Relaxed 7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pamplona to Bilbao

1 / 27
Photo of Plaza del castillo in the spanish city Pamplona.
Photo  of The girl dances flamenco Pamplona, Spain.
Photo of Catedral de Santa Maria la Real Pamplona, Spain
Arial view of Pamplona Spain.
Photo of romanesque bridge over river Arga, Puente La Reina, Road to Santiago de Compostela, Navarre, Spain
Castle Plaza, Pamplona
Church of san lorenzo,Pamplona
Citadel of Pamplona
Parque yamaguchi,Pamplona
Plaza de Toros, Pamplona
Monument to Julián Gayarre, Pamplona
Portal de San Nicolás,Pamplona
photo of view of Central domed gazebo on Historic Plaza del Castillo in Old Town, Pamplona, Spain famous for running of the bulls
photo of view of Colorful house facades and ornate metal balconies with flowers in the old town or Casco Viejo in Pamplona, Spain famous for running of the bulls
Photo of City Hall in Bulbao in Spain by Juan Manuel Garcia Bilbao
Photo of ribera market in the spanish city Bilbao.
Photo of Zubizuri bridge in Bilbao, Spain.
Photo of street of the city Bilbao.
Photo of aerial view of Bilbao, Spain city downtown with a Nevion River, Zubizuri Bridge and promenade. Mountain at the background.
Photo of La salve zubia bridge in the spanish city Bilbao.
Photo of tourist woman walking in Bilbao city, summer holiday vacation in Spain.
Photo of Bilbao old town on a sunny day, Spain
Photo of Chavarri Palace or Palacio Chavarri is a building around the Moyua Square in Bilbao.
Photo of Mausoleum in Bilbao's cemetery, Spain. Built in 1914.
Photo of Bilbao city.
Photo of sunset in the city of Bilbao in the Basque Country ,Spain.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 7-day road trip in Spain with this laid-back self-drive vacation.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Spain at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Pamplona, Bilbao, Villaescusa, Santillana del Mar, Cabezón de la Sal, Getxo, Portugalete, Sukarrieta, and Guernica. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 2 nights in Pamplona and 4 nights in Bilbao. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Spain.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Spain. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Pamplona, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Spain and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Spain with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Spain.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Spain. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Guggenheim Museum. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Cabarceno Natural Park.

Traveling leisurely through Spain means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Vizcaya Bridge. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Citadel Of Pamplona. Get close to the spectacular Cave Of Altamira and the wonderful Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through Spain's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Spain.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Spain. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Spain's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Spain.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Spain. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Spain. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Spain and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain today!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Pamplona

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Castle Square
Catedral de Santa María la Real de PamplonaPlaza de TorosEncierro/Entzierroa MonumentCitadel of PamplonaParque Antoniutti
Guggenheim MuseumPuppyMuseum of Fine Arts of BilbaoDoña Casilda Iturrizar parkFederiko Moiua enparantza
Artxanda FunicularEuropa parkeaBilboko Donejakue katedralaParque EtxebarriaZubizuri
Cabarceno Natural ParkLaberinto De VillapresenteCave of AltamiraNatural Monument of the Sequoias of Monte Cabezón
Puerto ViejoVizcaya BridgeUrdaibai Biosphere ReserveCasa De Juntas De GernikaUrkiola parke naturala
Taconera

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Pamplona - Arrival day
  • More
  • Castle Square
  • More

Your relaxed road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Pamplona, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Pamplona and begin your adventure in Spain.

Pamplona 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 Castle Square, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Pamplona. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading 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 Pamplona, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Mandarra de La Ramos, a highly-rated dining destination in Pamplona. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Alma Pamplona, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Melbourne. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pamplona this evening.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Krawill after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Montblanc, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Vermutería Río also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain. Enjoy your first taste of Pamplona as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Pamplona
  • Bilbao
  • More

Drive 157 km, 2 hours 28 min

  • Catedral de Santa María la Real de Pamplona
  • Plaza de Toros
  • Encierro/Entzierroa Monument
  • Citadel of Pamplona
  • Parque Antoniutti
  • More

Day 2 of your self-drive tour in Spain is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 4 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Spain.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Pamplona. Your adventure starts at Catedral Metropolitana De Santa María La Real De Pamplona, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Plaza De Toros De Pamplona. This well-known stadium is known for its stunning appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Pamplona's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Monumento Al Encierro. This photogenic monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Citadel Of Pamplona is also worth visiting, along with Parque Antoniutti. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Spain at Bilbao. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Zortziko, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Bilbao is Etxanobe Atelier, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative menu.

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.

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

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

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Bilbao
  • More

Drive 2 km, 30 min

  • Guggenheim Museum
  • Puppy
  • Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
  • Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
  • Federiko Moiua enparantza
  • More

Day 3 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!

A blend of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Bilbao on today’s itinerary. First up is the spectacular museum building, Guggenheim Museum. Afterward, continue to Puppy, 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 Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This locally appreciated museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Federico Moyúa Enparantza, an underrated point of interest in the city.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Café Iruña, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Iturriza Taberna offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Antxoa Taberna is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bilbao.

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

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Bilbao
  • More

Drive 19 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Artxanda Funicular
  • Europa parkea
  • Bilboko Donejakue katedrala
  • Parque Etxebarria
  • Zubizuri
  • More

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Bilbao, where you'll stay for 2 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!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bilbao, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Artxanda Funicular, a curiosity-inducing tramway in the city. Then, head to Europa Parkea and soak in the ambiance of this awe-inspiring park.

There are many interesting places to see in Bilbao, and when you are ready for more, go to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the locally appreciated Etxebarri Parkea. Not far away, you'll also find Zubizuri. This art installation is an awe-inspiring highlight in Bilbao.

Spain makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Spain also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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 Bilbao, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Bilbao
  • More

Drive 287 km, 3 hours 26 min

  • Cabarceno Natural Park
  • Laberinto De Villapresente
  • Cave of Altamira
  • Natural Monument of the Sequoias of Monte Cabezón
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Bilbao and visit amazing attractions in Villaescusa, Cerrazo, Santillana del Mar, and Cabezón de la Sal destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Bilbao. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bilbao, including a safari park, a maze, a cave, a nature reserve and much more! Start your day with a visit to Cabarceno Natural Park. This top-rated safari park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Villapresente's Labyrinth, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bilbao on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Cave Of Altamira, a notable cave in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Monumento Natural De Las Secuoyas Del Monte Cabezón.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at El Globo taberna, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Barraca jatetxea? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurante Pentxo as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Spain.

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Bilbao
  • Pamplona
  • More

Drive 246 km, 3 hours 54 min

  • Puerto Viejo
  • Vizcaya Bridge
  • Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
  • Casa De Juntas De Gernika
  • Urkiola parke naturala
  • More

Day 6 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Spain gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Getxo. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Pamplona, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Bilbao. Begin your sightseeing with Puerto Viejo. This curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Vizcaya Bridge, 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 Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba. This popular nature reserve is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Casa De Juntas De Gernika, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Urkiola Parke Naturala is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Pamplona. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Spain by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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 Pamplona.

Start your culinary exploration in Pamplona by securing a reservation at El Merca'o. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Europa, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Rodero, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Pamplona.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Terminal, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Euntze Txantrea, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Spain.

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Pamplona - Departure day
  • More
  • Taconera
  • More

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Spain is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Pamplona.

Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Pamplona’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Spain.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Taconera. This underrated park is a popular place to see in the city.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Pamplona or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Pamplona and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Spain is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Spain

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.