Relaxed 7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Santander, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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 Santander, and meet locals along the way!

Today’s itinerary in Santander covers several incredible sights, including a church, a public square, a market, an art gallery, a palace and much more! Start your adventure at Catedral De Santander. This curiosity-inducing church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Plaza Porticada, a must-see public square in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Mercado Del Este. This curiosity-inducing market offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Centro Botin, where you can take in detailed features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Palacio De La Magdalena. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Santander's bustling shopping hub, El Corte Inglés. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, El Corte Inglés offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Santander by securing a reservation at Cadelo. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Umma, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Agua Salada, a top local spot known for its tantalizing contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Little Bobby, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

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

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Spain will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Spain, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Santander on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Villapresente's Labyrinth is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this photogenic maze before continuing your journey. Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón is your next stop. This captivating nature reserve is one of the best-rated sights in Santander.

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 Cueva El Soplao. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Cave Of El Castillo and Cabarceno Natural Park.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bilbao!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Bilbao. Your adventure starts at Europa Parkea, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Guggenheim Museum. This famous museum building is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bilbao's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Puppy. This gorgeous art installation offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is also worth visiting, along with Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Bilbao offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Café Iruña, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Iturriza Taberna offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Antxoa Taberna is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bilbao.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bilbao’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

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

Day 5 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 by visiting Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Etxebarri Parkea, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming park renowned for its eye-catching features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bilbao by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Zubizuri. This enchanting art installation is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bilbao experience. We also recommend visiting Furnicular Bottom Station, a frequently visited tramway. Nearby, you'll also find Artxanda Funicular, ready to add charm to your journey.

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!

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 Bilbao.

Savor the flavors at Gaztandegi taberna, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Café Bar Bilbao beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Laga jatetxea. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bilbao tonight.

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.

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

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 Bilbao and drive in the direction of the city of Santander for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Santander, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in Bilbao. Begin your sightseeing with Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Albiako Lorategiak, another must-visit attraction.

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 Euskalduna Zubia. This intriguing point of interest is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Itsasmuseum Bilbao, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Museo Athletic Club | Ac Museoa · Tour San Mamés is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

Exploring the food culture in Santander 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.

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.

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.

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!