11-Day Spain Road Trip from Vitoria-Gasteiz traveling north to Pamplona, San Sebastian, Bilbao, and Santander

Say hello to Vitoria-Gasteiz! Your exciting road trip through Spain is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Vitoria-Gasteiz for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Vitoria-Gasteiz 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 La Florida or 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz. 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 in Vitoria-Gasteiz. 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz by booking a table at Zabala, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante-Asador Matxete, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Txiki. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Vitoria-Gasteiz this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Soho Vitoria-Cocktail Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Taberna Txustarra is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Aldapa Taberna ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Spain!

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Nueva Square. This extraordinary square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,706 visitors.

Next, make your way to Plaza Virgen Blanca. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,751 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Cathedral of Santa María de Vitoria. This catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,503 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Vitoria's Green Ring. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 861 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Elorriaga.

Take the opportunity to see Salburua. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,863 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Pamplona, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Pamplona. 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at El Merca'o, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Europa is one of the best restaurants for contemporary cuisine in Pamplona. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Rodero. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 vibrant destinations - Pamplona. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in San Sebastian. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Castle Square. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,066 reviews.

Plaza de Toros de Pamplona is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This bullring is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 10,402 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Monumento al Encierro. This statue is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,963 reviews.

Citadel of Pamplona is another outstanding experience in Pamplona. Around 15,829 travelers have rated this citadel an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Taconera is not far away. This urban park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,567 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of San Sebastian. San Sebastian offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in San Sebastian by securing a reservation at Arzak. This renowned restaurant offers an exceptional menu of creative and traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Kokotxa, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Gorriti Taberna, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in San Sebastian for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Miramar Palace. This extraordinary palace has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,022 visitors.

Next, make your way to Beach of La Concha. This natural feature is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,054 reviews.

While in San Sebastian, we also recommend a visit to Alderdi Eder Parkea. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,442 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Gipuzkoa Plaza. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,940 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around San Sebastian.

Make your way to Good Shepherd of San Sebastián Cathedral, perhaps the most famous church in San Sebastian. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,656 reviews.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at La Cuchara de San Telmo, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Narru Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Sirimiri Gastroleku. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in San Sebastian tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 San Sebastian, Urkiola, and Getxo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 2 nights.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Aquarium. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 11,413 reviews.

Continue your journey at Peine del Viento XV. This sculpture is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,281 travelers from near and far.

San Sebastian is also the home of Funicular Monte Igueldo. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,567 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Urkiola, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from San Sebastian to Urkiola may take around 1 hour 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Urkiola, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Urkiola parke naturala. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,381 visitors.

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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Zortziko, 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 Etxanobe Atelier, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Stromboli taberna is an excellent place to start.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Bilbao, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Kick off the day at Etxebarria parkea, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,229 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Zubizuri. Zubizuri is a footbridge with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 10,295 reviews.

Sukarrieta’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bilbao behind. This drive usually takes around 42 min. Sukarrieta welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,342 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bermeo, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Bermeo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make San Juan de Gaztelugatxe hermitage your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this hermitage church an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,392 reviews.

Set your GPS to Bilbao and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bilbao beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Vizcaya Bridge. This much-appreciated suspension bridge is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 28,202 reviews.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café Bar Bilbao, a highly-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're eager to try something different, consider El Globo taberna, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Barraca jatetxea. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Bilbao, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Santander. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Federiko Moiua enparantza. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,235 visitors.

Puppy is another popular attraction you could visit today. This point of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,913 visitors.

Guggenheim Museum is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 530,967 people visit this top attraction every year. This museum building has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 64,815 visitors.

Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,312 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. This park has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,643 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Santander, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Cadelo in Santander by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Cadelo delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Umma, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local Bib Gourmand establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Agua Salada, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated Bib Gourmand-establishment, it's a top choice for contemporary and traditional cuisine in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kings Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Grog is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, HYGGE COCKTAIL is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Head back to your accommodation in Santander and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!

Day 8 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Santander. You have 2 nights left in Santander. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Catedral de Santander. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 6,521 visitors.

When you’re finished at Catedral de Santander, head to Plaza Porticada. This one-of-a-kind square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,395 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Mercado del Este. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 7,680 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Centro Botin. This art museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 14,508 visitors. Around 111,096 travelers visit Centro Botin every year.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Paseo Marítimo de Santander. This famous point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,078 travelers.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Santander has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Santander offers and add your favorites to your Spain travel package below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Santander. 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at El Sol, 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 Posada Del Mar, 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 Cadelo Restaurante, a hidden gem nestled in Santander. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Little Bobby.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cueto has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Cueto by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the village.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico. This maritime museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,771 reviews.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Santander.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos, a top-rated dining spot in Santander. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Barruca de Calderón, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Bombi. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Santander.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Santillana del Mar, Torrelavega, Villaescusa, and Castro-Urdiales. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Vitoria-Gasteiz, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Santander, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Santillana del Mar. Your travel time is around 33 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Cave of Altamira is a great place to start. This cave with prehistoric art is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 13,460 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is National Museum and Research Center of Altamira. This museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,249 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Santillana del Mar and set your GPS to Torrelavega. 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 15 min. Upon reaching Torrelavega, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Manuel Barquín Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,205 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Vitoria-Gasteiz. Vitoria-Gasteiz offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Vitoria-Gasteiz's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Savor the flavors at Zaldiaran, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Escotilla beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider El Portalón. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Vitoria-Gasteiz tonight.

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

Day 11 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Vitoria-Gasteiz before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Vitoria-Gasteiz’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Spain. Keep the spirit of your trip to Spain alive with these special souvenirs.

Journey into the unknown at Arriagako Donibane Parkea, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,770 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

You’ll then say farewell to Vitoria-Gasteiz. 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!