Relaxed 12-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vitoria-Gasteiz to Bilbao and Santander

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Vitoria-Gasteiz. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Vitoria-Gasteiz. 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz!

Whether you decide to explore Vitoria-Gasteiz on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria makes a great addition to your morning plans. This frequently visited church is a heritage-rich place to see in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Continue your discovery at Plaza Virgen Blanca, a standout public square with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Vitoria-Gasteiz, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Nueva Square. This up-and-coming public square offers a heritage-rich encounter with Vitoria-Gasteiz. Next, make your way to Artium Museum to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Vitoria's Green Ring, an increasingly popular park 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 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Zabala, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional contemporary menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Vitoria-Gasteiz at Bar Txiki, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Spain, you’ll explore the area around Vitoria-Gasteiz, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Vitoria-Gasteiz will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Spain.

Whether you decide to explore Vitoria-Gasteiz on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

No visit to Vitoria-Gasteiz is complete without Martin Deunako Parkea. This locally appreciated park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Cathedral María Inmaculada Of Vitoria, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Vitoria-Gasteiz, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to La Florida. This increasingly popular park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Museo De Bellas Artes De Álava, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Vitoria-Gasteiz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Aretxabaleta. This drive usually takes around 10 min.

Savor the day by heading to Olárizu, a beloved park that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Vitoria-Gasteiz 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Escotilla, a highly-rated dining destination in Vitoria-Gasteiz. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cafetería El Pregón, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at El Corte Inglés. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Vitoria-Gasteiz this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Vitoria-Gasteiz. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Vitoria-Gasteiz!

Day 4 of your self-drive tour in Spain offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Urkiola and end it in Bilbao. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 4 nights. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Spain.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Vitoria-Gasteiz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Urkiola. This drive usually takes around 33 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Urkiola Parke Naturala, an intriguing national park that everyone visiting Urkiola should see.

Sukarrieta’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Urkiola behind. This drive usually takes around 48 min. Sukarrieta welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba is a popular nature reserve we recommend visiting today. Discover its serene features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sukarrieta and set your GPS to Bermeo. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 31 min. Upon reaching Bermeo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering San Juan De Gaztelugatxe Hermitage, a frequently visited church known for its enchanting features.

You'll be staying in Bilbao on this laid-back road trip through Spain. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bilbao has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Discover the culinary delights of Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative and seasonal cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Zortziko, renowned for its delicious contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Etxanobe Atelier, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

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.

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

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Bilbao, where you'll stay for 3 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 Bilbao, and meet locals along the way!

Let Guggenheim Museum set the tone for the day. Puppy is your next stop. This frequently visited art installation is one of the best-rated sights in Bilbao.

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 Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This eye-catching museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park and Federico Moyúa Enparantza.

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.

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.

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.

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

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Enjoy all that Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala has to offer. This is a locally appreciated church you should not miss. Another must-see is Etxebarri Parkea, an intriguing park in Bilbao.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Albiako Lorategiak. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Zubizuri, another of the city’s well-known attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Furnicular Bottom Station, a mesmerizing place of interest in the city.

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 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.

Dine in style at Gaztandegi taberna, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Café Bar Bilbao boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Laga jatetxea. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bilbao.

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.

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!

Artxanda Funicular brings Bilbao's character to life. This instagrammable tramway is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Europa Parkea, another breathtaking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Itsasmuseum Bilbao. This instagrammable maritime museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Museo Athletic Club | Ac Museoa · Tour San Mamés, a beloved museum, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

Savor the flavors at El Globo taberna, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Barraca jatetxea beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante Pentxo. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining 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.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bilbao!

Day 8 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Spain lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Villaescusa. By evening, drive toward the Santander, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Villaescusa. This car ride takes around 1 hour 10 min.

Cabarceno Natural Park is an impressive safari park we recommend visiting today. Discover its peaceful features before continuing your self-guided tour.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Puente Viesgo may take around 20 min. Upon your arrival in Puente Viesgo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Cave Of El Castillo, an intriguing cave known for its peaceful features.

After soaking in Puente Viesgo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cerrazo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 19 min. When you arrive in Cerrazo, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Villapresente's Labyrinth, a captivating maze in Cerrazo. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Santander. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Cadelo in Santander by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Cadelo delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Umma, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local Bib Gourmand establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Agua Salada, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated Bib Gourmand-establishment, it's a top choice for contemporary and traditional cuisine in the city.

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.

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.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Spain, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Santander and visit amazing attractions in Monte and Santander, just outside the city. You still have 2 nights left in Santander, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Awaiting your discovery is the curiosity-inducing Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, a picture-perfect maritime museum in Santander. Next, go to Playa Del Camello.

After visiting Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico and Playa Del Camello, have a stroll along Santander's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Palacio De La Magdalena. This enchanting palace offers a unique experience.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Monte may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Monte, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to La Maruca, a curiosity-inducing beach that everyone visiting Monte should see. Next, head to Doctor Morales Park. This gorgeous park is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region.

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

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 Agua Salada, 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 Restaurante Matices Santander, 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 La Enmienda Dieciocho, a hidden gem nestled in Santander. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Little Bobby, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Your relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 10 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Spain better by exploring the top attractions of Santander and beyond. With 1 night left in Santander, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Ascensor Río De La Pila is must-visit tramway and a great option for a daytime tour of the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Santander. This car ride takes around 13 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Cueto is Llamas Park, an underrated park that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Parque De Mataleñas, a mesmerizing park that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Playa De Mataleñas, an underrated beach that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, a nearby art gallery, highly recommended by other travelers.

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

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.

Dine in style at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, El Sol boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurante Posada Del Mar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Santander.

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

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!

On day 11 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.

Catedral De Santander is must-visit church and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Plaza Porticada, an intriguing public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Mercado Del Este, a photogenic market, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Santander. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the often recommended Plaza De Pombo. If you’re looking for more, Centro Botin is also an interesting attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Spain as you make your way to Vitoria-Gasteiz. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

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 delicious meal at Erkiaga taberna, a highly-rated dining destination in Vitoria-Gasteiz. If you're eager to try something different, consider El Portalón, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tximiso Taberna. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Vitoria-Gasteiz 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.

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