3-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary Starting in Santander
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Spain on a 3-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Santander, Portugalete, Bilbao, and Cueto. This road trip itinerary in Spain seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Santander. 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 Vizcaya Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Santander, Portugalete, Bilbao, and Cueto, 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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Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Santander - arrival day
- Santander - Arrival day
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- Mercado del Este
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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 Mercado Del Este or 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 Santander. 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 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.
Make sure to book a table at Restaurante la Mayor, a popular restaurant in Santander. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Santander at Santa & Co, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Marcello Restaurante. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Santander tonight.
Keep the evening going at Kings Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Grog, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Hygge Cocktail, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 3-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2 – Santander, Portugalete, and Bilbao
- Santander
- Portugalete
- Bilbao
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Drive 210 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Vizcaya Bridge
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Guggenheim Museum
- Zubizuri
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Greet day 2 of your road trip in Spain with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Santander for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Portugalete and Bilbao.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Santander, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Portugalete may take around 1 hour 11 min. Upon your arrival in Portugalete, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Begin your journey at Vizcaya Bridge and explore the picture-perfect features.
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 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Head to Federico Moyúa Enparantza, a curiosity-inducing point of interest in Bilbao. This popular park is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Guggenheim Museum is an excellent choice. Next, continue your sightseeing at the notable Zubizuri and discover what makes this art installation unique.
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 an authentic adventure.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Santander by booking a table at Cadelo. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Umma, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Agua Salada, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Little Bobby, known for its lively atmosphere.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!
Day 3 – Santander and Cueto - departure day
- Santander - Departure day
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Day 3 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.
On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Santander’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Santander.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, El Sol is another top choice with a popular 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!
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