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

On day 2 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Santander, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Santander for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Santander and Cueto to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Santander allows for both. Start by heading to Palacio De La Magdalena. This well-known palace provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Segunda Playa De El Sardinero, a romantic beach, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Llamas Park, an up-and-coming park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the intriguing Plaza De Pombo. Not far away from the public square, you will find the gorgeous Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Centro Botin, another gem in Santander with breathtaking features to discover.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante Matices Santander is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Enmienda Dieciocho. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Santander tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Little Bobby, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bilbao. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Start your day at Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This serene park is a popular place to see in Santander. Then, wander over to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. If eye-catching sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Guggenheim Museum.

Santander offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Puppy is an underrated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the art installation, don’t forget to check out the enchanting Zubizuri. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular art installation. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Santander's top attractions with a visit to Federico Moyúa Enparantza.

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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Viña del Ensanche, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Marinela jatetxea, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Boss Bilbao, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Stromboli Taberna is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Zuberoa Taberna ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Begin your adventure at Vizcaya Bridge. This is a captivating monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Playa De Ereaga, a curiosity-inducing beach in Bilbao.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Puerto Viejo. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Artxanda Funicular, another of the town’s underrated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Etxebarri Parkea, a breathtaking place of interest in the town. If time allows, add Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala to your itinerary. This locally appreciated church offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Bilbao.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Café Iruña, a top-rated dining spot in Bilbao. If you're in the mood for something new, try Iturriza Taberna, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Antxoa Taberna. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bilbao.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of San Sebastian. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in San Sebastian, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Funicular Monte Igueldo. This captivating heritage railway is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Beach Of La Concha, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Alderdi Eder Parkea, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Bilbao. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, San Telmo Museum. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this museum offers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in San Sebastian. San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Polka San Sebastián, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bar Antonio. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in San Sebastian.

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!

On day 6 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 Laguardia, Briones, and Haro. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in San Sebastian, including a wine cellar, a church, a museum, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Bodega El Fabulista. This often recommended wine cellar is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Church Of Santa María De Los Reyes located in San Sebastian for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Winery - Vivanco Museum Of Wine Culture. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Puente De Briñas. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this monument.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, El Sol is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurante Posada Del Mar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Santander tonight.

Head back to your accommodation in Santander and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!