7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to Santander and San Sebastian and surrounding area

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

A blend of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Bilbao on today’s itinerary. First up is the astonishing museum building, Guggenheim Museum. Afterward, continue to Puppy, an art installation every traveler should visit.

As you explore Bilbao’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This intriguing museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Etxebarri Parkea, a curiosity-inducing park 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 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.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Villaescusa, Puente Viesgo, and Santillana del Mar. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Santander, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Bilbao on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Cabarceno Natural Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picturesque safari park before continuing your journey. Cave Of El Castillo is your next stop. This intriguing cave 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 National Museum And Research Center Of Altamira. This UNESCO world heritage-listed museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Cave Of Altamira and Museum Of Torture - Inquisicion.

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 explore more of Santander, 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Santander by reserving a table at Cadelo. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Umma, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished Bib Gourmand-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Agua Salada, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Santander.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Santander, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Begin your adventure at Nacimiento Del Rio Ebro. This is a locally renowned park you should not miss. Another must-see is Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, an increasingly popular art gallery in Santander.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Parque De Mataleñas. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Llamas Park, another of the hamlet’s intriguing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, an awe-inspiring place of interest in the hamlet.

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

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

Dine in style at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante Matices Santander boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Enmienda Dieciocho. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Santander.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Little Bobby stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Santander. 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Santander. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a public square, a market, an art gallery, a boardwalk and much more! Begin your adventure at Catedral De Santander. This is an increasingly popular church you should not miss. Another must-see is Plaza Porticada, a worthwhile public square in Santander.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Mercado Del Este. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Centro Botin, another of the city’s notable attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Paseo Marítimo De Santander, an instagrammable place of interest in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in San Sebastian. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of San Sebastian's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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 Txiki Taberna Donosti, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Taberna Barun, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Gorriti Taberna provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Dive into day 6 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.

Today's adventure in San Sebastian promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Alderdi Eder Parkea. This eye-catching park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Beach Of La Concha, another serene attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Peine Del Viento Xv, one of the city’s most locally renowned attractions, known for its visually striking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba. This mesmerizing nature reserve is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Vizcaya Bridge, a popular monument, and 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 Bilbao. Bilbao offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!