One-Week Relaxed Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to San Sebastian
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Description
Explore Spain and discover its unique charm on this 8-day relaxed road trip through Bilbao, Getxo, Portugalete, Sukarrieta, San Sebastian, and Vitoria-Gasteiz. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.
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, Getxo, Portugalete, Sukarrieta, San Sebastian, and Vitoria-Gasteiz. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Bilbao and 4 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 8-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 Vizcaya Bridge.
Traveling leisurely through Spain means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Beach Of La Concha. 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 7 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 8 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 8-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
- 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 2 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at La Viña del Ensanche, 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 Marinela jatetxea, 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 San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bilbao.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Boss Bilbao offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Stromboli Taberna is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Zuberoa Taberna is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
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
- Bilbao
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Drive 11 km, 54 min
- Guggenheim Museum
- Puppy
- Europa parkea
- Parque Etxebarria
- Bilboko Donejakue katedrala
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Bilbao. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Bilbao. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Bilbao!
Begin your adventure at Guggenheim Museum. This is a famous museum building you should not miss. Another must-see is Puppy, an increasingly popular art installation in Bilbao.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Europa Parkea. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Etxebarri Parkea, another of the city’s frequently visited attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a visually striking church. Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala is a truly remarkable place to visit in Bilbao.
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!
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bilbao has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Discover the culinary delights of Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative and seasonal cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Zortziko, renowned for its delicious contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Etxanobe Atelier, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bilbao.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Spain!
Day 3 – Bilbao, Getxo, Portugalete, Sukarrieta, and San Sebastian
- Bilbao
- Getxo
- Portugalete
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 185 km, 3 hours 15 min
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Puerto Viejo
- Vizcaya Bridge
- Puppy
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Day 3 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 city of Bilbao. 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 4 nights.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bilbao. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Bilbao. Next, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a notable park, known for its eye-catching features.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Getxo. This drive usually takes around 19 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Take your self-guided tour to Puerto Viejo, an increasingly popular point of interest that everyone visiting Getxo should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Getxo and set your GPS to Portugalete. 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 25 min. Upon reaching Portugalete, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Vizcaya Bridge is a captivating monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-designated features before continuing your self-guided tour.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at San Sebastian. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
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 San Sebastian, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Arzak, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in San Sebastian. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Kokotxa. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Txiki Taberna Donosti offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Taberna Barun is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Gorriti Taberna is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Bilbao can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Spain!
Day 4 – San Sebastian
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 2 km, 32 min
- Gipuzkoa Plaza
- Beach of La Concha
- Alderdi Eder Parkea
- Aquarium
- Peine del Viento XV
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On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into San Sebastian, where you'll stay for 3 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 San Sebastian, and meet locals along the way!
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in San Sebastian today. One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is Gipuzkoa Plaza. This instagrammable public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Beach Of La Concha and learn what makes this eye-catching beach unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular Alderdi Eder Parkea. After exploring the park, head to Aquarium. This notable aquarium is a highlight in San Sebastian. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the well-known Peine Del Viento Xv. Enjoy exploring this incredible art installation at your own pace.
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.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Federiko Taberna offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Cuchara de San Telmo is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in San Sebastian.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of San Sebastian’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Spain.
Day 5 – San Sebastian
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 13 km, 1 hour 22 min
- Igeldo mendiko behatokia
- Peine del Viento XV
- Funicular Monte Igueldo
- Miramar Palace
- Aiete parkea
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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.
San Sebastian is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a peaceful, a mesmerizing, an eye-catching, and a history-steeped! Start at Igeldo Mendiko Behatokia, a frequently visited observation deck that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Funicular Monte Igueldo, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Miramar Palace. This palace is one of the city’s most well-known spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring San Sebastian at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Aiete Parkea.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities. San Sebastian offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
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 San Sebastian, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bar Bixigarri, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? SSua Arde Donostia offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Danena. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in San Sebastian.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in San Sebastian and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical San Sebastian!
Day 6 – San Sebastian
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 18 km, 56 min
- Eureka! Zientzia Museoa
- Good Shepherd of San Sebastián Cathedral
- Maria Kristina zubia
- Cristina Enea parkea
- Peine del Viento XV
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in San Sebastian. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in San Sebastian. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by San Sebastian!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in San Sebastian, featuring a photogenic, a romantic, a gorgeous, a heritage-rich, a stunning, a culturally significant, and a beautiful. Start at Eureka! Zientzia Museoa, a frequently visited science center in the city. Then, head to Cathedral Of The Good Shepherd Of San Sebastian and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking church.
There are many interesting places to see in San Sebastian and when you are ready for more, go to Maria Kristina Zubia. This is one of the city’s most beloved spots. After exploring the monument, visit the underrated Cristina Enea Parkea.
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.
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 San Sebastian, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Narru Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're eager to try something different, consider Lukainkategi, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante JATETXEA TOLOSA. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.
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.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 7 – San Sebastian, Elorriaga, Vitoria-Gasteiz, and Bilbao
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Vitoria-Gasteiz
- Bilbao
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 34 min
- Parque Salburua
- Santa Maria Cathedral
- Plaza España
- Plaza Virgen Blanca
- La Florida
- Peine del Viento XV
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On day 7 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.
After soaking in San Sebastian’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Elorriaga. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 14 min. When you arrive in Elorriaga, it's time to take a break from the road.
Begin your journey at Salburua and explore the enchanting features.
When you’ve had your share of Elorriaga, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Vitoria-Gasteiz. Your travel time is around 8 min.
Make your way to Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria, a frequently visited church that draws attention for its heritage-rich features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Nueva Square, a heritage-rich public square that stands out in the hamlet. Next, visit Plaza Virgen Blanca, a locally renowned public square that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore La Florida, a nearby park, which is highly recommended by other travelers.
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.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Gaztandegi taberna, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Bar Bilbao, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Laga jatetxea. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.
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.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Spain.
Day 8 – Bilbao - departure day
- Bilbao - Departure day
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- Federiko Moiua enparantza
- Puppy
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Day 8 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.
On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Bilbao’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
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 sightseeing destination 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 8 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at El Globo taberna, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Barraca jatetxea offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante Pentxo.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Bilbao and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Spain is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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