Relaxed 10-Day Spain Road Trip from Santander to Bilbao, and Valladolid

Your relaxed road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Santander, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Santander and begin your adventure in Spain.

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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Santander.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante la Mayor, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Santa & Co, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Agua Salada. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Kings Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Grog is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Hygge Cocktail also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain. Enjoy your first taste of Santander as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 2, 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 1 night left in Santander, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Make Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this maritime museum an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,771 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Mercado Del Este. With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 7,680 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Plaza Porticada is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,395 visitors.

When you’re finished at Plaza Porticada, the perfect next stop is Centro Botin. This art museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,508 reviews. Centro Botin attracts approximately 111,096 visitors annually.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Santander and set your GPS to Cueto. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 8 min. Upon reaching Cueto, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Parque De Mataleñas. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cueto, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,724 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Umma is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Santander. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Agua Salada. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for contemporary, and traditional cuisine in the city.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Little Bobby, known for its inviting atmosphere.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Santander can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Spain!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Spain promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the village of Santillana del Mar and drive in the direction of the city of Villaescusa for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Bilbao, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Santillana del Mar. This car ride takes around 33 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cave Of Altamira. This cave with prehistoric art is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 13,460 reviews.

Next up, make your way to National Museum And Research Center Of Altamira. This museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,249 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Museum Of Torture - Inquisicion. This museum has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 4,958 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Villaescusa, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Santillana del Mar to Villaescusa may take around 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Villaescusa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Cabarceno Natural Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 45,839 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Villaescusa and set your GPS to Castro-Urdiales. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 43 min. Upon reaching Castro-Urdiales, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Playa Ostende / Urdiales. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Castro-Urdiales, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,595 visitors.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Bilbao in this laid-back road trip in Spain. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

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.

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.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Stromboli Taberna is an excellent place to start.

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

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Bilbao and visit amazing attractions in Sukarrieta, Bermeo, Getxo, Portugalete, and Urkiola destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 3 nights left in Bilbao. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sukarrieta. This car ride takes around 42 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,342 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bermeo. This drive usually takes around 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to San Juan De Gaztelugatxe Hermitage. This much-appreciated hermitage church is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,392 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Getxo. This car ride takes around 52 min.

Drop by the renowned Puerto Viejo. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,111 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bilbao 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 Bilbao.

Don’t miss out on dining at Café Bar Bilbao, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Globo taberna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Barraca jatetxea. With a reputation for consistently satisfied 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.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Bilbao 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!

On day 5 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!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. This church is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 6,802 reviews.

Continue your journey at Etxebarria Parkea. This park is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,229 travelers from near and far.

Bilbao is also the home of Albiako Lorategiak. This park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,047 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Zubizuri. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 10,295 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Artxanda Funicular. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,055 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this funicular.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Spain.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurante Pentxo, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kirol jatetxea, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Arpiku. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao 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.

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

Day 6 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!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Federiko Moiua Enparantza. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,235 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,643 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,312 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Puppy. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,913 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Guggenheim Museum. This museum building is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 64,815 visitors. Approximately 530,967 travelers visit Guggenheim Museum every year.

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.

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

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

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

Day 7 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!

Burgos Province’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bilbao behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 43 min. Burgos Province welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Arco De Santa María. This extraordinary triumphal arch has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,973 visitors.

Next, make your way to Burgos Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 28,435 reviews.

While in Burgos Province, we also recommend a visit to Mirador Del Castillo. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,666 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Castillo De Burgos. With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 4,597 travelers, this point of interest is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Burgos Province.

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

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Valladolid by securing a table at Llantén. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Alquimia - Laboratorio, famous for its scrumptious creative, and modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Trigo, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Valladolid. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Café Bar Alborada offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Valladolid. Monasterio is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip across Spain, you’ll explore the area around Segovia, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Segovia will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Spain.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Valladolid, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Segovia may take around 1 hour 21 min. Upon your arrival in Segovia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Alcázar Of Segovia, a remarkable alcázar where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 49,713 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 754,946 visitors.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Segovia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,509 travelers.

Plaza Mayor is another must-visit attraction. This renowned plaza mayor offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,239 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Aqueduct Of Segovia. This well-loved stone bridge boasts a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 95,202 reviews.

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

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

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

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Rugby Bar The Central, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Villa Gin Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

Day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Spain is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Valladolid and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the hamlet of Cerrazo and the city of Santander. You’ll stay in Santander for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Plaza Mayor. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,713 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Cathedral Of Valladolid. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 5,791 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Plaza De Zorrilla. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,590 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Parque Campo Grande. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,850 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cerrazo. This car ride takes around 2 hours 14 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Laberinto De Villapresente. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,994 reviews.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Santander. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Barruca de Calderón, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Bombi. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

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.

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

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in Spain is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Santander.

Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Santander’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Santander is the remarkable Paseo Marítimo De Santander. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,078 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Santander or just grab something light to keep you going.

Savor the flavors at Casa Lita, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bodega del Riojano beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Santander and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in Spain is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.