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. Marvel at the remarkable Beach Of La Concha, learn more about the unique Citadel Of Pamplona, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Alderdi Eder Parkea.

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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Day 1

Day 1

  • Santander - Arrival day
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  • Segunda Playa del Sardinero
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Say hello to Santander! Your exciting road trip through Spain is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Santander for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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, or just 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 Santander. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Santander, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante la Mayor, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Santa & Co, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Marcello Restaurante. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

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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Day 2

Day 2

  • Santander
  • Bilbao
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Drive 108 km, 2 hours 2 min

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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Santander and Bilbao. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bilbao, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Whatever your travel style is, Centro Botin is an essential stop in Santander. This captivating art gallery provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Palacio De La Magdalena, a romantic palace, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a popular park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the spectacular Guggenheim Museum. Round off your day at Puppy, another gem in Santander with picture-perfect features to discover.

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.

Savor the flavors at La Viña del Ensanche, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Marinela jatetxea beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bilbao tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Boss Bilbao, known for its inviting atmosphere. Stromboli Taberna is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Bilbao
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Drive 207 km, 3 hours

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

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Spain with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 2 nights to stay in Bilbao, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bilbao and San Sebastian.

A top thing to do today is to explore Parte Vieja, a must-see neighborhood in Bilbao. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Experience Zubizuri, a captivating art installation in the city. Then, head to San Telmo Museum and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Bilbao, and when you are ready for more, go to Alderdi Eder Parkea. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned mesmerizing spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the popular Beach Of La Concha. Not far away, you'll also find Peine Del Viento Xv. This art installation is an enchanting highlight in Bilbao.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Café Iruña, 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 Iturriza Taberna, 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 Antxoa Taberna. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bilbao tonight.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bilbao
  • 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 get the chance to experience Pamplona. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Bilbao, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Let Castle Square set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this enchanting public square before continuing your journey. Plaza De Toros De Pamplona is your next stop. This notable stadium is one of the best-rated sights in Bilbao.

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 Monumento Al Encierro. This photogenic monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Citadel Of Pamplona and Parque Antoniutti. If time allows, end your day with Taconera, an eye-catching park that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

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.

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

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bilbao
  • 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.

To truly experience Bilbao, make sure to drop by Estatua Del Labrador. This intriguing monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Co-cathedral Of Santa María De La Redonda, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Mercado San Blas / Plaza De Abastos, one of the most underrated places to see in Bilbao. This food market is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, La Laurel. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this street offers. Then, head to Bodegas Franco Españolas, a top-rated winery that adds another dimension to your day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Santander. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante Matices Santander, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Enmienda Dieciocho. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Santander - Departure day
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  • Plaza Porticada
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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 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 standout public square before you head out.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Santander’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Sol, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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.
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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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