One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao traveling west to Santander and Oviedo

Day 2 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Bilbao. You have 1 night left in Bilbao. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Artxanda Funicular leaves a lasting impression. This tramway is one of the most beloved places to visit in Bilbao.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Puppy. This detailed art installation is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao and Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Spain. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Have a memorable dining experience in Bilbao by booking a table at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For a different culinary experience in Bilbao, Zortziko shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Etxanobe Atelier is known as a top local spot in Bilbao for its delicious creative cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Bilbao. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Santander, where you'll spend 2 nights.

One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Zubizuri. This romantic art installation will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Furnicular Bottom Station and learn what makes this breathtaking tramway unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. After exploring the church, head to Etxebarri Parkea. This frequently visited park is a highlight in Bilbao. As your day continues, stop by Europa Parkea, known for its breathtaking features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Santander. Check in and relax 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 Santander. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Santander by reserving a table at Cadelo. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Umma, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Agua Salada, a local favorite known for its delightful contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand awardee is an ideal choice for contemporary and traditional foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

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 place, which are Gijon. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Oviedo, where will spend 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Gijon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 47 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gijon beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Universidad Laboral De Gijón, a beloved university that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to San Lorenzo Beach, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.

Next, explore La Escalerona, yet another curiosity-inducing place to see in the area. After the monument, make time to go to Begoña Park. This photogenic park is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Elogio Del Horizonte, a well-known art installation you won’t want to miss.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Oviedo, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante Doña Concha, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Quemedás offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Oveja Negra. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Oviedo.

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

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

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in Spain. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Oviedo and La Peña'l Fuelle. With 1 night to stay in Oviedo, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Oviedo is brimming with adventures.

Let Parque De Invierno set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this majestic park before continuing your journey. Plaza Del Fontán is your next stop. This increasingly popular public square is one of the best-rated sights in Oviedo.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit El Fontán Market. This eye-catching market is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Mafalda Statue.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Peña'l Fuelle. This car ride takes around 10 min.

Savor the day by heading to Santa María Del Naranjo, a worthwhile church that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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 Oviedo, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante La Tagliatella | Oviedo / Uviéu, a highly-rated dining destination in Oviedo. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante Al Baile La Temprana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mesón El Viso. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Oviedo this evening.

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

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!

On day 7 of your road trip in Spain, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Colunga, Villaescusa, and Castro-Urdiales are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Colunga may take around 51 min. Upon your arrival in Colunga, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Jurassic Museum Of Asturias, a well-known fossil museum that everyone visiting Colunga should see.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Colunga and set your GPS to Villaescusa. 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 1 hour 26 min. Upon reaching Villaescusa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Cabarceno Natural Park, a top-rated safari park that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Castro-Urdiales, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Villaescusa to Castro-Urdiales may take around 43 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Castro-Urdiales, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Playa Ostende / Urdiales, a curiosity-inducing beach that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bilbao. Bilbao offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Don’t miss out on dining at Gaztandegi taberna, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Bar Bilbao, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Laga jatetxea. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

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