7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vitoria-Gasteiz to Santander, Bilbao, and Pamplona and surrounding area

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Spain. With 1 night left in Vitoria-Gasteiz, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Vitoria-Gasteiz allows for both. Start by heading to Salburua. This beloved nature reserve provides an insightful glimpse into the hamlet's identity. Next, discover Artium Museum, a photogenic museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Nueva Square, a frequently visited public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the well-known Plaza Virgen Blanca. Round off your day at Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria, another gem in Vitoria-Gasteiz with culturally significant features to discover.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Vitoria-Gasteiz by securing a reservation at Zabala. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Bar Txiki boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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 2 vibrant destinations - Burgos Province and Villaescusa. 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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Vitoria-Gasteiz, including a monument, a church, an observation deck, a safari park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Puente De Santa María. This intriguing monument is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Burgos Cathedral, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Vitoria-Gasteiz 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 Mirador Del Castillo, a curiosity-inducing observation deck in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cabarceno Natural Park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Santander by securing a reservation at Cadelo. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Umma, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Agua Salada, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering contemporary and traditional menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Santander and Portugalete. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bilbao, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Santander, including a public square, a market, an art gallery, a palace, a monument and much more! Start your day at Plaza Porticada. This respected public square is an underrated place to see in Santander. Then, wander over to Mercado Del Este. If visually striking sites excite you, this market will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Centro Botin. This noteworthy art gallery is a favorite among visitors.

Santander offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Palacio De La Magdalena is an interesting spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the palace, don’t forget to check out the awe-inspiring Vizcaya Bridge. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this interesting monument.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bilbao. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Boss Bilbao after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Stromboli Taberna for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Zuberoa Taberna is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!

On day 5 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 Bilbao and San Sebastian. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pamplona, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bilbao. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Federico Moyúa Enparantza is the perfect place to start. This sightseeing destination is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Bilbao.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This eye-catching park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Beach Of La Concha. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pamplona. 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 Pamplona. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day'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.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Pamplona and Olite/Erriberri. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Vitoria-Gasteiz, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Pamplona. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, a stadium, a monument, a historical landmark, a palace and much more! Begin your adventure at Castle Square. This is a popular public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Plaza De Toros De Pamplona, a locally renowned stadium in Pamplona.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Monumento Al Encierro. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Citadel Of Pamplona, another of the city’s captivating attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Royal Palace Of Olite, a romantic place of interest in the city.

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

As you explore more of Vitoria-Gasteiz, 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at La Escotilla, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cafetería El Pregón is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at El Corte Inglés. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Vitoria-Gasteiz tonight.

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