9-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao and San Sebastian

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Santander, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Santander, including a lighthouse, a palace, a beach, a park, an art gallery, a maritime museum and much more! Start your adventure at Faro De La Cerda. This intriguing lighthouse is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Palacio De La Magdalena located in Santander for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Segunda Playa De El Sardinero. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the beach, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Llamas Park. Visitors usually appreciate the enchanting features of this park. Next up is Centro Botin, a highly recommended art gallery. For a change of pace, head to Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. As one of the most increasingly popular attractions in Santander, this maritime museum is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top-rated dining spot in Santander. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurante Matices Santander, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Enmienda Dieciocho. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Santander.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Little Bobby, a top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

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

Begin your adventure at Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This is a notable park you should not miss. Another must-see is Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, a worthwhile museum in Santander.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Guggenheim Museum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Puppy, another of the city’s locally appreciated attractions. If time allows, add Federico Moyúa Enparantza to your itinerary. This locally appreciated point of interest offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Santander.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bilbao. Bilbao offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Boss Bilbao, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Stromboli Taberna is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Zuberoa Taberna ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of San Sebastian. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in San Sebastian, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bilbao, including an art installation, a heritage railway, a palace, a beach, a park, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Peine Del Viento Xv. This captivating 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 visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bilbao 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, a well-known palace in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Beach Of La Concha and Alderdi Eder Parkea. End your day with a visit to Gipuzkoa Plaza, an interesting public square that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in San Sebastian. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Polka San Sebastián, a top-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Antonio. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Txiki Taberna Donosti, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Taberna Barun is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Gorriti Taberna also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 5 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring San Sebastian. You have 1 night left in San Sebastian. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in San Sebastian is Gros. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Parte Vieja, a neighborhood that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the beloved Motako Gaztelua-castillo De La Mota, a romantic castle in San Sebastian. Next, go to Urgull.

After visiting Motako Gaztelua-castillo De La Mota and Urgull, have a stroll along San Sebastian's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Aquarium. This instagrammable aquarium offers a unique experience. San Telmo Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of San Sebastian's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Federiko Taberna? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Cuchara de San Telmo as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in San Sebastian.

Say good night to San Sebastian and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bilbao. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Artxanda Funicular. This underrated tramway is an awe-inspiring place to see in San Sebastian. Continue your discovery at Europa Parkea, a visually striking park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around San Sebastian, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. This locally appreciated church offers a romantic encounter with San Sebastian. Next, make your way to Etxebarri Parkea to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Furnicular Bottom Station, an often recommended tramway that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Zubizuri, an interesting art installation in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in San Sebastian.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bilbao, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bilbao. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Café Iruña, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Iturriza Taberna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Antxoa Taberna. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bilbao.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Parque Del Ebro, Logroño. This beloved park is a mesmerizing place to see in Bilbao. Continue your discovery at Wall Revellín, a heritage-rich monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bilbao, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Of La Rioja. This frequently visited museum offers a heritage-rich encounter with Bilbao. Next, make your way to La Laurel to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Mercado San Blas / Plaza De Abastos, a frequently visited food market that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Co-cathedral Of Santa María De La Redonda, a worthwhile church in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bilbao.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Gaztandegi taberna, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café Bar Bilbao is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Laga jatetxea. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bilbao tonight.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore San Millán de la Cogolla and Badarán, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Santander. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bilbao, including a monastery and a winery. Start your adventure at Suso Monastery. This up-and-coming monastery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Monastery Of San Millán De Yuso located in Bilbao for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Bodegas Pedro Martinez Alesanco Sl. Its romantic features will captivate you.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Santander. Santander offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Savor the flavors at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, El Sol beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante Posada Del Mar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Santander tonight.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!