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

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Santander, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Santander and Cueto. You still have 1 night left in Santander.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Santander, including a palace, a beach, a park, a public square, an art gallery, a maritime museum and much more! Start your day with a visit to Palacio De La Magdalena. This interesting palace is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Segunda Playa De El Sardinero, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Santander 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 Llamas Park, a beloved park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Plaza De Pombo and Centro Botin. End your day with a visit to Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, a locally appreciated maritime museum that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante Agua Salada, a highly-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante Matices Santander, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Enmienda Dieciocho. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 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 Bilbao, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, an eye-catching museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Guggenheim Museum, one of the city’s most spectacular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Puppy. When you're finished at the art installation, Zubizuri awaits your visit. This art installation is a visually striking highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a point of interest - the up-and-coming Federico Moyúa Enparantza.

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.

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.

Dine in style at La Viña del Ensanche, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Marinela jatetxea boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bilbao.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Boss Bilbao, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Stromboli Taberna is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Bilbao for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Portugalete, Getxo, and Bilbao to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Start your adventure at Vizcaya Bridge. This notable monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Playa De Ereaga located in Bilbao for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Puerto Viejo. After the point of interest, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Artxanda Funicular. Visitors usually appreciate the enchanting features of this tramway. Next up is Etxebarri Parkea, a highly recommended park. For a change of pace, head to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. As one of the most intriguing attractions in Bilbao, this church is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

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

As you explore more of Bilbao, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Café Iruña, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Iturriza Taberna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Antxoa Taberna. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect 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!

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

Start by visiting Funicular Monte Igueldo, a prime spot to begin your journey. This enchanting heritage railway is sure to impress. Next on your list is Beach Of La Concha, another must-visit landmark and interesting beach renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bilbao by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Alderdi Eder Parkea. This serene park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bilbao experience. We also recommend visiting San Telmo Museum, a locally appreciated museum.

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 you explore more of San Sebastian, 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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Txiki Taberna Donosti. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Taberna Barun, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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 Laguardia, Briones, and Haro. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Bodega El Fabulista. This increasingly popular wine cellar is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Church Of Santa María De Los Reyes, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Winery - Vivanco Museum Of Wine Culture, one of the most worthwhile places to see in San Sebastian. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Puente De Briñas. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this monument offers.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, El Sol beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante Posada Del Mar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Santander tonight.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!