Relaxed 9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Santander and visit amazing attractions in Monte and Santander destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 3 nights 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.

Today's adventure in Santander promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Doctor Morales Park. This picturesque park is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Catedral De Santander, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Plaza Porticada, one of the village’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Mercado Del Este. This instagrammable market is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Centro Botin, an interesting art gallery, and take a stroll around the area.

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

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Santander by booking a table at Cadelo, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Santander, Umma shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Agua Salada is known as a top local spot for its delicious contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Little Bobby. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 3 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 an exciting day in Santander. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an art gallery, a beach, a park, a church and much more! Begin your adventure at Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. This is an increasingly popular art gallery you should not miss. Another must-see is Playa De Mataleñas, an up-and-coming beach in Santander.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Parque De Mataleñas. From there, take a leisurely stroll to La Maruca, another of the village’s underrated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Ermita De La Virgen Del Mar, a historic place of interest in the village.

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

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 Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a highly-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're eager to try something different, consider El Sol, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Posada Del Mar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Santander. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Spain.

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 4, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Spain and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Santander and beyond. With 1 night left in Santander, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views await you in Santander on today’s itinerary. First up is the intriguing park, Llamas Park. Afterward, continue to Parque De La Teja, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Santander’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Parque Los Pinares. This worthwhile park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Playa Del Camello, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, an up-and-coming maritime museum in the village.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Santander, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cadelo Restaurante, 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 Cervecería Kiss, 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 Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos, a hidden gem nestled in Santander. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Spain promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the hamlet of Elorriaga and drive in the direction of the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Bilbao, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Santander allows for both. Start by heading to Salburua. This increasingly popular nature reserve provides an insightful glimpse into the hamlet's identity. Next, discover Nueva Square, a history-steeped public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to La Florida, an increasingly popular park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the well-known Plaza Virgen Blanca. Round off your day at Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria, another gem in Santander with photogenic features to discover.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Bilbao in this laid-back road trip in Spain. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

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 Bilbao.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Zortziko, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Bilbao is Etxanobe Atelier, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative menu.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Bilbao. The bars in Bilbao make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

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

On day 6 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!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Albiako Lorategiak. Continue your discovery at Zubizuri, an enchanting art installation 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 Furnicular Bottom Station. This frequently visited tramway offers a picture-perfect encounter with Bilbao. Next, make your way to Puppy to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Guggenheim Museum, a widely recognized museum building that’s sure to impress. 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.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Spain. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

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 Bilbao.

Savor the flavors at Café Iruña, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Iturriza Taberna beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Antxoa Taberna. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bilbao tonight.

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

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

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Start by visiting Artxanda Funicular, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic tramway is sure to impress. Next on your list is Europa Parkea, another must-visit landmark and intriguing park renowned for its breathtaking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Bilbao by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Etxebarri Parkea. This picture-perfect park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala also adds charm to your journey, and Pagasarri wraps up your day with its eye-catching appeal.

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.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bilbao, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Gaztandegi taberna, 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 Café Bar Bilbao, 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 Laga jatetxea, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bilbao’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

On day 8 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Spain. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Spain.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bilbao, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. Start at Federico Moyúa Enparantza, an up-and-coming point of interest in the city. Then, head to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Bilbao and when you are ready for more, go to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This is one of the city’s most interesting spots. After exploring the park, visit the underrated Itsasmuseum Bilbao. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the underrated Euskalduna Zubia, an underrated point of interest in the city.

In the city of Santander, 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.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Santander has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at La Barruca de Calderón, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Bombi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at El Figón. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Santander’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Santander!