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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bilbao for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start by visiting Guggenheim Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. Next on your list is Puppy, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated art installation renowned for its breathtaking 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 Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This picture-perfect museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bilbao experience. We also recommend visiting Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a locally renowned park. Nearby, you'll also find Etxebarri Parkea, ready to add charm to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Bilbao by booking a table at Mina, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For a different culinary experience in Bilbao, Zortziko shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Etxanobe Atelier is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative cuisine in Bilbao. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, San Sebastian. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Santander, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bilbao. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Gipuzkoa Plaza is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most popular places to visit in Bilbao. Next, head to Alderdi Eder Parkea, a captivating park, known for its stunning features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Beach Of La Concha. This stunning beach is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Peine Del Viento Xv and Igeldo Mendiko Behatokia. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Santander. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Santander by booking a table at Cadelo. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Umma, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Agua Salada, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Keep the evening going at Kings Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Grog, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Hygge Cocktail, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

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 Santander, Cueto, Santillana del Mar, and Villaescusa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 1 night.

Santander is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a market, an art gallery, a cave, a safari park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Mercado Del Este and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Centro Botin, a gorgeous art gallery that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, one of the city’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Cave Of Altamira. When you're finished at the cave, Cabarceno Natural Park awaits your visit. This safari park is an enchanting highlight on today's itinerary.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bilbao. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table 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.

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