Relaxed 10-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to San Sebastian and Bilbao

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Santander and visit amazing attractions in Santander and Cueto destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Santander. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Santander, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Palacio De La Magdalena, a notable palace in the city. Then, head to Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped maritime museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Santander, and when you are ready for more, go to Parque De Mataleñas. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming romantic spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the up-and-coming Playa De Mataleñas. Not far away, you'll also find Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. This art gallery is a breathtaking highlight in Santander.

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

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.

Begin 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.

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

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

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

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Santander, including a public square, a market, an art gallery, a park, a beach and much more! Start your day at Plaza Porticada. This standout public square is a worthwhile place to see in Santander. Then, wander over to Mercado Del Este. If eye-catching sites excite you, this market will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Centro Botin. This picture-perfect art gallery is a favorite among visitors.

Santander offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Doctor Morales Park is an underrated 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 mesmerizing Hondarribiko Hondartza. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing beach.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in San Sebastian. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Spain by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Arzak in San Sebastian by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Arzak delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative and traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Kokotxa, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Txiki Taberna Donosti, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Taberna Barun, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Gorriti Taberna likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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

Make sure to visit Parte Vieja, a popular neighborhood in San Sebastian. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in San Sebastian, including an aquarium, a park, a beach, a public square and much more! Start your day at Aquarium. This mesmerizing aquarium is a locally renowned place to see in San Sebastian. Then, wander over to Alderdi Eder Parkea. If romantic sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Beach Of La Concha. This awe-inspiring beach is a favorite among visitors.

San Sebastian offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Gipuzkoa Plaza is a popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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 the food culture in San Sebastian 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Federiko Taberna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Cuchara de San Telmo. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in San Sebastian.

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

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Spain. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Spain tomorrow with new energy.

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into San Sebastian, 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 San Sebastian, and meet locals along the way!

Set aside time today to explore Gros, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

San Sebastian is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an art installation, a heritage railway, a palace, a church and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Peine Del Viento Xv and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Funicular Monte Igueldo, an instagrammable heritage railway that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Miramar Palace, one of the city’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Cathedral Of The Good Shepherd Of San Sebastian.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bar Bixigarri, a highly-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're eager to try something different, consider SSua Arde Donostia, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Danena. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in San Sebastian and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

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

Day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Spain is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Guernica and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Sukarrieta and the city of Bermeo. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 3 nights.

Start your adventure at Casa De Juntas De Gernika. This up-and-coming historical landmark is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba located in San Sebastian for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of San Juan De Gaztelugatxe Hermitage. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Puerto Viejo. Next up is Vizcaya Bridge, a highly recommended monument.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Bilbao. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative and seasonal cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Zortziko, renowned for its delicious contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Etxanobe Atelier, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Boss Bilbao after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Stromboli Taberna, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Spain!

Day 7 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!

Begin your adventure at Artxanda Funicular. This is a frequently visited tramway you should not miss. Another must-see is Europa Parkea, a frequently visited park in Bilbao.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Zubizuri. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Puppy, another of the city’s beloved attractions.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Day 8 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Immerse yourself in Bilbao’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This serene park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Federico Moyúa Enparantza, a locally appreciated sightseeing destination. For a change of scene, check out Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, known for its enchanting features. We also recommend visiting Etxebarri Parkea. This park is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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!

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Gaztandegi taberna, a top-rated dining spot in Bilbao. If you're in the mood for something new, try Café Bar Bilbao, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Laga jatetxea. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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 9 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 city of Villaescusa and end it in the city of Cabezón de la Sal. You’ll stay in Santander for 1 night. 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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Bilbao on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Cabarceno Natural Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this majestic safari park before continuing your journey. Cave Of El Castillo is your next stop. This beloved cave is one of the best-rated sights in Bilbao.

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 Villapresente's Labyrinth. This visually striking maze is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón and Cueva El Soplao.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a popular restaurant in Santander. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Santander at El Sol, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restaurante Posada Del Mar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Santander tonight.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Santander. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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!