7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Vitoria-Gasteiz to Santander, Bilbao, and Pamplona and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Vitoria-Gasteiz, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Vitoria-Gasteiz, there’s no need to rush. Experience Elorriaga and Vitoria-Gasteiz to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Whatever your travel style is, Artium Museum is an essential stop in Vitoria-Gasteiz. This curiosity-inducing museum provides an insightful glimpse into the hamlet's identity. Next, discover Nueva Square, an instagrammable public square, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Plaza Virgen Blanca, a notable public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Elorriaga. This car ride takes around 9 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Salburua, an increasingly popular nature reserve that everyone visiting Elorriaga should see.

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

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 Vitoria-Gasteiz, 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.

Say good night to Vitoria-Gasteiz and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 places, which are Burgos Province and Villaescusa. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Santander, where will spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Burgos Province. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Puente De Santa María, an intriguing monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Burgos Cathedral, where you can soak in the symbolic surroundings.

Next, explore Mirador Del Castillo, yet another beloved place to see in the area.

After soaking in Burgos Province’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Villaescusa. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 58 min. When you arrive in Villaescusa, it's time to take a break from the road.

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

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Santander. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Santander's best restaurants.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Santander by booking a table at Cadelo. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Umma, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Agua Salada, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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.

Say good night to Santander and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Spain includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Santander and Portugalete. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bilbao, where you'll spend 1 night.

Plaza Porticada is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This eye-catching public square is sure to impress. Next on your list is Mercado Del Este, another must-visit landmark and intriguing market renowned for its photogenic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Santander by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Centro Botin. This breathtaking art gallery is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Santander experience. We also recommend visiting Palacio De La Magdalena, a captivating palace.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Portugalete, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Santander to Portugalete may take around 1 hour 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Portugalete, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Vizcaya Bridge and explore the breathtaking 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.

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.

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.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Spain.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Bilbao and San Sebastian. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Pamplona, where you'll spend 1 night.

Check out the locally appreciated point of interest, Federico Moyúa Enparantza. Afterward, continue to Guggenheim Museum, a museum building every traveler should visit. 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 Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This well-known park is an essential stop.

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 Pamplona. Your travel time is around 1 hour 7 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Beach Of La Concha, a notable beach in San Sebastian. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Pamplona. Pamplona offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Pamplona's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Experience a symphony of flavors at El Merca'o in Pamplona by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, El Merca'o delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Europa, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Rodero, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Krawill, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Montblanc is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Vermutería Río provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Pamplona and Olite/Erriberri. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Vitoria-Gasteiz, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

No visit to Pamplona is complete without Castle Square. This well-known public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Plaza De Toros De Pamplona, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Pamplona, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Monumento Al Encierro. This often recommended monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Citadel Of Pamplona, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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 35 min. Upon your arrival in Olite/Erriberri, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Royal Palace Of Olite, a well-known palace known for its romantic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Vitoria-Gasteiz is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Escotilla, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cafetería El Pregón offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss El Corte Inglés. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

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