Relaxed 13-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to San Sebastian and Bilbao

On day 2 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.

Santander is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a palace, a beach, a maritime museum, an art gallery and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Palacio De La Magdalena. Just a short distance away is Playa Del Camello, an idyllic beach that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the intriguing Playa De Mataleñas. Last up on today’s itinerary is an art gallery. Make your way to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Santander.

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

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Santander by reserving a table at Cadelo. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Umma, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Agua Salada, a local favorite known for its delightful contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand awardee is an ideal choice for discerning contemporary and traditional foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

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

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 3, 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 1 night left in Santander, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Santander, including a church, a public square, a market, an art gallery, a park and much more! Start your day at Catedral De Santander. This picture-perfect church is a frequently visited place to see in Santander. Then, wander over to Plaza Porticada. If photogenic sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Mercado Del Este. This heritage-rich market is a favorite among visitors.

Santander offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Centro Botin is a popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the art gallery, don’t forget to check out the instagrammable Parque De Mataleñas. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this worthwhile park in Santander.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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, 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.

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

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Spain promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz and drive in the direction of the hamlet of Elorriaga for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of San Sebastian, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Martin Deunako Parkea. This often recommended park is a mesmerizing place to see in Santander. Continue your discovery at La Florida, a romantic park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Santander, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Plaza Virgen Blanca. This popular public square offers an enchanting encounter with Santander. Next, make your way to Nueva Square to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Salburua, a worthwhile nature reserve 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 Santander.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of San Sebastian in this laid-back road trip in Spain. You'll stay here for 4 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 San Sebastian, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Txiki Taberna Donosti, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Taberna Barun provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Gorriti Taberna offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 5 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!

Set aside time today to explore Parte Vieja, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in San Sebastian, including an aquarium, a park, a beach, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Aquarium. This notable aquarium is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Alderdi Eder Parkea, which may be one of the most eye-catching 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 Beach Of La Concha, a captivating beach in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Gipuzkoa Plaza.

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!

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 delicious meal at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, a top-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Federiko Taberna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Cuchara de San Telmo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

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

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

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

Immerse yourself in San Sebastian’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Aiete Parkea. This eye-catching park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Miramar Palace, a must-visit palace 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 Funicular Monte Igueldo, a popular heritage railway. For a change of scene, check out Peine Del Viento Xv, known for its awe-inspiring 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.

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

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

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.

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

On day 7 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!

A top thing to do today is to explore Gros, a must-see neighborhood in San Sebastian. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in San Sebastian, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Cristina Enea Parkea, a curiosity-inducing park in the city. Then, head to Maria Kristina Zubia and soak in the ambiance of this stunning monument.

There are many interesting places to see in San Sebastian and when you are ready for more, go to Cathedral Of The Good Shepherd Of San Sebastian. This is one of the city’s most underrated spots. After exploring the church, visit the curiosity-inducing Eureka! Zientzia Museoa.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Narru Restaurant, a popular restaurant in San Sebastian. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of San Sebastian at Lukainkategi, 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 Restaurante JATETXEA TOLOSA. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in San Sebastian tonight.

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.

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

Day 8 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 hamlet of Urkiola. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Bilbao, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

Immerse yourself in San Sebastian’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Urkiola Parke Naturala. This romantic national park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the UNESCO world heritage-listed features of Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, a must-visit nature reserve in the hamlet.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Playa De Ereaga, an underrated beach.

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

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.

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.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Boss Bilbao, known for its lively atmosphere. Stromboli Taberna is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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 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!

A blend of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots await you in Bilbao on today’s itinerary. First up is the spectacular museum building, Guggenheim Museum. Afterward, continue to Puppy, an art installation every traveler should visit.

As you explore Bilbao’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Albiako Lorategiak. This frequently visited park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Etxebarri Parkea, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, a curiosity-inducing church in the city.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Café Iruña, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Iturriza Taberna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Antxoa Taberna. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice 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.

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

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

Start by visiting Furnicular Bottom Station, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking tramway is sure to impress. Next on your list is Zubizuri, another must-visit landmark and captivating art installation renowned for its remarkable features.

Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao also adds charm to your journey, and Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park wraps up your day with its mesmerizing appeal.

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

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.

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.

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 leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Bilbao, 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 Bilbao, and meet locals along the way!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bilbao. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Artxanda Funicular is the perfect place to start. This tramway is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Bilbao. Next, head to Europa Parkea, a locally appreciated park, known for its breathtaking features.

Meanwhile, Itsasmuseum Bilbao adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Museo Athletic Club | Ac Museoa · Tour San Mamés, a standout museum in Bilbao.

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 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.

Savor the flavors at El Globo taberna, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Barraca jatetxea beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante Pentxo. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bilbao tonight.

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 12 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 city of Villaescusa and end it in the hamlet of Cerrazo. You’ll stay in Santander 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.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at the top-rated Cabarceno Natural Park, a gorgeous safari park in Bilbao. Next, go to Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón.

Villapresente's Labyrinth is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Suances Pueblo, one of the most romantic places to visit in Bilbao.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cadelo Restaurante, a top-rated dining spot in Santander. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cervecería Kiss, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Santander.

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.

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