5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander traveling east to San Sebastian and Pamplona

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Santander city beach aerial panoramic view
Photo of Palacio de la Magdalena aerial panoramic view, located on the Magdalena Peninsula in Santander city, Spain.
5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander traveling east to San Sebastian and Pamplona
5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander traveling east to San Sebastian and Pamplona
5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander traveling east to San Sebastian and Pamplona
5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander traveling east to San Sebastian and Pamplona
5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander traveling east to San Sebastian and Pamplona
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Spain. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Spain. You will spend 2 nights in Santander, 1 night in San Sebastian, and 1 night in Pamplona. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Santander, 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 Vizcaya Bridge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cueto, Santander, San Sebastian, Olite/Erriberri, Pamplona, Portugalete, 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, accommodations, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Santander - Arrival day
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  • Llamas Park
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Welcome to Santander, 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 discovering what to see in Santander before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Santander 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 Llamas Park. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Santander. 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 Santander, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Restaurante la Mayor, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Santa & Co boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Marcello Restaurante. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Santander.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Spain!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Santander
  • Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 207 km, 2 hours 50 min

  • Plaza Porticada
  • Mercado del Este
  • Botin Centre
  • Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
  • Palacio de la Magdalena
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Santander. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in San Sebastian, where will spend 1 night.

Make time for Plaza Porticada, a locally appreciated public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Mercado Del Este, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Centro Botin. This art gallery is one of the city’s most interesting spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Santander at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. After exploring the maritime museum, head to the notable Palacio De La Magdalena.

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.

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.

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Txiki Taberna Donosti, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Taberna Barun offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
  • Olite/Erriberri
  • Pamplona
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Drive 176 km, 2 hours 29 min

  • Alderdi Eder Parkea
  • Beach of La Concha
  • Peine del Viento XV
  • Royal Palace of Olite
  • More

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Spain includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of San Sebastian and Olite/Erriberri. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pamplona, where you'll spend 1 night.

Alderdi Eder Parkea leaves a lasting impression. This park is one of the most interesting places to visit in San Sebastian. Next, head to Beach Of La Concha, an interesting beach, known for its peaceful features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Peine Del Viento Xv. This romantic art installation is a highly recommended experience.

Olite/Erriberri’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of San Sebastian behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 30 min. Olite/Erriberri welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Royal Palace Of Olite, a locally renowned palace that everyone visiting Olite/Erriberri should see.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Pamplona. Pamplona offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Pamplona by booking a table at El Merca'o, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional traditional menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Europa, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Rodero, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Pamplona. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Pamplona
  • Portugalete
  • Bilbao
  • Santander
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Drive 280 km, 3 hours 41 min

  • Vizcaya Bridge
  • Guggenheim Museum
  • Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
  • Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Portugalete and Bilbao. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Santander, where you'll spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Portugalete may take around 1 hour 55 min. Upon your arrival in Portugalete, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Vizcaya Bridge, an interesting monument known for its picture-perfect features.

Set your GPS to Bilbao and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bilbao beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Guggenheim Museum, an extraordinary museum building that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao and admire its instagrammable features.

When you’re ready, continue to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a notable park beloved by locals and tourists alike.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Santander. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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 Santander, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a memorable dining experience in Santander by booking a table at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Santander, Umma shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This Bib Gourmand-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Agua Salada is known as a top local spot in Santander for its delicious contemporary and traditional cuisine. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Little Bobby offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Santander - Departure day
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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 Santander before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Santander’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try El Sol? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Santander. 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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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