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5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao

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Santander city beach aerial panoramic view

Photo of Palacio de la Magdalena aerial panoramic view, located on the Magdalena Peninsula in Santander city, Spain.

5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao

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Explore the best of Spain on a remarkable 5-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Cueto, Santander, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Pamplona, and Santillana del Mar.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Spain. You will spend 2 nights in Santander and 2 nights in Bilbao. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Santander, 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cueto, Santander, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Pamplona, and Santillana del Mar, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65

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Day1

Day 1

Santander - Arrival day
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Segunda Playa del Sardinero
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Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Santander and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Santander, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Santander 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 Segunda Playa De El Sardinero. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Santander. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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 Santander, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante la Mayor, an iconic dining spot in Santander. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Santa & Co, a popular restaurant in Santander. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Marcello Restaurante, a hidden gem nestled in Santander. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

Day2

Day 2

Santander
Bilbao
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Drive 109 km, 2 hours 9 min

Botin Centre
Palacio de la Magdalena
Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
Zubizuri
Federiko Moiua enparantza
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Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Spain includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Santander and Bilbao. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bilbao, where you'll spend 2 nights.

To truly experience Santander, make sure to drop by Centro Botin. This locally renowned art gallery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Palacio De La Magdalena, one of the city’s best highlights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bilbao. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a notable park known for its eye-catching features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, a frequently visited museum.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Zubizuri and uncover the details of this culturally significant art installation. Make sure to also explore Federico Moyúa Enparantza, a beloved sightseeing destination.

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.

Bilbao is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bilbao.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Viña del Ensanche, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Marinela jatetxea offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bilbao.

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

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

Day3

Day 3

Bilbao
Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 207 km, 3 hours 10 min

Guggenheim Museum
Gipuzkoa Plaza
Beach of La Concha
Funicular Monte Igueldo
Peine del Viento XV
Parte Vieja
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, where you have 1 night left to stay.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Parte Vieja. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

To truly experience Bilbao, make sure to drop by Guggenheim Museum. This famous museum building is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to San Sebastian, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bilbao. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 12 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Gipuzkoa Plaza. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the public square before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Beach Of La Concha. This well-known beach is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Funicular Monte Igueldo. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the heritage railway. Next, take your journey to Peine Del Viento Xv, a popular art installation.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bilbao.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!

Day4

Day 4

Bilbao
Pamplona
Santillana del Mar
Santander
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Drive 469 km, 5 hours 41 min

Citadel of Pamplona
Plaza de Toros
Castle Square
Cave of Altamira
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Pamplona and Santillana del Mar. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Santander, where you'll spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pamplona. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 43 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Citadel Of Pamplona, a notable historical landmark in Pamplona. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Plaza De Toros De Pamplona. This popular stadium is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Castle Square is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most history-steeped public square in the region.

Set your GPS to Santillana del Mar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 4 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Santillana del Mar beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Santillana del Mar is Cave Of Altamira, an interesting cave that draws attention for its respected features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Santander. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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 Santander, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurante Agua Salada, a popular restaurant in Santander. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Santander at Restaurante Matices Santander, 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 La Enmienda Dieciocho. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Santander tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Little Bobby. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Day5

Day 5

Santander - Departure day
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Plaza Porticada
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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 Santander 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 Plaza Porticada. This intriguing public square is a hotspot among locals.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Santander’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. 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 Santander.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? El Sol offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Santander. 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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

Secure your spot

Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.

Get instant confirmation

Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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