5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to Santander and surrounding area
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Spain. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Bilbao and 1 night in Santander. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Spain. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Bilbao, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Spain on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Spain. Guggenheim Museum and Cabarceno Natural Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Beach Of La Concha, learn more about the unique Alderdi Eder Parkea, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cave Of Altamira.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bilbao, San Sebastian, Santander, Cueto, Santillana del Mar, and Villaescusa, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Spain. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Spain.
Throughout your road trip in Spain, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Spain.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Spain fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Spain today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Bilbao - Arrival day
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- Federiko Moiua enparantza
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Welcome to Bilbao, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Bilbao's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Bilbao is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Federico Moyúa Enparantza, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Bilbao. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Spain. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bilbao, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at La Viña del Ensanche, an iconic dining spot in Bilbao. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Marinela jatetxea, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the evening going at Boss Bilbao, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Stromboli Taberna, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Zuberoa Taberna, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Bilbao
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Drive 8 km, 42 min
- Guggenheim Museum
- Puppy
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Parque Etxebarria
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bilbao has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bilbao by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bilbao today. One of the most spectacular attractions included on the itinerary is Guggenheim Museum. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Puppy and learn what makes this picture-perfect art installation unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. After exploring the museum, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This captivating park is a highlight in Bilbao. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the often recommended Etxebarri Parkea. Enjoy exploring this incredible park at your own pace.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bilbao. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bilbao by securing a table at Mina. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Zortziko, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Bilbao. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!
Day 3
- Bilbao
- Santander
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Drive 299 km, 3 hours 53 min
- Gipuzkoa Plaza
- Alderdi Eder Parkea
- Beach of La Concha
- Peine del Viento XV
- Igeldo mendiko behatokia
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - San Sebastian. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Santander. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bilbao is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square, a park, a beach, an art installation, an observation deck and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the captivating Gipuzkoa Plaza. Just a short distance away is Alderdi Eder Parkea, a stunning park that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Beach Of La Concha, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the captivating Peine Del Viento Xv. Last up on today’s itinerary is an observation deck. Make your way to Igeldo Mendiko Behatokia for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Bilbao.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Santander. Santander offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of Santander, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby Bib Gourmand-awardee, Umma, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Santander is Agua Salada, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant and a delicious contemporary and traditional menu.
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.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!
Day 4
- Santander
- Bilbao
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Drive 176 km, 2 hours 34 min
- Mercado del Este
- Botin Centre
- Centro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor
- Cave of Altamira
- Cabarceno Natural Park
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On day 4 of your road trip in Spain, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Santander, Cueto, Santillana del Mar, and Villaescusa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 1 night.
Start by visiting Mercado Del Este, a prime spot to begin your journey. This heritage-rich market is sure to impress. Next on your list is Centro Botin, another must-visit landmark and captivating art gallery renowned for its detailed features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Santander by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. This picture-perfect art gallery is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Cave Of Altamira also adds charm to your journey, and Cabarceno Natural Park wraps up your day with its visually striking appeal.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bilbao. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Gaztandegi taberna, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Café Bar Bilbao? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Laga jatetxea as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bilbao.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Bilbao - Departure day
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- Zubizuri
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Day 5 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bilbao before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Zubizuri. This captivating art installation is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bilbao.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at El Globo taberna, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Barraca jatetxea? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Bilbao. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Spain!
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