Cheap 7-Day Spain Road Trip from Pamplona traveling west to Vitoria-Gasteiz, Santander, and San Sebastian

Your exciting road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Pamplona, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Pamplona and begin your adventure in Spain.

Pamplona is a popular cheap holiday destination in Spain with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Spain, Pamplona is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Castle Square is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,066 visitors.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Spain by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Pamplona that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

La Mandarra de La Ramos offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Bar Guria. Or, try Saint Wich, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Vermutería RÍO is an excellent example of a great bar in Pamplona offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta, another of locals’ go-to bars in Pamplona. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Pamplona, Bar Hawái is for you.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Spain!

On day 2 of your cheap holiday travels in Spain, you’ll tour 1: Pamplona. You'll stay in Vitoria-Gasteiz for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Plaza de Toros de Pamplona. This bullring is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Pamplona, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 10,402 visitors.

Monumento al Encierro is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,963 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Citadel of Pamplona. Visitors have rated this citadel an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,829 reviews.

Parque Antoniutti is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an urban park rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,204 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Taconera, perhaps the most famous urban park in Pamplona. This attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,567 travelers.

While exploring Spain is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Vitoria-Gasteiz has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Vitoria-Gasteiz on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

A cheap, budget vacation in Vitoria-Gasteiz should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Vitoria-Gasteiz, try some of our top recommendations.

Start your foodie adventure at Mano lenta jatetxea, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Restaurante-Asador Matxete, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Bar Txiki, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Soho Vitoria-Cocktail Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Taberna Txustarra provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Aldapa Taberna offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Spain with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Spain!

Day 3 of your self-drive vacation in Spain will take you to the city of Santander, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. On your way to Santander, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Burgos Province and Villaescusa.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Burgos Province, 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 Vitoria-Gasteiz to Burgos Province may take around 1 hour 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Burgos Province, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Arco de Santa María. Previous visitors have rated this triumphal arch an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,973 reviews.

Burgos Cathedral is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 28,435 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Mirador Del Castillo. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,666 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Villaescusa.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Cabarceno Natural Park. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 45,839 reviews.

Santander offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Spain. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Santander. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Restaurante la Mayor, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Santa & Co offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Restaurante Agua Salada is the perfect spot for you!

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kings Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Grog offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook HYGGE COCKTAIL, another top-rated bar in the area.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Spain!

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Santander on day 4 of your affordable vacation in Spain. You’ll continue your stay in Santander for an additional 1 night. Explore more top attractions in Spain, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Centro Botin. This much-appreciated art museum is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,508 reviews. Each year, 111,096 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Mercado del Este. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 7,680 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico. This maritime museum has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,771 reviews.

Set your GPS to Rionansa and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rionansa beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Cueva El Soplao. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,913 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Santander, 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 Cerrazo to Santander may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Santander, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Laberinto De Villapresente. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,994 visitors.

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

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Spain shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Santander is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular El Sol, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Restaurante Posada Del Mar is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Cadelo Restaurante.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Little Bobby, considered one of the best bars in Santander.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Spain!

Day 5 of your road trip across Spain offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Bilbao and Portugalete. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in San Sebastian, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bilbao. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Zubizuri. This footbridge is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 10,295 visitors.

When you’re finished at Zubizuri, head to Guggenheim Museum. This one-of-a-kind museum building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 64,815 reviews. Every year, approximately 530,967 travelers come here to experience the museum building for themselves.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,643 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Federiko Moiua enparantza. This point of interest is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,235 visitors.

After soaking in Bilbao’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Portugalete. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 23 min. When you arrive in Portugalete, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Vizcaya Bridge. This much-appreciated suspension bridge is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 28,202 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of San Sebastian. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in San Sebastian, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Spain shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, San Sebastian is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Polka San Sebastián, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Bar Antonio is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Bodega Donostiarra Gros, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Gorriti Taberna is an excellent place to start.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of San Sebastian!

Day 6 of your road trip across Spain is another proof that cheap holidays in Spain can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 2 wonderful destinations — San Sebastian and Olite/Erriberri. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Pamplona, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Gipuzkoa Plaza. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,940 visitors.

Next, make your way to Alderdi Eder Parkea. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,442 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Beach of La Concha. This natural feature is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,054 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Peine del Viento XV. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,281 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Olite/Erriberri. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Drop by the renowned Royal Palace of Olite. This popular castle has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,713 visitors.

While exploring Spain is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Pamplona has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Pamplona on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the culinary delights of Pamplona, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Discover the heart of Pamplona through its culinary scene, starting with Café Iruña. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Restaurante Anttonenea, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Restaurant Baserriberri, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Spain. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Spain!

Your budget road trip vacation in Spain is about to end. Day 7 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Pamplona.

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Pamplona’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.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Pamplona is the remarkable Parque yamaguchi. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,373 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Pamplona, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Alhambra, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Bar Restaurante -San Nicolás La Cocina Vasca- Jatetxea features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, La Olla is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Pamplona. 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!