One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao and San Sebastian

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Photo of Palacio de la Magdalena aerial panoramic view, located on the Magdalena Peninsula in Santander city, Spain.
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Spain as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Santander, Cueto, Bilbao, Getxo, Portugalete, San Sebastian, and Burgos Province.

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 2 nights 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 Burgos Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Vizcaya Bridge, learn more about the unique Palacio De La Magdalena, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Beach Of La Concha.

As you hit the open road and drive through Santander, Cueto, Bilbao, Getxo, Portugalete, San Sebastian, and Burgos Province, 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
Plaza Porticada
Palacio de la MagdalenaParque de MataleñasSegunda Playa del SardineroLlamas ParkBotin Centre
Doña Casilda Iturrizar parkMuseum of Fine Arts of BilbaoGuggenheim MuseumPuppyZubizuriFederiko Moiua enparantza
Puerto ViejoVizcaya BridgeAndra Maria basilika
Peine del Viento XVFunicular Monte IgueldoMiramar PalaceBeach of La ConchaAlderdi Eder ParkeaGipuzkoa Plaza
Church of San Bizente Martiria-San Vicente Mártir, Donostia-San SebastiánSan Telmo MuseoaAquariumUrgullGrosParte Vieja
Puente de Santa MaríaBurgos CathedralMirador Del CastilloParque de La IslaThe Huelgas Monastery
Plaza Pombo

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Santander - Arrival day
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  • Plaza Porticada
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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 Plaza Porticada, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Santander. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Spain. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurante la Mayor, a top-rated dining spot in Santander. If you're in the mood for something new, try Santa & Co, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Marcello Restaurante. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Santander.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kings Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Grog, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Hygge Cocktail likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Spain!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Santander
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Drive 15 km, 1 hour 16 min

  • Palacio de la Magdalena
  • Parque de Mataleñas
  • Segunda Playa del Sardinero
  • Llamas Park
  • Botin Centre
  • More

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Spain. With 1 night left in Santander, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Santander, including a palace, a park, a beach, an art gallery and much more! Start your adventure at Palacio De La Magdalena. This popular palace is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Parque De Mataleñas located in Santander for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Segunda Playa De El Sardinero. Its peaceful features will captivate you. After the beach, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Llamas Park. Visitors usually appreciate the enchanting features of this park. Next up is Centro Botin, a highly recommended art gallery.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante Agua Salada, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurante Matices Santander offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Enmienda Dieciocho. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Santander.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Little Bobby, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Santander
  • Bilbao
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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 exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bilbao. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Santander’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This stunning park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the instagrammable features of Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Guggenheim Museum, a top-rated museum building. For a change of scene, check out Puppy, known for its instagrammable features. We also recommend visiting Zubizuri. This art installation is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Federico Moyúa Enparantza, yet another often recommended attraction in Santander.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at La Viña del Ensanche, 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 Marinela jatetxea, 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 San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bilbao tonight.

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 sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bilbao
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Drive 45 km, 1 hour 12 min

  • Puerto Viejo
  • Vizcaya Bridge
  • Andra Maria basilika
  • 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.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bilbao, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Puerto Viejo, an increasingly popular point of interest in the town. Then, head to Vizcaya Bridge and soak in the ambiance of this UNESCO world heritage-listed monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Bilbao, and when you are ready for more, go to Andra Maria Basilika. This is one of the town’s most frequently visited heritage-rich spots of interest.

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

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.

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.

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 101 km, 2 hours 6 min

  • Peine del Viento XV
  • Funicular Monte Igueldo
  • Miramar Palace
  • Beach of La Concha
  • Alderdi Eder Parkea
  • Gipuzkoa Plaza
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of San Sebastian. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in San Sebastian, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Peine Del Viento Xv. This captivating art installation is a romantic place to see in Bilbao. Continue your discovery at Funicular Monte Igueldo, an enchanting heritage railway with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bilbao, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Miramar Palace. This captivating palace offers an instagrammable encounter with Bilbao. Next, make your way to Beach Of La Concha to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Alderdi Eder Parkea, an interesting park that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Gipuzkoa Plaza, an interesting public square in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bilbao.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of San Sebastian's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Polka San Sebastián, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bar Antonio. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in San Sebastian.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Txiki Taberna Donosti after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Taberna Barun, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 3 km, 51 min

  • Church of San Bizente Martiria-San Vicente Mártir, Donostia-San Sebastián
  • San Telmo Museoa
  • Aquarium
  • Urgull
  • Gros
  • Parte Vieja
  • More

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions San Sebastian has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in San Sebastian by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Gros is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in San Sebastian, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city. Be sure to also visit Parte Vieja, a neighborhood that showcases another side of San Sebastian.

Immerse yourself in San Sebastian’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Church Of San Bizente Martiria-san Vicente Mártir, Donostia-san Sebastián. This culturally significant church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of San Telmo Museum, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Aquarium, a well-known aquarium. For a change of scene, check out Urgull, known for its romantic features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of San Sebastian's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Federiko Taberna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Cuchara de San Telmo. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in San Sebastian.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
  • Santander
  • More

Drive 402 km, 5 hours 12 min

  • Puente de Santa María
  • Burgos Cathedral
  • Mirador Del Castillo
  • Parque de La Isla
  • The Huelgas Monastery
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Burgos Province. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Santander. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in San Sebastian allows for both. Start by heading to Puente De Santa María. This up-and-coming monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Burgos Cathedral, an enchanting church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Mirador Del Castillo, a locally appreciated observation deck. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the intriguing Parque De La Isla. Round off your day at Abbey Of Santa María La Real De Las Huelgas, another gem in San Sebastian with monumental features to discover.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Santander, 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 Santander. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

Say good night to Santander and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Santander - Departure day
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  • Plaza Pombo
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Day 8 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, we recommend visiting Plaza De Pombo, an instagrammable public square before you head out.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Cadelo Restaurante, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cervecería Kiss is another top choice with a popular 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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