5-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander traveling east to San Sebastian and Pamplona

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Santander. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in San Sebastian, where will spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Plaza Porticada and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Mercado Del Este, a photogenic market that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Centro Botin, one of the city’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. When you're finished at the maritime museum, Palacio De La Magdalena awaits your visit. This palace is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in San Sebastian. Check in and relax 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.

Start your culinary exploration in San Sebastian by securing a reservation at Arzak. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, celebrated for its delectable creative 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 Kokotxa, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

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

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

Let Alderdi Eder Parkea set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this majestic park before continuing your journey. Beach Of La Concha is your next stop. This popular beach is one of the best-rated sights in San Sebastian.

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 Peine Del Viento Xv. This visually striking art installation is a sight to behold.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Olite/Erriberri. This car ride takes around 1 hour 30 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Royal Palace Of Olite and explore the history-steeped features.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at El Merca'o in Pamplona by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, El Merca'o delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Europa, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary 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 Rodero, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Krawill is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Montblanc, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Vermutería Río. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Portugalete and Bilbao. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Santander, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Pamplona and set your GPS to Portugalete. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 55 min. Upon reaching Portugalete, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Vizcaya Bridge, a popular monument in Portugalete. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bilbao may take around 23 min. Upon your arrival in Bilbao, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Guggenheim Museum. Then, head to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This up-and-coming museum is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Cadelo, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Umma is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Santander. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Agua Salada. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for contemporary and traditional cuisine in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Little Bobby, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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