Relaxed 7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pamplona to Bilbao

Day 2 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Spain lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Pamplona. By evening, drive toward the Bilbao, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

Make a stop at Catedral Metropolitana De Santa María La Real De Pamplona. This curiosity-inducing church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Plaza De Toros De Pamplona located in Pamplona for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Monumento Al Encierro. Its noteworthy features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Citadel Of Pamplona. Visitors usually appreciate the culturally significant features of this historical landmark. Next up is Parque Antoniutti, a highly recommended park.

You'll be staying in Bilbao on this laid-back road trip through Spain. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Bilbao by securing a reservation at Mina. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and seasonal cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Zortziko, celebrated for its delectable contemporary menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Etxanobe Atelier, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

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.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Spain!

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

Whether you decide to explore Bilbao on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Catch Guggenheim Museum before the crowds roll in. Next, dive into the detailed features of Puppy, a must-visit art installation in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, a frequently visited museum. For a change of scene, check out Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, known for its majestic features. We also recommend visiting Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This point of interest is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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 Bilbao to find the best options for you!

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 Bilbao.

Savor the flavors at Café Iruña, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Iturriza Taberna beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Antxoa Taberna. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bilbao tonight.

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.

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

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Spain means 24 hours of making the best memories in Bilbao. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Bilbao. 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 Bilbao!

Artxanda Funicular is must-visit tramway and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Europa Parkea, a worthwhile park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, an inviting church, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Bilbao. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the underrated Etxebarri Parkea. If you’re looking for more, Zubizuri is also a locally renowned attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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 Gaztandegi taberna, 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 Café Bar Bilbao, 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 Laga jatetxea, a hidden gem nestled in Bilbao. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Spain!

Your relaxed road trip in Spain continues on day 5 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Spain better by exploring the top attractions of Bilbao and beyond. With 1 night left in Bilbao, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bilbao and set your GPS to Villaescusa. 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 10 min. Upon reaching Villaescusa, 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 Cabarceno Natural Park, a top-rated safari park in Villaescusa. Explore its idyllic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Cerrazo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Villaescusa behind. This drive usually takes around 25 min. Cerrazo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Villapresente's Labyrinth and explore the instagrammable features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Santillana del Mar. This drive usually takes around 6 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Cave Of Altamira and explore the UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

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

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.

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

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Bilbao and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Spain!

On day 6 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Spain, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Portugalete, home to many well-known sights in the region. 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.

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.

Set your GPS to Sukarrieta and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 52 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sukarrieta beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba, a locally renowned nature reserve in Sukarrieta. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Pamplona. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Pamplona by booking a table at El Merca'o, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional traditional menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Europa, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Rodero, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Pamplona. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Terminal, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Euntze Txantrea. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta, another top-rated place in the area.

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