9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao and San Sebastian
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Spain as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Santander, Cueto, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Logrono, San Millán de la Cogolla, and Badarán.
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, 3 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 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 Santander, Cueto, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Logrono, San Millán de la Cogolla, and Badarán, 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!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Santander - Arrival day
- More
- Plaza Porticada
- More
Say hello to Santander! Your exciting road trip through Spain is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Santander for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Santander. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurante la Mayor, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Santa & Co offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Marcello Restaurante is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Santander.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kings Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Grog, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Santander
- More
Drive 16 km, 1 hour 7 min
- Faro de La Cerda
- Palacio de la Magdalena
- Segunda Playa del Sardinero
- Llamas Park
- Botin Centre
- Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
- More
On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Santander, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Santander and Cueto. You still have 1 night left in Santander.
Get ready for an exciting day in Santander. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a lighthouse, a palace, a beach, a park, an art gallery, a maritime museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Faro De La Cerda. This is an up-and-coming lighthouse you should not miss. Another must-see is Palacio De La Magdalena, a well-known palace in Santander.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Segunda Playa De El Sardinero. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Llamas Park, another of the city’s locally appreciated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Centro Botin, a detailed place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico to your itinerary. This beloved maritime museum offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Santander.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Santander and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Santander's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante Matices Santander is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Enmienda Dieciocho. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Santander tonight.
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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.
Day 3
- Santander
- Bilbao
- More
Drive 101 km, 1 hour 46 min
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Guggenheim Museum
- Puppy
- Albiako Lorategiak
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bilbao. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Santander, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a notable park in the city. Then, head to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking museum.
There are many interesting places to see in Santander and when you are ready for more, go to Guggenheim Museum. This is one of the city’s most impressive spots. After exploring the museum building, visit the beloved Puppy. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the increasingly popular Albiako Lorategiak, an increasingly popular park in the city.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Viña del Ensanche, a highly-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're eager to try something different, consider Marinela jatetxea, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Boss Bilbao, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Stromboli Taberna, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Zuberoa Taberna provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 4
- Bilbao
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- More
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
On day 4 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 San Sebastian. In the evening, you’ll end up in San Sebastian, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bilbao today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Peine Del Viento Xv. This visually striking art installation will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Funicular Monte Igueldo and learn what makes this visually striking heritage railway unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the interesting Miramar Palace. After exploring the palace, head to Beach Of La Concha. This well-known beach is a highlight in Bilbao. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the notable Alderdi Eder Parkea. Enjoy exploring this incredible park at your own pace.
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.
As you explore more of San Sebastian, 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 delicious meal at Polka San Sebastián, a top-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Antonio. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Txiki Taberna Donosti, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Taberna Barun is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Gorriti Taberna ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!
Day 5
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- More
Drive 3 km, 55 min
- Motako Gaztelua-Castillo de la Mota
- Urgull
- Aquarium
- San Telmo Museoa
- Gros
- Parte Vieja
- More
Day 5 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.
Don’t miss Gros in San Sebastian today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Parte Vieja, another neighborhood that adds to the charm of San Sebastian.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in San Sebastian today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Motako Gaztelua-castillo De La Mota. This history-steeped castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Urgull and learn what makes this serene park unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Aquarium. After exploring the aquarium, head to San Telmo Museum. This worthwhile museum is a highlight in San Sebastian.
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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!
Day 6
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Bilbao
- More
Drive 107 km, 2 hours 15 min
- Artxanda Funicular
- Europa parkea
- Bilboko Donejakue katedrala
- Parque Etxebarria
- Artxandako funikularra Geltokia
- Zubizuri
- More
On day 6 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.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around San Sebastian. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Artxanda Funicular is the perfect place to start. This tramway is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in San Sebastian. Next, head to Europa Parkea, an often recommended park, known for its mesmerizing features.
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 Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. This visually striking church offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Etxebarri Parkea adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Furnicular Bottom Station, a gorgeous tramway in San Sebastian.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bilbao, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Café Iruña, an iconic dining spot in Bilbao. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Iturriza Taberna, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Antxoa Taberna, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Say good night to Bilbao and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 7
- Bilbao
- More
Drive 274 km, 3 hours 17 min
- Parque del Ebro, Logroño
- Wall Revellín
- Museo de La Rioja
- La Laurel
- Mercado San Blas / Plaza de Abastos
- Co-cathedral of Santa María de la Redonda
- More
On day 7 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Bilbao for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Logrono to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bilbao, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Parque Del Ebro, Logroño, a curiosity-inducing park in the city. Then, head to Wall Revellín and soak in the ambiance of this heritage-rich monument.
There are many interesting places to see in Bilbao and when you are ready for more, go to Museum Of La Rioja. This is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots. After exploring the museum, visit the locally appreciated La Laurel. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the often recommended Mercado San Blas / Plaza De Abastos, an often recommended food market in the city.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bilbao.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Gaztandegi taberna, 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 Café Bar Bilbao, 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 Laga jatetxea. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bilbao tonight.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 8
- Bilbao
- Santander
- More
Drive 360 km, 4 hours 44 min
- Suso Monastery
- Monastery of San Millán de Yuso
- Bodegas Pedro Martinez Alesanco SL
- More
Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore San Millán de la Cogolla and Badarán, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Santander. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Bilbao’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Suso Monastery. This stunning monastery is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Monastery Of San Millán De Yuso, a must-visit monastery in the village.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Bodegas Pedro Martinez Alesanco Sl, an increasingly popular winery.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, an iconic dining spot in Santander. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of El Sol, a popular restaurant in Santander. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurante Posada Del Mar, a hidden gem nestled in Santander. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 9
- Santander - Departure day
- More
- Plaza Pombo
- More
Day 9 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 eye-catching public square before you head out.
As your final day in Spain unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Santander's best shopping area, Calle Burgos. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Spain.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Santander.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Cervecería Kiss, another top spot with a tantalizing 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Spain
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.