5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vitoria-Gasteiz traveling north to San Sebastian and Bilbao

On day 2 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Arriaga, and Elorriaga. In the evening, you’ll end up in San Sebastian, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Vitoria-Gasteiz, including a public square and a church. Start your day at Nueva Square. This history-steeped public square is an increasingly popular place to see in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Then, wander over to Plaza Virgen Blanca. If awe-inspiring sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria. This photogenic church is a favorite among visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Vitoria-Gasteiz and set your GPS to Arriaga. 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 6 min. Upon reaching Arriaga, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Arriagako Donibane Parkea and explore the gorgeous features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Elorriaga. This car ride takes around 7 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Salburua, a locally appreciated nature reserve that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in San Sebastian by booking a table at Arzak, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and traditional menu. For a different culinary experience in San Sebastian, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-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, Kokotxa is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in San Sebastian. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete, 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 Bilbao. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in San Sebastian, including a park, a beach, and an art installation. Start your day with a visit to Alderdi Eder Parkea. This notable park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Beach Of La Concha, which may be one of the most stunning places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring San Sebastian on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Peine Del Viento Xv, one of the city’s most interesting art installation.

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 Sukarrieta. Your travel time is around 1 hour 21 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, a locally renowned nature reserve that everyone visiting Sukarrieta should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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.

Take your self-guided tour to Vizcaya Bridge, a well-known monument that everyone visiting Portugalete should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bilbao. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and seasonal menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Zortziko is one of the best restaurants for contemporary cuisine in Bilbao. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Etxanobe Atelier. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Boss Bilbao after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Stromboli Taberna for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Zuberoa Taberna is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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 - Bilbao and Villaescusa. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Vitoria-Gasteiz. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bilbao. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Federico Moyúa Enparantza is the perfect place to start. This point of interest is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Bilbao.

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 Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This serene park offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bilbao, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Villaescusa. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 8 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make your way to Cabarceno Natural Park, a spectacular safari park that draws attention for its majestic features.

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.

As you explore more of Vitoria-Gasteiz, 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Vitoria-Gasteiz by reserving a table at Zabala. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional contemporary menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bar Txiki, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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