6-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to Santander and San Sebastian and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bilbao has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bilbao by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start by visiting Guggenheim Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. Next on your list is Puppy, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular art installation renowned for its eye-catching features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bilbao by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This instagrammable museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bilbao experience. We also recommend visiting Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a captivating park. Nearby, you'll also find Etxebarri Parkea, ready to add charm to your journey.

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 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.

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.

Say good night to Bilbao and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Villaescusa, Fontibre, and Santillana del Mar, 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 Santander. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Cabarceno Natural Park is must-visit safari park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Nacimiento Del Rio Ebro, a captivating park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Cave Of Altamira, a picturesque cave, also available for your discovery today.

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

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Cadelo in Santander by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Cadelo offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Umma, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular Bib Gourmand-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Agua Salada, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional contemporary and traditional menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kings Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Grog offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Hygge Cocktail, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Santander and Cueto. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in San Sebastian, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Santander allows for both. Start by heading to Plaza Porticada. This up-and-coming public square provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Mercado Del Este, a heritage-rich market, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Centro Botin, a locally renowned art gallery. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. Round off your day at Llamas Park, another gem in Santander with peaceful features to discover.

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

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in San Sebastian by booking a table at Arzak, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative and traditional menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Kokotxa, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in San Sebastian. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Txiki Taberna Donosti, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Taberna Barun. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Gorriti Taberna, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in San Sebastian. Begin your sightseeing with Alderdi Eder Parkea. This well-known park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Beach Of La Concha, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of San Sebastian, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Peine Del Viento Xv. This well-known art installation is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Vizcaya Bridge is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Gaztandegi taberna, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café Bar Bilbao is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Laga jatetxea. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bilbao tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!