9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from San Sebastian to Bilbao, Santander, and Oviedo
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through Spain. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 San Sebastian, 2 nights in Bilbao, 2 nights in Santander, and 1 night in Oviedo. 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 San Sebastian, 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 Palacio De La Magdalena are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Beach Of La Concha, learn more about the unique Alderdi Eder Parkea, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Centro Botin.
As you hit the open road and drive through San Sebastian, Bilbao, Cueto, Santander, Oviedo, and Gijon, 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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Day 1
- Donostia / San Sebastián - Arrival day
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- Miramar Palace
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Welcome to San Sebastian, 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 San Sebastian's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
San Sebastian 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 Miramar Palace, 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 San Sebastian. 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 San Sebastian, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Polka San Sebastián, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bar Antonio is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in San Sebastian.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Txiki Taberna Donosti, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Taberna Barun, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Gorriti Taberna likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 4 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Urgull
- Aquarium
- San Telmo Museoa
- Alderdi Eder Parkea
- Beach of La Concha
- Parte Vieja
- More
Day 2 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring San Sebastian. You have 1 night left in San Sebastian. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
A visit to Parte Vieja in San Sebastian is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in San Sebastian, including a park, an aquarium, a museum, a beach and much more! Start your adventure at Urgull. This intriguing park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Aquarium located in San Sebastian for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of San Telmo Museum. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Alderdi Eder Parkea. Visitors usually appreciate the serene features of this park. Next up is Beach Of La Concha, a highly recommended beach.
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.
Bring home unique finds from San Sebastian's bustling shopping hub, San Martin Shopping Centre. 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, San Martin Shopping Centre offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of San Sebastian's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Federiko Taberna? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Cuchara de San Telmo as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in San Sebastian.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!
Day 3
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Bilbao
- More
Drive 102 km, 2 hours 7 min
- Bilboko Donejakue katedrala
- Parque Etxebarria
- Artxandako funikularra Geltokia
- Zubizuri
- Albiako Lorategiak
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
- More
On day 3 of your road trip in Spain, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Bilbao. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 2 nights.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in San Sebastian on today’s itinerary. First up is the underrated church, Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. Afterward, continue to Etxebarri Parkea, a park every traveler should visit.
As you explore San Sebastian’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Furnicular Bottom Station. This underrated tramway is an essential stop. Following that, head to Zubizuri, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Albiako Lorategiak, an often recommended park in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bilbao. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bilbao. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at La Viña del Ensanche, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Marinela jatetxea is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bilbao tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Boss Bilbao, known for its lively atmosphere. Stromboli Taberna is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 4
- Bilbao
- More
Drive 19 km, 58 min
- Guggenheim Museum
- Puppy
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Euskalduna Zubia
- Artxanda Funicular
- More
Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bilbao has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bilbao by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bilbao, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Guggenheim Museum, a famous museum building in the city. Then, head to Puppy and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect art installation.
There are many interesting places to see in Bilbao, and when you are ready for more, go to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile instagrammable spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the notable Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Not far away, you'll also find Euskalduna Zubia. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Artxanda Funicular, a worthwhile tramway in the city.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Café Iruña, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Iturriza Taberna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Antxoa Taberna. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bilbao.
Head back to your accommodation in Bilbao and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 5
- Bilbao
- Santander
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Drive 108 km, 1 hour 59 min
- Llamas Park
- Segunda Playa del Sardinero
- Botin Centre
- Muralla de Santander
- Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria
- Plaza Porticada
- More
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 2 vibrant destinations - Cueto and Santander. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Santander. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bilbao, including a park, a beach, an art gallery, an archeological site, a museum, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Llamas Park. This often recommended park is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Segunda Playa De El Sardinero, which may be one of the most mesmerizing places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Bilbao on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Centro Botin, an interesting art gallery in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Muralla De Santander and Museum Of Prehistory And Archaeology Of Cantabria. End your day with a visit to Plaza Porticada, a frequently visited public square that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Santander. Santander offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Santander's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at Restaurante la Mayor, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Santa & Co beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Marcello Restaurante. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Santander tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Kings Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Grog is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Hygge Cocktail ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Head back to your accommodation in Santander and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 6
- Santander
- More
Drive 19 km, 1 hour 29 min
- Palacio de la Magdalena
- Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
- Paseo Marítimo de Santander
- Parque de Mataleñas
- Playa de Mataleñas
- Centro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor
- More
On day 6 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Santander, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Santander for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Santander and Cueto to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Get ready for an exciting day in Santander. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a palace, a maritime museum, a boardwalk, a park, a beach, an art gallery and much more! Begin your adventure at Palacio De La Magdalena. This is a popular palace you should not miss. Another must-see is Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, an often recommended maritime museum in Santander.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Paseo Marítimo De Santander. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Parque De Mataleñas, another of the city’s beloved attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Playa De Mataleñas, a majestic place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor to your itinerary. This underrated art gallery offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Santander.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Santander.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Santander. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante Agua Salada, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurante Matices Santander? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Enmienda Dieciocho as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Santander.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Little Bobby stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!
Day 7
- Santander
- Oviedo
- More
Drive 202 km, 2 hours 47 min
- Santa María del Naranjo
- Church of San Miguel de Lillo
- El Fontán Market
- Plaza del Fontán
- Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias
- Mafalda statue
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of La Peña'l Fuelle and Oviedo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Oviedo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming hamlet of Santander. Your adventure starts at Santa María Del Naranjo, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is San Miguel De Lillo. This curiosity-inducing church is known for its picture-perfect 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 El Fontán Market. This visually striking market offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Plaza Del Fontán is also worth visiting, along with Fine Arts Museum Of Asturias. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Mafalda Statue. This often recommended monument provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.
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.
As you explore more of Oviedo, 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurante Doña Concha, a popular restaurant in Oviedo. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Oviedo at Quemedás, 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 La Oveja Negra. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Oviedo tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Astur. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Bodegón, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Baam provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!
Day 8
- Oviedo
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 399 km, 5 hours 6 min
- Elogio del horizonte
- Las Letronas
- La Escalerona
- San Lorenzo Beach
- Laboral Ciudad de la Cultura
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On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Gijon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in San Sebastian, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Oviedo, including an art installation, a monument, a beach, a cultural center and much more! Start your day at Elogio Del Horizonte. This enchanting art installation is a popular place to see in Oviedo. Then, wander over to Las Letronas. If detailed sites excite you, this art installation will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find La Escalerona. This symbolic monument is a favorite among visitors.
Oviedo offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, San Lorenzo Beach is a well-known spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the beach, don’t forget to check out the breathtaking Laboral Ciudad De La Cultura. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved cultural center.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in San Sebastian. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bar Bixigarri, a top-rated dining spot in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood for something new, try SSua Arde Donostia, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Danena. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in San Sebastian.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 9
- Donostia / San Sebastián - Departure day
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- Gros
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Day 9 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of San Sebastian before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Gros, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of San Sebastian. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting San Sebastian’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing San Martin Shopping Centre. 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 San Sebastian.
You’ll then say farewell to San Sebastian. 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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