7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from San Sebastian to Zaragoza, Bilbao, and Santander and surrounding area

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.

Today’s itinerary in San Sebastian covers several incredible sights, including an aquarium, a park, a beach, a heritage railway, an art installation and much more! Start your adventure at Aquarium. This captivating aquarium is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Alderdi Eder Parkea, a must-see park in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Beach Of La Concha. This notable beach offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Funicular Monte Igueldo, where you can take in awe-inspiring features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Peine Del Viento Xv. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Arzak, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and traditional menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in San Sebastian is Kokotxa, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Spain!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Pamplona and Olite/Erriberri. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zaragoza, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start by visiting Taconera, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Castle Square, another must-visit landmark and well-known public square renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of San Sebastian by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Monumento Al Encierro. This respected monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full San Sebastian experience. We also recommend visiting Citadel Of Pamplona, an interesting historical landmark. Nearby, you'll also find Royal Palace Of Olite, ready to add charm to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza's best restaurants.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Gente Rara in Zaragoza by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Gente Rara delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative and contemporary cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Cancook, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at La Prensa, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for contemporary cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Be A Legend Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Aragón Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar El Circo is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 2 vibrant destinations - Zaragoza and Arriaga. 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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Zaragoza today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Cathedral Of The Savior In His Epiphany Of Zaragoza. This monumental church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Puente De Piedra and learn what makes this culturally significant monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar. After exploring the church, head to Arriagako Donibane Parkea. This locally appreciated park is a highlight in Zaragoza.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bilbao. 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Bilbao by reserving a table at Mina. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Zortziko, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Etxanobe Atelier, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bilbao.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Boss Bilbao after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Stromboli Taberna, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Zuberoa Taberna also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Spain!

On day 5 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 and Villaescusa. In the evening, you’ll end up in Santander, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. Next, go to Guggenheim Museum.

After visiting Federico Moyúa Enparantza and Guggenheim Museum, have a stroll along Bilbao's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This instagrammable museum offers a unique experience. Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Cabarceno Natural Park, one of the most visually striking places to visit in Bilbao.

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

As you explore more of Santander, 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.

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

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.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Santander, Cueto, Portugalete, and Sukarrieta, 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 San Sebastian. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Santander, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Centro Botin, a captivating art gallery in the city. Then, head to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable art gallery.

There are many interesting places to see in Santander, and when you are ready for more, go to Vizcaya Bridge. This is one of the city’s most notable culturally significant spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the captivating Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba.

At the end of the day, you will drive to San Sebastian, 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 San Sebastian. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Bar Bixigarri, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, SSua Arde Donostia beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Danena. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in San Sebastian tonight.

Head back to your accommodation in San Sebastian and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!