Cheap 5-Day Spain Road Trip from Bilbao to Santander and surrounding area

Your exciting road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Bilbao, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bilbao and begin your adventure in Spain.

Bilbao is a popular cheap holiday destination in Spain with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Spain, Bilbao is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Federiko Moiua enparantza. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bilbao, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,235 visitors.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Bilbao offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Spain.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular La Viña del Ensanche, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Café Iruña is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Iturriza Taberna.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Stromboli taberna, considered one of the best bars in Bilbao.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Spain!

Day 2 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, proving that cheap holidays in Spain can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Bilbao, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Guggenheim Museum. This museum building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 64,815 visitors. Attracting more than 530,967 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

When you’re finished at Guggenheim Museum, head to Puppy. This one-of-a-kind point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,913 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,312 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,643 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Etxebarria parkea. This famous park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,229 travelers.

Make your vacation in Spain more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Spain and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Bilbao offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Spain.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Café Bar Bilbao, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is El Globo taberna - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on La Barraca jatetxea, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

A road trip vacation in Bilbao can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Spain!

Day 3 of your self-drive vacation in Spain will take you to the city of Santander, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Santander, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including San Sebastian.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bilbao and set your GPS to San Sebastian. 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 1 hour 15 min. Upon reaching San Sebastian, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Gipuzkoa Plaza. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,940 visitors.

Alderdi Eder Parkea is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,442 visitors.

Beach of La Concha is also highly recommended by travelers. This natural feature has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,054 visitors.

Peine del Viento XV is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,281 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Igeldo mendiko behatokia. This park has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,376 travelers.

Santander offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Spain. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Santander, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Restaurante la Mayor, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Santa & Co offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Restaurante Agua Salada is the perfect spot for you!

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kings Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Grog is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, HYGGE COCKTAIL offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Spain with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Spain!

On day 4 of your cheap holiday travels in Spain, you’ll tour 4: Villaescusa, Santillana del Mar, Santander, and Cueto. You'll stay in Bilbao for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Cabarceno Natural Park, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 45,839 reviews.

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 Santillana del Mar may take around 33 min. Upon your arrival in Santillana del Mar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cave of Altamira. This cave with prehistoric art is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Santillana del Mar, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 13,460 visitors.

Santillana del Mar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Santander behind. This drive usually takes around 33 min. Santillana del Mar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Mercado del Este. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 7,680 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Centro Botin. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 14,508 visitors, this art museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

While exploring Spain is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Bilbao has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Bilbao on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

A cheap, budget vacation in Bilbao should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Bilbao, try some of our top recommendations.

Discover the heart of Bilbao through its culinary scene, starting with Restaurante Pentxo. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Kirol jatetxea, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Arpiku, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Spain!

Your budget road trip vacation in Spain is about to end. Day 5 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Bilbao.

Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Bilbao’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain. Take home a piece of Spain with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bilbao.

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Bilbao, consider a top-rated restaurant like Mugi taberna, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Cerveceria Baskian is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Gure Kabi jatetxea, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Bilbao.

You’ll then say farewell to Bilbao. 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!