Basque Region & Wine Country Road Trip: Bilbao, San Sebastián, La Rioja & Pamplona - 7 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Bilbao

After the drive and settling into your accommodation in San Sebastián, you'll explore the culinary heart of the Basque Country by eating pintxos with a local chef and walking through the city's Old Town. Learn about the origins of pintxos, which typically feature slices of bread stacked high with goodies, secured with a toothpick, where the name originated. You'll visit five taverns in the Old Town to sample this signature dish and sip drinks, from local cider to the slightly effervescent Txakoli white wine.

Day 3: Hike, Boat & Lunch on the Bay of Pasaia

Today you'll explore the beauty of the Basque Country's scenic coast and countryside with a hike, boat trip, and lunch along the Bay of Pasaia. San Sebastián is right on the beach, so you can easily escape the crowds and enjoy the surrounding nature. Your guide will lead you along the famous Way of Saint James route, a moderate trek just under 5 miles (8 km) roundtrip, with a few ups and downs. All your efforts will be worth it, as you'll enjoy incredible sea views of the region's wild coast. 

The hike is about its views, as you'll pass the scenic Zurriola Beach to reach your first lookout point. You'll enjoy several other viewpoints and observation decks, perfect spots to rest your feet and appreciate the scenery. The route features inlets, caves, and plenty of cliffs before turning toward the Bay of Pasaia, a natural basin with picturesque rock structures, fishing villages, and a lighthouse.

 

Continue into the hamlet of Pasaia, a historic fishing village with some of the area's best seafood. Sit at an authentic tavern and replenish your strength with fresh fish and local drinks. This experience mimics the life of the 16th-century Basque whalers, which you can learn about at the town's living museum featuring wooden ships. Before returning to San Sebastián, you'll enjoy a boat cruise around the bay.

Day 4: Drive to Pamplona, Private History & Culture Walk

In the morning, you'll set out for the inland city of Pamplona. Though this metropolis gets its reputation from the annual Running of the Bulls event, there's a lot more to see and do. But to make this route more scenic, consider stopping in the rural village of Etxalar, one of Navarre's most picturesque townlets, and/or the seaside walled city of Hondarribia. Both provide a dose of charm and history. Discover all the details of this road trip from San Sebastián to Pamplona here.

After settling into your accommodation, head into the Old Town for a guided walk through Pamplona. You'll meet your guide at ​​Plaza del Castillo, then stop at Bar Txoko, one of Ernest Hemingway's favorite taverns in the city. You'll also visit sites like the Palace of Navarre and the Monument to the Fueros, then cross the Tres Burgos de Pamplona. Enjoy Town Hall square, where the annual San Fermín festivities and Running of the Bulls begin, and walk along the same streets as the runners and view the fences.

You'll end the walk with a stroll along the city's ancient walls and by visiting the Cathedral of Pamplona, ​​where your guide will detail the building's facade and its many unique stories and legends.

Day 5: Drive to La Rioja, Self-Guided Day & Overnight at a Vineyard

Today, your road trip takes you to the scenic province of La Rioja, home to Spain's most famous wine region. Though the area is renowned for its tempranillo and seven wine valleys, there's plenty more to enjoy in La Rioja. From visiting medieval castles (favorites are Castillo de Sajazarra, Davalillo Castle, and Castillo de Aguas Mansas) and UNESCO monasteries to hiking or skiing in Parque Natural Sierra Cebollera, the region is surprisingly varied for its small size. 

The day is yours to explore the area. You'll receive complete details on enjoying a self-guided day in La Rioja, though you might want to check out the picturesque city of Logroño, the province's capital. The city hosts its annual Wine Harvest Festival in September, where you can stomp grapes. Or, visit the Vivanco Wine Museum in Briones, known as the best wine museum in the world. Not only can you taste varietals, but you can also participate in workshops and dine at the museum's restaurant.

After enjoying this beautiful province, you'll settle into your hotel in La Rioja's vineyards. Choose from kimkim's hand-picked accommodations, including Palacio Tondón in a 16th-century palace with views of the Tondón Vineyards; Hotel Eguren Ugarte with its setting directly on a family-owned vineyard with exceptional countryside views; and luxurious Hotel Marqués de Riscal in the City of Wine (a winery and educational center), created by Frank Gehry, the same architect who designed Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum.

Day 7: Depart Bilbao

It's time to say goodbye to Spain! You'll drive from your accommodation to the Bilbao Airport, where you'll return your rental car. Safe travels and adiós!

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