7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from San Sebastian to Zaragoza, Bilbao, and Santander and surrounding area

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in San Sebastian for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in San Sebastian, including an aquarium, a park, a beach, a heritage railway, an art installation and much more! Start your adventure at Aquarium. This well-known aquarium is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Alderdi Eder Parkea located in San Sebastian for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Beach Of La Concha. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the beach, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Funicular Monte Igueldo. This heritage railway has a standout appeal. For a change of pace, head to Peine Del Viento Xv. As one of the most popular attractions in San Sebastian, this art installation is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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.

Bring home unique finds from San Sebastian's bustling shopping hub, La Bretxa. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, La Bretxa offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

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.

Set your GPS to Pamplona and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 6 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pamplona beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Taconera, a locally appreciated park that everyone visiting Pamplona should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Castle Square. This visually striking public square is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Monumento Al Encierro, a photogenic monument, popular among locals as well as travelers. Citadel Of Pamplona is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this interesting historical landmark before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Pamplona and set your GPS to Olite/Erriberri. 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 35 min. Upon reaching Olite/Erriberri, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Royal Palace Of Olite and explore the romantic features.

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 Zaragoza. Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Be A Legend Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Aragón Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar El Circo also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Zaragoza and Arriaga. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Zaragoza is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church and a monument. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Cathedral Of The Savior In His Epiphany Of Zaragoza. Just a short distance away is Puente De Piedra, a visually striking monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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 Zaragoza to Arriaga may take around 2 hours 36 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arriaga, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Arriagako Donibane Parkea, a curiosity-inducing park known for its enchanting features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bilbao, 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 Bilbao's best restaurants.

Begin your culinary exploration in Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Zortziko, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Boss Bilbao, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Stromboli Taberna, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Zuberoa Taberna provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!

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 Bilbao and Villaescusa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences await you in Bilbao on today’s itinerary. First up is the curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination, Federico Moyúa Enparantza. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Guggenheim Museum. A visit to this museum building is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Bilbao’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This up-and-coming museum is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bilbao, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Villaescusa may take around 1 hour 8 min. Upon your arrival in Villaescusa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Cabarceno Natural Park, a spectacular safari park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kings Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Grog offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Hygge Cocktail, another top-rated bar in the area.

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.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Santander, Cueto, Portugalete, and Sukarrieta, 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 San Sebastian. You’ll stay here 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 popular places to visit in Santander.

When you’ve had your share of Santander, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cueto. Your travel time is around 10 min.

Head to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, a frequently visited art gallery in Cueto. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Portugalete’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cueto behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min. Portugalete welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make your way to Vizcaya Bridge, a locally renowned monument that draws attention for its historic features.

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 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Bar Bixigarri, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, SSua Arde Donostia is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Danena. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in San Sebastian tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!