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

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Explore the best of Spain on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bilbao, San Sebastian, Getaria, Pamplona, Olite/Erriberri, and Vitoria-Gasteiz. This road trip itinerary in Spain seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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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Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Bilbao and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bilbao for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bilbao. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Spain. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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 lovely dining experience at La Viña del Ensanche, a popular restaurant in Bilbao. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bilbao at Marinela jatetxea, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bilbao tonight.

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

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.

Today's adventure in Bilbao promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Guggenheim Museum. Then, enjoy Puppy, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, one of the city’s most beloved attractions, known for its eye-catching features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This romantic park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Etxebarri Parkea, a worthwhile park, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Artxanda Funicular before you head back to your hotel.

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.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Bilbao and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 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 San Sebastian. In the evening, you’ll end up in San Sebastian, where you will stay 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 a popular 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 well-known attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at San Telmo Museum, an eye-catching place of interest in the city.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Polka San Sebastián, a top-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Antonio. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Txiki Taberna Donosti, known for its lively atmosphere. Taberna Barun is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to San Sebastian, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in San Sebastian, including a historical landmark, a museum, and a lighthouse. Start your day at Getaria. This stunning historical landmark is a curiosity-inducing place to see in San Sebastian. Then, wander over to Museo Cristóbal Balenciaga. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Getariako Itsasargia. This visually striking lighthouse is a favorite among visitors.

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

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

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

Immerse yourself in San Sebastian’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Taconera. This standout 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 often recommended monument. For a change of scene, check out Plaza De Toros De Pamplona, known for its visually striking 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 worthwhile attraction in San Sebastian.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pamplona, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Pamplona. 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 a lovely meal at La Mandarra de La Ramos, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Alma Pamplona is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurante Melbourne. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Pamplona tonight.

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Pamplona
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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!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Pamplona. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Santa María La Real, Olite is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Pamplona. Next, head to Royal Palace Of Olite, a notable palace, known for its history-steeped features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Iglesia De San Pedro. This culturally significant church is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

As you explore more of Pamplona, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bar Guria, an iconic dining spot in Pamplona. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bar Gorriti Pamplona, a popular restaurant in Pamplona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Asador Katuzarra, a hidden gem nestled in Pamplona. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Terminal stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Euntze Txantrea offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Elorriaga and Vitoria-Gasteiz. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Pamplona promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Salburua. This gorgeous nature reserve is a highlight of any visit in the hamlet. Then, enjoy Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria, another photogenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Nueva Square, one of the hamlet’s most frequently visited attractions, known for its heritage-rich features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Plaza Virgen Blanca. This history-steeped public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Cathedral María Inmaculada Of Vitoria, an intriguing church, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out La Florida before you head back to your hotel.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Gaztandegi taberna, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Café Bar Bilbao beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Laga jatetxea. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bilbao tonight.

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

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This underrated sightseeing destination is a popular place to see in the city.

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Bilbao’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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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