7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao traveling east to San Sebastian, Zaragoza, and Madrid

On day 2 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 Bilbao. In the evening, you’ll end up in San Sebastian, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Bilbao is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, an awe-inspiring, an instagrammable, a historically significant, a stunning, a symbolic, and a masterful! Start at Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, an underrated church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Zubizuri, enchanting visitors with its masterful appeal. Continue your exploration at Guggenheim Museum. This museum building is one of the city’s most top-rated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bilbao at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Carola Garabia. After exploring the sightseeing destination, head to the locally appreciated Artxanda Funicular. This tramway will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour 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.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in San Sebastian by booking a table at Arzak. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and traditional cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Kokotxa, 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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Txiki Taberna Donosti, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Taberna Barun is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Gorriti Taberna is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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 road trip, you will have an entire day to explore San Sebastian. You’ll stay in San Sebastian for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Discover a day packed with a photogenic, a charming, a majestic, an awe-inspiring, a standout, and a remarkable in San Sebastian. Begin your sightseeing with Gipuzkoa Plaza. This interesting public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Alderdi Eder Parkea, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of San Sebastian, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Beach Of La Concha. This well-known beach is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Funicular Monte Igueldo, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Peine Del Viento Xv and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most notable attractions.

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.

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

Dine in style at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Federiko Taberna boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Cuchara de San Telmo. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great 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!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Pamplona, 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 Zaragoza. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Pamplona’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.

Set your GPS to Pamplona and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 6 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pamplona beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Taconera, a curiosity-inducing park that everyone visiting Pamplona should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Citadel Of Pamplona. This historic historical landmark is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Plaza De Toros De Pamplona, a photogenic stadium, popular among locals as well as travelers. Castle Square is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this locally renowned public square before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Parque Yamaguchi, a romantic park and top attraction in the city.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zaragoza. 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 an outstanding dining experience at Gente Rara, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Cancook, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Zaragoza is La Prensa, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious contemporary menu.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Be A Legend Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Aragón Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar El Circo likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Zaragoza. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Madrid, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Zaragoza promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Puerta Del Carmen. This photogenic monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park, another masterful attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its breathtaking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Puente De Piedra. This history-steeped monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Madrid by securing a reservation at DiverXO. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Smoked Room, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Paco Roncero, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Yambala. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Cafe Madrid, another top-rated bar in the area.

Head back to your accommodation in Madrid and get some rest in preparation for another magical 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, Madrid and Vitoria-Gasteiz. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Madrid, including a public square, a park, and a stadium. Start your adventure at Main Square. This world-famous public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to El Retiro Park located in Madrid for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you.

Set your GPS to Vitoria-Gasteiz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Vitoria-Gasteiz beckons with new experiences!

Head to Zabalgana Parkea, an often recommended park in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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 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.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!