Relaxed 12-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to Santander and San Sebastian

Day 2 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!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bilbao allows for both. Start by heading to Guggenheim Museum. This spectacular museum building provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Puppy, a detailed art installation, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Zubizuri, a captivating art installation. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing Furnicular Bottom Station. Round off your day at Artxanda Funicular, another gem in Bilbao with romantic features to discover.

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, Bilbao has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Mina in Bilbao by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Mina offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and seasonal menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Zortziko, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Etxanobe Atelier, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.

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

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

Day 3 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 city of Bilbao. 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 4 nights.

Immerse yourself in Bilbao’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This picture-perfect museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, an increasingly popular church. For a change of scene, check out Etxebarri Parkea, known for its picture-perfect features.

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

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.

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. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Santander.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Kings Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Grog offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Hygge Cocktail. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Santander and visit amazing attractions in Villaescusa, Cerrazo, Santillana del Mar, Cabezón de la Sal, and Rionansa destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 3 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.

Today's adventure in Santander promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Cabarceno Natural Park. This visually striking safari park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Villapresente's Labyrinth, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Cave Of Altamira, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its majestic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón. This picturesque nature reserve is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Cueva El Soplao, a locally renowned point of interest, and take a stroll around the area.

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

Exploring the food culture in Santander 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.

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

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

Continue your lively evening at Little Bobby, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 5, 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 2 nights left in Santander, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Santander on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Palacio De La Magdalena is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped palace before continuing your journey. Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico is your next stop. This beloved maritime museum is one of the best-rated sights in Santander.

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 Parque De Mataleñas. This mesmerizing park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Playa De Mataleñas and Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor.

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

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 Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, 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 El Sol, 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 Restaurante Posada Del Mar, a hidden gem nestled in Santander. 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 Santander and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

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

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Santander, 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 Santander, and meet locals along the way!

Today’s agenda in Santander includes a public square, a market, a church, an art gallery and much more! Plaza De Pombo is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Mercado Del Este, a curiosity-inducing market, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Plaza Porticada, a visually striking public square, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Santander. If you’re looking for more, Catedral De Santander is also a worthwhile attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Centro Botin, an interesting gem to see in the city.

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 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 lovely dining experience at Cadelo Restaurante, 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 Cervecería Kiss, 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 Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time 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.

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

Day 7 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 Portugalete and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Getxo and the village of Sukarrieta. You’ll stay in San Sebastian for 4 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming town of Santander. Your adventure starts at Doktore Areilza Parkea, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Vizcaya Bridge. This well-known monument is known for its mesmerizing appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Santander's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Playa De Ereaga. This romantic beach offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Puerto Viejo is also worth visiting, along with Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in San Sebastian. 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 San Sebastian, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Arzak, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in San Sebastian. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Kokotxa. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Txiki Taberna Donosti, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Taberna Barun is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 9 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!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in San Sebastian, including a park, a palace, a heritage railway, an art installation, an observation deck and much more! Start your day with a visit to Cristina Enea Parkea. This curiosity-inducing park 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, a captivating 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.

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!

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bar Bixigarri, 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 SSua Arde Donostia, 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 Danena, 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.

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

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

On day 10 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into San Sebastian, 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 San Sebastian, and meet locals along the way!

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and budget-friendly activities. Start at the well-known Gipuzkoa Plaza, a photogenic public square in San Sebastian. Next, go to Alderdi Eder Parkea.

After visiting Gipuzkoa Plaza and Alderdi Eder Parkea, take time to explore San Sebastian's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Beach Of La Concha. This eye-catching beach offers a unique experience. Donostiako Hondartza is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Cathedral Of The Good Shepherd Of San Sebastian, one of the most inviting places to visit 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Narru Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Lukainkategi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante JATETXEA TOLOSA. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian 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.

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.

On day 11 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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in San Sebastian today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Hondarribiko Hondartza. This romantic beach will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to San Nikolas Gate and learn what makes this culturally significant historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming St. Maria Gate.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Bilbao in this laid-back road trip in Spain. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gaztandegi taberna, a highly-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're eager to try something different, consider Café Bar Bilbao, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Laga jatetxea. 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.

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