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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bilbao. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bilbao. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Guggenheim Museum is the perfect place to start. This museum building is one of the most impressive places to visit in Bilbao. Next, head to Puppy, a curiosity-inducing art installation, 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 Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This photogenic museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park and Etxebarri Parkea. Visit these for an interesting touch 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Villaescusa, Fontibre, and Santillana del Mar. 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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at the impressive Cabarceno Natural Park, an awe-inspiring safari park in Bilbao. Next, go to Nacimiento Del Rio Ebro.

After visiting Cabarceno Natural Park and Nacimiento Del Rio Ebro, have a stroll along Bilbao's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cave Of Altamira. This picturesque cave offers a unique experience. National Museum And Research Center Of Altamira is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Santander's best restaurants.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby Bib Gourmand-awardee, Umma, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Santander is Agua Salada, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant and a delicious contemporary and traditional menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kings Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Grog provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Hygge Cocktail offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Santander and Cueto. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in San Sebastian, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, 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 photogenic public square before continuing your journey. Mercado Del Este is your next stop. This often recommended 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 detailed art gallery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico and Llamas Park.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in San Sebastian. 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in San Sebastian by booking a table at Arzak, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in San Sebastian, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-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, Kokotxa is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in San Sebastian. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Txiki Taberna Donosti, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Taberna Barun offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Gorriti Taberna. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete, 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in San Sebastian, including a park, a beach, an art installation, a nature reserve, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Alderdi Eder Parkea. This interesting park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Beach Of La Concha located in San Sebastian for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Peine Del Viento Xv. Its noteworthy features will captivate you. After the art installation, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this nature reserve. Next up is Vizcaya Bridge, a highly recommended monument.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Savor the flavors at Gaztandegi taberna, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Café Bar Bilbao beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Laga jatetxea. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bilbao tonight.

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