5-Day Spain Road Trip from Bilbao traveling south to Vitoria-Gasteiz, and Santander

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Spain. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Bilbao, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Burgos Province, Santander, Santillana del Mar, Villaescusa, Portugalete, Getxo, and Sukarrieta. 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 2 nights in Bilbao, 1 night in Vitoria-Gasteiz, 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bilbao, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Burgos Province, Santander, Santillana del Mar, Villaescusa, Portugalete, Getxo, and Sukarrieta, 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!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Bilbao - arrival day

  • Bilbao - Arrival day
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  • Federiko Moiua enparantza
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Say hello to Bilbao! Your exciting road trip through Spain is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Bilbao for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 Federiko Moiua Enparantza or 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 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.

Make sure to book a table at La Viña del Ensanche, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bilbao at Café Iruña, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Iturriza Taberna. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bilbao tonight.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Bilbao, and Vitoria-Gasteiz

  • Vitoria-Gasteiz
  • Bilbao
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Drive 72 km, 1 hour 30 min

  • Puppy
  • Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
  • Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
  • Casilda Iturrizar parkea
  • Parque Etxebarria
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bilbao. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Vitoria-Gasteiz, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Make Puppy your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,913 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Guggenheim Museum. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 64,815 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum building every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 530,967 annual visitors.

Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,312 visitors.

When you’re finished at Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, the perfect next stop is Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,643 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Etxebarria Parkea. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,229 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Vitoria-Gasteiz offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Vitoria-Gasteiz, 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Vitoria-Gasteiz by securing a table at Zabala. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional contemporary menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurante-Asador Matxete, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Soho Vitoria-cocktail Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Taberna Txustarra offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Aldapa Taberna, another top-rated bar in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Vitoria-Gasteiz, Burgos Province, and Santander

  • Santander
  • Burgos
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Drive 308 km, 3 hours 54 min

  • The Huelgas Monastery
  • Castillo de Burgos
  • Mirador Del Castillo
  • Burgos Cathedral
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Burgos Province, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Santander. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Vitoria-Gasteiz and set your GPS to Burgos Province. 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 1 hour 28 min. Upon reaching Burgos Province, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Abbey Of Santa María La Real De Las Huelgas. This much-appreciated cistercian nunnery is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,194 reviews.

Next up is Castillo De Burgos. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 4,597 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Mirador Del Castillo. This point of interest has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,666 reviews.

Burgos Cathedral is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 28,435 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Santander, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Santander's best restaurants.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby Bib Gourmand-awardee, Umma, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Santander is Agua Salada, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant, known for its delicious contemporary, and traditional menu.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kings Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Grog for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Hygge Cocktail is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Santander, Santillana del Mar, Villaescusa, Portugalete, Getxo, and Sukarrieta

  • Bilbao
  • Santillana del Mar
  • Villaescusa
  • Portugalete
  • Getxo
  • Sukarrieta
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Drive 266 km, 4 hours 6 min

  • Cave of Altamira
  • Parque de la Naturaleza de Cabárceno
  • Vizcaya Bridge
  • Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 5 vibrant destinations - Santillana del Mar, Villaescusa, Portugalete, Getxo, and Sukarrieta. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Santillana del Mar. This car ride takes around 33 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Cave Of Altamira is a great place to start. This cave with prehistoric art is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 13,460 visitors.

Villaescusa’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Santillana del Mar behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Villaescusa welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Cabarceno Natural Park. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 45,839 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bilbao, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Bilbao by booking a table at Mina. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative, and seasonal cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Zortziko, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Bilbao - departure day

  • 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.

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Bilbao’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Take the opportunity to see Zubizuri. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 10,295 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bilbao.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Kirol jatetxea, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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