5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from San Sebastian traveling west to Bilbao and Santander
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Spain as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like San Sebastian, Bilbao, Santander, Santillana del Mar, and Getaria.
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 San Sebastian, 1 night 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 San Sebastian, 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 Palacio De La Magdalena 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 Cave Of Altamira, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Centro Botin.
As you hit the open road and drive through San Sebastian, Bilbao, Santander, Santillana del Mar, and Getaria, 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
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Donostia / San Sebastián - Arrival day
- More
- Beach of La Concha
- More
Welcome to San Sebastian, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in San Sebastian's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
San Sebastian 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 Beach Of La Concha, 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 San Sebastian. 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 San Sebastian, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Polka San Sebastián, a highly-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're eager to try something different, consider ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Antonio. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Txiki Taberna Donosti, known for its inviting atmosphere. Taberna Barun is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Bilbao
- More
Drive 108 km, 2 hours 18 min
- San Telmo Museoa
- Urgull
- Peine del Viento XV
- Funicular Monte Igueldo
- Guggenheim Museum
- More
On day 2 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 San Sebastian and Bilbao. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 1 night.
San Telmo Museum is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Urgull, a worthwhile park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Peine Del Viento Xv, 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 San Sebastian. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the popular Funicular Monte Igueldo. If you’re looking for more, Guggenheim Museum is also an impressive attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
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 you explore more of Bilbao, 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at La Viña del Ensanche, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Marinela jatetxea offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bilbao.
Continue your lively evening at Boss Bilbao, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Stromboli Taberna is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Zuberoa Taberna ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!
Day 3
- Bilbao
- Santander
- More
Drive 109 km, 1 hour 51 min
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Palacio de la Magdalena
- Botin Centre
- Catedral de Santander
- More
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 2 vibrant destinations - Bilbao and Santander. 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.
Today's adventure in Bilbao promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Federico Moyúa Enparantza. Then, enjoy Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its instagrammable features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Palacio De La Magdalena. This visually striking palace is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Centro Botin, a notable art gallery, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Catedral De Santander before you head back to your hotel.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Santander. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Santander. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurante la Mayor, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Santa & Co, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Marcello Restaurante. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Kings Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Grog offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Hygge Cocktail. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 4
- Santander
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- More
Drive 264 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Palacio de Los Velarde
- Cave of Altamira
- Laberinto De Villapresente
- Museo Cristóbal Balenciaga
- Getaria
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Santillana del Mar, Cerrazo, and Getaria. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in San Sebastian, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the intriguing Palacio De Los Velarde, a heritage-rich palace in Santander. Next, go to Cave Of Altamira.
After visiting Palacio De Los Velarde and Cave Of Altamira, have a stroll along Santander's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Villapresente's Labyrinth. This picture-perfect maze offers a unique experience. Museo Cristóbal Balenciaga is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Getaria, one of the most romantic places to visit in Santander.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in San Sebastian. San Sebastian offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of San Sebastian's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Federiko Taberna is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Cuchara de San Telmo. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in San Sebastian tonight.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!
Day 5
- Donostia / San Sebastián - Departure day
- More
- Gros
- More
Day 5 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of San Sebastian before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Gros, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of San Sebastian. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at San Sebastian’s popular marketplace, San Martin Shopping Centre. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in San Sebastian.
If you're eager to try something different, consider SSua Arde Donostia, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to San Sebastian. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Spain
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.