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

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Santander and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Santander for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, 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 Plaza Porticada or taking a stroll in the city center. 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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante la Mayor, a highly-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're eager to try something different, consider Santa & Co, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Agua Salada. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Kings Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Grog is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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

When you're ready to see some sights, Plaza De Pombo is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,913 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Centro Botin. This art museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 14,508 travelers. Every year, 111,096 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Santander.

Upon reaching Cueto, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Llamas Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cueto, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,849 visitors.

Parque De Mataleñas is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,724 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,037 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 Bilbao. Bilbao 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.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Mina in Bilbao by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Mina offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative, and seasonal menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Zortziko, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Etxanobe Atelier, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Stromboli Taberna after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bilbao, and Villaescusa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Leon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Federiko Moiua Enparantza. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,235 visitors.

When you’re finished at Federiko Moiua Enparantza, head to Guggenheim Museum. This one-of-a-kind museum building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 64,815 reviews. Every year, approximately 530,967 travelers come here to experience the museum building for themselves.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,643 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Villaescusa, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bilbao to Villaescusa may take around 1 hour 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Villaescusa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Cabarceno Natural Park is a great place to start. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 45,839 visitors.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Leon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Leon by reserving a table at Becook. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of fusion, and modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Pablo, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore ConMimo, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite international 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 Leon.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Chelsea offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Café Bar Silver is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!

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 - Leon, Cangas de Onís, and Cuadonga/Covadonga. 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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like León Cathedra. This extraordinary catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 30,058 visitors.

Set your GPS to Cangas de Onís and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cangas de Onís beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Roman Bridge In Cangas De Onis. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,965 visitors.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Santander's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Discover the culinary delights of Santander by securing a reservation at Cadelo. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Umma, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Agua Salada, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering contemporary, and traditional menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Little Bobby, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

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

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.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Santander's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Spain.

Journey into the unknown at Paseo Marítimo De Santander, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,078 reviews.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Barruca de Calderón is another top choice with a popular 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!