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

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Photo of Palacio de la Magdalena aerial panoramic view, located on the Magdalena Peninsula in Santander city, Spain.
photo of view  of A woman walking in the Magdalena Palace in the city of Santander, Spain
Photo of Faro Cabo Mayor lighthouse in Santander city.
Photo of Santander, Spain, the Quiosco de Musica (Bandstand) of the Gardens of Pereda.
Photo of San Miguel Hermitage near Potes, one of the most interesting tourist spots of the Comarca of Liebana near Santander.
Photo of Santander city aerial panoramic view.
Photo of Comillas marquis monument facing the Cantabric sea and blue sky. province of Santander, Spain.
Photo of Santander City Hall building or Ayuntamiento de Santander.
Photo of Piquio gardens (Jardines de Piquio), close to sardinero beach in the city of Santander.
photo  of view  of  Day aerial cityscape of Santander coast with sand beach, Cantabria, Spain
photo of view of The Man and the Sea Ship Museum or Museo El Hombre y la Mar in the Magdalena park in Santander city, Cantabria region of Spain
photo of view of A woman walking in the Magdalena Palace in the city of Santander, Spain
photo of view of Aerial view of Santander, the capital city of the Cantabria region on Spain’s north coast, Europe
photo of view of Arnadal cliffs in summer time. Isla. Santander. Spain.
photo of view of Santander, Spain. The Quiosco de Musica (Bandstand) of the Gardens of Pereda
Photo of City Hall in Bulbao in Spain by Juan Manuel Garcia Bilbao
Photo of ribera market in the spanish city Bilbao.
Photo of Zubizuri bridge in Bilbao, Spain.
Photo of street of the city Bilbao.
Photo of aerial view of Bilbao, Spain city downtown with a Nevion River, Zubizuri Bridge and promenade. Mountain at the background.
Photo of La salve zubia bridge in the spanish city Bilbao.
Photo of tourist woman walking in Bilbao city, summer holiday vacation in Spain.
Photo of Bilbao old town on a sunny day, Spain
Photo of Chavarri Palace or Palacio Chavarri is a building around the Moyua Square in Bilbao.
Photo of Mausoleum in Bilbao's cemetery, Spain. Built in 1914.
Photo of Bilbao city.
Photo of sunset in the city of Bilbao in the Basque Country ,Spain.
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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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Segunda Playa del Sardinero
Botin CentrePalacio de la MagdalenaDoña Casilda Iturrizar parkMuseum of Fine Arts of BilbaoZubizuriFederiko Moiua enparantza
Guggenheim MuseumGipuzkoa PlazaBeach of La ConchaFunicular Monte IgueldoPeine del Viento XVParte Vieja
Citadel of PamplonaPlaza de TorosCastle SquareCave of Altamira
Plaza Porticada

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Day 1

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante la Mayor, an iconic dining spot in Santander. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Santa & Co, a popular restaurant in Santander. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Marcello Restaurante, a hidden gem nestled in Santander. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kings Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Grog is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!

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Day 2

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
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Santander and Bilbao. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your adventure at Centro Botin. This notable art gallery 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 Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this museum. Next up is Zubizuri, a highly recommended art installation. For a change of pace, head to Federico Moyúa Enparantza. As one of the most intriguing attractions in Santander, this point of interest is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Viña del Ensanche, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Marinela jatetxea? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bilbao.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Boss Bilbao, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Stromboli Taberna, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Zuberoa Taberna provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 3

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
  • More

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

A top thing to do today is to explore Parte Vieja, a must-see neighborhood in Bilbao. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Start your day at Guggenheim Museum. Then, wander over to Gipuzkoa Plaza. If instagrammable sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Beach Of La Concha. This serene beach 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, Funicular Monte Igueldo is a well-known spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the heritage railway, don’t forget to check out the awe-inspiring Peine Del Viento Xv. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this interesting art installation.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Café Iruña, 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 Iturriza Taberna, 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 Antxoa Taberna, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

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Day 4

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
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Pamplona and Santillana del Mar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Santander, where you’ll be staying 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 culturally significant historical landmark is a notable place to see in Bilbao. Then, wander over to Plaza De Toros De Pamplona. If visually striking 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 popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurante Agua Salada, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurante Matices Santander offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Enmienda Dieciocho is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Santander.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Little Bobby is an excellent place to start.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!

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Day 5

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 increasingly popular public square is a popular place to see in the city.

Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Santander’s shopping center, the lively El Corte Inglés. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try El Sol? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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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