9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao and San Sebastian

On day 2 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Santander and Cueto. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Santander, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Enjoy all that Faro De La Cerda has to offer. This is a worthwhile lighthouse you should not miss. Another must-see is Palacio De La Magdalena, a locally renowned palace in Santander.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Centro Botin. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, another of the city’s locally appreciated attractions.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Santander and set your GPS to Cueto. 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 8 min. Upon reaching Cueto, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Segunda Playa De El Sardinero. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the beach before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Llamas Park. This frequently visited park is a traveler-favorite in the city.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante Matices Santander, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Enmienda Dieciocho. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Little Bobby, known for its lively atmosphere.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

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

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bilbao. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bilbao is Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a notable park that draws attention for its eye-catching features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, an eye-catching museum that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Guggenheim Museum, a top-rated museum building that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Puppy, a nearby art installation, highly recommended by other travelers.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bilbao, 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 consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bilbao tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Boss Bilbao. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Stromboli Taberna offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Zuberoa Taberna, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including San Sebastian. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in San Sebastian, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Bilbao, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of San Sebastian. Your travel time is around 1 hour 16 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Peine Del Viento Xv and explore the enchanting features. Next, make your way to Funicular Monte Igueldo, another highlight in San Sebastian. When you’re done exploring the heritage railway, continue to Miramar Palace, an enchanting palace.

Nearby, you will also find Beach Of La Concha. This popular beach is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Alderdi Eder Parkea, a peaceful park that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Polka San Sebastián, an iconic dining spot in San Sebastian. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food, a popular restaurant in San Sebastian. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bar Antonio, a hidden gem nestled in San Sebastian. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions San Sebastian has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in San Sebastian.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Gros. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Parte Vieja, a neighborhood that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Experience Motako Gaztelua-castillo De La Mota, an increasingly popular castle in the city. Then, head to Urgull and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching park.

There are many interesting places to see in San Sebastian, and when you are ready for more, go to Aquarium. This is one of the city’s most captivating instagrammable spots of interest. After exploring the aquarium, visit the curiosity-inducing San Telmo Museum.

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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, a top-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Federiko Taberna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Cuchara de San Telmo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Bilbao. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao, where will spend 2 nights.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bilbao may take around 1 hour 11 min. Upon your arrival in Bilbao, 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 Artxanda Funicular, a beloved tramway that everyone visiting Bilbao should see. Next, head to Europa Parkea. This picture-perfect park is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, a culturally significant church popular among locals as well as travelers. Etxebarri Parkea is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this often recommended park before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Furnicular Bottom Station, a picture-perfect tramway and a top attraction in the city.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café Iruña, a highly-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're eager to try something different, consider Iturriza Taberna, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Antxoa Taberna. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Bilbao and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Spain.

Wake up to day 7 of your road trip in Spain. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Logrono. With 1 night to stay in Bilbao, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bilbao, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Logrono. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 27 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Parque Del Ebro, Logroño and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Wall Revellín, another highlight in Logrono. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to Museum Of La Rioja, a heritage-rich museum.

Nearby, you will also find La Laurel. This curiosity-inducing street is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Mercado San Blas / Plaza De Abastos, a picture-perfect food market that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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

Bilbao is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bilbao.

Dine in style at Gaztandegi taberna, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Café Bar Bilbao boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Laga jatetxea. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bilbao.

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

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Spain includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of San Millán de la Cogolla and Badarán. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Santander, where you'll spend 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in San Millán de la Cogolla.

After soaking in Bilbao’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: San Millán de la Cogolla. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 39 min. When you arrive in San Millán de la Cogolla, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Suso Monastery, an increasingly popular monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Monastery Of San Millán De Yuso and admire its historic features.

After soaking in San Millán de la Cogolla’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Badarán. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 10 min. When you arrive in Badarán, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bodegas Pedro Martinez Alesanco Sl. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the winery before you continue to your next stop.

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.

Santander is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Santander.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? El Sol offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante Posada Del Mar. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Santander.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!