6-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Spain on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cueto, Santander, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Pamplona, and Logrono. This road trip itinerary in Spain seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 and 3 nights 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 Palacio De La Magdalena are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Beach Of La Concha, learn more about the unique Citadel Of Pamplona, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Alderdi Eder Parkea.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cueto, Santander, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Pamplona, and Logrono, 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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Santander
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Santander - Arrival day
- More
- Segunda Playa del Sardinero
- More
Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Santander and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Santander for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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 Segunda Playa De El Sardinero, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Santander. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante la Mayor, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Santa & Co, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Marcello Restaurante. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kings Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Grog, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Santander
- Bilbao
- More
Drive 108 km, 2 hours 2 min
- Botin Centre
- Palacio de la Magdalena
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Guggenheim Museum
- Puppy
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Santander and Bilbao. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Immerse yourself in Santander’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Centro Botin. This breathtaking art gallery is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of Palacio De La Magdalena, a must-visit palace in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, an interesting park. We also recommend visiting Puppy. This art installation is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Federico Moyúa Enparantza, yet another worthwhile attraction in Santander.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at La Viña del Ensanche, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bilbao at Marinela jatetxea, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bilbao tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Boss Bilbao, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Stromboli Taberna. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Zuberoa Taberna, another top-rated place in the area.
Say good night to Bilbao and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 3
- Bilbao
- More
Drive 207 km, 3 hours
- Zubizuri
- San Telmo Museoa
- Alderdi Eder Parkea
- Beach of La Concha
- Peine del Viento XV
- Parte Vieja
- More
Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Spain. With 2 nights left in Bilbao, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Parte Vieja, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Bilbao. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Bilbao. Your adventure starts at Zubizuri, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is San Telmo Museum. This underrated museum is known for its visually striking 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 Alderdi Eder Parkea. This serene park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Beach Of La Concha is also worth visiting, along with Peine Del Viento Xv. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bilbao and your accommodation.
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 lovely dining experience at Café Iruña, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bilbao at Iturriza Taberna, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Antxoa Taberna. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bilbao tonight.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!
Day 4
- Bilbao
- More
Drive 313 km, 4 hours 10 min
- Castle Square
- Plaza de Toros
- Encierro/Entzierroa Monument
- Citadel of Pamplona
- Parque Antoniutti
- Taconera
- More
On day 4 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Bilbao for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Pamplona to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Get ready for an exciting day in Bilbao. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, a stadium, a monument, a historical landmark, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Castle Square. This is a captivating public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Plaza De Toros De Pamplona, an interesting stadium in Bilbao.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Monumento Al Encierro. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Citadel Of Pamplona, another of the city’s locally renowned attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Parque Antoniutti, a majestic place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Taconera to your itinerary. This often recommended park 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bilbao's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Gaztandegi taberna, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Bar Bilbao, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Laga jatetxea. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.
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
- Bilbao
- Santander
- More
Drive 377 km, 4 hours 22 min
- Estatua del Labrador
- Co-cathedral of Santa María de la Redonda
- Mercado San Blas / Plaza de Abastos
- La Laurel
- Bodegas Franco Españolas
- More
On day 5 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 Logrono. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 1 night.
Bilbao is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument, a church, a food market, a street, a winery and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Estatua Del Labrador and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Co-cathedral Of Santa María De La Redonda, a romantic church that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Mercado San Blas / Plaza De Abastos, one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular La Laurel. When you're finished at the street, Bodegas Franco Españolas awaits your visit. This winery is an eye-catching highlight on today's itinerary.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Santander. 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.
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.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Little Bobby, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 6
- Santander - Departure day
- More
- Plaza Porticada
- More
Day 6 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, begin at Plaza Porticada. This locally appreciated public square is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
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 for something new, try El Sol, another premier location with a delectable 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Spain
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.