Relaxed 10-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from San Sebastian to Santander and Bilbao

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into San Sebastian, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in San Sebastian, and meet locals along the way!

Experience Aquarium, a locally renowned aquarium in the city. Then, head to Alderdi Eder Parkea and soak in the ambiance of this romantic park.

There are many interesting places to see in San Sebastian, and when you are ready for more, go to Beach Of La Concha. This is one of the city’s most interesting peaceful spots of interest. After exploring the beach, visit the locally renowned Gipuzkoa Plaza. Not far away, you'll also find Cristina Enea Parkea. This park is a romantic highlight in San Sebastian.

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.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Arzak in San Sebastian by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Arzak offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Kokotxa, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

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

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

San Sebastian is brimming with adventures.

No visit to San Sebastian is complete without Igeldo Mendiko Behatokia. This underrated observation deck is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Peine Del Viento Xv, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of San Sebastian, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Funicular Monte Igueldo. This notable heritage railway is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Miramar Palace, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Cathedral Of The Good Shepherd Of San Sebastian is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities. San Sebastian offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in San Sebastian 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bar Bixigarri, a top-rated dining spot in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood for something new, try SSua Arde Donostia, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Danena. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in San Sebastian.

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!

Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Spain offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Elorriaga and continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Vitoria-Gasteiz and Añana. You’ll stay in Santander for 2 nights.

After soaking in San Sebastian’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Elorriaga. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 14 min. When you arrive in Elorriaga, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Salburua, a locally appreciated nature reserve in Elorriaga. Explore its picturesque features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Vitoria-Gasteiz’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Elorriaga behind. This drive usually takes around 15 min. Vitoria-Gasteiz welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Nueva Square, a beloved public square known for its visually striking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Plaza Virgen Blanca, an interesting public square.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by La Florida and uncover the details of this eye-catching park.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Vitoria-Gasteiz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Añana. This drive usually takes around 30 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Salt Valley Of Añana, an underrated archeological site that everyone visiting Añana should see.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Spain as you make your way to Santander. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby Bib Gourmand-awardee, Umma, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Santander is Agua Salada, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant and a delicious contemporary and traditional menu.

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kings Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Grog offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Santander. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Santander. 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 Santander!

Plaza Porticada brings Santander's character to life. This photogenic public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Mercado Del Este, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Centro Botin, one of the city’s most locally renowned attractions, known for its detailed features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. This historic maritime museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Palacio De La Magdalena, a well-known palace, and take a stroll around the area.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Spain by joining a traveler-approved tour in San Sebastian. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in San Sebastian 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 Santander to find the best options for you!

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 Restaurante Agua Salada, 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 Restaurante Matices Santander, 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 La Enmienda Dieciocho. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Santander tonight.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Little Bobby offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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

Day 6 of your self-drive tour in Spain offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Cerrazo and end it in Bilbao. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 3 nights. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Spain.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Cerrazo, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Santander to Cerrazo may take around 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cerrazo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Villapresente's Labyrinth, a notable maze known for its eye-catching features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cabezón de la Sal. This car ride takes around 14 min.

Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón is a popular nature reserve we recommend visiting today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Set your GPS to Ruente and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ruente beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit La Fuentona De Ruente, a beloved lake that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Bilbao. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

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.

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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Boss Bilbao offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Stromboli Taberna is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Zuberoa Taberna is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Bilbao, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Bilbao, and meet locals along the way!

Let Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this symbolic church before continuing your journey. Etxebarri Parkea is your next stop. This intriguing park is one of the best-rated sights in Bilbao.

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 Zubizuri. This romantic art installation is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Puppy and Guggenheim Museum.

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

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 highly-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're eager to try something different, consider Iturriza Taberna, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Antxoa Taberna. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

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.

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

Day 8 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Start your day at Artxanda Funicular. This eye-catching tramway is an increasingly popular place to see in Bilbao. Then, wander over to Europa Parkea. If breathtaking sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Federico Moyúa Enparantza.

Bilbao offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is a frequently visited spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the mesmerizing Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally renowned park.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Gaztandegi taberna, an iconic dining spot in Bilbao. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café Bar Bilbao, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Laga jatetxea, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in 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!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Getxo. This drive usually takes around 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Playa De Ereaga is an intriguing beach we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking in Getxo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Portugalete. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 25 min. When you arrive in Portugalete, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Vizcaya Bridge, a captivating monument in Portugalete. Explore its UNESCO world heritage-listed features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bermeo. This car ride takes around 56 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bermeo is San Juan De Gaztelugatxe Hermitage, a frequently visited church that draws attention for its enchanting features.

You'll be staying in San Sebastian on this laid-back road trip through Spain. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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 Narru Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Lukainkategi beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante JATETXEA TOLOSA. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in San Sebastian tonight.

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

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