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

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip in Spain, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Santander and visit amazing attractions in Santander and Cueto, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Santander, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Visiting Palacio De La Magdalena is always a good idea. This well-known palace is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, a must-see maritime 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 Parque De Mataleñas. This up-and-coming park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Playa De Mataleñas, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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 Santander, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Santander.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Little Bobby, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

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

On day 3 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Spain, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Visiting Plaza Porticada is always a good idea. This underrated public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the heritage-rich wonders of Mercado Del Este, a must-see market 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 Centro Botin. This interesting art gallery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Doctor Morales Park, where you can take in visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Hondarribiko Hondartza. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

In San Sebastian, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Spain.

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 San Sebastian.

Start your culinary exploration in San Sebastian by securing a reservation at Arzak. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Kokotxa, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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 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.

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

On day 4 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!

Don’t miss Parte Vieja today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Aquarium. This breathtaking aquarium will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Alderdi Eder Parkea and learn what makes this romantic park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular Beach Of La Concha. After exploring the beach, head to Gipuzkoa Plaza. This interesting public square is a highlight in San Sebastian.

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 San Sebastian to find the best options for you!

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, a popular restaurant in San Sebastian. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of San Sebastian at Federiko Taberna, 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 Cuchara de San Telmo. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian. The bars in San Sebastian make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

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

A visit to Gros is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Peine Del Viento Xv is an ideal stop early in the day. This notable art installation is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Funicular Monte Igueldo, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring San Sebastian on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Miramar Palace, an interesting palace in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cathedral Of The Good Shepherd Of 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.

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 San Sebastian.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bar Bixigarri, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try SSua Arde Donostia? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Danena as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in San Sebastian.

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

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure 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 Guernica 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.

Casa De Juntas De Gernika makes a great addition to your morning plans. This increasingly popular historical landmark is a history-steeped place to see in San Sebastian. Continue your discovery at Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, an eye-catching nature reserve with stories to tell.

As you stroll around San Sebastian, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to San Juan De Gaztelugatxe Hermitage. This beloved church offers a visually striking encounter with San Sebastian. Next, make your way to Puerto Viejo to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Vizcaya Bridge, a popular monument 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 San Sebastian.

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.

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 creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Boss Bilbao, known for its inviting atmosphere. Stromboli Taberna is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

To truly experience Bilbao, make sure to drop by Artxanda Funicular. This curiosity-inducing 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 Zubizuri, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Bilbao. This art installation is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Puppy. Wander around and soak in the breathtaking atmosphere this art installation offers. Then, head to Guggenheim Museum, a top-rated museum building that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

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

On day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Bilbao, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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!

Visiting Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is always a good idea. This well-known park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching 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 Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This underrated sightseeing destination offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, where you can take in visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Etxebarri Parkea. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect 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.

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 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 consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bilbao tonight.

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

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip across Spain offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Villaescusa and drive in the direction of Puente Viesgo for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Santander, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Start your day at Cabarceno Natural Park. This eye-catching safari park is an astonishing place to see in Bilbao. Then, wander over to Cave Of El Castillo. If peaceful sites excite you, this cave will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Villapresente's Labyrinth. This instagrammable maze is a favorite among visitors.

Bilbao offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón is a well-known spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this notable sightseeing destination.

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.

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 Santander, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a highly-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're eager to try something different, consider El Sol, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Posada Del Mar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!