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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Set out on this 7-day relaxed road trip in Spain, where San Sebastian, Bilbao, Santander, Cueto, and Vitoria-Gasteiz offer rich culture, beautiful views, and memorable experiences at every stop!

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 and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent Palacio De La Magdalena.

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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Day1

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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. 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 lovely dining experience at Polka San Sebastián, a popular restaurant in San Sebastian. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of San Sebastian at ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food, 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 Bar Antonio. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in San Sebastian tonight.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Txiki Taberna Donosti is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Taberna Barun, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Gorriti Taberna. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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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Day2

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 a fantastic place you can explore today in San Sebastian. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the San Sebastian-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Make a stop at Urgull. This often recommended park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Aquarium located in San Sebastian for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of San Telmo Museum. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Miramar Palace. Visitors usually appreciate the enchanting features of this palace. Next up is Peine Del Viento Xv, a highly recommended art installation.

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

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.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in San Sebastian.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!

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Day3

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

Day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Spain offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 3 nights.

Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala is must-visit church and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Etxebarri Parkea, an often recommended park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Furnicular Bottom Station, an eye-catching tramway, 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 Zubizuri. If you’re looking for more, Albiako Lorategiak is also a locally appreciated attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

You'll be staying in Bilbao on this laid-back road trip through Spain. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Bilbao, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Viña del Ensanche, a top-rated dining spot in Bilbao. If you're in the mood for something new, try Marinela jatetxea, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bilbao.

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.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

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Day4

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 photogenic 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 frequently visited park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Puppy, where you can take in detailed features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Guggenheim Museum These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Spain makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Spain also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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 wonderful meal at Café Iruña, a top-rated dining spot in Bilbao. If you're in the mood for something new, try Iturriza Taberna, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Antxoa Taberna. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bilbao.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

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Day5

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.

Awaiting your discovery is the notable Palacio De La Magdalena, a history-steeped palace in Bilbao. Next, go to Segunda Playa De El Sardinero.

After visiting Palacio De La Magdalena and Segunda Playa De El Sardinero, have a stroll along Bilbao's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Paseo Marítimo De Santander. This romantic boardwalk offers a unique experience. Centro Botin is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Plaza Porticada, one of the most historic places to visit in Bilbao.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Bilbao and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

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Day6

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

On day 6 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.

Experience Cathedral María Inmaculada Of Vitoria, a curiosity-inducing church in the city. Then, head to La Florida and soak in the ambiance of this serene park.

There are many interesting places to see in Bilbao, and when you are ready for more, go to Plaza Virgen Blanca. This is one of the city’s most interesting respected spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the intriguing Nueva Square. Not far away, you'll also find Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria. This church is a monumental highlight in Bilbao. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Salburua, an increasingly popular nature reserve in the city.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in San Sebastian. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Spain.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in San Sebastian.

Savor the flavors at Bar Bixigarri, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, SSua Arde Donostia beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Danena. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in San Sebastian tonight.

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.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Vitoria-Gasteiz can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Spain!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Donostia / San Sebastián - Departure day
  • More
  • 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.

Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting San Sebastian’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Gros District. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Gipuzkoa Plaza. This notable public square is a hotspot among locals.

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.

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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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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