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

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Spain. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Santander, 2 nights in Bilbao, and 1 night in San Sebastian. 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 Santander, 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 Vizcaya Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Palacio De La Magdalena, learn more about the unique Beach Of La Concha, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Alderdi Eder Parkea.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cueto, Santander, Bilbao, Portugalete, Getxo, San Sebastian, Laguardia, Briones, and Haro, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Parque de Mataleñas
Palacio de la MagdalenaSegunda Playa del SardineroLlamas ParkPlaza PomboBotin CentreMuseo Marítimo del Cantábrico
Doña Casilda Iturrizar parkMuseum of Fine Arts of BilbaoGuggenheim MuseumPuppyZubizuriFederiko Moiua enparantza
Vizcaya BridgePlaya de EreagaPuerto ViejoArtxanda FunicularParque EtxebarriaBilboko Donejakue katedrala
Funicular Monte IgueldoBeach of La ConchaAlderdi Eder ParkeaSan Telmo Museoa
Bodega El FabulistaChurch of Santa María de los ReyesWinery - Vivanco Museum of Wine CulturePuente de Briñas
Plaza Porticada

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Santander - Arrival day
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  • Parque de Mataleñas
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Welcome to Santander, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Santander's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Santander 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 Parque De Mataleñas, or just 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 Santander. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Santander, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Restaurante la Mayor, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Santa & Co beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Marcello Restaurante. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Santander tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kings Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Grog offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Santander
  • More

Drive 16 km, 1 hour 8 min

  • Palacio de la Magdalena
  • Segunda Playa del Sardinero
  • Llamas Park
  • Plaza Pombo
  • Botin Centre
  • Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
  • More

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 eye-catching 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 locally appreciated 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.

As you explore more of Santander, 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 Restaurante Agua Salada, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante Matices Santander, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Enmienda Dieciocho. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Little Bobby is an excellent place to start.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Santander
  • Bilbao
  • More

Drive 101 km, 1 hour 46 min

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

On day 3 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 Bilbao. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Santander promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This stunning park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Puppy. This detailed art installation is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Zubizuri, a popular art installation, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Federico Moyúa Enparantza before you head back to your hotel.

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 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.

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 Marinela jatetxea? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bilbao.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Boss Bilbao, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Stromboli Taberna is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Zuberoa Taberna also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bilbao
  • More

Drive 56 km, 1 hour 43 min

  • Vizcaya Bridge
  • Playa de Ereaga
  • Puerto Viejo
  • Artxanda Funicular
  • Parque Etxebarria
  • Bilboko Donejakue katedrala
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today's adventure in Bilbao promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Vizcaya Bridge. This historic monument is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Playa De Ereaga, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Artxanda Funicular. This eye-catching tramway is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Etxebarri Parkea, an up-and-coming park, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala before you head back to your hotel.

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

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

Dine in style at Café Iruña, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Iturriza Taberna boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Antxoa Taberna. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bilbao.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bilbao
  • Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 103 km, 1 hour 35 min

  • Funicular Monte Igueldo
  • Beach of La Concha
  • Alderdi Eder Parkea
  • San Telmo Museoa
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - San Sebastian. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in San Sebastian. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bilbao, including a heritage railway, a beach, a park, a museum and much more! Start your day with a visit to Funicular Monte Igueldo. This popular heritage railway is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Beach Of La Concha, which may be one of the most serene 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 Alderdi Eder Parkea, a captivating park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for San Telmo 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in San Sebastian. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Polka San Sebastián, an iconic dining spot in San Sebastian. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food, a popular restaurant in San Sebastian. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bar Antonio, a hidden gem nestled in San Sebastian. 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 Txiki Taberna Donosti, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Taberna Barun offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in San Sebastian. Gorriti Taberna is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
  • Santander
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Drive 382 km, 4 hours 35 min

  • Bodega El Fabulista
  • Church of Santa María de los Reyes
  • Winery - Vivanco Museum of Wine Culture
  • Puente de Briñas
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Laguardia, Briones, and Haro. 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 1 night.

Immerse yourself in San Sebastian’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Bodega El Fabulista. This visually striking wine cellar is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the inviting features of Church Of Santa María De Los Reyes, a must-visit church in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Winery - Vivanco Museum Of Wine Culture, a beloved museum. For a change of scene, check out Puente De Briñas, known for its enchanting features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Santander. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Santander. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Santander and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!

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Day 7

Day 7

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

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Plaza Porticada. This underrated public square is a popular place to see in the city.

Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Santander’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Calle Burgos. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cervecería Kiss, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Santander. 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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