6-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander traveling east to Bilbao, Tudela, and Pamplona

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 2 places, which are Santander and Cueto. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao, where will spend 1 night.

One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Plaza Porticada. This photogenic public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Mercado Del Este and learn what makes this historic market unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Centro Botin. After exploring the art gallery, head to Palacio De La Magdalena. This captivating palace is a highlight in Santander.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cueto. This car ride takes around 12 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. Spend some time admiring the gorgeous features of the art gallery before you continue to your next stop.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bilbao's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Mina in Bilbao by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Mina delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative and seasonal cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Zortziko, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Etxanobe Atelier, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Boss Bilbao, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Stromboli Taberna is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Bilbao. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Tudela, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Federico Moyúa Enparantza and allow yourself time to explore.

Continue your journey to Puppy, one of the city’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. When you're finished at the museum, Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park awaits your visit. This park is a serene highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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

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

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

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zaragoza. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park, a notable park that everyone visiting Zaragoza should see. Next, head to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar. This historic church is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Puente De Piedra, a culturally significant monument popular among locals as well as travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Olite/Erriberri. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Royal Palace Of Olite, a locally renowned palace that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Pamplona's best restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience in Pamplona by booking a table at El Merca'o, 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 consistently earns high praises, 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 in Pamplona for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Krawill, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Montblanc offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Pamplona. Vermutería Río is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Head back to your accommodation in Pamplona and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Spain.

On day 5 of your road trip in Spain, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. San Sebastian and Portugalete are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to San Sebastian and set your GPS to Portugalete. 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 24 min. Upon reaching Portugalete, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Alderdi Eder Parkea and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Beach Of La Concha, another highlight in San Sebastian.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to San Sebastian and set your GPS to Portugalete. 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 24 min. Upon reaching Portugalete, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Vizcaya Bridge, a locally renowned monument known for its historic features.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Santander. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby Bib Gourmand-awardee, Umma, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Santander is Agua Salada, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant and a delicious contemporary and traditional menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Little Bobby stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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