6-Day Spain Road Trip from Bilbao to Santander, and San Sebastian and surrounding area

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Spain as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bilbao, Villaescusa, Santillana del Mar, Santander, Cueto, San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Bilbao, 1 night in Santander, and 1 night in San Sebastian. 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 got you covered.

Upon arriving in Bilbao, 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 Cabarceno Natural Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bilbao, Villaescusa, Santillana del Mar, Santander, Cueto, San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete, 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, accommodation, 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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Day 1

Day 1 – Bilbao - arrival day

  • Bilbao - Arrival day
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  • Federiko Moiua enparantza
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Welcome to Bilbao, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Bilbao's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bilbao 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 Federiko Moiua Enparantza or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Bilbao. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Spain. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Viña del Ensanche, a top-rated dining spot in Bilbao. If you're in the mood for something new, try Café Iruña, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Iturriza Taberna. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bilbao.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Stromboli Taberna, a prime location for a drink.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Spain!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Bilbao

  • Bilbao
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Drive 8 km, 42 min

  • Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
  • Puppy
  • Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
  • Casilda Iturrizar parkea
  • Parque Etxebarria
  • More

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bilbao for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Guggenheim Museum. This museum building gets 530,967 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 64,815 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Puppy. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,913 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,312 visitors.

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.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Etxebarria Parkea. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,229 visitors.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Bilbao, Villaescusa, Fontibre, Santillana del Mar, and Santander

  • Santander
  • Villaescusa
  • Santillana del Mar
  • More

Drive 269 km, 3 hours 24 min

  • Parque de la Naturaleza de Cabárceno
  • Cave of Altamira
  • National Museum and Research Center of Altamira
  • More

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 3 vibrant destinations - Villaescusa, Fontibre, and Santillana del Mar. 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.

Set your GPS to Villaescusa and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Villaescusa beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Cabarceno Natural Park. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 45,839 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Villaescusa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Fontibre. This drive usually takes around 52 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Nacimiento Del Rio Ebro one of your first sightseeing stops in Fontibre. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,575 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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.

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

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 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.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Santander, Cueto, and San Sebastian

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
  • Santander
  • Cueto
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Drive 208 km, 2 hours 46 min

  • Plaza Porticada
  • Centro Botín
  • Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
  • Parque Atlántico de Las Llamas
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Santander, and Cueto. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in San Sebastian, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Plaza Porticada, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,395 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Mercado Del Este. Mercado Del Este is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 7,680 reviews.

Centro Botin is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This art museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 14,508 visitors. In a single year, this art museum hosts approximately 111,096 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. This maritime museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,771 visitors.

Cueto’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Santander behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Cueto welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Llamas Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,849 visitors.

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 San Sebastian. San Sebastian 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.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in San Sebastian by securing a table at Arzak. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative, and traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Kokotxa, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in San Sebastian. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Gorriti Taberna, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

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Day 5

Day 5 – San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, Portugalete, and Bilbao

  • Bilbao
  • Donostia / San Sebastián
  • Sukarrieta
  • Portugalete
  • More

Drive 168 km, 2 hours 55 min

  • Alderdi Eder parkea
  • Beach of La Concha
  • Haizearen orrazia
  • Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
  • Vizcaya Bridge
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete, 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.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Alderdi Eder Parkea. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,442 reviews.

Next up is Beach Of La Concha. This natural feature has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,054 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Peine Del Viento Xv. This sculpture has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,281 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of San Sebastian, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sukarrieta may take around 1 hour 21 min. Upon your arrival in Sukarrieta, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,342 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bilbao, 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 Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurante Pentxo, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kirol jatetxea offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Arpiku is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bilbao.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Bilbao - departure day

  • Bilbao - Departure day
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  • Zubizuri
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Day 6 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bilbao 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 Bilbao's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Spain.

Make Zubizuri one of your first sightseeing stops in Bilbao. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 10,295 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Bilbao. 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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