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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore San Sebastian. You’ll stay in San Sebastian for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s route brings an awe-inspiring, an instagrammable, a romantic, a heritage-rich, and a noteworthy. The first attraction of today is Aquarium. This well-known aquarium is a breathtaking place to see in San Sebastian. Continue your discovery at Miramar Palace, a visually striking palace with stories to tell.

As you stroll around San Sebastian, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Funicular Monte Igueldo. This notable heritage railway offers a history-steeped encounter with San Sebastian. Peine Del Viento Xv is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in San Sebastian.

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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Arzak, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and traditional menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in San Sebastian is Kokotxa, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.

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

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 - San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A blend of a visually striking, a romantic, a majestic, and a stunning await you in San Sebastian on today’s itinerary. First up is the notable public square, Gipuzkoa Plaza. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Alderdi Eder Parkea. A visit to this park is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore San Sebastian’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Beach Of La Concha. This well-known beach is an essential stop that should not be missed.

When you’ve had your share of San Sebastian, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sukarrieta. Your travel time is around 1 hour 19 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, a popular nature reserve that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Portugalete. This drive usually takes around 53 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take your self-guided tour to Vizcaya Bridge, a well-known monument that everyone visiting Portugalete should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Bilbao by booking a table at Mina, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For a different culinary experience in Bilbao, Zortziko shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Etxanobe Atelier is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative cuisine in Bilbao. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Boss Bilbao, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Stromboli Taberna offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Zuberoa Taberna. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 4 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 Bilbao, Villaescusa, and Rionansa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bilbao today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Federico Moyúa Enparantza. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Puppy and learn what makes this instagrammable art installation unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the widely recognized Guggenheim Museum.

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 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Villaescusa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Cabarceno Natural Park is a famous safari park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picturesque features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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 Santander. Santander 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 Santander's best restaurants.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Kings Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Grog, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Cueto and Santander, 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 San Sebastian. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of a visually striking, a historically significant, a stunning, and a detailed. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Plaza Porticada. This frequently visited public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Mercado Del Este, one of the village’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Centro Botin, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Santander. This art gallery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

Set your GPS to Cueto and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cueto beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, a worthwhile art gallery that everyone visiting Cueto should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Llamas Park. This enchanting park is one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in the region.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bar Bixigarri, a highly-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're eager to try something different, consider SSua Arde Donostia, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Danena. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

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