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

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Santander, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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 Santander, and meet locals along the way!

Today's adventure in Santander promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Catedral De Santander. This historic church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Plaza Porticada, another history-steeped attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Mercado Del Este, one of the city’s most beloved attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Centro Botin. This noteworthy art gallery is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Palacio De La Magdalena, a popular palace, and take a stroll around the area.

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, Centro Comercial Bahía de Santander. 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, Centro Comercial Bahía de Santander offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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 Santander, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Santander by booking a table at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Umma, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Agua Salada, a local gem known for its delightful contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Nestled in the city's heart, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Little Bobby, where the evening is just getting started.

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

Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Spain gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the hamlet of Cerrazo. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Bilbao, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Immerse yourself in Santander’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Villapresente's Labyrinth. This visually striking maze is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón, a must-visit nature reserve in the hamlet.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Cueva El Soplao, a popular point of interest. For a change of scene, check out Cave Of El Castillo, known for its history-steeped features. We also recommend visiting Cabarceno Natural Park. This safari park is a must for anyone looking to experience the hamlet to the fullest.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Bilbao in this laid-back road trip in 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Bilbao by reserving a table at Mina. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For a different taste experience, head to Zortziko, recognized for its delicious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Etxanobe Atelier, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Bilbao. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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

Continue your lively evening at Boss Bilbao, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Stromboli Taberna is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Zuberoa Taberna ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Bilbao. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Bilbao. 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 Bilbao!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bilbao today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Europa Parkea. This picture-perfect park will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Puppy. After exploring the art installation, head to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This curiosity-inducing museum is a highlight in Bilbao. As your day continues, stop by Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, known for its eye-catching features.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Café Iruña, an iconic dining spot in Bilbao. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Iturriza Taberna, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Antxoa Taberna, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Bilbao. Your adventure starts at Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, an underrated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Etxebarri Parkea. This beloved park is known for its symbolic 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 Zubizuri. This culturally significant art installation offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Furnicular Bottom Station is also worth visiting, along with Artxanda Funicular. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Spain by joining a traveler-approved tour in Bilbao. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Bilbao 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 Bilbao to find the best options for you!

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Gaztandegi taberna, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café Bar Bilbao is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Laga jatetxea. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bilbao tonight.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Spain promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Bilbao and drive in the direction of the city of Santander for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Santander, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bilbao today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Federico Moyúa Enparantza.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Euskalduna Zubia. After exploring the point of interest, head to Itsasmuseum Bilbao. This worthwhile maritime museum is a highlight in Bilbao. As your day continues, stop by Museo Athletic Club | Ac Museoa · Tour San Mamés, known for its picture-perfect features.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Santander. 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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, El Sol offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurante Posada Del Mar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Santander.

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

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