5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Oviedo and Bilbao and surrounding area
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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, 1 night in Oviedo, and 1 night 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 Cabarceno Natural Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Vizcaya Bridge, learn more about the unique Palacio De La Magdalena, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Centro Botin.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cueto, Santander, Oviedo, Gijon, Cabezón de la Sal, Villaescusa, Bilbao, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete, 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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- Llamas Park
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Welcome to Santander, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Santander's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 Llamas Park, 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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Kings Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Grog, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Hygge Cocktail likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Santander
- Oviedo
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Drive 202 km, 2 hours 34 min
- Plaza Porticada
- Mercado del Este
- Botin Centre
- Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
- Palacio de la Magdalena
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Santander. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Oviedo, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. 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. Plaza Porticada is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this standout public square before continuing your journey. Mercado Del Este is your next stop. This locally appreciated market 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 Centro Botin. This noteworthy art gallery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico and Palacio De La Magdalena.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Oviedo. 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 Oviedo. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante Doña Concha, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Quemedás offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Oveja Negra. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Oviedo.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Astur, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Bodegón provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Baam offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Head back to your accommodation in Oviedo and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 3
- Oviedo
- Bilbao
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Drive 313 km, 3 hours 46 min
- San Lorenzo Beach
- Atlántico Botanical Garden
- Universidad Laboral
- Natural Monument of the Sequoias of Monte Cabezón
- Cabarceno Natural Park
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Gijon, Cabezón de la Sal, and Villaescusa, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bilbao. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Oviedo includes a beach, a botanical garden, a university, a nature reserve, a safari park and much more! San Lorenzo Beach is must-visit beach and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Jardín Botánico Atlántico, a worthwhile botanical garden, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Universidad Laboral De Gijón, a picture-perfect university, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Oviedo. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the captivating Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón. If you’re looking for more, Cabarceno Natural Park is also an impressive attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bilbao. Bilbao 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 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.
Start 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.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Boss Bilbao, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Stromboli Taberna offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 4
- Bilbao
- Santander
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Drive 183 km, 3 hours 16 min
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Guggenheim Museum
- Zubizuri
- Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
- Vizcaya Bridge
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Bilbao, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Santander. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Bilbao. Begin your sightseeing with Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This popular park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Guggenheim Museum, 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 Zubizuri. This notable art installation is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Vizcaya Bridge is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Santander. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Little Bobby offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.
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 5
- Santander - Departure day
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- Parque de Mataleñas
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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, we recommend visiting Parque De Mataleñas, a serene park before you head out.
On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Santander’s popular marketplace, El Corte Inglés. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
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 to try something new, consider El Sol, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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