Relaxed 12-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pamplona to Santander and Bilbao

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Pamplona, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Pamplona, and meet locals along the way!

Pamplona is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark, a church, a stadium, a monument, a public square and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Portal De Francia. Just a short distance away is Catedral Metropolitana De Santa María La Real De Pamplona, a picture-perfect church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Plaza De Toros De Pamplona, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Monumento Al Encierro. Last up on today’s itinerary is a public square. Make your way to Plaza De Los Fueros for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Pamplona.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Spain by joining a traveler-approved tour in Pamplona. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Pamplona that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Spain more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Pamplona to find the best options for you!

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Pamplona has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Pamplona by booking a table at El Merca'o. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Europa, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Rodero, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Terminal, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Euntze Txantrea is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Pamplona can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Spain!

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Pamplona, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Pamplona. Your adventure starts at Citadel Of Pamplona, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Church Of San Lorenzo, Pamplona. This increasingly popular church is known for its culturally significant appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Pamplona's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Taconera. This standout park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Parque Antoniutti is also worth visiting, along with Parque Yamaguchi. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Spain. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Pamplona, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Otero, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Hawái is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Pamplona as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Spain with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Spain!

Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Spain gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the hamlet of Elorriaga. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Santander, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Elorriaga today.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Set your GPS to Elorriaga and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Elorriaga beckons with new experiences!

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

Arriaga’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Elorriaga behind. This drive usually takes around 4 min. Arriaga welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Arriagako Donibane Parkea and explore the picturesque features.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Arriaga, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Vitoria-Gasteiz may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Vitoria-Gasteiz, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to La Florida, an increasingly popular park that everyone visiting Vitoria-Gasteiz should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Plaza Virgen Blanca. This visually striking public square is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Nueva Square, a history-steeped public square, popular among locals as well as travelers.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Santander. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Spain. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Santander, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Start your culinary exploration in Santander by securing a reservation at Cadelo. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Umma, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Agua Salada, a top local spot known for its tantalizing contemporary and traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Santander. The bars in Santander make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Spain. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Spain tomorrow with new energy.

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 5, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Spain and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Santander and beyond. With 3 nights left in Santander, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Set your GPS to Cueto and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cueto beckons with new experiences!

Head to Playa De Mataleñas, an up-and-coming beach in Cueto. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. This worthwhile art gallery is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Parque De Mataleñas is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most romantic park in the region.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Monte. This car ride takes around 12 min.

Head to Doctor Morales Park, a frequently visited park in Monte. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, La Maruca. This underrated beach is a top recommendation in the area.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Santander has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurante Agua Salada, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurante Matices Santander offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Enmienda Dieciocho is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Santander.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Continue your lively evening at Little Bobby, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Spain.

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Santander. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Santander. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Santander!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Santander today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Catedral De Santander. This picture-perfect church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Plaza Porticada and learn what makes this historic public square unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Mercado Del Este. After exploring the market, head to Plaza De Pombo. This underrated public square is a highlight in Santander. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the captivating Centro Botin. Enjoy exploring this incredible art gallery at your own pace.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Spain more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Santander offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Santander.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, El Sol offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurante Posada Del Mar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Santander.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Spain, you’ll explore the area around Santander, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Santander will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Spain.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Santander on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Ascensor Río De La Pila is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking tramway before continuing your journey. Parque De La Teja is your next stop. This increasingly popular park is one of the best-rated sights in Santander.

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 Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. This picture-perfect maritime museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Playa Del Camello.

Santander’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cueto behind. This drive usually takes around 8 min. Santander welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Llamas Park and explore the enchanting features.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cadelo Restaurante, a top-rated dining destination in Santander. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cervecería Kiss, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Santander this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Spain.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Spain.

On day 8 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Spain. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Spain.

Santillana del Mar’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Santander behind. This drive usually takes around 33 min. Santillana del Mar welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make your way to Cave Of Altamira, a captivating cave that draws attention for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

After soaking in Santillana del Mar’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cerrazo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 6 min. When you arrive in Cerrazo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Head to Villapresente's Labyrinth, a captivating maze in Cerrazo. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Cerrazo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ruente. Your travel time is around 25 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering La Fuentona De Ruente, a worthwhile lake known for its instagrammable features.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Bilbao in this laid-back road trip in Spain. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Bilbao, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bilbao by securing a table at Mina. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and seasonal menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Zortziko, 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 Etxanobe Atelier, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Bilbao. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bilbao and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bilbao!

On day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Spain, you’ll go deep into Bilbao, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Bilbao, and meet locals along the way!

Begin your adventure at Guggenheim Museum. This is an impressive museum building you should not miss. Another must-see is Puppy, a locally appreciated art installation in Bilbao.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Federico Moyúa Enparantza. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Zubizuri, another of the city’s notable attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a mesmerizing park. Europa Parkea is a truly remarkable place to visit in Bilbao.

Spain makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Spain also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Bilbao, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bilbao’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Spain.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 10 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Spain are extraordinary.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the captivating Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a majestic park in Bilbao. Next, go to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao.

Etxebarri Parkea is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, one of the most grand places to visit in Bilbao.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Spain by joining a traveler-approved tour in Bilbao. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Bilbao that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Spain more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Bilbao to find the best options for you!

Exploring the food culture in Bilbao offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Bilbao. The bars in Bilbao make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!

Day 11 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Spain is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Getxo and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Portugalete and the village of Sukarrieta. You’ll stay in Pamplona for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bilbao, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Getxo. This drive usually takes around 18 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Puerto Viejo, a beloved point of interest that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Portugalete, 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 Getxo to Portugalete may take around 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Portugalete, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make your way to Vizcaya Bridge, an interesting monument that draws attention for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

Sukarrieta’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Portugalete behind. This drive usually takes around 52 min. Sukarrieta welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba and explore the romantic features.

In the city of Pamplona, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Spain.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Spain, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Pamplona.

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

Experience the amazing nightlife in Pamplona and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Spain!