9-Day Spain Road Trip from San Sebastian traveling south to Bilbao, Vitoria-Gasteiz, and Pamplona

Welcome to San Sebastian, 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 San Sebastian's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

San Sebastian 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 Aiete parkea or 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 San Sebastian. 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 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Arzak, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in San Sebastian. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Kokotxa. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Keep the evening going at Gorriti Taberna, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Spain!

Day 2 of your road trip across Spain promises a magnificent time exploring San Sebastian. You have 1 night left in San Sebastian. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Aquarium. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,413 visitors.

Alderdi Eder Parkea is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,442 visitors.

Gipuzkoa Plaza is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,940 visitors.

Beach of La Concha is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This natural feature is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,054 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Miramar Palace. This palace has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,022 travelers.

Your discoveries in San Sebastian do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in San Sebastian on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in San Sebastian.

Dine in style at La Cuchara de San Telmo, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Narru Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Sirimiri Gastroleku. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in San Sebastian.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, San Sebastian, Sukarrieta, Getxo, and Portugalete. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Peine del Viento XV. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,281 reviews.

Continue your journey at Funicular Monte Igueldo. This park is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,567 travelers from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sukarrieta. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,342 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Bilbao. Bilbao offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and seasonal menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Zortziko is one of the best restaurants for contemporary cuisine in Bilbao. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Etxanobe Atelier. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice for creative cuisine in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Stromboli taberna after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 1 vibrant destinations - Bilbao. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Vitoria-Gasteiz. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you're ready to see some sights, Federiko Moiua enparantza is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,235 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Zubizuri. This footbridge has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 10,295 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Guggenheim Museum. This site gets more than 530,967 visitors annually. The museum building has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 64,815 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao. This museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,312 reviews.

Doña Casilda Iturrizar park is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this park, rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,643 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Discover the culinary delights of Vitoria-Gasteiz by securing a reservation at Zabala. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of contemporary cuisine. Alternatively, Restaurante-Asador Matxete beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar Txiki. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Vitoria-Gasteiz tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Soho Vitoria-Cocktail Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Taberna Txustarra is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Aldapa Taberna provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Spain.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Vitoria-Gasteiz and Elorriaga, 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 Pamplona. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Take the opportunity to see Nueva Square. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,706 visitors.

La Florida is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This urban park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,409 travelers.

Vitoria-Gasteiz is also the home of Plaza Virgen Blanca. Around 8,751 people have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Cathedral of Santa María de Vitoria. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 4,503 reviews, a visit to this catholic cathedral is a great idea.

Upon reaching Elorriaga, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Salburua. This protected area is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,863 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Pamplona, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Pamplona by securing a table at El Merca'o. Esteemed as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional traditional menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Europa, famous for its scrumptious contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Rodero, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Pamplona. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Vermutería RÍO after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Hawái is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Pamplona. You’ll stay in Pamplona for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Citadel of Pamplona. This citadel is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,829 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Church of San Lorenzo, Pamplona. This church building has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,781 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Taconera. This urban park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,567 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Parque Antoniutti. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,204 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Parque yamaguchi. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,373 visitors.

You can learn more about Pamplona today by going on a tour. Pamplona offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

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

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

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Spain. With 1 night left in Pamplona, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Catedral Metropolitana de Santa María la Real de Pamplona. This extraordinary church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,886 visitors.

Next, make your way to Castle Square. This top attraction is a square with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,066 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Monumento al Encierro. This statue is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,963 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Plaza de Toros de Pamplona. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 10,402 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Olite/Erriberri, 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 Pamplona to Olite/Erriberri may take around 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Olite/Erriberri, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Royal Palace of Olite. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,713 visitors.

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

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Alhambra, 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 Restaurante -San Nicolás La Cocina Vasca- Jatetxea, 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 La Olla, a hidden gem nestled in Pamplona. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 5 stops and experience some of the highlights of Noain, Javier, Lumbier, Puente la Reina/Gares, and Baquedano/Bakedao. 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.

After soaking in Pamplona’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Noain. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 19 min. When you arrive in Noain, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Zentzumenen Parkea - Parque de los Sentidos is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,603 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Noain, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Javier may take around 30 min. Upon your arrival in Javier, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Castle of Xabier, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,270 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of San Sebastian. San Sebastian offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of San Sebastian, 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 Txepetxa Taberna, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rekondo offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Cervecerías La Mejillonera is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in San Sebastian.

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

Day 9 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of San Sebastian before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at San Sebastian’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Spain. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Spain forever.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cristina Enea parkea. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in San Sebastian, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,457 visitors.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Baztán Bar Restaurante, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Paco Bueno is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to San Sebastian. 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!