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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bilbao for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Guggenheim Museum. This extraordinary museum building is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Puppy, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Bilbao. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Etxebarri Parkea, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.

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 Bilbao. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Bilbao by booking a table at Mina. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Zortziko, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Head back to your accommodation in Bilbao and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 - Villaescusa, Puente Viesgo, and Santillana del Mar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Santander. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bilbao, including a safari park, a cave, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Cabarceno Natural Park. This astonishing safari park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cave Of El Castillo, which may be one of the most standout places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bilbao on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to National Museum And Research Center Of Altamira, an intriguing museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Santander. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kings Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Grog is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Hygge Cocktail is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Spain. With 1 night left in Santander, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Santander allows for both. Start by heading to Nacimiento Del Rio Ebro. This popular park provides an insightful glimpse into the hamlet's identity. Next, discover Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, a picture-perfect art gallery, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Parque De Mataleñas, a frequently visited park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the worthwhile Llamas Park. Round off your day at Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, another gem in Santander with picture-perfect features to discover.

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

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

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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Little Bobby, where the evening is just getting started.

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 5 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Santander. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in San Sebastian, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start by visiting Catedral De Santander, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Plaza Porticada, another must-visit landmark and beloved public square renowned for its respected features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Santander by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Mercado Del Este. This historic market is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Santander experience. We also recommend visiting Centro Botin, a locally renowned art gallery. Nearby, you'll also find Paseo Marítimo De Santander, ready to add charm to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in San Sebastian. San Sebastian 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 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.

Begin 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 delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Txiki Taberna Donosti, known for its inviting atmosphere. Taberna Barun is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Say good night to San Sebastian and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!

On day 6 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.

Today’s agenda in San Sebastian includes a park, a beach, an art installation, a nature reserve, a monument and much more! Alderdi Eder Parkea is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Beach Of La Concha, a locally renowned beach, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Peine Del Viento Xv, a romantic art installation, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for San Sebastian. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the interesting Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba. If you’re looking for more, Vizcaya Bridge is also a popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bilbao's best restaurants.

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.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!