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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bilbao has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Bilbao.

Visiting Guggenheim Museum is always a good idea. This famous museum building is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Puppy, a must-see art installation 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 Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This intriguing museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Etxebarri Parkea These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Spain. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Bilbao by booking a table at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Zortziko, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Etxanobe Atelier, a local gem known for its delightful creative cuisine in Bilbao. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 places, which are Villaescusa, Puente Viesgo, and Santillana del Mar. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Santander, where will spend 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bilbao, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Villaescusa. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Cabarceno Natural Park, a top-rated safari park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Villaescusa’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Puente Viesgo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 20 min. When you arrive in Puente Viesgo, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Cave Of El Castillo, a worthwhile cave in Puente Viesgo. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Santillana del Mar. This drive usually takes around 22 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to National Museum And Research Center Of Altamira, a worthwhile museum that everyone visiting Santillana del Mar should see. Next, head to Cave Of Altamira. This historic cave is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Museum Of Torture - Inquisicion, a history-steeped museum popular among locals as well as travelers.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Santander. Santander offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kings Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Grog is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Hygge Cocktail is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Santander, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Awaiting your discovery is the increasingly popular Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, an eye-catching maritime museum in Santander.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Fontibre. This drive usually takes around 59 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Nacimiento Del Rio Ebro, a captivating park that everyone visiting Fontibre should see.

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Parque De Mataleñas, another highlight in Cueto. When you’re done exploring the park, continue to Llamas Park, an enchanting park.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurante Agua Salada, a top-rated dining spot in Santander. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurante Matices Santander, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Enmienda Dieciocho. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Santander.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Little Bobby, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Santander. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in San Sebastian, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make time for Catedral De Santander, an intriguing church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Plaza Porticada, enchanting visitors with its respected appeal. Continue your exploration at Mercado Del Este. This market is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Santander at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Centro Botin. After exploring the art gallery, head to the beloved Paseo Marítimo De Santander.

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

San Sebastian is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in San Sebastian.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Arzak in San Sebastian by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Arzak offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Kokotxa, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Txiki Taberna Donosti. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Taberna Barun, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

On day 6 of your road trip in Spain, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 1 night.

Alderdi Eder Parkea is must-visit park and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Beach Of La Concha, a notable beach, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Peine Del Viento Xv, a stunning art installation, also available for your discovery today.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to San Sebastian and set your GPS to Sukarrieta. 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 1 hour 21 min. Upon reaching Sukarrieta, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Portugalete, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sukarrieta to Portugalete may take around 53 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Portugalete, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Vizcaya Bridge, a captivating monument that draws visitors from near and far.

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.

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

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!