Relaxed 11-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!

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of San Sebastian. Your adventure starts at Aquarium, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Alderdi Eder Parkea. This popular park is known for its gorgeous appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander San Sebastian's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Beach Of La Concha. This stunning beach offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Gipuzkoa Plaza is also worth visiting, along with Cristina Enea Parkea. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Arzak in San Sebastian by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Arzak delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative and traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Kokotxa, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

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.

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

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

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in San Sebastian, including a church, a palace, a heritage railway, an art installation, an observation deck and much more! Start your day with a visit to Cathedral Of The Good Shepherd Of San Sebastian. This frequently visited church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Miramar Palace, which may be one of the most instagrammable 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 Funicular Monte Igueldo, an interesting heritage railway in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Peine Del Viento Xv and Igeldo Mendiko Behatokia.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Bar Bixigarri, a top-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider SSua Arde Donostia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Danena. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

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

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 Guernica. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Santander, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Start your day with a visit to Casa De Juntas De Gernika. This beloved historical landmark is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, which may be one of the most romantic 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 Playa De Ereaga, an up-and-coming beach in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Puerto Viejo and Vizcaya Bridge.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Santander in this laid-back road trip in Spain. You'll stay here for 3 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 Santander, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Santander by securing a table at Cadelo. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Umma, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Agua Salada, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Located in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is an ideal pick for contemporary and traditional 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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kings Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Grog offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Hygge Cocktail is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 5 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 2 nights 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 fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, a locally appreciated art gallery in the village. Then, head to Parque De Mataleñas and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching park.

There are many interesting places to see in Santander, and when you are ready for more, go to Llamas Park. This is one of the village’s most intriguing scenic spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the up-and-coming Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. Not far away, you'll also find Palacio De La Magdalena. This palace is a visually striking highlight in Santander.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante Matices Santander, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Enmienda Dieciocho. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Santander.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Little Bobby, a top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 6 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!

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Catedral De Santander. This curiosity-inducing church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Plaza Porticada, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Mercado Del Este, one of the most often recommended places to see in Santander. This market is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Centro Botin. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this art gallery offers. Then, head to Paseo Marítimo De Santander, a top-rated boardwalk that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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 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.

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.

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

Day 7 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 hamlet of Cerrazo and end it in the village of Puente Viesgo. 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.

Start your adventure at Villapresente's Labyrinth. This captivating maze is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón located in Santander for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Cueva El Soplao. After the sightseeing destination, continue your tour of the hamlet with a visit to Cave Of El Castillo. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this cave. Next up is Cabarceno Natural Park, a highly recommended safari park.

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.

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 an outstanding dining experience at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Zortziko, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Bilbao is Etxanobe Atelier, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative menu.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Boss Bilbao after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Stromboli Taberna, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 8 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!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bilbao, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Guggenheim Museum, a famous museum building in the city. Then, head to Puppy and soak in the ambiance of this noteworthy art installation.

There are many interesting places to see in Bilbao, and when you are ready for more, go to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This is one of the city’s most beloved photogenic spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the interesting Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Not far away, you'll also find Federico Moyúa Enparantza.

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.

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.

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!

Day 9 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bilbao, including a tramway, a park, a church, an art installation and much more! Start your adventure at Artxanda Funicular. This increasingly popular tramway is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Europa Parkea located in Bilbao for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. Its history-steeped features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Etxebarri Parkea. Visitors usually appreciate the breathtaking features of this park. Next up is Zubizuri, a highly recommended art installation.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Gaztandegi taberna, a top-rated dining spot in Bilbao. If you're in the mood for something new, try Café Bar Bilbao, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Laga jatetxea. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bilbao.

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.

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

Day 10 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the hamlet of Elorriaga and the city of San Sebastian. You’ll stay in San Sebastian for 1 night.

Bilbao is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at La Florida, a beloved park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Plaza Virgen Blanca, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Nueva Square. This public square is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bilbao at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria. After exploring the church, head to the worthwhile Salburua.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, San Sebastian 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 Narru Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in San Sebastian. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Lukainkategi, a popular restaurant in San Sebastian. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurante JATETXEA TOLOSA, a hidden gem nestled in San Sebastian. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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