One-Week Relaxed Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Bilbao

On day 2 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.

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

To truly experience Santander, make sure to drop by Catedral De Santander. This beloved church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Plaza Porticada, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Mercado Del Este, one of the most beloved places to see in Santander. This market is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Centro Botin. Wander around and soak in the gorgeous atmosphere this art gallery offers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Monte, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Santander to Monte may take around 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Monte, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit La Maruca, a locally appreciated 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 Santander.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Santander, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Begin 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.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Little Bobby after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Spain. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Spain tomorrow with new energy.

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Spain, you’ll explore the area around Santander, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. 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.

Catch Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico before the crowds roll in. This picture-perfect maritime museum is sure to ignite your curiosity.

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 12 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 Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, an up-and-coming art gallery that everyone visiting Cueto should see. Next, head to Playa De Mataleñas. This eye-catching beach is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Parque De Mataleñas, a romantic park popular among locals as well as travelers. Llamas Park is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this intriguing park before you continue your journey.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a popular restaurant in Santander. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Santander at El Sol, 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 Restaurante Posada Del Mar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Santander tonight.

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

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

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Spain offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Elorriaga and drive in the direction of Vitoria-Gasteiz for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Bilbao, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Set your GPS to Elorriaga and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 51 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Elorriaga beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Salburua, an increasingly popular nature reserve that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vitoria-Gasteiz. This car ride takes around 15 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Vitoria-Gasteiz is Nueva Square, an often recommended public square that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to La Florida, a romantic park that stands out in the hamlet.

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 Plaza Virgen Blanca, an interesting public square that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria, a nearby church, highly recommended by other travelers.

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

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bilbao by securing a table at Mina. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Zortziko, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Bilbao. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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 Bilbao. The bars in Bilbao make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Boss Bilbao, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Stromboli Taberna is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Zuberoa Taberna also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 5 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!

Check out the up-and-coming park, Albiako Lorategiak. Afterward, continue to Zubizuri, an art installation 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 Furnicular Bottom Station. This beloved tramway is an essential stop. Following that, head to Puppy, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Guggenheim Museum, an impressive museum building 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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Café Iruña, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Iturriza Taberna beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Antxoa Taberna. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bilbao tonight.

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.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back 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.

Artxanda Funicular makes a great addition to your morning plans. This locally appreciated tramway is a romantic place to see in Bilbao. Continue your discovery at Europa Parkea, an instagrammable park 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 Etxebarri Parkea. This intriguing park offers a visually striking encounter with Bilbao. Next, make your way to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Pagasarri, a frequently visited hiking area 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.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Gaztandegi taberna, an iconic dining spot in Bilbao. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café Bar Bilbao, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Laga jatetxea, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bilbao and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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

Day 7 of your self-drive tour in Spain offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Bilbao and end it in Santander. You’ll stay in Santander for 1 night. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Spain.

No visit to Bilbao is complete without Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This locally appreciated sightseeing destination is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bilbao, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This well-known park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Itsasmuseum Bilbao, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Euskalduna Zubia is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Santander, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Cadelo Restaurante, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cervecería Kiss is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Santander tonight.

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.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Spain. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Spain tomorrow with new energy.