5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Oviedo and Bilbao and surrounding area

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 Santander. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oviedo, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Santander’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Plaza Porticada. This history-steeped public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the heritage-rich features of Mercado Del Este, a must-visit market in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Centro Botin, a well-known art gallery. For a change of scene, check out Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, known for its breathtaking features. We also recommend visiting Palacio De La Magdalena. This palace is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante Doña Concha, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Quemedás offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Oveja Negra. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Oviedo.

Keep the evening going at Bar Astur, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Bodegón, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Baam, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Gijon, Cabezón de la Sal, 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 Bilbao. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Oviedo. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a beach, a botanical garden, a university, a nature reserve, a safari park and much more! Begin your adventure at San Lorenzo Beach. This is a notable beach you should not miss. Another must-see is Jardín Botánico Atlántico, an underrated botanical garden in Oviedo.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Universidad Laboral De Gijón. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón, another of the city’s notable attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Cabarceno Natural Park, an eye-catching place of interest in the city.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bilbao. Bilbao offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative and seasonal cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Zortziko, renowned for its delicious contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Etxanobe Atelier, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Boss Bilbao, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Stromboli Taberna offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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 3 vibrant destinations - Bilbao, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete. 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bilbao. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most captivating places to visit in Bilbao.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Zubizuri. This remarkable art installation is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba and Vizcaya Bridge. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Santander. 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Santander by securing a reservation at Cadelo. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Umma, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Agua Salada, a top local spot known for its tantalizing contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Little Bobby, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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