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!

Guggenheim Museum is must-visit museum building and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Puppy, a frequently visited art installation, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Zubizuri, an enchanting art installation, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Bilbao. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the locally appreciated Furnicular Bottom Station. If you’re looking for more, Artxanda Funicular is also an underrated attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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.

Exploring the food culture in Bilbao offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Discover the culinary delights of Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative and seasonal cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Zortziko, renowned for its delicious contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Etxanobe Atelier, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Bilbao. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a park, and a church. Begin your adventure at Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This is a frequently visited museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a well-known park in Bilbao.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Etxebarri Parkea, another of the city’s worthwhile attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Europa Parkea, a picture-perfect place of interest in the city.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Santander by booking a table at Cadelo, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Santander, Umma shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Agua Salada is known as a top local spot for its delicious contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kings Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Grog is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 4, 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 3 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 family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, 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. Cabarceno Natural Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picturesque safari park before continuing your journey. Villapresente's Labyrinth is your next stop. This interesting maze 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 Cave Of Altamira. This instagrammable cave is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón and Cueva El Soplao.

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.

Dine in style at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante Matices Santander boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Enmienda Dieciocho. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great 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.

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

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Santander and visit amazing attractions in Santander and Cueto 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.

Immerse yourself in Santander’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Palacio De La Magdalena. This romantic palace is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, a must-visit maritime museum 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 Parque De Mataleñas, an intriguing park. For a change of scene, check out Playa De Mataleñas, known for its serene features. We also recommend visiting Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. This art gallery is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Sol, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Posada Del Mar. 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.

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

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Santander, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Santander, including a public square, a market, a church, an art gallery and much more! Start your adventure at Plaza De Pombo. This beloved public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Mercado Del Este located in Santander for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Plaza Porticada. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Catedral De Santander. Visitors usually appreciate the stunning features of this church. Next up is Centro Botin, a highly recommended art gallery.

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 Santander.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cadelo Restaurante, a highly-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cervecería Kiss, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent 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.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Santander 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 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 town of Portugalete and end it in the city of San Sebastian. You’ll stay in San Sebastian for 4 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 Doktore Areilza Parkea. This locally appreciated park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Vizcaya Bridge located in Santander for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Playa De Ereaga. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the beach, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Puerto Viejo. Next up is Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, a highly recommended nature reserve.

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

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.

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

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Txiki Taberna Donosti, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Taberna Barun offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore San Sebastian on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Cristina Enea Parkea is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this peaceful park before continuing your journey. Miramar Palace is your next stop. This notable palace is one of the best-rated sights in San Sebastian.

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 Funicular Monte Igueldo. This enchanting heritage railway is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit 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!

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 a wonderful meal at Bar Bixigarri, a top-rated dining spot in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood for something new, try SSua Arde Donostia, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Danena. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in San Sebastian.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in San Sebastian. The bars in San Sebastian make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

Day 10 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in San Sebastian, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in San Sebastian today. One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is Gipuzkoa Plaza. This instagrammable public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Alderdi Eder Parkea and learn what makes this serene park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular Beach Of La Concha. After exploring the beach, head to Donostiako Hondartza. This underrated beach is a highlight in San Sebastian. As your day continues, stop by Cathedral Of The Good Shepherd Of San Sebastian, known for its inviting features.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities. San Sebastian offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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 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.

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.

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 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!

Start by visiting Hondarribiko Hondartza, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic beach is sure to impress. Next on your list is San Nikolas Gate, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming historical landmark renowned for its picture-perfect features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of San Sebastian by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to St. Maria Gate. This picture-perfect historical landmark is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full San Sebastian experience.

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.

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.

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

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