One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to San Sebastian and Pamplona

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Photo of City Hall in Bulbao in Spain by Juan Manuel Garcia Bilbao
Photo of ribera market in the spanish city Bilbao.
One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to San Sebastian and Pamplona
One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to San Sebastian and Pamplona
One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to San Sebastian and Pamplona
One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to San Sebastian and Pamplona
One-Week Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bilbao to San Sebastian and Pamplona
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Explore the best of Spain on a remarkable 8-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Bilbao, San Sebastian, Getaria, Pamplona, Olite/Erriberri, and Vitoria-Gasteiz.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Spain. You will spend 3 nights in Bilbao, 2 nights in San Sebastian, and 2 nights in Pamplona. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Spain. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Bilbao, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Spain on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Spain. Guggenheim Museum and Royal Palace Of Olite are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bilbao, San Sebastian, Getaria, Pamplona, Olite/Erriberri, and Vitoria-Gasteiz, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Spain. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Spain.

Throughout your road trip in Spain, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Spain.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Spain fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Spain today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Bilbao - Arrival day
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  • Zubizuri
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Welcome to Bilbao, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Spain! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights discovering what to see in Bilbao before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bilbao is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Zubizuri. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Bilbao. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Spain. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bilbao, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Viña del Ensanche, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Marinela jatetxea offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, San Mamés Jatetxea · Restaurante en San Mamés is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bilbao.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Spain!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Bilbao
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Drive 18 km, 57 min

  • Guggenheim Museum
  • Puppy
  • Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
  • Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
  • Parque Etxebarria
  • Artxanda Funicular
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bilbao has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Bilbao.

Next, go to Puppy.

After visiting Guggenheim Museum and Puppy, 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 eye-catching 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 Etxebarri Parkea, one of the most visually striking places to visit in Bilbao. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Artxanda Funicular.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Spain. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bilbao. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Café Iruña, a top-rated dining spot in Bilbao. If you're in the mood for something new, try Iturriza Taberna, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Antxoa Taberna. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bilbao.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Bilbao
  • Donostia / San Sebastián
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Drive 106 km, 1 hour 49 min

  • Funicular Monte Igueldo
  • Alderdi Eder Parkea
  • Beach of La Concha
  • Gipuzkoa Plaza
  • San Telmo Museoa
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are San Sebastian. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in San Sebastian, where will spend 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, San Sebastian. This car ride takes around 1 hour 13 min.

Funicular Monte Igueldo is a captivating heritage railway we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Alderdi Eder Parkea, a mesmerizing park that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Beach Of La Concha, a mesmerizing beach. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Gipuzkoa Plaza, an instagrammable and truly unique public square. End your sightseeing at San Telmo Museum, a beloved museum that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in San Sebastian, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Polka San Sebastián, a top-rated dining destination in San Sebastian. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider ALABAMA CAFÉ slow Food - Healthy Food, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Antonio. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in San Sebastian this evening.

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.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
  • Getaria
  • More

Drive 53 km, 1 hour 32 min

  • Getaria
  • Museo Cristóbal Balenciaga
  • Getariako Itsasargia
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in Spain. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Getaria. With 1 night to stay in San Sebastian, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Getaria. This car ride takes around 32 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Getaria, a beloved historical landmark that everyone visiting Getaria should see. Next, head to Museo Cristóbal Balenciaga. This historic museum is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Getariako Itsasargia, a romantic lighthouse popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

San Sebastian is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in San Sebastian.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Bodega Donostiarra Gros, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Federiko Taberna offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Cuchara de San Telmo is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in San Sebastian.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Spain.

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Day5

Day 5

  • Donostia / San Sebastián
  • Pamplona
  • More

Drive 85 km, 1 hour 51 min

  • Taconera
  • Citadel of Pamplona
  • Encierro/Entzierroa Monument
  • Plaza de Toros
  • Castle Square
  • Museum of Navarra
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip in Spain, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Pamplona are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pamplona, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to San Sebastian, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Pamplona. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Taconera and explore the idyllic features. Next, make your way to Citadel Of Pamplona, another highlight in Pamplona. When you’re done exploring the historical landmark, continue to Monumento Al Encierro, a respected monument.

Nearby, you will also find Plaza De Toros De Pamplona. This popular stadium is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Castle Square, a romantic public square that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Mandarra de La Ramos, an iconic dining spot in Pamplona. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel Alma Pamplona, a popular restaurant in Pamplona. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurante Melbourne, a hidden gem nestled in Pamplona. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Krawill stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Montblanc offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Vermutería Río is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Spain.

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Day6

Day 6

  • Pamplona
  • Olite/Erriberri
  • More

Drive 92 km, 1 hour 26 min

  • Santa María la Real, Olite
  • Royal Palace of Olite
  • Iglesia de San Pedro
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Pamplona, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Pamplona, there’s no need to rush. Experience Olite/Erriberri to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

After soaking in Pamplona’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Olite/Erriberri. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 43 min. When you arrive in Olite/Erriberri, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Santa María La Real, Olite, an often recommended church known for its culturally significant features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Royal Palace Of Olite, a captivating palace.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Iglesia De San Pedro and uncover the details of this culturally significant church.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Pamplona, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bar Guria, a top-rated dining destination in Pamplona. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bar Gorriti Pamplona, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Asador Katuzarra. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Pamplona this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Terminal, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Euntze Txantrea offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Cerveceria La Estafeta provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Pamplona and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Spain.

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Day7

Day 7

  • Pamplona
  • Vitoria-Gasteiz
  • Bilbao
  • More

Drive 161 km, 2 hours 28 min

  • Parque Salburua
  • Santa Maria Cathedral
  • Plaza España
  • Plaza Virgen Blanca
  • Cathedral María Inmaculada of Vitoria
  • La Florida
  • More

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Elorriaga and Vitoria-Gasteiz. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bilbao, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Pamplona, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Elorriaga. Your travel time is around 1 hour 5 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Salburua, an often recommended nature reserve that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Elorriaga and set your GPS to Vitoria-Gasteiz. 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 8 min. Upon reaching Vitoria-Gasteiz, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Cathedral Of Santa María De Vitoria, a beloved church that everyone visiting Vitoria-Gasteiz should see. Next, head to Nueva Square. This standout public square is one of the most worthwhile attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Plaza Virgen Blanca, a visually striking public square popular among locals as well as travelers. Cathedral María Inmaculada Of Vitoria is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this curiosity-inducing church before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit La Florida, a romantic park and a top attraction in the hamlet.

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

Bilbao is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bilbao.

Dine in style at Gaztandegi taberna, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Café Bar Bilbao boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Laga jatetxea. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bilbao.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day8

Day 8

  • Bilbao - Departure day
  • More
  • Federiko Moiua enparantza
  • More

Day 8 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bilbao before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Federico Moyúa Enparantza before you head out.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at El Globo taberna, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Barraca jatetxea is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bilbao. 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!

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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