5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from San Sebastian traveling west to Santander

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore San Sebastian. You’ll stay in San Sebastian for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s itinerary in San Sebastian covers several incredible sights, including an aquarium, a park, a beach, a public square, an art installation and much more! Start your adventure at Aquarium. This popular aquarium is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Alderdi Eder Parkea, a must-see park in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Beach Of La Concha. This notable beach offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Gipuzkoa Plaza, where you can take in its instagrammable features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Peine Del Viento Xv. This romantic art installation offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 you explore more of San Sebastian, 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Arzak, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in San Sebastian. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Kokotxa. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

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 - Portugalete and Bilbao. 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Portugalete. This car ride takes around 1 hour 26 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Vizcaya Bridge, a notable monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Bilbao’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Portugalete behind. This drive usually takes around 21 min. Bilbao welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take your self-guided tour to Federico Moyúa Enparantza, a worthwhile sightseeing destination that everyone visiting Bilbao should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Zubizuri. This enchanting art installation is one of the most popular attractions in the region. Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this captivating park before you continue your journey.

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

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Santander by reserving a table at Cadelo. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Umma, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished Bib Gourmand-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Agua Salada, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Santander.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Kings Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Grog is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Hygge Cocktail also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Head back to your accommodation in Santander and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Santander, Santillana del Mar, Cerrazo, and Villaescusa, 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 San Sebastian. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Santander. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Centro Botin is the perfect place to start. This art gallery is one of the most interesting places to visit in Santander.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Santillana del Mar. This drive usually takes around 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Cave Of Altamira, a captivating cave in Santillana del Mar. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Santillana del Mar and set your GPS to Cerrazo. 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 6 min. Upon reaching Cerrazo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Villapresente's Labyrinth, a captivating maze known for its instagrammable features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in San Sebastian. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of San Sebastian, 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.

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.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.