12-Day Spain Road Trip from Bilbao traveling east to San Sebastian, Pamplona, Jaca, and Zaragoza

Welcome to Bilbao, 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 Bilbao's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bilbao 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 Zubizuri 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 Bilbao. 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 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Zortziko, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Bilbao is Etxanobe Atelier, a renowned restaurant , known for its delicious creative menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Stromboli taberna. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Spain!

Dive into day 2 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 San Sebastian. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Puppy, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,913 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Guggenheim Museum. This museum building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 64,815 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 530,967 people visit it every year.

Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,312 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. This well-loved park boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 9,643 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Etxebarria parkea awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,229 previous visitors.

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.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in San Sebastian by securing a table at Arzak. Esteemed as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Kokotxa, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in San Sebastian. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Gorriti Taberna.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to San Sebastian, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

When you’ve had your share of San Sebastian, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Guernica. Your travel time is around 1 hour 15 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Casa De Juntas De Gernika. This much-appreciated palace is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,268 reviews.

Next up is Picassoren “Guernica” horma-irudia. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,672 visitors.

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

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,342 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sukarrieta and set your GPS to Getxo. 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 49 min. Upon reaching Getxo, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Puerto Viejo. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,111 visitors.

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

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

Dine in style at La Cuchara de San Telmo, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Narru Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Sirimiri Gastroleku. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in San Sebastian.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Vitoria-Gasteiz, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to San Sebastian for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Vitoria-Gasteiz and Elorriaga to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vitoria-Gasteiz. This car ride takes around 1 hour 24 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is La Florida. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,409 reviews.

Continue your journey at Plaza Virgen Blanca. This point of interest is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,751 travelers from near and far.

Vitoria-Gasteiz is also the home of Nueva Square. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,706 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Cathedral of Santa María de Vitoria. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,503 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

When you’ve had your share of Vitoria-Gasteiz, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Elorriaga. Your travel time is around 7 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Salburua. This protected area is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Elorriaga, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,863 visitors.

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

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Txepetxa Taberna, an iconic dining spot in San Sebastian. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Rekondo, a popular restaurant in San Sebastian. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Cervecerías La Mejillonera, a hidden gem nestled in San Sebastian. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, San Sebastian. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pamplona, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Aquarium. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 11,413 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Alderdi Eder Parkea. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,442 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Beach of La Concha. This natural feature has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,054 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Peine del Viento XV. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,281 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Funicular Monte Igueldo. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,567 visitors.

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

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

Discover the culinary delights of Pamplona by securing a reservation at El Merca'o. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of traditional cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Europa, renowned for its delicious contemporary dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Rodero, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vermutería RÍO, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Hawái provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Pamplona for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Journey into the unknown at Parque yamaguchi, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,373 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Parque Antoniutti is a recommended place to visit. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,204 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Pamplona is Taconera. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,567 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Pamplona offers an experience you will remember.

Castle Square is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Pamplona. This square promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,066 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Catedral Metropolitana de Santa María la Real de Pamplona. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,886 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Spain that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Pamplona has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Spain by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Café Iruña, an iconic dining spot in Pamplona. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurante Anttonenea, a popular restaurant in Pamplona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Baserriberri, a hidden gem nestled in Pamplona. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Spain. With 1 night left in Pamplona, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Make Plaza de Toros de Pamplona your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this bullring an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 10,402 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Monumento al Encierro. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,963 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this statue every year.

Citadel of Pamplona is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This citadel has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,829 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pamplona, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Olite/Erriberri. This drive usually takes around 35 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Royal Palace of Olite. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,713 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Baquedano/Bakedao. This drive usually takes around 59 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Nacedero Urederra Baquedano one of your first sightseeing stops in Baquedano/Bakedao. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,355 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Alhambra, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bar Restaurante -San Nicolás La Cocina Vasca- Jatetxea offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Olla is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Pamplona.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 5 stops and experience some of the highlights of Noain, Lumbier, Javier, Puerto Astún, and Jaca. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Jaca, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Noain and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Noain beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Zentzumenen Parkea - Parque de los Sentidos. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,603 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lumbier.

When you're ready to see some sights, Foz de Lumbier - Ilunberriko Arroila is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,533 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Jaca, 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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Jaca, Las Peñas de Riglos, Loarre, and Huesca. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zaragoza. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Las Peñas de Riglos, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Loarre. Your travel time is around 32 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mallos de Riglos. This mountain is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,240 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Zaragoza by reserving a table at Gente Rara. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative and contemporary cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Cancook, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Prensa, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Zaragoza.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Be A Legend Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar El Circo is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Rock & Blues Cafe is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 10 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Zaragoza. You have 1 night left in Zaragoza. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Take the opportunity to see José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,535 visitors.

Cathedral of the Savior in his Epiphany of Zaragoza is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This co-cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,249 travelers.

Zaragoza is also the home of Puente de Piedra. Around 7,689 people have rated this bridge an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 34,215 reviews, a visit to this co-cathedral is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Zaragoza is also your chance to admire Parque del Agua Zaragoza (Water Park). This must-visit park enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,110 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Zaragoza, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Zaragoza below.

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

Dine in style at Restaurante Palomeque, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mesón Martín boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Parrilla Albarracin. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Zaragoza.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Canterbury Salamero, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, La Bendita offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, El Tubo de Zaragoza provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 11 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 Zaragoza and Logrono. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bilbao, where you will stay for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Plaza de los Sitios, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,205 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Puerta del Carmen. Puerta del Carmen is a city gate with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,734 reviews.

CaixaForum Zaragoza is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This cultural center is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,566 visitors.

Logrono’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Zaragoza behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 50 min. Logrono welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Parque de la Ribera, Logroño, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,347 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at La Laurel. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,694 travelers.

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

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

Day 12 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bilbao before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in Spain, take a moment for some retail therapy in Bilbao’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Spain, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Spain with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

Kick off the day at Federiko Moiua enparantza, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,235 reviews.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kirol jatetxea, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bilbao. 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!