One-Week Relaxed Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Spain, you’ll explore the area around Santander, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Santander will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Spain.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming village of Santander. Your adventure starts at La Maruca, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Catedral De Santander. This curiosity-inducing church is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Santander's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Plaza Porticada. This respected public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Mercado Del Este is also worth visiting, along with Centro Botin. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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

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 Santander.

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.

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

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

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

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Santander and visit amazing attractions in Cueto and Santander destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Santander. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Santander today. One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. This breathtaking art gallery will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Playa De Mataleñas and learn what makes this serene beach unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Parque De Mataleñas. After exploring the park, head to Llamas Park. This often recommended park is a highlight in Santander. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the intriguing Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. Enjoy exploring this incredible maritime museum at your own pace.

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

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 Santander, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dine in style at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, El Sol boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurante Posada Del Mar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Santander.

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

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Spain is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Elorriaga and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz and the city of Bilbao. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 3 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Santander today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Salburua. This gorgeous nature reserve will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Nueva Square and learn what makes this heritage-rich public square unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing La Florida. After exploring the park, head to Plaza Virgen Blanca. This well-known public square is a highlight in Santander. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the worthwhile Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria. Enjoy exploring this incredible church at your own pace.

In the city of Bilbao, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Spain.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bilbao by securing a table at Mina. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Zortziko, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Bilbao. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

Keep the evening going at Boss Bilbao, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Stromboli Taberna, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Zuberoa Taberna, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 5 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!

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Bilbao. Begin your sightseeing with Albiako Lorategiak. This locally appreciated park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Zubizuri, 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 Furnicular Bottom Station. This increasingly popular tramway is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Puppy, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Guggenheim Museum and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most top-rated attractions.

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 a delicious meal 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.

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

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

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Bilbao on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile tramway, Artxanda Funicular. Afterward, continue to Europa Parkea, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Bilbao’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Etxebarri Parkea. This locally appreciated park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Pagasarri, a locally appreciated hiking area in the city.

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!

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.

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.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Bilbao and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Spain.

Day 7 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!

A blend of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences await you in Bilbao on today’s itinerary. First up is the intriguing point of interest, Federico Moyúa Enparantza. Afterward, continue to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Bilbao’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This interesting park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Itsasmuseum Bilbao, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Euskalduna Zubia, an intriguing sightseeing destination in the city.

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

Exploring the food culture in Santander 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 Cadelo Restaurante, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cervecería Kiss, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

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

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Spain.