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

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Vitoria-Gasteiz and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Vitoria-Gasteiz for 2 nights 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.

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Vitoria-Gasteiz. 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 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Vitoria-Gasteiz by securing a table at Zabala. Esteemed as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional contemporary menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurante-Asador Matxete, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bar Txiki. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Soho Vitoria-Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Taberna Txustarra offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Aldapa Taberna is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Elorriaga for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Artium Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 2,285 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Cathedral of Santa María de Vitoria. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,503 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Plaza Virgen Blanca. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,751 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Nueva Square. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,706 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Zaldiaran, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Escotilla offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss El Portalón. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Burgos Province and Villaescusa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Santander, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Burgos Province and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Burgos Province beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Arco de Santa María. This extraordinary triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,973 visitors.

Next, make your way to Burgos Cathedral. This top attraction is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 28,435 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Mirador Del Castillo. This point of interest is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,666 travelers.

Upon reaching Villaescusa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cabarceno Natural Park. This zoo is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Villaescusa, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 45,839 visitors.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Umma is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Santander. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Agua Salada. As a top-rated Bib Gourmand-establishment, it is an ideal choice for contemporary and traditional cuisine in the city.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Kings Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Grog, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is HYGGE COCKTAIL. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

On day 4 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 Santander. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oviedo, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Catedral de Santander, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 6,521 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Plaza Porticada. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,395 travelers.

Mercado del Este is another must-visit attraction. This renowned sightseeing destination offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.1 out of 5 stars by 7,680 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 Plaza de Pombo. This well-loved point of interest boasts a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,913 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Centro Botin awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing an art museum, this is a top pick rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 14,508 previous visitors. Each year, approximately 111,096 people travel to Santander to experience it.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Oviedo, 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 you explore more of Oviedo, 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.

Savor the flavors at Restaurante Doña Concha, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Oveja Negra beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante La Tagliatella | Oviedo / Uviéu. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Oviedo tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Baam, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Mala Saña is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, L'Esperteyu Pub - Cervecería is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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

After soaking in Oviedo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Colunga. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 51 min. When you arrive in Colunga, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Jurassic Museum of Asturias is a great place to start. This fossil museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,827 visitors. Jurassic Museum of Asturias attracts more than 1,000,000 visitors every year.

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

Make Mirador del Fito one of your first sightseeing stops in Ribeseya. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,162 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cuadonga/Covadonga. This car ride takes around 14 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Roman bridge in Cangas de Onis. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,965 visitors.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Mesón El Viso, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Arrocería La Genuina de Cimadevilla beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider El Chibiski Oviedo. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Oviedo tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Per Se Café, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Coruño, Llastres, and Cerrazo. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Oviedo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Coruño. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Museo y Circuito Fernando Alonso. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,323 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Coruño, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Llastres. Your travel time is around 42 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Viewpoint San Roque. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,848 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 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bilbao by securing a table at Mina. Esteemed as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Zortziko, 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 Etxanobe Atelier, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Bilbao. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Stromboli taberna, a prime location for a drink.

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

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 San Sebastian. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Federiko Moiua enparantza. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,235 visitors.

Next, make your way to Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,643 reviews.

While in Bilbao, we also recommend a visit to Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao. This museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,312 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Guggenheim Museum. This attraction gets around 530,967 yearly visitors. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 64,815 travelers, this museum building is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Bilbao.

Make your way to Zubizuri, perhaps the most famous footbridge in Bilbao. This attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 10,295 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in San Sebastian. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Arzak in San Sebastian by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Arzak offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Kokotxa, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Gorriti Taberna, known for its lively atmosphere.

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.

Wake up to day 8 of your extraordinary road trip in Spain. With 2 nights left in San Sebastian, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Guernica. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Casa De Juntas De Gernika your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this palace an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,268 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Picassoren “Guernica” horma-irudia. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,672 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

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

Take the opportunity to see Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,342 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sukarrieta, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Getxo may take around 49 min. Upon your arrival in Getxo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Puerto Viejo. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,111 visitors.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in San Sebastian. 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 a delicious meal at La Cuchara de San Telmo, a highly-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're eager to try something different, consider Narru Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sirimiri Gastroleku. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

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

Day 9 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring San Sebastian. You have 1 night left in San Sebastian. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

When you're ready to see some sights, Cristina Enea parkea is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,457 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Good Shepherd of San Sebastián Cathedral. This church has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,656 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Miramar Palace. The palace has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,022 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Funicular Monte Igueldo. This park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,567 reviews.

Peine del Viento XV is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this sculpture, rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,281 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - San Sebastian and Olite/Erriberri. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Pamplona. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Gipuzkoa Plaza. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,940 visitors.

When you’re finished at Gipuzkoa Plaza, head to Beach of La Concha. This one-of-a-kind natural feature is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,054 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Alderdi Eder Parkea. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,442 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Aquarium. This aquarium is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,413 visitors.

After soaking in San Sebastian’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Olite/Erriberri. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 40 min. When you arrive in Olite/Erriberri, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Palace of Olite. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,713 reviews.

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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Vermutería RÍO, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Hawái ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Pamplona. 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.

Make Castle Square your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,066 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Plaza de Toros de Pamplona. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 10,402 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this bullring every year.

Monumento al Encierro is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This statue has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,963 visitors.

When you’re finished at Monumento al Encierro, the perfect next stop is Citadel of Pamplona. This citadel is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,829 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Taconera. This urban park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,567 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Vitoria-Gasteiz, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Tximiso Taberna, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Erdizka bar&grill? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Malquerida as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

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

Day 12 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.

Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Vitoria-Gasteiz’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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Arriagako Donibane Parkea. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,770 visitors.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Bost jatetxea, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cafetería Alquimia offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss El Toloño taberna.

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!