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!

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Santander on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved church, Catedral De Santander. Afterward, continue to Plaza Porticada, a public square every traveler should visit.

As you explore Santander’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Mercado Del Este. This up-and-coming market is an essential stop. Following that, head to Centro Botin, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Palacio De La Magdalena, an interesting palace in the city.

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.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby Bib Gourmand-awardee, Umma, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Santander is Agua Salada, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant and a delicious contemporary and traditional menu.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Santander. The bars in Santander make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Little Bobby, a top-rated bar in the area.

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 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Santander allows for both. Start by heading to Villapresente's Labyrinth. This interesting maze provides an insightful glimpse into the hamlet's identity. Next, discover Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón, an enchanting nature reserve, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cueva El Soplao, a notable sightseeing destination. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Cave Of El Castillo. Round off your day at Cabarceno Natural Park, another gem in Santander with eye-catching features to discover.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Spain at Bilbao. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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.

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.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Boss Bilbao, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Stromboli Taberna. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Zuberoa Taberna, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Today's adventure in Bilbao promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Europa Parkea. This picture-perfect park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Next, head over to Puppy, one of the city’s most frequently visited attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This instagrammable museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a popular park, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

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.

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.

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

Day 5 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!

Bilbao is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, a locally appreciated church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Etxebarri Parkea, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Zubizuri. This art installation is one of the city’s most popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bilbao at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Furnicular Bottom Station. After exploring the tramway, head to the beloved Artxanda Funicular. This tramway will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Gaztandegi taberna, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Café Bar Bilbao? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Laga jatetxea as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bilbao.

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.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bilbao!

Day 6 of your self-drive tour in Spain is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Santander for 1 night. 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bilbao. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Federico Moyúa Enparantza is the perfect place to start. This sightseeing destination is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Bilbao.

Meanwhile, Itsasmuseum Bilbao adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Museo Athletic Club | Ac Museoa · Tour San Mamés, a picture-perfect museum in Bilbao.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Santander. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Santander’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Santander!