Relaxed 12-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from San Sebastian to Santander and Bilbao

On day 2 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!

A visit to Parte Vieja in San Sebastian is a must on your agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore San Sebastian on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Aquarium is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this gorgeous aquarium before continuing your journey. Alderdi Eder Parkea is your next stop. This notable park is one of the best-rated sights in San Sebastian.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Beach Of La Concha. This peaceful beach is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Gipuzkoa Plaza.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Spain by joining a traveler-approved tour in San Sebastian. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian to find the best options for you!

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in San Sebastian by reserving a table at Arzak. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and traditional menu. For a different taste experience, head to Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, recognized for its delicious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Kokotxa, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in San Sebastian. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in San Sebastian.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in San Sebastian can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Spain!

Day 3 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!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in San Sebastian allows for both. Start by heading to Peine Del Viento Xv. This locally renowned art installation provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Funicular Monte Igueldo, a respected heritage railway, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Miramar Palace, an interesting palace. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the frequently visited Cathedral Of The Good Shepherd Of San Sebastian. Round off your day at Cristina Enea Parkea, another gem in San Sebastian with idyllic features to discover.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Bar Bixigarri, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, SSua Arde Donostia beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Danena. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining 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!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in San Sebastian and visit amazing attractions in Hondarribia/Fontarrabie destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in San Sebastian. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Today's adventure in San Sebastian promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Hondarribiko Hondartza. This instagrammable beach is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy San Nikolas Gate, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to St. Maria Gate, one of the town’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its culturally significant features.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, San Sebastian has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Narru Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Lukainkategi offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurante JATETXEA TOLOSA is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in San Sebastian.

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.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 5 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 Guernica. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Santander, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Start your day with a visit to Casa De Juntas De Gernika. This increasingly popular historical landmark is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, which may be one of the most UNESCO world heritage-listed 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 Playa De Ereaga, an increasingly popular beach in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Puerto Viejo and Vizcaya Bridge.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Spain at Santander. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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 Santander, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Cadelo in Santander by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Cadelo offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Umma, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular Bib Gourmand-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Agua Salada, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional contemporary and traditional menu.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kings Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Grog offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Hygge Cocktail, another top-rated bar in the area.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Santander as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Spain with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 6, 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 Santander and beyond. With 2 nights left in Santander, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Santander is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, a beloved art gallery that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Parque De Mataleñas, enchanting visitors with its serene appeal. Continue your exploration at Llamas Park. This park is one of the village’s most up-and-coming spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Santander at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. After exploring the maritime museum, head to the locally renowned Palacio De La Magdalena. This palace will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the village.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante Agua Salada, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurante Matices Santander? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Enmienda Dieciocho as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Santander.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Santander.

Keep the evening going at Little Bobby, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Santander, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Today’s agenda in Santander includes a public square, a market, a church, an art gallery and much more! Plaza De Pombo is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Mercado Del Este, a worthwhile market, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Plaza Porticada, a standout public square, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Santander. If you’re looking for more, Catedral De Santander is also an increasingly popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Centro Botin, a notable gem to see in the city.

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.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Santander has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a highly-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're eager to try something different, consider El Sol, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Posada Del Mar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Santander.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in Spain is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the hamlet of Cerrazo and end it in the city of Villaescusa. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Spain.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and natural wonders. Start at the well-known Villapresente's Labyrinth, a photogenic maze in Santander. Next, go to Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón.

Cabarceno Natural Park is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Playa Ostende / Urdiales, one of the most eye-catching places to visit in Santander.

In the city of Bilbao, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Spain.

Exploring the food culture in Bilbao 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Zortziko, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Bilbao and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Boss Bilbao. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Stromboli Taberna, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 9 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!

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the beloved Artxanda Funicular, an instagrammable tramway in Bilbao. Next, go to Furnicular Bottom Station.

After visiting Artxanda Funicular and Furnicular Bottom Station, take time to explore Bilbao's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Zubizuri. This visually striking art installation offers a unique experience. Puppy is another noteworthy stop.

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 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.

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

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Day 10 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!

Start your day at Carola Garabia. Then, wander over to Itsasmuseum Bilbao. If visually striking sites excite you, this maritime museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Euskalduna Zubia.

Bilbao offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is a well-known spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the park, don’t forget to check out the instagrammable Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved museum 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!

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.

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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Day 11 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Spain is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in San Sebastian for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Bilbao. Begin your sightseeing with Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This underrated point of interest is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Albiako Lorategiak, 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 Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. This frequently visited church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Etxebarri Parkea, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Europa Parkea and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most worthwhile attractions.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of San Sebastian in this laid-back road trip in Spain. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Haizea, a top-rated dining spot in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood for something new, try Loretxu Gastrotaberna, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Sirimiri Gastroleku. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in San Sebastian.

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.