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

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 2 nights.

Today’s route brings a picture-perfect, a standout, a romantic, a breathtaking, a sacred, and a symbolic. The first attraction of today is Nueva Square. This frequently visited public square is a heritage-rich place to see in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Continue your discovery at Plaza Virgen Blanca, an enchanting public square with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Vitoria-Gasteiz, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria. This increasingly popular church offers a culturally significant encounter with Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Arriaga, 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz to Arriaga may take around 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arriaga, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Arriagako Donibane Parkea. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Arriaga and set your GPS to Elorriaga. 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 7 min. Upon reaching Elorriaga, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Salburua is an up-and-coming nature reserve we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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 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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in San Sebastian by securing a table at Arzak. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Kokotxa, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in San Sebastian. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Keep the evening going at Txiki Taberna Donosti, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Taberna Barun, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Gorriti Taberna, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Spain with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to San Sebastian for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in San Sebastian, Portugalete, and Sukarrieta.

San Sebastian is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a beach, and an art installation. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the popular Alderdi Eder Parkea. Just a short distance away is Beach Of La Concha, a mesmerizing beach that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Peine Del Viento Xv, one of the city’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss.

After soaking in San Sebastian’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Portugalete. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 23 min. When you arrive in Portugalete, it's time to take a break from the road.

Vizcaya Bridge is an interesting monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-designated features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Portugalete, 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 52 min.

Make your way to Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, a notable nature reserve that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in San Sebastian.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, an iconic dining spot in San Sebastian. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Federiko Taberna, a popular restaurant in San Sebastian. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La Cuchara de San Telmo, a hidden gem nestled in San Sebastian. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Bilbao 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 Santander. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Bilbao promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

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 Bilbao. Your travel time is around 1 hour 13 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Federico Moyúa Enparantza. Then, head to Zubizuri. This captivating art installation is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Guggenheim Museum. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum building. Next, continue your journey to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a popular park.

Set your GPS to Villaescusa and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Villaescusa beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Cabarceno Natural Park, an extraordinary safari park known for its visually striking features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Santander, 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 Santander, 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 Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby Bib Gourmand-awardee, Umma, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Santander is Agua Salada, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant, known for its delicious contemporary and traditional menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Kings Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Grog offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Hygge Cocktail. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Santander and Cueto. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Vitoria-Gasteiz, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Santander allows for both. Start by heading to Plaza Porticada. This frequently visited public square provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Mercado Del Este, a photogenic market, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Centro Botin, a locally renowned art gallery. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the intriguing Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico.

Cueto’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Santander behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Cueto welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Llamas Park and explore the gorgeous features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Vitoria-Gasteiz. 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz. 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.

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!