7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vitoria-Gasteiz to San Sebastian and Bilbao and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Vitoria-Gasteiz, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Vitoria-Gasteiz is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church and a public square. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria. Just a short distance away is Plaza Virgen Blanca, a romantic public square that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Nueva Square, one of the hamlet’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Vitoria-Gasteiz, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Elorriaga may take around 9 min. Upon your arrival in Elorriaga, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Salburua. Spend some time admiring the picturesque features of the nature reserve before you continue to your next stop.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arriaga. This drive usually takes around 4 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make your way to Arriagako Donibane Parkea, a beloved park that draws attention for its gorgeous features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Vitoria-Gasteiz and your accommodation.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Vitoria-Gasteiz by securing a reservation at Zabala. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Bar Txiki boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Spain.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Olite/Erriberri and Pamplona. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in San Sebastian, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Vitoria-Gasteiz, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Olite/Erriberri may take around 1 hour 36 min. Upon your arrival in Olite/Erriberri, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to Royal Palace Of Olite, a notable palace that draws attention for its history-steeped features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Pamplona. This car ride takes around 37 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Castle Square. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the public square before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Citadel Of Pamplona. This locally renowned historical landmark is a traveler-favorite in the village. Not far away, you’ll also find Parque Antoniutti. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park. Next, continue your journey to Taconera, a frequently visited park.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in San Sebastian. 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in San Sebastian by reserving a table at Arzak. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative and traditional cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Kokotxa, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in San Sebastian.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Txiki Taberna Donosti, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Taberna Barun is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Gorriti Taberna also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, and Portugalete. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s agenda in San Sebastian includes a park, a beach, and an art installation. Alderdi Eder Parkea is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Beach Of La Concha, an interesting beach, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Peine Del Viento Xv, a peaceful art installation, also available for your discovery today.

Set your GPS to Sukarrieta and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sukarrieta beckons with new experiences!

Make your way to Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, a captivating nature reserve that draws attention for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

Set your GPS to Portugalete and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 53 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Portugalete beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Vizcaya Bridge, a well-known monument that everyone visiting Portugalete should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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 Bilbao. Bilbao 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.

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.

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

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bilbao for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a romantic, a scenic, a gorgeous, a visually striking, a majestic, and a noteworthy. Whether you decide to explore Bilbao on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching park before continuing your journey. Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is your next stop. This locally appreciated museum is one of the best-rated sights in Bilbao.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Guggenheim Museum. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Federico Moyúa Enparantza and Zubizuri.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Café Iruña, a top-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Iturriza Taberna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Antxoa Taberna. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Santander, Cueto, and Villaescusa. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Vitoria-Gasteiz, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Santander, 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 Bilbao to Santander may take around 1 hour 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Santander, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Centro Botin, a captivating art gallery known for its instagrammable features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Mercado Del Este, a worthwhile market that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cueto.

Take your self-guided tour to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor, an up-and-coming art gallery that everyone visiting Cueto should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cabarceno Natural Park. Spend some time admiring the scenic features of the safari park before you continue to your next stop.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Vitoria-Gasteiz, 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Escotilla, an iconic dining spot in Vitoria-Gasteiz. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cafetería El Pregón, a popular restaurant in Vitoria-Gasteiz. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of El Corte Inglés, a hidden gem nestled in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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