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

On day 2 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Santander and Cueto. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Santander, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Let Palacio De La Magdalena set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this visually striking palace before continuing your journey. Plaza De Pombo is your next stop. This intriguing public square is one of the best-rated sights in Santander.

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 Centro Botin. This detailed art gallery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cueto. This drive usually takes around 8 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 Segunda Playa De El Sardinero, an often recommended beach that everyone visiting Cueto should see. Next, head to Llamas Park. This scenic park is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region.

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

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.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Little Bobby stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 1 place, which are Bilbao. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao, where will spend 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bilbao. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 12 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This curiosity-inducing museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Guggenheim Museum. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum building. Next, take your journey to Puppy, a frequently visited art installation. Conclude your sightseeing at Zubizuri, known for its masterful features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bilbao, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

Head back to your accommodation in Bilbao and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Spain.

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Spain with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Bilbao, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Portugalete, Getxo, and Bilbao.

Artxanda Funicular brings Bilbao's character to life. This awe-inspiring tramway is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Etxebarri Parkea, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, one of the town’s most intriguing attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bilbao and set your GPS to Portugalete. 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 24 min. Upon reaching Portugalete, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Getxo, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Portugalete to Getxo may take around 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Getxo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Playa De Ereaga, a beloved beach that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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 Café Iruña, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Iturriza Taberna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Antxoa Taberna. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Spain includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of San Sebastian. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in San Sebastian, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Bilbao, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of San Sebastian. Your travel time is around 1 hour 13 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Funicular Monte Igueldo, an interesting heritage railway that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Beach Of La Concha and admire its majestic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Alderdi Eder Parkea, a notable park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on San Telmo Museum, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to San Sebastian, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of San Sebastian's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at Polka San Sebastián, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar Antonio. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in San Sebastian.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Txiki Taberna Donosti. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Taberna Barun offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Gorriti Taberna, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Spain.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Laguardia, Briones, and Haro. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Santander, where you'll spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Laguardia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 58 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Bodega El Fabulista and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Church Of Santa María De Los Reyes, another highlight in Laguardia.

Briones’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Laguardia behind. This drive usually takes around 23 min. Briones welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Winery - Vivanco Museum Of Wine Culture, an increasingly popular museum 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 Briones’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Haro. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Haro, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Puente De Briñas and explore the romantic features.

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

Santander 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 Santander.

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.

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