6-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pamplona traveling west to Bilbao and San Sebastian
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Spain as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Pamplona, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Villaescusa, Bilbao, Portugalete, Sukarrieta, and San Sebastian.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Spain takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Pamplona, 1 night in Bilbao, and 1 night in San Sebastian. 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.
As you hit the open road and drive through Pamplona, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Villaescusa, Bilbao, Portugalete, Sukarrieta, and San Sebastian, 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
- Pamplona - Arrival day
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- Castle Square
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Welcome to Pamplona, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Pamplona's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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.
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 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Mandarra de La Ramos, a highly-rated dining destination in Pamplona. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Alma Pamplona, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Melbourne. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pamplona this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Krawill stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Montblanc offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Vermutería Río is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2 – Pamplona
- Pamplona
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Drive 8 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Parque yamaguchi
- Parque Antoniutti
- Citadel of Pamplona
- Encierro/Entzierroa Monument
- Plaza de Toros
- Taconera
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Day 2 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring Pamplona. You have 1 night left in Pamplona. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Set out on a day brimming with a romantic, a scenic, a stunning, an eye-catching, a historically significant, a culturally significant, and a remarkable. Start at the often recommended Parque Yamaguchi, a mesmerizing park in Pamplona. Next, go to Parque Antoniutti.
After visiting Parque Yamaguchi and Parque Antoniutti, take time to explore Pamplona's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Citadel Of Pamplona. This instagrammable historical landmark offers a unique experience. Monumento Al Encierro is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Plaza De Toros De Pamplona, one of the most visually striking places to visit in Pamplona.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 Pamplona. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at El Merca'o, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Europa is one of the best restaurants for contemporary cuisine in Pamplona. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Rodero. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Terminal, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Euntze Txantrea is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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 3 – Pamplona, Elorriaga, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Villaescusa, and Bilbao
- Pamplona
- Vitoria-Gasteiz
- Villaescusa
- Bilbao
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Drive 355 km, 4 hours 20 min
- Parque Salburua
- Plaza Virgen Blanca
- La Florida
- Cabarceno Natural Park
- Taconera
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Elorriaga, Vitoria-Gasteiz, and Villaescusa, 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.
Elorriaga’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pamplona behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 5 min. Elorriaga welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Begin your journey at Salburua and explore the instagrammable features.
Set your GPS to Vitoria-Gasteiz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Vitoria-Gasteiz beckons with new experiences!
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Plaza Virgen Blanca, a well-known public square that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to La Florida, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Vitoria-Gasteiz and set your GPS to Villaescusa. 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 1 hour 50 min. Upon reaching Villaescusa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cabarceno Natural Park. Spend some time admiring the peaceful features of the safari park before you continue to your next stop.
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 Bilbao. Bilbao 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 Bilbao's best restaurants.
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.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Boss Bilbao, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Stromboli Taberna offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!
Day 4 – Bilbao, Portugalete, Sukarrieta, and San Sebastian
- Bilbao
- Portugalete
- Sukarrieta
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 167 km, 3 hours
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
- Guggenheim Museum
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Vizcaya Bridge
- Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
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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 3 vibrant destinations - Bilbao, Portugalete, and Sukarrieta. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in San Sebastian. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bilbao is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a beautiful, a gorgeous, and a visually striking! Start at Federico Moyúa Enparantza, an intriguing sightseeing destination that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Continue your exploration at Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This park is one of the city’s most captivating spots.
Portugalete’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bilbao behind. This drive usually takes around 22 min. Portugalete welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Head to Vizcaya Bridge, a well-known monument in Portugalete. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sukarrieta, 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 Portugalete to Sukarrieta may take around 52 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sukarrieta, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Spend your afternoon discovering Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, a notable nature reserve known for its eye-catching features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in San Sebastian. 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 San Sebastian. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in San Sebastian by booking a table at Arzak, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative and traditional menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Kokotxa, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in San Sebastian. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Txiki Taberna Donosti. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Taberna Barun, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5 – San Sebastian and Pamplona
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Pamplona
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Drive 88 km, 1 hour 50 min
- Gipuzkoa Plaza
- Beach of La Concha
- Alderdi Eder Parkea
- Aquarium
- Peine del Viento XV
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On day 5 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pamplona, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in San Sebastian, including a public square, a beach, a park, an aquarium, an art installation and much more! Start your day at Gipuzkoa Plaza. This visually striking public square is a locally renowned place to see in San Sebastian. Then, wander over to Beach Of La Concha. If idyllic sites excite you, this beach will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Alderdi Eder Parkea. This serene park is a favorite among visitors.
San Sebastian offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Aquarium is a well-known spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the aquarium, don’t forget to check out the noteworthy Peine Del Viento Xv. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this notable art installation in San Sebastian.
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.
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.
Dine in style at Hamabi Restaurante, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurante Kabo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Saint Wich. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Pamplona.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Otero, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Hawái offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Pamplona.
Say good night to Pamplona and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 6 – Pamplona - departure day
- Pamplona - Departure day
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- Taconera
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Day 6 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.
As your final day in Spain unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Pamplona's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Spain.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Pamplona.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurante Anttonenea, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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