Relaxed 9-Day 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 3 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 route brings fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Doctor Morales Park. This frequently visited park is an enchanting place to see in Santander. Continue your discovery at Catedral De Santander, a picture-perfect church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Santander, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Plaza Porticada. This up-and-coming public square offers a historic encounter with Santander. Next, make your way to Mercado Del Este to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Centro Botin, a well-known art gallery that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Santander.

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

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 Santander.

Have a memorable dining experience in Santander by booking a table at Cadelo, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Santander, Umma shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This Bib Gourmand-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, Agua Salada is known as a top local spot for its delicious contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Santander’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Little Bobby after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 3, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Spain and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Santander and beyond. With 2 nights left in Santander, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Santander allows for both. Start by heading to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. This underrated art gallery provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Playa De Mataleñas, a romantic beach, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Parque De Mataleñas, an intriguing park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated La Maruca. Round off your day at Ermita De La Virgen Del Mar, another gem in Santander with picture-perfect features to discover.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, an iconic dining spot in Santander. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of El Sol, a popular restaurant in Santander. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurante Posada Del Mar, a hidden gem nestled in Santander. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Santander. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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

On day 4 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Santander, featuring family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Start at Llamas Park, an often recommended park in the village.

There are many interesting places to see in Santander, and when you are ready for more, go to Parque Los Pinares. This is one of the village’s most intriguing eye-catching spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the often recommended Playa Del Camello. Not far away, you'll also find Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. This maritime museum is a stunning highlight in Santander.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cadelo Restaurante, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Cervecería Kiss? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Santander.

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 Santander. The bars in Santander make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Santander as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Spain with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain!

Day 5 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 route brings family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Salburua. This locally appreciated nature reserve is a picturesque place to see in Santander. Continue your discovery at Nueva Square, a photogenic public square with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Santander, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this hamlet so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to La Florida. This locally appreciated park offers a romantic encounter with Santander. Next, make your way to Plaza Virgen Blanca to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria, a locally appreciated church that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Santander.

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

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Bilbao by reserving a table at Mina. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For a different taste experience, head to Zortziko, recognized for its delicious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Etxanobe Atelier, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Bilbao. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Bilbao and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Boss Bilbao, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Stromboli Taberna offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Zuberoa Taberna. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Albiako Lorategiak. Continue your discovery at Zubizuri, an awe-inspiring art installation with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bilbao, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Furnicular Bottom Station. This increasingly popular tramway offers an eye-catching encounter with Bilbao. Next, make your way to Puppy to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Guggenheim Museum, an extraordinary museum building that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bilbao.

Spain makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Spain also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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

Savor the flavors at Café Iruña, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Iturriza Taberna beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Antxoa Taberna. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bilbao tonight.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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

Day 7 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!

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Artxanda Funicular. This frequently visited tramway is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Europa Parkea, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Etxebarri Parkea, one of the most locally appreciated places to see in Bilbao. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this church offers. Then, head to Pagasarri, a top-rated hiking area that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

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

Dine in style at Gaztandegi taberna, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Café Bar Bilbao boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Laga jatetxea. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bilbao.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bilbao’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 8 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!

Start your adventure at Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This up-and-coming point of interest is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, a must-see museum in the city.

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 Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This well-known park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Itsasmuseum Bilbao, where you can take in respected features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Euskalduna Zubia. 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 Santander. 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at La Barruca de Calderón, 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 La Bombi, 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 El Figón. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Santander 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 Santander. The bars in Santander make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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