5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao and surrounding area

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Spain. With 1 night left in Santander, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Santander is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a market, a public square, and an art gallery. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Mercado Del Este. Just a short distance away is Plaza Porticada, a photogenic public square that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Centro Botin, one of the village’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss.

Set your GPS to Cueto and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cueto beckons with new experiences!

Head to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, an intriguing art gallery in Cueto. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Parque De Mataleñas. This worthwhile park is a top recommendation in the area.

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

As you explore more of Santander, 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Santander by securing a table at Cadelo. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Umma, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Agua Salada, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Located in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is an ideal pick for contemporary and traditional cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Little Bobby after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Head back to your accommodation in Santander and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 5 stops and experience some of the highlights of Santillana del Mar, Cerrazo, Ruente, Rionansa, and Villaescusa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bilbao, which will be your home away from home 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 Santillana del Mar. This drive usually takes around 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cave Of Altamira. Spend some time admiring the UNESCO world heritage-designated features of the cave before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Santillana del Mar and set your GPS to Cerrazo. 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 6 min. Upon reaching Cerrazo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Villapresente's Labyrinth, a captivating maze that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ruente. This car ride takes around 25 min.

La Fuentona De Ruente is an up-and-coming lake we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bilbao. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Mina in Bilbao by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Mina offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and seasonal menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Zortziko, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Etxanobe Atelier, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Bilbao, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Santander. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set out on a day brimming with a romantic, a picturesque, a stunning, and an instagrammable. Next, go to Guggenheim Museum.

After visiting Federico Moyúa Enparantza and Guggenheim Museum, take time to explore Bilbao's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This romantic park offers a unique experience.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sukarrieta. This car ride takes around 46 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the nature reserve before you continue to your next stop.

Portugalete’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sukarrieta behind. This drive usually takes around 53 min. Portugalete welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Vizcaya Bridge, an interesting monument known for its picture-perfect features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Santander. Santander offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Santander. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

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