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 option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Puppy, an often recommended art installation, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Zubizuri, a visually striking 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 often recommended Furnicular Bottom Station. If you’re looking for more, Artxanda Funicular is also an up-and-coming attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

Spain makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. 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 Bilbao.

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 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.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Spain offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. You’ll stay in Santander for 4 nights.

Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is an ideal stop early in the day. This frequently visited museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, which may be one of the most majestic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bilbao 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 Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, a worthwhile church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Etxebarri Parkea and Europa Parkea.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Spain as you make your way to Santander. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Santander by securing a reservation at Cadelo. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Umma, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Agua Salada, a top local spot known for its tantalizing contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kings Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Grog, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Hygge Cocktail provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip in Spain, 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, just outside the city. You still have 3 nights left in Santander, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Santander and set your GPS to Villaescusa. 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 23 min. Upon reaching Villaescusa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Cabarceno Natural Park, a top-rated safari park in Villaescusa. Explore its idyllic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Cerrazo, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Villaescusa to Cerrazo may take around 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cerrazo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Villapresente's Labyrinth and explore the instagrammable features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Santillana del Mar may take around 6 min. Upon your arrival in Santillana del Mar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Cave Of Altamira is a notable cave we recommend visiting today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-listed features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

Savor the flavors at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurante Matices Santander beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider La Enmienda Dieciocho. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Santander tonight.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Little Bobby, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Santander as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain!

Your relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 5 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Spain better by exploring the top attractions of Santander and beyond. With 2 nights left in Santander, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Palacio De La Magdalena is must-visit palace and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, a worthwhile maritime museum, located just a leisurely stroll away.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cueto. This drive usually takes around 10 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parque De Mataleñas. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Playa De Mataleñas. This up-and-coming beach is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the art gallery.

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 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.

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.

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

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

Let Plaza De Pombo set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching public square before continuing your journey. Mercado Del Este is your next stop. This frequently visited market 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 Plaza Porticada. This heritage-rich public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Catedral De Santander and Centro Botin.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cadelo Restaurante, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cervecería Kiss offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option 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.

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

Day 7 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Spain lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Portugalete. By evening, drive toward the San Sebastian, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Portugalete may take around 1 hour 7 min. Upon your arrival in Portugalete, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Portugalete is Doktore Areilza Parkea, an increasingly popular park that draws attention for its eye-catching features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Vizcaya Bridge, a picture-perfect monument that stands out in the town.

Set your GPS to Getxo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Getxo beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Playa De Ereaga, a worthwhile beach known for its majestic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Puerto Viejo, an underrated point of interest.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Getxo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sukarrieta. This drive usually takes around 49 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, a locally renowned nature reserve that everyone visiting Sukarrieta should see.

You'll be staying in San Sebastian on this laid-back road trip through Spain. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in San Sebastian by booking a table at Arzak, a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in San Sebastian, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Kokotxa is known as a top local spot in San Sebastian for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Txiki Taberna Donosti is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Taberna Barun, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Gorriti Taberna. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your 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!

San Sebastian is brimming with adventures.

Whatever your travel style is, Cristina Enea Parkea is an essential stop in San Sebastian. This up-and-coming park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Miramar Palace, an enchanting palace, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Funicular Monte Igueldo, an interesting heritage railway. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Peine Del Viento Xv. Round off your day at Igeldo Mendiko Behatokia, another gem in San Sebastian with eye-catching 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 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.

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.

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.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of San Sebastian as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday 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.

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.

Gipuzkoa Plaza makes a great addition to your morning plans. This captivating public square is an instagrammable place to see in San Sebastian. Continue your discovery at Alderdi Eder Parkea, an idyllic park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around San Sebastian, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Beach Of La Concha. This interesting beach offers an eye-catching encounter with San Sebastian. Next, make your way to Donostiako Hondartza to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Cathedral Of The Good Shepherd Of San Sebastian, a frequently visited church that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in San Sebastian.

Spain makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Narru Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Lukainkategi is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurante JATETXEA TOLOSA. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in San Sebastian tonight.

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

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

On day 11 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Spain, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

After soaking in San Sebastian’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Hondarribia/Fontarrabie. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 33 min. When you arrive in Hondarribia/Fontarrabie, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Hondarribiko Hondartza. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the beach before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to San Nikolas Gate. This locally appreciated historical landmark is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to St. Maria Gate. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the historical landmark.

In Bilbao, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Spain.

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.

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.

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.

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