Relaxed 11-Day Spain Road Trip from Bilbao to Vitoria-Gasteiz, and Santander

Your relaxed road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Bilbao, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bilbao and begin your adventure in Spain.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Federiko Moiua enparantza. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,235 reviews.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bilbao. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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 Bilbao.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Viña del Ensanche, 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 Iruña, 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 Iturriza Taberna, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Stromboli taberna, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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 Bilbao as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

On day 2 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!

Drop by the renowned Artxanda Funicular. This popular funicular has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,055 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Guggenheim Museum. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 64,815 visitors, this museum building deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Puppy. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,913 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao. This museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,312 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,643 travelers, this park is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Bilbao.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Bilbao, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across 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 Bilbao.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative, and seasonal menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Zortziko is one of the best restaurants for contemporary cuisine in Bilbao. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Etxanobe Atelier. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative cuisine in the city.

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.

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 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!

Kick off the day at Europa parkea, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,593 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Bilboko Donejakue katedrala. Bilboko Donejakue katedrala is a church with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,802 reviews.

Etxebarria parkea is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,229 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Zubizuri. This footbridge is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 10,295 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Furnicular bottom station, a famous point of interest in Bilbao. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,866 travelers.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante Pentxo, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kirol jatetxea? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Arpiku as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bilbao.

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.

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

Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Spain gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Getxo. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bilbao and set your GPS to Getxo. 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 18 min. Upon reaching Getxo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Puerto Viejo. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,111 visitors.

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.

Drop by the renowned Vizcaya Bridge. This popular suspension bridge has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 28,202 visitors.

Set your GPS to Bermeo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 56 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bermeo beckons with new experiences!

Make San Juan de Gaztelugatxe hermitage one of your first sightseeing stops in Bermeo. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,392 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Vitoria-Gasteiz in this laid-back road trip in Spain. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Vitoria-Gasteiz by securing a reservation at Zabala. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante-Asador Matxete boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Soho Vitoria-Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Taberna Txustarra is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Aldapa Taberna also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Ali/Ehari, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Journey into the unknown at Cathedral María Inmaculada of Vitoria, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable church has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,339 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, La Florida is a recommended place to visit. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,409 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Vitoria-Gasteiz is Plaza Virgen Blanca. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,751 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Vitoria-Gasteiz offers an experience you will remember.

Nueva Square is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Vitoria-Gasteiz. This square promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,706 reviews.

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.

Exploring the food culture in Vitoria-Gasteiz 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.

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

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Vitoria-Gasteiz!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Elorriaga, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the hamlet’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the hamlet's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Elorriaga, and meet locals along the way!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Arriagako Donibane Parkea, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,770 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Cathedral of Santa María de Vitoria. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,503 travelers.

Artium Museum is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.1 out of 5 stars by 2,285 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in 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 Elorriaga. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Elorriaga 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 hamlet of Elorriaga to find the best options for you!

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

Make sure to book a table at Tximiso Taberna, a popular restaurant in Vitoria-Gasteiz. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Vitoria-Gasteiz at Erdizka bar&grill, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is La Malquerida. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Vitoria-Gasteiz tonight.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Vitoria-Gasteiz. 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 and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 7 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Spain. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Spain.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Burgos Province. This car ride takes around 1 hour 28 min.

Kick off the day at Abbey of Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This cistercian nunnery is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,194 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Castillo de Burgos. Castillo de Burgos is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 4,597 reviews.

Mirador Del Castillo is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,666 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Burgos Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 28,435 visitors.

In the city of Santander, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation 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 Santander, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Santander by booking a table at Cadelo. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Umma, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Agua Salada, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing contemporary, and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kings Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Grog for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, HYGGE COCKTAIL is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 8 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!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Catedral de Santander. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Santander, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 6,521 visitors.

Plaza Porticada is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,395 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Mercado del Este. Visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 7,680 reviews.

Centro Botin, boasting an annual visitor count of up to 111,096 people, is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an art museum rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,508 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Paseo Marítimo de Santander, perhaps the most famous sightseeing destination in Santander. This attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,078 travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 8 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Spain. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Santander itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

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.

Savor the flavors at El Sol, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurante Posada Del Mar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Cadelo Restaurante. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Santander tonight.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Little Bobby, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Spain!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 9, 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 Cueto and beyond. With 1 night left in Santander, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the village.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico. This maritime museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,771 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cueto, 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 Santander to Cueto may take around 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cueto, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Centro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,037 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Playa de Mataleñas. This beach has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,910 travelers.

Parque de Mataleñas is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,724 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 Llamas Park. This well-loved park boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,849 reviews.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos, 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 La Barruca de Calderón, 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 La Bombi, a hidden gem nestled in Santander. 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, stop at some of Santander’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

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

Day 10 of your self-drive tour in Spain is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the village of Santillana del Mar and end it in the city of Bilbao. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 1 night. 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.

Santillana del Mar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Santander behind. This drive usually takes around 35 min. Santillana del Mar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Museum of Torture - Inquisicion, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 4,958 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at National Museum and Research Center of Altamira. This museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,249 travelers.

Cave of Altamira is another must-visit attraction. This renowned cave with prehistoric art offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 13,460 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Villaescusa. This car ride takes around 29 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Cabarceno Natural Park. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 45,839 reviews.

After soaking in Villaescusa’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Castro-Urdiales. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 43 min. When you arrive in Castro-Urdiales, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Playa Ostende / Urdiales your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,595 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Bilbao. 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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mugi taberna, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cerveceria Baskian offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Gure Kabi jatetxea is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bilbao.

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.

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

Day 11 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 Bilbao.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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 Bilbao is the remarkable Albiako Lorategiak. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,047 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Bilbao or just grab something light to keep you going.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Gran Hotel Domine Bilbao, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Zurima jatetxea is another top choice with a popular menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Bilbao and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 11-day relaxed road trip in Spain is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.