Relaxed 7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from San Sebastian to Bilbao

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Photo of panoramic aerial view of San Sebastian (Donostia) in a beautiful summer day, Spain.
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Discover stunning scenery and hidden gems on this 7-day relaxed road trip in Spain! San Sebastian, Bilbao, Santander, Cueto, and Vitoria-Gasteiz await with vibrant culture and lasting memories as you unwind on this self-drive vacation.

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in Spain, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 3 nights in San Sebastian and 3 nights in Bilbao, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Spain.

Your journey starts in San Sebastian, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 7-day relaxed road trip in Spain to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in Spain already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning Guggenheim Museum, wander through the remarkable Beach Of La Concha, and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent Palacio De La Magdalena.

Continue your journey with a visit to the iconic Centro Botin, a highlight that captures the spirit of the destination. Visit the spectacular Peine Del Viento Xv and Aquarium. Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this Spain road trip itinerary for 7 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in Spain.

If you want to make your 7-day relaxed self-drive tour in Spain even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in Spain includes 6 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 7 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 7-day relaxed self-drive road trip in Spain today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

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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

  • Donostia / San Sebastián - Arrival day
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  • Beach of La Concha
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Your relaxed road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of San Sebastian, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in San Sebastian and begin your adventure in Spain.

San Sebastian 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 Beach Of La Concha, 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 San Sebastian. 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 San Sebastian, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Polka San Sebastián, a highly-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're eager to try something different, consider ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Antonio. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in San Sebastian.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Txiki Taberna Donosti. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Taberna Barun offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Gorriti Taberna, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise a toast as you look back on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in Spain. Enjoy your first taste of San Sebastian as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
  • More

Drive 14 km, 1 hour 50 min

  • Urgull
  • Aquarium
  • San Telmo Museoa
  • Miramar Palace
  • Peine del Viento XV
  • Parte Vieja
  • More

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in San Sebastian, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Parte Vieja is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in San Sebastian, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Urgull leaves a lasting impression. This park is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in San Sebastian. Next, head to Aquarium, a popular aquarium, known for its picture-perfect features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to San Telmo Museum. This heritage-rich museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Miramar Palace and Peine Del Viento Xv. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Spain by joining a traveler-approved tour in San Sebastian. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in San Sebastian that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Spain more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of San Sebastian to find the best options for you!

Bring home unique finds from San Sebastian's bustling shopping hub, La Bretxa. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, La Bretxa offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, San Sebastian has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, a highly-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're eager to try something different, consider Federiko Taberna, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Cuchara de San Telmo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Spain!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
  • Bilbao
  • More

Drive 102 km, 2 hours 7 min

  • Bilboko Donejakue katedrala
  • Parque Etxebarria
  • Artxandako funikularra Geltokia
  • Zubizuri
  • Albiako Lorategiak
  • Federiko Moiua enparantza
  • More

On day 3 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Spain, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Make a stop at Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. This frequently visited church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Etxebarri Parkea located in San Sebastian for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Furnicular Bottom Station. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the tramway, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Zubizuri. Visitors usually appreciate the detailed features of this art installation. Next up is Albiako Lorategiak, a highly recommended park. For a change of pace, head to Federico Moyúa Enparantza. As one of the most up-and-coming attractions in San Sebastian, this point of interest is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Spain as you make your way to Bilbao. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Viña del Ensanche, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Marinela jatetxea, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Bilbao and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Boss Bilbao after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Stromboli Taberna, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Spain!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bilbao
  • More

Drive 2 km, 35 min

  • Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
  • Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
  • Paseo de la Memoria
  • Puppy
  • Guggenheim Museum
  • More

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Bilbao, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Bilbao, and meet locals along the way!

Visiting Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is always a good idea. This popular park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Memoriaren Ibiltokia. This intriguing park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Puppy, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Guggenheim Museum. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Bilbao offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bilbao, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Café Iruña, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Iturriza Taberna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Antxoa Taberna. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bilbao.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bilbao.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Spain!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bilbao
  • More

Drive 210 km, 3 hours 5 min

  • Palacio de la Magdalena
  • Segunda Playa del Sardinero
  • Paseo Marítimo de Santander
  • Botin Centre
  • Plaza Porticada
  • More

Your relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 5 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Spain better by exploring the top attractions of Bilbao and beyond. With 1 night left in Bilbao, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Whether you decide to explore Santander on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Enjoy all that Palacio De La Magdalena has to offer. This is an interesting palace you should not miss. Another must-see is Segunda Playa De El Sardinero, an often recommended beach in Bilbao.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Paseo Marítimo De Santander. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Centro Botin, another of the city’s popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Plaza Porticada, a heritage-rich place of interest in the city.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bilbao has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Savor the flavors at Gaztandegi taberna, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Café Bar Bilbao beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Laga jatetxea. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bilbao tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bilbao’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Spain!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bilbao
  • Donostia / San Sebastián
  • More

Drive 169 km, 2 hours 39 min

  • Cathedral María Inmaculada of Vitoria
  • La Florida
  • Plaza Virgen Blanca
  • Plaza España
  • Santa Maria Cathedral
  • Parque Salburua
  • More

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Spain offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Vitoria-Gasteiz and drive in the direction of Elorriaga for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in San Sebastian, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Check out the intriguing church, Cathedral María Inmaculada Of Vitoria. Afterward, continue to La Florida, a park 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 Plaza Virgen Blanca. This popular public square is an essential stop. Following that, head to Nueva Square, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria, a worthwhile church in the city. Finally, end your day with a visit to Salburua, a peaceful nature reserve that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in San Sebastian. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

Exploring the food culture in San Sebastian offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at Bar Bixigarri, a top-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider SSua Arde Donostia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Danena. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in San Sebastian and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Donostia / San Sebastián - Departure day
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  • Gipuzkoa Plaza
  • More

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Spain is your departure day. If you’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare. For a stress-free farewell, book a later flight and enjoy a final, relaxed day in San Sebastian.

For a last-minute shopping spree in San Sebastian, La Bretxa is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Gipuzkoa Plaza, a photogenic public square before you head out.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip. Savor one last traditional dish in San Sebastian, or keep it light with a quick bite before you go.

If you're in the mood for something new, try Lukainkategi, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to San Sebastian and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Spain is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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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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