Relaxed 10-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vitoria-Gasteiz to Santander and Bilbao

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Vitoria-Gasteiz, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz, and meet locals along the way!

Awaiting your discovery is the locally appreciated Artium Museum, a photogenic museum in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Next, go to Nueva Square.

After visiting Artium Museum and Nueva Square, have a stroll along Vitoria-Gasteiz's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Plaza Virgen Blanca. This enchanting public square offers a unique experience. La Florida is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Martin Deunako Parkea, one of the most romantic places to visit in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Spain by joining a traveler-approved tour in Vitoria-Gasteiz. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Vitoria-Gasteiz 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz to find the best options for you!

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Vitoria-Gasteiz by booking a table at Zabala, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bar Txiki, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Spain!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip in 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!

Your adventure in Vitoria-Gasteiz is only getting started when you visit Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria, a curiosity-inducing local hot spot.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Arriaga, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Vitoria-Gasteiz to Arriaga may take around 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arriaga, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Arriagako Donibane Parkea, a frequently visited park that everyone visiting Arriaga should see.

Añana’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Arriaga behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Añana welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Salt Valley Of Añana, an intriguing archeological site that everyone visiting Añana should see.

You'll be staying in Santander on this laid-back road trip through Spain. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

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.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Santander.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kings Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Grog, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Hygge Cocktail. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Santander as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Spain, you’ll explore the area around Santander, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Santander will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Spain.

Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico is an ideal stop early in the day. This underrated maritime museum is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Palacio De La Magdalena, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cueto. This drive usually takes around 12 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, a locally appreciated art gallery that everyone visiting Cueto should see. Next, head to Parque De Mataleñas. This romantic park is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Llamas Park, an awe-inspiring park popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

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 fantastic dining experience at Restaurante Agua Salada, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurante Matices Santander offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Enmienda Dieciocho is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Santander.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Santander. The bars in Santander make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Spain!

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Santander, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Visiting Plaza De Pombo is always a good idea. This often recommended public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the standout wonders of Mercado Del Este, a must-see market in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Plaza Porticada. This locally appreciated public square offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Catedral De Santander, where you can take in historic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Centro Botin These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Exploring the food culture in Santander 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, 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 El Sol, 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 Restaurante Posada Del Mar, a hidden gem nestled in Santander. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

On day 6 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Spain, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Set your GPS to Suances and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Suances beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Suances Pueblo, an intriguing beach that draws visitors from near and far.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cerrazo may take around 17 min. Upon your arrival in Cerrazo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Villapresente's Labyrinth, a captivating maze that draws visitors from near and far.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cabezón de la Sal may take around 14 min. Upon your arrival in Cabezón de la Sal, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón, an interesting nature reserve that draws visitors from near and far.

In Bilbao, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Spain.

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 Bilbao, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Zortziko, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Bilbao is Etxanobe Atelier, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative menu.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Boss Bilbao stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Stromboli Taberna offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Zuberoa Taberna is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Day 7 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!

Guggenheim Museum makes a great addition to your morning plans. Continue your discovery at Puppy, a breathtaking art installation with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bilbao, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This worthwhile museum offers an instagrammable encounter with Bilbao. Next, make your way to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Federico Moyúa Enparantza, an up-and-coming point of interest that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bilbao.

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

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 Bilbao.

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.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bilbao.

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

On day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Bilbao, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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 Bilbao, and meet locals along the way!

Check out the popular art installation, Zubizuri. Afterward, continue to Albiako Lorategiak, a park every traveler should visit. As you explore Bilbao’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. This locally appreciated church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Etxebarri Parkea, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Europa Parkea, an up-and-coming park in the city.

Spain makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Spain also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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 Bilbao, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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