5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Spain. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Santander and 2 nights in Bilbao. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Spain. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Santander, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Spain on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Spain. Guggenheim Museum and Palacio De La Magdalena are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Beach Of La Concha, learn more about the unique Citadel Of Pamplona, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cave Of Altamira.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cueto, Santander, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Pamplona, and Santillana del Mar, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Spain. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Spain.
Throughout your road trip in Spain, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Spain.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Spain fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Spain today!
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Day 1
- Santander - Arrival day
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- Segunda Playa del Sardinero
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Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Santander and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Santander for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Santander 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 Segunda Playa De El Sardinero, or just 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 Santander. 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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Santander, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurante la Mayor, a top-rated dining spot in Santander. If you're in the mood for something new, try Santa & Co, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Marcello Restaurante. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Santander.
Continue your lively evening at Kings Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Grog is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Hygge Cocktail ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Santander
- Bilbao
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Drive 109 km, 2 hours 9 min
- Botin Centre
- Palacio de la Magdalena
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Zubizuri
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Santander and Bilbao. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Santander. Your adventure starts at Centro Botin, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Palacio De La Magdalena. This well-known palace is known for its picture-perfect appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Santander's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This eye-catching park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is also worth visiting, along with Zubizuri. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This locally appreciated point of interest provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bilbao. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a fantastic dining experience at La Viña del Ensanche, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Marinela jatetxea offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bilbao.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Boss Bilbao after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Stromboli Taberna for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Zuberoa Taberna is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!
Day 3
- Bilbao
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Drive 207 km, 3 hours 10 min
- Guggenheim Museum
- Gipuzkoa Plaza
- Beach of La Concha
- Funicular Monte Igueldo
- Peine del Viento XV
- Parte Vieja
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
A visit to Parte Vieja in Bilbao is a must on the 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 route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and budget-friendly activities. The first attraction of today is Guggenheim Museum. Continue your discovery at Gipuzkoa Plaza, a photogenic public square 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 Beach Of La Concha. This well-known beach offers a romantic encounter with Bilbao. Next, make your way to Funicular Monte Igueldo to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Peine Del Viento Xv, a locally renowned art installation that’s sure to impress. 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Café Iruña, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Iturriza Taberna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Antxoa Taberna. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.
Day 4
- Bilbao
- Santander
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Drive 469 km, 5 hours 41 min
- Citadel of Pamplona
- Plaza de Toros
- Castle Square
- Cave of Altamira
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On day 4 of your road trip in Spain, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Pamplona and Santillana del Mar. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bilbao, including a historical landmark, a stadium, a public square, a cave and much more! Start your day at Citadel Of Pamplona. This standout historical landmark is a captivating place to see in Bilbao. Then, wander over to Plaza De Toros De Pamplona. If eye-catching sites excite you, this stadium will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Castle Square. This history-steeped public square is a favorite among visitors.
Bilbao offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Cave Of Altamira is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
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 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante Matices Santander, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Enmienda Dieciocho. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Little Bobby, a prime location for a drink.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 5
- Santander - Departure day
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- Plaza Porticada
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Day 5 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Santander before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Plaza Porticada. This often recommended public square is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Santander’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Centro Comercial Bahía de Santander. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Santander.
If you're in the mood for something new, try El Sol, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Santander. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Spain!
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