7-Day Spain Road Trip from Bilbao traveling west to Santander, Leon, and Oviedo

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
7 days & 6 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
6 nights included
Car rental
7 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Explore the best of Spain on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bilbao, Santander, Getxo, Portugalete, Villaescusa, Santillana del Mar, Cueto, Leon, Oviedo, Reocín, and Cangas de Onís. This road trip itinerary in Spain seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Bilbao, 2 nights in Santander, 1 night in Leon, and 1 night in Oviedo. 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 got you covered.

Upon arriving in Bilbao, 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 Cabarceno Natural Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bilbao, Santander, Getxo, Portugalete, Villaescusa, Santillana del Mar, Cueto, Leon, Oviedo, Reocín, and Cangas de Onís, 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, accommodation, 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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Included

Hotel, 6 nights
Rental car, 7 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Cueto
Santillana del Mar
Cangas de Onís / Cangues d'Onís
Photo of Santander city beach aerial panoramic view.Santander / 2 nights
León - city in SpainLeón / 1 night
Photo of the Cathedral of Oviedo, Spain, was founded by King Fruela I of Asturias in 781 AD and is located in the Alfonso II square.Oviedo / 1 night
Photo of aerial view of Vizcaya bridge over the river and cityscape at Portugalete, Spain.Portugalete
Photo of aerial view of Bilbao, Spain city downtown with a Nevion River, Zubizuri Bridge and promenade. Mountain at the background, with clear blue sky.Bilbao / 2 nights
Puente San Miguel
Sundown at getxo coastline, SpainGetxo

Map

Attractions

Photo of Guggenheim, Bilbao, museum, modern art, Spain.Guggenheim Museum
photo of stunning landscape in the Cabarceno Nature Park in Cantabria. Northern coast of Spain.Cabarceno Natural Park
photo of León Cathedra at morning in Leon, Spain.León Cathedra
photo of Vizcaya Bridge in the Biscay province of Spain - A UNESCO World Heritage Site.Vizcaya Bridge
Medieval bridge in Cangas de Onis, Cangas de Onís, Asturias, SpainRoman bridge in Cangas de Onis
Centro Botin, Santander, Cantabria, SpainCentro Botin
photo of the Altamira Caves, Cantabria. Spanish rock art. It is the highest representation of cave painting in Spain.Cave of Altamira
Laberinto De Villapresente, Reocín, Saja-Nansa, Cantabria, SpainLaberinto De Villapresente
Photo of Colorful and modern Bilbao Bridge, Basque Country, Spain.Zubizuri
Photo of Fountain in Doña Casilda de Iturrizar Park at night - park in Bilbao, Vizcaya, Basque Country, Spain.Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
Federico Moyua enparantza, Abando, Bilbao, Biscay, Autonomous Community of the Basque Country, SpainFederiko Moiua enparantza
Parque Etxebarria, Casco Viejo, Ibaiondo, Bilbao, Biscay, Autonomous Community of the Basque Country, SpainParque Etxebarria
Photo of Collegiate Church of San Isidoro, Leon Spain.Basilica of San Isidoro
Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao, Indautxu, Abando, Bilbao, Biscay, Autonomous Community of the Basque Country, SpainMuseum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
photo of Casa botines in Leon By Antoni Gaudi architect in 1894 Modernism by Saint James way.Casa de los Botines
Plaza del GranoPlaza del Grano, León
Bilboko Donejakue katedrala, Casco Viejo, Ibaiondo, Bilbao, Biscay, Autonomous Community of the Basque Country, SpainBilboko Donejakue katedrala
Puerto Viejo
Puppy, Abando, Bilbao, Biscay, Autonomous Community of the Basque Country, SpainPuppy
Centro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, Santander, Cantabria, SpainCentro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor
Europa parkea
Albiako Lorategiak, Abando, Bilbao, Biscay, Autonomous Community of the Basque Country, SpainAlbiako Lorategiak
San Miguel Historic Garden Bridge, Reocín, Saja-Nansa, Cantabria, SpainSan Miguel Historic Garden Bridge

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Bilbao - arrival day

  • Bilbao - Arrival day
  • More
  • Federiko Moiua enparantza
  • More

Welcome to Bilbao, 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 immersing yourself in Bilbao's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bilbao 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 Federiko Moiua enparantza or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bilbao. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Viña del Ensanche, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Café Iruña? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Iturriza Taberna as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bilbao.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Stromboli taberna, where the evening is just getting started.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Spain!

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Experiences

Day 2

Day 2 – Bilbao and Santander

  • Santander
  • Bilbao
  • More

Drive 101 km, 1 hour 44 min

  • Zubizuri
  • Puppy
  • Guggenheim Museum
  • Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
  • Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bilbao. 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.

