12-Day Spain Road Trip from Pamplona traveling east to Zaragoza, Tarragona, Girona, Barcelona, Lleida, and Jaca

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Pamplona and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Pamplona for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Pamplona. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Pamplona by securing a table at El Merca'o. Esteemed as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Europa, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Rodero, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Pamplona. 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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Vermutería RÍO, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Hawái offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Catedral Metropolitana de Santa María la Real de Pamplona. This extraordinary church has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,886 visitors.

Next, make your way to Plaza de Toros de Pamplona. This bullring is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 10,402 reviews.

While in Pamplona, we also recommend a visit to Monumento al Encierro. This statue has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,963 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Citadel of Pamplona. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,829 travelers, this citadel is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Pamplona.

Make your way to Parque Antoniutti, perhaps the most famous urban park in Pamplona. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,204 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Zaragoza, 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Zaragoza.

Discover the culinary delights of Zaragoza by securing a reservation at Gente Rara. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative and contemporary cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Cancook, renowned for its delicious creative 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 La Prensa, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering contemporary menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Be A Legend Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar El Circo. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Rock & Blues Cafe, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Zaragoza, 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 Tarragona. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Puente de Piedra is a great place to start. This bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,689 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. This co-cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 34,215 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at CaixaForum Zaragoza. The cultural center has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,566 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Puerta del Carmen. This city gate is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,734 reviews.

José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this park, rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,535 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Tarragona. Tarragona 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 Tarragona, 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 an outstanding dining experience at La Xarxa, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern and rice dishes menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Tarragona at CReeA, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Hotel Tarraco Park. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Tarragona tonight.

Keep the evening going at The Cube Night, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Cafeteria Florida, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Tolo, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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 3 vibrant destinations - Tarragona, Santa Pau, and Besalú. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Girona. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Roman circus of Tárraco. This chogang elementary school is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Tarragona, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,761 visitors.

Balcó del Mediterrani is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,291 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Tarragona Amphitheatre. Visitors have rated this roman amphitheatre an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,655 reviews.

Set your GPS to Santa Pau and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Santa Pau beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Parc Natural de la Zona Volcànica de la Garrotxa. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,685 visitors.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Girona by securing a table at El Celler de Can Roca. Esteemed as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Massana, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. You might also want to book a table at Bar/Restaurant RUTA 66. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Girona.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Girona and Figueres. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Barcelona, which will be your home away from home for 4 nights.

Drop by the renowned Pont Palanques Vermelles. This popular bridge has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,071 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Girona Cathedral. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,744 visitors, this church deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Parc de la Devesa. This park has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,109 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Girona, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Figueres. Your travel time is around 35 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Dalí Theatre and Museum. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,341 reviews.

Next up is Parc-bosc Municipal. This park has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,106 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Barcelona, 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 Barcelona's best restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience in Barcelona by booking a table at Lasarte, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience, ABaC shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious creative cuisine in Barcelona. This 3-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Cocina Hermanos Torres is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative cuisine in Barcelona. This 3-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bobby's Free is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Torre Rosa also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Barcelona for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make Museu de la Ciència CosmoCaixa your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 37,537 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Park Güell. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 181,403 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sculpture garden every year.

Sagrada Família is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This minor basilica has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 226,955 visitors. Up to 4,527,427 travelers come to Barcelona every year to see Sagrada Família with their own eyes.

When you’re finished at Sagrada Família, the perfect next stop is La Pedrera. This monument is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 85,188 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Casa Batlló. This tourist attraction is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 125,060 reviews.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Spain is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at ARTiSA Barcelona, a top-rated dining destination in Barcelona. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant El Foro, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Braseria La Selva Barcelona. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Barcelona this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Dr Stravinsky offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, El Xampanyet is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Barcelona. You have 2 nights left in Barcelona. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Make Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar one of your first sightseeing stops in Barcelona. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 33,464 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Museu Picasso is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This art museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 28,171 reviews. Up to 1,045,837 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Barcelona special.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Palau de la Música Catalana. This concert hall has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 40,217 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Arc de Triomf. A trip to this popular triumphal arch is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 77,887 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Parc de la Ciutadella. This urban park enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 68,100 local and international travelers.

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 Barcelona 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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at CocoVail Beer Hall - Craft Beer Barcelona, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, El Nacional offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ciutat Comtal is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Barcelona.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Barcelona. You’ll stay in Barcelona for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Montjuïc Castle. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 50,433 reviews.

Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 28,394 reviews. The attraction welcomes 718,000 visitors every year.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Magic Fountain of Montjuïc. This fountain is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 85,986 reviews.

Aquàrium Barcelona is another outstanding experience in Barcelona. Around 56,175 travelers have rated this aquarium an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars.

The attraction gets an estimated 718,000 visitors every year.

Your discoveries in Barcelona do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Barcelona on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Elsa y Fred, a top-rated dining destination in Barcelona. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Antigua, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Viana Barcelona. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Barcelona this evening.

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

On day 9 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 Barcelona and Monistrol de Montserrat. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lleida, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Plaça Sant Jaume. This extraordinary square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 16,451 visitors.

Next, make your way to Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia. This top attraction is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 62,263 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Mercado de La Boqueria. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 160,835 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Plaça de Catalunya. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 175,036 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Monistrol de Montserrat.

Make Santa Maria de Montserrat your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this church building an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 43,881 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Lleida. Lleida 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 Lleida's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Aimia in Lleida by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Aimia offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Pub Legend | Lleida offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, El Altar Bar i Tapes | Lleida is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lleida.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bodega Sisbris, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Il Capriccio | Lleida offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out G-Bar Lleida Pub Lounge. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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.

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Alquézar, Loarre, and Jaca. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Jaca, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Alquézar, 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 Lleida to Alquézar may take around 1 hour 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Alquézar, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Pasarelas del Vero. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,761 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Alquézar, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Loarre may take around 1 hour 15 min. Upon your arrival in Loarre, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Loarre Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,858 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Jaca, 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 Jaca. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Javier, Lumbier, Noain, and Olite/Erriberri, 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 Pamplona. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Javier. This drive usually takes around 58 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Castle of Xabier, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,270 reviews.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Foz de Lumbier - Ilunberriko Arroila. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,533 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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café Iruña, a top-rated dining destination in Pamplona. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurante Anttonenea, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Baserriberri. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pamplona this evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Pamplona 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 Pamplona before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Pamplona’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Spain, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Spain home with you through these charming souvenirs.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Taconera. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,567 reviews.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Alhambra, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bar Restaurante -San Nicolás La Cocina Vasca- Jatetxea offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Olla.

You’ll then say farewell to Pamplona. 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!