Affordable One-Week Relaxed Spain Road Trip Vacation from Santander to Bilbao

Your relaxed road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Santander, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Santander and begin your adventure in Spain.

Santander is a popular cheap holiday destination in Spain with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Spain, Santander 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.

One thing you have to know about Santander is that this city is an outstanding hub for culture, exploration, and relaxation. When you're ready to begin your tour of the city, stop at some of the best places to visit in Santander.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Paseo Marítimo De Santander. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,078 reviews.

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.

Discover the heart of Santander through its culinary scene, starting with Restaurante la Mayor. 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 Santa & Co, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Restaurante Agua Salada, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Kings Pub is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Grog is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Hygge Cocktail, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Spain! Expect more to come as you continue this budget-friendly and laid-back road trip in Spain!

Day 2 of your exciting road trip across Spain is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Santander and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 2 nights left in Santander.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Catedral De Santander, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 6,521 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Plaza Porticada. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,395 travelers.

Mercado Del Este is another must-visit attraction. This renowned point of interest offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.1 out of 5 stars by 7,680 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Centro Botin. This well-loved art museum boasts a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 14,508 reviews. In a single year, approximately 111,096 visitors add this sightseeing spot to their travel itineraries.

Set your GPS to Monte 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. Monte beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned La Maruca. This popular beach has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,192 visitors.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Santander, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Little Bobby and try some of its cocktails and snacks.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Spain!

On day 3 of your affordable vacation in Spain, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Santander. You’ll stay in Santander for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Spain, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. Previous visitors have rated this maritime museum an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,771 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cueto. This drive usually takes around 12 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,037 visitors.

Next, make your way to Playa De Mataleñas. This beach is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,910 reviews.

While in Cueto, we also recommend a visit to Parque De Mataleñas. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,724 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Llamas Park. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,849 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Cueto.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Santander.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Spain shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Santander is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by La Barruca de Calderón - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, La Bombi promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Spain! Make every second of your affordable travels in Santander count!

On day 4 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Spain, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Elorriaga, and Vitoria-Gasteiz. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Bilbao, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Elorriaga. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 51 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Salburua. This protected area is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,863 visitors.

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 15 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Nueva Square. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,706 visitors.

La Florida is another popular attraction you could visit today. This urban park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,409 visitors.

Plaza Virgen Blanca is also highly recommended by travelers. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,751 visitors.

Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,503 reviews.

Bilbao 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 culinary delights of Bilbao, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Visit Stromboli Taberna, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, budget-friendly adventure across Spain.

Day 5 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Spain. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Bilbao and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Albiako Lorategiak. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,047 visitors.

When you’re finished at Albiako Lorategiak, head to Zubizuri. This one-of-a-kind footbridge is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 10,295 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Furnicular Bottom Station. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,866 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Puppy. This point of interest is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,913 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Guggenheim Museum. This famous museum building welcomes around 530,967 visitors annually and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 64,815 travelers.

Your discovery of Bilbao does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Bilbao on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Spain.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Spain by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Bilbao that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Start your foodie adventure at Café Bar Bilbao, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to El Globo taberna, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss La Barraca jatetxea, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Cheers for a relaxing road trip vacation in Spain! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Bilbao!

Day 6’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, proving that cheap holidays in Spain can be extraordinary. You have 1 night left in Bilbao. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

When you're ready to see some sights, Artxanda Funicular is a great place to start. This funicular is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,055 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Europa Parkea. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,593 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Etxebarria Parkea. The park has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,229 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. This church is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,802 reviews.

Pagasarri is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this mountain, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,085 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Bilbao, 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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Restaurante Pentxo, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Kirol jatetxea - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Arpiku promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Spain!

On day 7 of your cheap holiday travels in Spain, you’ll tour 1 destination: Bilbao. You'll stay in Santander for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Drop by the renowned Federiko Moiua Enparantza. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,235 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,312 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,643 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Itsasmuseum Bilbao. This museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,942 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Euskalduna Bridge. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,852 travelers, this point of interest is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Bilbao.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Santander. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Santander, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

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

Casa Lita offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Bodega del Riojano. Or, try La Magnolia, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Spain.

It’s soon time to say goodbye to Spain as your leisurely vacation is about to end. Day 8 is your departure day and your last chance to make the most of your affordable travels in Santander.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Santander's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Spain.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Santander is the remarkable Ascensor Río De La Pila. This point of interest and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 1,667 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 Santander or just grab something light to keep you going.

As you prepare to bid farewell to Santander, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Daría, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Cervecería Isae features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Restaurante Gele is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Santander and begin your journey home. You’ll leave filled with unforgettable memories from your terrific and affordable slow-paced adventures in Spain!