7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from San Sebastian to Zaragoza, Bilbao, and Santander and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Spain on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through San Sebastian, Pamplona, Olite/Erriberri, Zaragoza, Bilbao, Villaescusa, Santander, Cueto, Portugalete, and Sukarrieta. This road trip itinerary in Spain seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 San Sebastian, 1 night in Zaragoza, 1 night in Bilbao, and 1 night in Santander. 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 San Sebastian, 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. Marvel at the remarkable Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar, learn more about the unique Vizcaya Bridge, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Royal Palace Of Olite.
As you hit the open road and drive through San Sebastian, Pamplona, Olite/Erriberri, Zaragoza, Bilbao, Villaescusa, Santander, Cueto, Portugalete, and Sukarrieta, 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
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Donostia / San Sebastián - Arrival day
- More
- Miramar Palace
- More
Welcome to San Sebastian, 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 San Sebastian's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
San Sebastian 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 Miramar Palace, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in San Sebastian. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in 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 San Sebastian, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Polka San Sebastián, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bar Antonio. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in San Sebastian.
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 a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Spain!
Day 2
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- More
Drive 11 km, 1 hour 6 min
- Aquarium
- Alderdi Eder Parkea
- Beach of La Concha
- Funicular Monte Igueldo
- Peine del Viento XV
- More
Day 2 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring San Sebastian. You have 1 night left in San Sebastian. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in San Sebastian allows for both. Start by heading to Aquarium. This interesting aquarium provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Alderdi Eder Parkea, an instagrammable park, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Beach Of La Concha, a locally renowned beach. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned Funicular Monte Igueldo. Round off your day at Peine Del Viento Xv, another gem in San Sebastian with romantic features to discover.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of San Sebastian's best restaurants.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in San Sebastian by reserving a table at Arzak. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and traditional menu. For a different taste experience, head to Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, recognized for its delicious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Kokotxa, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in San Sebastian. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Spain and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Zaragoza
- More
Drive 273 km, 3 hours 46 min
- Taconera
- Castle Square
- Encierro/Entzierroa Monument
- Citadel of Pamplona
- Royal Palace of Olite
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Pamplona and Olite/Erriberri. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Zaragoza. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today's adventure in San Sebastian promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Taconera. This noteworthy park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Castle Square, another history-steeped attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Monumento Al Encierro, one of the city’s most intriguing attractions, known for its heritage-rich features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Citadel Of Pamplona. This stunning historical landmark is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Royal Palace Of Olite, a locally renowned palace, and take a stroll around the area.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Zaragoza, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Zaragoza's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Discover the culinary delights of Zaragoza by securing a reservation at Gente Rara. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative and contemporary cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Cancook, renowned for its delicious creative dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to La Prensa, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering contemporary menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Be A Legend Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Aragón Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar El Circo is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Say good night to Zaragoza and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!
Day 4
- Zaragoza
- Bilbao
- More
Drive 327 km, 3 hours 42 min
- Cathedral of the Savior in his Epiphany of Zaragoza
- Puente de Piedra
- Plaza de Nuestra Señora del Pilar
- Arriagako Donibane Parkea
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Zaragoza and Arriaga. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bilbao, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Zaragoza, including a church, a monument, and a park. Start your day with a visit to Cathedral Of The Savior In His Epiphany Of Zaragoza. This frequently visited church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Puente De Piedra, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Zaragoza 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 Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar, a locally renowned church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Arriagako Donibane Parkea.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bilbao's best restaurants.
Have a memorable dining experience in Bilbao by booking a table at Mina, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For a different culinary experience in Bilbao, Zortziko shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary cuisine. This 1-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, Etxanobe Atelier is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative cuisine in Bilbao. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Boss Bilbao, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Stromboli Taberna. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Zuberoa Taberna, another top-rated place in the area.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!
Day 5
- Bilbao
- Santander
- More
Drive 118 km, 1 hour 50 min
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
- Guggenheim Museum
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
- Cabarceno Natural Park
- More
On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bilbao and Villaescusa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Santander, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bilbao today. One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Federico Moyúa Enparantza.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. After exploring the museum, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This interesting park is a highlight in Bilbao. As your day continues, stop by Cabarceno Natural Park, known for its eye-catching features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Santander. 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 Santander. 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 Santander by reserving a table at Cadelo. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Umma, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Agua Salada, a local favorite known for its delightful contemporary and traditional cuisine in Santander. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand awardee is an ideal choice for discerning contemporary and traditional foodies seeking culinary excellence.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kings Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Grog offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!
Day 6
- Santander
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- More
Drive 255 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Botin Centre
- Centro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor
- Vizcaya Bridge
- Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
- More
On day 6 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 Santander, Cueto, Portugalete, and Sukarrieta. In the evening, you’ll end up in San Sebastian, where you will stay for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Santander. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Centro Botin is the perfect place to start. This art gallery is one of the most well-known places to visit in Santander. Next, head to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, an up-and-coming art gallery, known for its picture-perfect 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 Vizcaya Bridge. This culturally significant monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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 and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at Bar Bixigarri, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, SSua Arde Donostia boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Danena. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in San Sebastian.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Spain.
Day 7
- Donostia / San Sebastián - Departure day
- More
- Cristina Enea parkea
- More
Day 7 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of San Sebastian before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Cristina Enea Parkea. This intriguing park is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at San Sebastian’s popular marketplace, Gros District. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in San Sebastian.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Lukainkategi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to San Sebastian. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Spain
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.