Relaxed 11-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to San Sebastian and Santander

Day 2 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!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bilbao. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Bilbao. Next, head to Etxebarri Parkea, an increasingly popular park, known for its gorgeous 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 Zubizuri. This culturally significant art installation is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Puppy and Guggenheim Museum. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Bilbao. Your adventure starts at Artxanda Funicular, a curiosity-inducing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Europa Parkea. This often recommended park is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bilbao's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This picture-perfect museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is also worth visiting, along with Euskalduna Zubia. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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!

Exploring the food culture in Bilbao 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Gaztandegi taberna, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café Bar Bilbao is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Laga jatetxea. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bilbao tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bilbao and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Spain promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Getxo and drive in the direction of the town of Portugalete for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of San Sebastian, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Start by visiting Puerto Viejo, a prime spot to begin your journey. Next on your list is Vizcaya Bridge, another must-visit landmark and notable monument renowned for its culturally significant 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 Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba. This idyllic nature reserve is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bilbao experience. We also recommend visiting Museo De La Paz De Guernica, a beloved museum. Nearby, you'll also find Urkiola Parke Naturala, ready to add charm to your journey.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Spain at San Sebastian. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Arzak, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and traditional menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in San Sebastian is Kokotxa, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in San Sebastian and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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

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

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into San Sebastian, where you'll stay for 2 nights, 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!

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Parte Vieja, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of San Sebastian. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Get ready for an exciting day in San Sebastian. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, a beach, a park, an aquarium and much more! Begin your adventure at Gipuzkoa Plaza. This is a well-known public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Beach Of La Concha, an interesting beach in San Sebastian.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Alderdi Eder Parkea. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Aquarium, another of the city’s captivating attractions.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Federiko Taberna? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Cuchara de San Telmo as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in San Sebastian.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of San Sebastian’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in San Sebastian. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in San Sebastian. 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 San Sebastian!

Gros is a fantastic place you can explore today in San Sebastian. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the San Sebastian-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in San Sebastian, including an art installation, a heritage railway, a palace, a church and much more! Start your day at Peine Del Viento Xv. This stunning art installation is a captivating place to see in San Sebastian. Then, wander over to Funicular Monte Igueldo. If romantic sites excite you, this heritage railway will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Miramar Palace. This history-steeped palace 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, Cathedral Of The Good Shepherd Of San Sebastian is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities. San Sebastian offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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

Dine in style at Bar Bixigarri, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, SSua Arde Donostia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Danena. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great 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.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 7 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!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in San Sebastian allows for both. Start by heading to La Florida. This curiosity-inducing park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Plaza Virgen Blanca, a standout public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Nueva Square, a frequently visited public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the often recommended Salburua. Round off your day at Arriagako Donibane Parkea, another gem in San Sebastian with visually striking features to discover.

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

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 Santander.

Start 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.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kings Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Grog. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Hygge Cocktail, another top-rated place in the area.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Spain.

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 8, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Spain and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Santander and beyond. With 2 nights left in Santander, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Santander allows for both. Start by heading to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. This curiosity-inducing art gallery provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Parque De Mataleñas, a peaceful park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Llamas Park, a worthwhile park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally appreciated Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. Round off your day at Palacio De La Magdalena, another gem in Santander with visually striking features to discover.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Santander, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante Agua Salada, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurante Matices Santander? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Enmienda Dieciocho as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Santander.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Little Bobby after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 9 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Santander, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. 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. Centro Botin is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking art gallery before continuing your journey. Catedral De Santander is your next stop. This beloved church 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 Plaza Porticada. This respected public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Mercado Del Este and Plaza De Pombo.

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.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Santander, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a top-rated dining spot in Santander. If you're in the mood for something new, try El Sol, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurante Posada Del Mar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Santander.

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

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

On day 10 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Spain. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Spain.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Santander. Some of the hamlet’s most loved attractions await! Villapresente's Labyrinth is the perfect place to start. This maze is one of the most well-known places to visit in Santander. Next, head to Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón, a well-known nature reserve, known for its picturesque features.

Nearby, you'll also find Cave Of El Castillo and Cabarceno Natural Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Bilbao in this laid-back road trip in Spain. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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 lovely meal at El Globo taberna, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Barraca jatetxea is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurante Pentxo. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bilbao tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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