Relaxed 7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to San Sebastian
Description
Included
Description
Uncover the beauty of Spain on this 7-day relaxed road trip, journeying through Bilbao, Santillana del Mar, Villaescusa, Getxo, Portugalete, Bermeo, Sukarrieta, and San Sebastian. Unwind at your leisure on this self-drive vacation, discovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the serene exploration.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Spain at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Bilbao, Santillana del Mar, Villaescusa, Getxo, Portugalete, Bermeo, Sukarrieta, and San Sebastian. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Bilbao and 2 nights in San Sebastian. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Spain.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Spain. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Bilbao, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Spain and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Spain with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Spain.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Spain. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Guggenheim Museum. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Cabarceno Natural Park.
Traveling leisurely through Spain means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Vizcaya Bridge. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Spain's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Spain.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Spain. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Spain's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Spain.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Spain. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Spain. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Spain and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Bilbao - Arrival day
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- Zubizuri
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Your relaxed road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Bilbao, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bilbao and begin your adventure in Spain.
Bilbao 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 Zubizuri 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 Bilbao. 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.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Bilbao.
Don’t miss out on dining at La Viña del Ensanche, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Marinela jatetxea, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Bilbao.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Boss Bilbao, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Stromboli Taberna. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Zuberoa Taberna, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain. Enjoy your first taste of Bilbao as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Bilbao
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Drive 8 km, 42 min
- Guggenheim Museum
- Puppy
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Parque Etxebarria
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On day 2 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!
Discover a day packed with a gorgeous, a picture-perfect, a noteworthy, a romantic, and a majestic in Bilbao. Begin your sightseeing with Guggenheim Museum. This extraordinary museum building is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Puppy, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Bilbao, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This often recommended museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Etxebarri Parkea and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most often recommended attractions.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Spain by joining a traveler-approved tour in Bilbao. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Bilbao that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Spain more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Bilbao to find the best options for you!
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.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bilbao by securing a table at Mina. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Zortziko, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Bilbao. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bilbao and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 3
- Bilbao
- Santillana del Mar
- Villaescusa
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Drive 257 km, 3 hours 9 min
- National Museum and Research Center of Altamira
- Cave of Altamira
- Laberinto De Villapresente
- Cabarceno Natural Park
- Puppy
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 3, 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 Bilbao and beyond. With 1 night left in Bilbao, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bilbao, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Santillana del Mar. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 26 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
National Museum And Research Center Of Altamira is an increasingly popular museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour to Cave Of Altamira, a picturesque cave that’s well-regarded in the area.
When you’ve had your share of Santillana del Mar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cerrazo. Your travel time is around 6 min.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Villapresente's Labyrinth. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the maze before you continue to your next stop.
When you’ve had your share of Cerrazo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Villaescusa. Your travel time is around 26 min.
Begin your journey at Cabarceno Natural Park and explore the stunning features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bilbao and your accommodation.
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 Bilbao, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
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.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Bilbao.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Spain. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Spain tomorrow with new energy.
Day 4
- Bilbao
- Getxo
- Portugalete
- Bermeo
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 222 km, 4 hours 8 min
- Puerto Viejo
- Vizcaya Bridge
- San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
- Puppy
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Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Spain gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Getxo. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of San Sebastian, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Getxo. This car ride takes around 18 min.
Puerto Viejo is an up-and-coming point of interest we recommend making time to visit today.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Portugalete. This drive usually takes around 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Vizcaya Bridge, a popular monument that draws visitors from near and far.
Set your GPS to Bermeo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 56 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bermeo beckons with new experiences!
Your self-guided tour starts at San Juan De Gaztelugatxe Hermitage, a frequently visited church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of San Sebastian in this laid-back road trip in Spain. You'll stay here for 2 nights.
Exploring the food culture in San Sebastian offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Start your culinary exploration in San Sebastian by securing a reservation at Arzak. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Kokotxa, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in San Sebastian and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Txiki Taberna Donosti, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Taberna Barun, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Gorriti Taberna likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Getxo can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Spain!
Day 5
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 11 km, 1 hour 4 min
- Peine del Viento XV
- Funicular Monte Igueldo
- Miramar Palace
- Aquarium
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Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in San Sebastian, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in San Sebastian, including an art installation, a heritage railway, a palace, an aquarium and much more! Start your day with a visit to Peine Del Viento Xv. This popular art installation is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Funicular Monte Igueldo, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring San Sebastian on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Miramar Palace, one of the city’s most well-known palace. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Aquarium.
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.
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 San Sebastian.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Federiko Taberna is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Cuchara de San Telmo. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in San Sebastian tonight.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in San Sebastian. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!
Day 6
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Bilbao
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Drive 103 km, 1 hour 35 min
- Alderdi Eder Parkea
- Beach of La Concha
- Good Shepherd of San Sebastián Cathedral
- Gipuzkoa Plaza
- Peine del Viento XV
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Spain promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of San Sebastian and drive in the direction of the city of Bilbao for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Bilbao, where you’ll stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in San Sebastian, featuring a charming, an idyllic, a breathtaking, a picture-perfect, a historic, an inviting, and a culturally significant. Start at Alderdi Eder Parkea, a notable park in the city. Then, head to Beach Of La Concha and soak in the ambiance of this mesmerizing beach.
There are many interesting places to see in San Sebastian and when you are ready for more, go to Cathedral Of The Good Shepherd Of San Sebastian. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots. After exploring the church, visit the notable Gipuzkoa Plaza.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Bilbao. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Spain by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at El Globo taberna, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Barraca jatetxea offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurante Pentxo is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bilbao.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bilbao.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!
Day 7
- Bilbao - Departure day
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- Federiko Moiua enparantza
- Puppy
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Spain is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Bilbao.
Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Bilbao’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Spain.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Bilbao is the remarkable Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This point of interest and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,526 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Bilbao or just grab something light to keep you going.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Arpiku, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Bilbao and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Spain is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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