5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pamplona traveling west to San Sebastian and Santander
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Spain as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Pamplona, San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, Portugalete, Santander, Villaescusa, and Bilbao.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Pamplona, 1 night in San Sebastian, and 1 night in Santander. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Spain. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Pamplona, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Spain on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Spain. Guggenheim Museum and Cabarceno Natural Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Vizcaya Bridge, learn more about the unique Beach Of La Concha, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Citadel Of Pamplona.
As you hit the open road and drive through Pamplona, San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, Portugalete, Santander, Villaescusa, and Bilbao, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Spain. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Spain.
Throughout your road trip in Spain, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Spain.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Spain fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Spain today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Pamplona - Arrival day
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- Taconera
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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 Taconera 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 Pamplona. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Pamplona, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Mandarra de La Ramos, a top-rated dining spot in Pamplona. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel Alma Pamplona, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurante Melbourne. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Pamplona.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Krawill, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Montblanc is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Vermutería Río provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Pamplona
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 89 km, 1 hour 51 min
- Plaza de Toros
- Encierro/Entzierroa Monument
- Citadel of Pamplona
- Parque Antoniutti
- Parque yamaguchi
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 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 San Sebastian, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Pamplona. Your adventure starts at Plaza De Toros De Pamplona, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Monumento Al Encierro. This curiosity-inducing monument is known for its photogenic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Pamplona's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Citadel Of Pamplona. This breathtaking historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Parque Antoniutti is also worth visiting, along with Parque Yamaguchi. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in San Sebastian. San Sebastian offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. 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.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Arzak, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and traditional menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in San Sebastian is Kokotxa, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.
Continue your lively evening at Txiki Taberna Donosti, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Taberna Barun is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Gorriti Taberna ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Head back to your accommodation in San Sebastian and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 3
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Sukarrieta
- Portugalete
- Santander
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Drive 245 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Alderdi Eder Parkea
- Beach of La Concha
- Peine del Viento XV
- Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
- Vizcaya Bridge
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On day 3 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, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in San Sebastian promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Alderdi Eder Parkea. This stunning park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Beach Of La Concha, another mesmerizing attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Peine Del Viento Xv, one of the city’s most interesting attractions, known for its awe-inspiring features.
Set your GPS to Sukarrieta and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sukarrieta beckons with new experiences!
Make your way to Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, a popular nature reserve that draws attention for its serene features.
Portugalete’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sukarrieta behind. This drive usually takes around 53 min. Portugalete welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Spend your afternoon discovering Vizcaya Bridge, a locally renowned monument known for its historic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Santander. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Santander by reserving a table at Cadelo. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Umma, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished Bib Gourmand-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Agua Salada, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand 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 Santander.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Kings Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Grog, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Hygge Cocktail likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.
Day 4
- Santander
- Villaescusa
- Bilbao
- Pamplona
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Drive 276 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Cabarceno Natural Park
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Guggenheim Museum
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Villaescusa and Bilbao. 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.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Villaescusa. This drive usually takes around 23 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Head to Cabarceno Natural Park, a widely recognized safari park in Villaescusa. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Villaescusa, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bilbao. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is a well-known park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Pamplona, 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 Pamplona. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a memorable dining experience in Pamplona by booking a table at El Merca'o, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in Pamplona, Europa shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. This 1-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, Rodero is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Pamplona. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Terminal is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Euntze Txantrea, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!
Day 5
- Pamplona - Departure day
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- Castle Square
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Day 5 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.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Pamplona today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Castle Square. This visually striking public square will help you start your sightseeing on top.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Pamplona.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Hamabi Restaurante, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurante Kabo offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
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!
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