One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to San Sebastian and Pamplona

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Photo of ribera market in the spanish city Bilbao.
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Spain as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bilbao, San Sebastian, Getaria, Pamplona, Olite/Erriberri, and Vitoria-Gasteiz.

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 Bilbao, 2 nights in San Sebastian, and 2 nights in Pamplona. 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 Bilbao, 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 Royal Palace Of Olite are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Beach Of La Concha, learn more about the unique Citadel Of Pamplona, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Alderdi Eder Parkea.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bilbao, San Sebastian, Getaria, Pamplona, Olite/Erriberri, and Vitoria-Gasteiz, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Zubizuri
Guggenheim MuseumPuppyMuseum of Fine Arts of BilbaoDoña Casilda Iturrizar parkParque EtxebarriaArtxanda Funicular
Funicular Monte IgueldoAlderdi Eder ParkeaBeach of La ConchaGipuzkoa PlazaSan Telmo Museoa
GetariaMuseo Cristóbal BalenciagaGetariako Itsasargia
TaconeraCitadel of PamplonaEncierro/Entzierroa MonumentPlaza de TorosCastle SquareMuseum of Navarra
Santa María la Real, OliteRoyal Palace of OliteIglesia de San Pedro
Parque SalburuaSanta Maria CathedralPlaza EspañaPlaza Virgen BlancaCathedral María Inmaculada of VitoriaLa Florida
Federiko Moiua enparantza

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bilbao - Arrival day
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  • Zubizuri
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Welcome to Bilbao, 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 Bilbao's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bilbao 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 Zubizuri, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Bilbao. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Spain. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 Bilbao, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Viña del Ensanche, a highly-rated dining destination in Bilbao. If you're eager to try something different, consider Marinela jatetxea, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bilbao this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Boss Bilbao, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Stromboli Taberna, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Zuberoa Taberna likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Spain!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bilbao
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Drive 18 km, 57 min

  • Guggenheim Museum
  • Puppy
  • Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
  • Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
  • Parque Etxebarria
  • Artxanda Funicular
  • More

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

Start your day with a visit to Guggenheim Museum. This spectacular museum building is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Puppy, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bilbao 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 Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, an increasingly popular museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park and Etxebarri Parkea. End your day with a visit to Artxanda Funicular, an up-and-coming tramway that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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 explore more of Bilbao, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Café Iruña, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Iturriza Taberna offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Antxoa Taberna is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bilbao.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Bilbao
  • Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 106 km, 1 hour 49 min

  • Funicular Monte Igueldo
  • Alderdi Eder Parkea
  • Beach of La Concha
  • Gipuzkoa Plaza
  • San Telmo Museoa
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, San Sebastian. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in San Sebastian, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Bilbao. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a heritage railway, a park, a beach, a public square, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Funicular Monte Igueldo. This is an interesting heritage railway you should not miss. Another must-see is Alderdi Eder Parkea, a notable park in Bilbao.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Beach Of La Concha. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Gipuzkoa Plaza, another of the city’s popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at San Telmo Museum, a historic place of interest in the city.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Polka San Sebastián, an iconic dining spot in San Sebastian. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food, a popular restaurant in San Sebastian. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bar Antonio, a hidden gem nestled in San Sebastian. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Txiki Taberna Donosti, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Taberna Barun is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Gorriti Taberna ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 53 km, 1 hour 32 min

  • Getaria
  • Museo Cristóbal Balenciaga
  • Getariako Itsasargia
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in San Sebastian, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Getaria. You still have 1 night left in San Sebastian.

Get ready for an exciting day in San Sebastian. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a historical landmark, a museum, and a lighthouse. Begin your adventure at Getaria. This is an intriguing historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is Museo Cristóbal Balenciaga, an intriguing museum in San Sebastian.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Getariako Itsasargia.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Federiko Taberna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Cuchara de San Telmo. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in San Sebastian.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
  • Pamplona
  • More

Drive 85 km, 1 hour 51 min

  • Taconera
  • Citadel of Pamplona
  • Encierro/Entzierroa Monument
  • Plaza de Toros
  • Castle Square
  • Museum of Navarra
  • More

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 Pamplona. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pamplona, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in San Sebastian’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Taconera. This eye-catching park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the historic features of Citadel Of Pamplona, a must-visit historical landmark in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Monumento Al Encierro, an increasingly popular monument. For a change of scene, check out Plaza De Toros De Pamplona, known for its photogenic features. We also recommend visiting Castle Square. This public square is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Museum Of Navarre, yet another beloved attraction in San Sebastian.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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 an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Mandarra de La Ramos, a top-rated dining destination in Pamplona. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Alma Pamplona, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Melbourne. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pamplona this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Krawill, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Montblanc offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Pamplona. Vermutería Río is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Pamplona
  • More

Drive 92 km, 1 hour 26 min

  • Santa María la Real, Olite
  • Royal Palace of Olite
  • Iglesia de San Pedro
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Pamplona, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Pamplona for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Olite/Erriberri to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Pamplona is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Santa María La Real, Olite, a beloved church that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Royal Palace Of Olite, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Iglesia De San Pedro. This church is one of the village’s most locally appreciated spots.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bar Guria, a highly-rated dining destination in Pamplona. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bar Gorriti Pamplona, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Asador Katuzarra. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pamplona this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Terminal, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Euntze Txantrea is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Pamplona
  • Bilbao
  • More

Drive 161 km, 2 hours 28 min

  • Parque Salburua
  • Santa Maria Cathedral
  • Plaza España
  • Plaza Virgen Blanca
  • Cathedral María Inmaculada of Vitoria
  • La Florida
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Elorriaga and Vitoria-Gasteiz. 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Pamplona allows for both. Start by heading to Salburua. This frequently visited nature reserve provides an insightful glimpse into the hamlet's identity. Next, discover Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria, a culturally significant church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Nueva Square, a worthwhile public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the popular Plaza Virgen Blanca. Not far away from the public square, you will find the instagrammable La Florida, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Cathedral María Inmaculada Of Vitoria, another gem in Pamplona with awe-inspiring features to discover.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bilbao. 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 Bilbao. 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gaztandegi taberna, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Café Bar Bilbao offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Laga jatetxea. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bilbao.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Bilbao - Departure day
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  • Federiko Moiua enparantza
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Day 8 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bilbao before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Bilbao's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Spain.

Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bilbao.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at El Globo taberna, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Barraca jatetxea? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bilbao. 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!

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