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 Santander. Your travel time is around 1 hour 11 min.

Make Zubizuri your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this footbridge an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 10,295 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Puppy. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,913 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Guggenheim Museum is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This museum building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 64,815 visitors. Up to 530,967 travelers come to Bilbao every year to see Guggenheim Museum with their own eyes.

When you’re finished at Guggenheim Museum, the perfect next stop is Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,312 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,643 reviews.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Santander. 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.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. This awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal. Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante la Mayor, 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 Santa & Co, 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 Restaurante Agua Salada, 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 your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Kings Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Grog is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, HYGGE COCKTAIL provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Experiences

Day 3

Day 3 – Santander, Bilbao, Getxo, and Portugalete

  • Santander
  • Bilbao
  • Getxo
  • Portugalete
  • More

Drive 231 km, 3 hours 28 min

  • Bilboko Donejakue katedrala
  • Parque Etxebarria
  • Europa parkea
  • Puerto Viejo
  • Vizcaya Bridge
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Santander, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bilbao, 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 Santander to Bilbao may take around 1 hour 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bilbao, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Bilboko Donejakue katedrala. This church is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 6,802 visitors.

When you’re finished at Bilboko Donejakue katedrala, head to Etxebarria parkea. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,229 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Europa parkea. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,593 visitors.

Getxo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bilbao behind. This drive usually takes around 22 min. Getxo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Puerto Viejo. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Getxo, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,111 visitors.

Set your GPS to Portugalete and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Portugalete beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Vizcaya Bridge. This extraordinary suspension bridge has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 28,202 visitors.

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

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

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at El Sol, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurante Posada Del Mar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Cadelo Restaurante. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Santander.

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

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Experiences

Day 4

Day 4 – Santander, Villaescusa, Santillana del Mar, Cueto, and Leon

  • León
  • Santillana del Mar
  • Santander
  • Cueto
  • More

Drive 315 km, 3 hours 44 min

  • Centro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor
  • Centro Botin
  • Cabarceno Natural Park
  • Cave of Altamira
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Villaescusa, Santillana del Mar, Santander, and Cueto. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Leon. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

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. Upon arrival in Villaescusa, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Cabarceno Natural Park. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 45,839 reviews.

Set your GPS to Leon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Leon beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Cave of Altamira, a remarkable cave with prehistoric art where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 13,460 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Leon. Leon offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Leon's best restaurants.

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Bar Nápoles, a highly-rated dining destination in Leon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Clandestino Gastrobar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Four Lions Brewery. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Leon this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Chelsea offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Café Bar Silver is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

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Experiences

Day 5

Day 5 – Leon and Oviedo

  • Oviedo
  • León
  • More

Drive 128 km, 1 hour 44 min

  • León Cathedra
  • Basilica of San Isidoro
  • Casa de los Botines
  • Plaza del Grano, León
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Leon, 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 Oviedo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Oviedo. This car ride takes around 1 hour 27 min.

Drop by the renowned León Cathedra. This popular catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 30,058 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Basilica of San Isidoro. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,015 visitors, this collegiate church deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Casa de los Botines. This building has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,594 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Plaza del Grano, León. This square and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,643 local and international travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Oviedo, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

This popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurante Doña Concha, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Oveja Negra offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurante La Tagliatella | Oviedo / Uviéu is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Oviedo.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Baam, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Mala Saña, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, L'Esperteyu Pub - Cervecería provides an excellent alternative for a fun 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.

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Experiences

Day 6

Day 6 – Oviedo, Reocín, Cangas de Onís, Cerrazo, and Bilbao

  • Bilbao
  • Puente San Miguel
  • Cangas de Onís / Cangues d'Onís
  • More

Drive 306 km, 3 hours 38 min

  • Roman bridge in Cangas de Onis
  • San Miguel Historic Garden Bridge
  • Laberinto De Villapresente
  • More

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 Reocín, Cangas de Onís, and Cerrazo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Reocín and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Reocín beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to San Miguel Historic Garden Bridge. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars in 119 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cangas de Onís, 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 Oviedo to Cangas de Onís may take around 1 hour 1 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cangas de Onís, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Roman bridge in Cangas de Onis. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,965 visitors.

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.

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

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Café Bar Bilbao, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? El Globo taberna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Barraca jatetxea. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bilbao.

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

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Experiences

Day 7

Day 7 – Bilbao - departure day

  • Bilbao - Departure day
  • More
  • Albiako Lorategiak
  • More

Day 7 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bilbao before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Bilbao’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain. Take home a piece of Spain with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

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

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Restaurante Pentxo, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kirol jatetxea beckons with its unique menu offerings.

You’ll then say farewell to Bilbao. 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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Experiences

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