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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 Santander before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Parque De Mataleñas. This locally appreciated park is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Santander’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Centro Comercial Bahía de Santander. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Santander.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, El Sol offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Santander. 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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