6-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao

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Photo of Palacio de la Magdalena aerial panoramic view, located on the Magdalena Peninsula in Santander city, Spain.
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Explore the best of Spain on a remarkable 6-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Cueto, Santander, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Pamplona, and Logrono.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Spain. You will spend 2 nights in Santander and 3 nights in Bilbao. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Santander, 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 Palacio De La Magdalena are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cueto, Santander, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Pamplona, and Logrono, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Santander - Arrival day
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  • Segunda Playa del Sardinero
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Welcome to Santander, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night discovering what to see in Santander before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 Segunda Playa De El Sardinero. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. 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 central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Santander, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante la Mayor, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Santa & Co? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Marcello Restaurante as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Santander.

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.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Santander
  • Bilbao
  • More

Drive 108 km, 2 hours 2 min

  • Botin Centre
  • Palacio de la Magdalena
  • Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
  • Guggenheim Museum
  • Puppy
  • Federiko Moiua enparantza
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip in Spain, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Santander and Bilbao are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Centro Botin leaves a lasting impression. This art gallery is one of the most interesting places to visit in Santander. Next, head to Palacio De La Magdalena, a captivating palace, known for its instagrammable features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bilbao. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Guggenheim Museum. This top-rated museum building is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Puppy. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the art installation. Next, take your journey to Federico Moyúa Enparantza, an underrated sightseeing destination.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Viña del Ensanche, an iconic dining spot in Bilbao. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Marinela jatetxea, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Boss Bilbao, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Stromboli Taberna is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Zuberoa Taberna ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Bilbao
  • Donostia / San Sebastián
  • More

Drive 207 km, 3 hours

  • Zubizuri
  • San Telmo Museoa
  • Alderdi Eder Parkea
  • Beach of La Concha
  • Peine del Viento XV
  • Parte Vieja
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Bilbao and San Sebastian.

A visit to Parte Vieja is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Awaiting your discovery is the popular Zubizuri, an enchanting art installation in Bilbao.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bilbao. This car ride takes around 1 hour 12 min.

Savor the day by heading to San Telmo Museum, an intriguing museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Alderdi Eder Parkea, where you can soak in the stunning surroundings.

Next, explore Beach Of La Concha, yet another locally renowned place to see in the area. After the beach, make time to go to Peine Del Viento Xv. This enchanting art installation is well worth the visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bilbao and your accommodation.

Bilbao is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bilbao.

Make sure to reserve a table at Café Iruña, an iconic dining spot in Bilbao. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Iturriza Taberna, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Antxoa Taberna, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Bilbao
  • Pamplona
  • More

Drive 313 km, 4 hours 10 min

  • Castle Square
  • Plaza de Toros
  • Encierro/Entzierroa Monument
  • Citadel of Pamplona
  • Parque Antoniutti
  • Taconera
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pamplona. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Castle Square, a well-known public square in Pamplona. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Plaza De Toros De Pamplona. This well-known stadium is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Monumento Al Encierro is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most heritage-rich monument in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the locally renowned Citadel Of Pamplona and discover what makes this historical landmark unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Parque Antoniutti, a scenic park many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bilbao.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bilbao, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Gaztandegi taberna, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Café Bar Bilbao boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Laga jatetxea. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bilbao.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

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Day5

Day 5

  • Bilbao
  • Logroño
  • Santander
  • More

Drive 377 km, 4 hours 22 min

  • Estatua del Labrador
  • Co-cathedral of Santa María de la Redonda
  • Mercado San Blas / Plaza de Abastos
  • La Laurel
  • Bodegas Franco Españolas
  • More

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Spain includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Logrono. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Santander, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Bilbao, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Logrono. Your travel time is around 1 hour 26 min.

Estatua Del Labrador is an intriguing monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Co-cathedral Of Santa María De La Redonda, an enchanting church that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Mercado San Blas / Plaza De Abastos, a photogenic food market. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit La Laurel, a romantic and truly unique street. End your sightseeing at Bodegas Franco Españolas, an increasingly popular winery that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Santander, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante Agua Salada, an iconic dining spot in Santander. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurante Matices Santander, a popular restaurant in Santander. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La Enmienda Dieciocho, a hidden gem nestled in Santander. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Little Bobby, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Santander - Departure day
  • More
  • Plaza Porticada
  • More

Day 6 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Plaza Porticada, a history-steeped public square before you head out.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Santander, Calle Burgos is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try El Sol? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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!

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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