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 across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Bilbao. You have 1 night left in Bilbao. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your adventure at Guggenheim Museum. This is a spectacular museum building you should not miss. Another must-see is Puppy, a frequently visited art installation in Bilbao.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, another of the city’s popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Etxebarri Parkea, a visually striking place of interest in the city.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and seasonal menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Zortziko is one of the best restaurants for contemporary cuisine in Bilbao. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Etxanobe Atelier. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative cuisine in the city.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg 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.

Today's adventure in Bilbao promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Cabarceno Natural Park. This enchanting safari park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Next, head over to Cave Of Altamira, one of the city’s most interesting attractions, known for its respected features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of National Museum And Research Center Of Altamira. This heritage-rich museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

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.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 2 vibrant destinations - Santander and Cueto. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in San Sebastian. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Santander on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Plaza Porticada is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich public square before continuing your journey. Mercado Del Este is your next stop. This beloved market is one of the best-rated sights in Santander.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Centro Botin. This picture-perfect art gallery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico and Llamas Park.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in San Sebastian by securing a reservation at Arzak. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Kokotxa, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Txiki Taberna Donosti, known for its lively atmosphere. Taberna Barun is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 5 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 San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in San Sebastian, including a park, a beach, an art installation, a nature reserve, a monument and much more! Start your day at Alderdi Eder Parkea. This romantic park is a well-known place to see in San Sebastian. Then, wander over to Beach Of La Concha. If majestic sites excite you, this beach will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Peine Del Viento Xv. This instagrammable art installation is a favorite among visitors.

San Sebastian offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba is an interesting spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the nature reserve, don’t forget to check out the UNESCO world heritage-listed Vizcaya Bridge. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this captivating monument.

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 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Gaztandegi taberna, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bilbao at Café Bar Bilbao, 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 Laga jatetxea. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bilbao tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!