5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander traveling east to San Sebastian and Pamplona
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Spain as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cueto, Santander, San Sebastian, Olite/Erriberri, Pamplona, Portugalete, and Bilbao.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Santander, 1 night in San Sebastian, and 1 night in Pamplona. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Spain. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Santander, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Spain on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Spain. Guggenheim Museum and Vizcaya Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Palacio De La Magdalena, learn more about the unique Royal Palace Of Olite, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Beach Of La Concha.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cueto, Santander, San Sebastian, Olite/Erriberri, Pamplona, Portugalete, and Bilbao, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Spain. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Spain.
Throughout your road trip in Spain, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Spain.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Spain fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Spain today!
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Day 1
- Santander - Arrival day
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- Llamas Park
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Welcome to Santander, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Santander's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Santander is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Llamas Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Santander. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Spain. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante la Mayor, a highly-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're eager to try something different, consider Santa & Co, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Marcello Restaurante. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kings Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Grog offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Santander. Hygge Cocktail is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Santander
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 207 km, 2 hours 50 min
- Plaza Porticada
- Mercado del Este
- Botin Centre
- Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
- Palacio de la Magdalena
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Santander. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in San Sebastian, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Santander covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a market, an art gallery, a maritime museum, a palace and much more! Start your adventure at Plaza Porticada. This curiosity-inducing public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching 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 Centro Botin. This well-known art gallery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, where you can take in awe-inspiring features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Palacio De La Magdalena. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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.
As you explore more of San Sebastian, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in San Sebastian by reserving a table at Arzak. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and traditional menu. For a different taste experience, head to Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, recognized for its delicious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Kokotxa, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in San Sebastian. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.
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.
Say good night to San Sebastian and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 3
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Pamplona
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Drive 176 km, 2 hours 29 min
- Alderdi Eder Parkea
- Beach of La Concha
- Peine del Viento XV
- Royal Palace of Olite
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On day 3 of your road trip in Spain, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in San Sebastian and Olite/Erriberri. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pamplona, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in San Sebastian, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Alderdi Eder Parkea, a popular park in the city. Then, head to Beach Of La Concha and soak in the ambiance of this serene beach.
There are many interesting places to see in San Sebastian, and when you are ready for more, go to Peine Del Viento Xv. This is one of the city’s most notable noteworthy spots of interest. After exploring the art installation, visit the interesting Royal Palace Of Olite.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Pamplona. Pamplona offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Pamplona. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Pamplona by booking a table at El Merca'o. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Europa, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Rodero, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
Keep the evening going at Krawill, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Montblanc, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Vermutería Río, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.
Day 4
- Pamplona
- Santander
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Drive 280 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Vizcaya Bridge
- Guggenheim Museum
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Portugalete and Bilbao. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Santander. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Pamplona today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Vizcaya Bridge. This picture-perfect monument will help you start your sightseeing on top.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. After exploring the museum, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This captivating park is a highlight in Pamplona.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Santander. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Santander. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Santander by booking a table at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Umma, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Agua Salada, a local gem known for its delightful contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Nestled in the city's heart, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Little Bobby offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!
Day 5
- Santander - Departure day
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- Parque de Mataleñas
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Day 5 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Santander before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Parque De Mataleñas. This intriguing park is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Santander.
Savor the flavors at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, El Sol beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Santander. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Spain!
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