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

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Santander. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Santander. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Santander!

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Catedral De Santander. This beloved church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Plaza Porticada, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Mercado Del Este, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Santander. This market is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Centro Botin. Wander around and soak in the detailed atmosphere this art gallery offers. Finally, take the path to the interesting Palacio De La Magdalena, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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

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

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

Discover the culinary delights of Santander by securing a reservation at Cadelo. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Umma, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Agua Salada, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering contemporary and traditional menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Little Bobby, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Spain.

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Spain is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the hamlet of Cerrazo and end it in the village of Puente Viesgo. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Spain.

When you’ve had your share of Santander, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cerrazo. Your travel time is around 29 min.

Villapresente's Labyrinth is a popular maze we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Cabezón de la Sal’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cerrazo behind. This drive usually takes around 14 min. Cabezón de la Sal welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón, a locally renowned nature reserve that draws visitors from near and far.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cabezón de la Sal and set your GPS to Rionansa. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 27 min. Upon reaching Rionansa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Cueva El Soplao, a well-known sightseeing destination that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Bilbao. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Spain by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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 Bilbao.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Bilbao by reserving a table at Mina. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Zortziko, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Etxanobe Atelier, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight 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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Boss Bilbao, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Stromboli Taberna, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Zuberoa Taberna provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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!

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Bilbao. Your adventure starts at Europa Parkea, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Guggenheim Museum. This spectacular museum building is known for its breathtaking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bilbao's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Puppy. This breathtaking art installation offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is also worth visiting, along with Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Spain. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring the food culture in Bilbao 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 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.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Bilbao. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the curiosity-inducing Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, a history-steeped church in Bilbao. Next, go to Etxebarri Parkea.

After visiting Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala and Etxebarri Parkea, take time to explore Bilbao's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Zubizuri. This culturally significant art installation offers a unique experience. Furnicular Bottom Station is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Artxanda Funicular, one of the most romantic places to visit in Bilbao.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Gaztandegi taberna, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bilbao at Café Bar Bilbao, 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 Laga jatetxea. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bilbao 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.

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

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Spain will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Spain, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in Bilbao. Begin your sightseeing with Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This worthwhile point of interest is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Albiako Lorategiak, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bilbao, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Euskalduna Zubia. This locally appreciated sightseeing destination is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Itsasmuseum Bilbao, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Museo Athletic Club | Ac Museoa · Tour San Mamés and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most curiosity-inducing attractions.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Santander in this laid-back road trip in Spain. You'll stay here for 1 night.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Santander 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 Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider El Sol, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Posada Del Mar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

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

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Spain. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Spain tomorrow with new energy.