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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore San Sebastian. You’ll stay in San Sebastian for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in San Sebastian, including an aquarium, a park, a beach, a heritage railway, an art installation and much more! Start your day at Aquarium. This picture-perfect aquarium is a popular place to see in San Sebastian. Then, wander over to Alderdi Eder Parkea. If serene sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Beach Of La Concha. This serene beach 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, Funicular Monte Igueldo is an interesting spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the heritage railway, don’t forget to check out the enchanting Peine Del Viento Xv. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular art installation in San Sebastian.

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.

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 harmony of flavors at Arzak in San Sebastian by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Arzak offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Kokotxa, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Head back to your accommodation in San Sebastian and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Pamplona and Olite/Erriberri. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zaragoza, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to San Sebastian, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Pamplona. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Taconera, a frequently visited park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Castle Square, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings. Next, explore Monumento Al Encierro, yet another increasingly popular place to see in the area. After the monument, make time to go to Citadel Of Pamplona. This breathtaking historical landmark is well worthwhile the visit.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pamplona, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Olite/Erriberri. This drive usually takes around 35 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your self-guided tour starts at Royal Palace Of Olite, a locally renowned palace 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 Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza. 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.

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

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zaragoza today. One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Cathedral Of The Savior In His Epiphany Of Zaragoza. This historic church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Puente De Piedra and learn what makes this romantic monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar.

When you’ve had your share of Zaragoza, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arriaga. Your travel time is around 2 hours 36 min.

Make your way to Arriagako Donibane Parkea, a worthwhile park that draws attention for its stunning 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.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Mina in Bilbao by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Mina offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and seasonal menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Zortziko, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Etxanobe Atelier, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.

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

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

Dive into day 5 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.

Federico Moyúa Enparantza is must-visit point of interest and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Guggenheim Museum, a widely recognized museum building, located just a leisurely stroll away.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Bilbao. If you’re looking for more, Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is also a popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cabarceno Natural Park. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching 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 Santander. Santander 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 Santander. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kings Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Grog, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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 captivating places to visit in Santander.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cueto, 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 Santander to Cueto may take around 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cueto, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor and explore the eye-catching features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cueto, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Portugalete. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Vizcaya Bridge. Spend some time admiring the UNESCO world heritage-designated features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.

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.

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.

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 and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Spain!