The North Trail, Self-drive

The North Trail, Self-drive

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7 Days From

$780

The North Trail, Self-drive

7 Days Starting and ending in Bilbao, Spain

Visiting: Bilbao, San Sebastián, Pamplona, Logroño, La Rioja, Laguardia, Elciego, Haro, Burgos, Santander

Tour code:

50153

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

VERY_EASY

Age range:

26-75

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing, Wine Tasting

From: $780 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 31-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on "The North Trail, Self-drive" tour and explore the captivating northern coast of Spain at your own pace. This cultural journey begins and ends in the vibrant city of Bilbao, home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum. Discover the culinary delights of San Sebastián, famous for its Basque "pintxos," and the rich wine heritage of Logroño in La Rioja. Marvel at the Gothic architecture in Burgos and soak in the elegance of Santander, with its stunning bay views. Enjoy the freedom of a self-drive adventure with car hire options, unlimited mileage, and comprehensive insurance. Stay in comfortable 3 to 4-star hotels, ensuring a restful night after each day of exploration. This tour offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, history, and gastronomy, making it an ideal choice for cultural enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

Highlights

  • Bilbao: Discover the famous Basque city and see the Guggenheim Museum.

  • Logroño: Explore the capital of La Rioja, a key wine-producing area.

  • Burgos: Admire the Gothic cathedral and Miraflores Carthusian Monastery.

  • Santander: Experience one of the most elegant cities on Spain's northern coast.

  • San Sebastián: Stroll La Concha beach promenade and try Basque "pintxos".

  • Pamplona: Explore the historic city known for the Running of the Bulls festival.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : ARRIVAL BILBAO

Location: Bilbao

Accommodation Name: Silken Indauchu or similar 4*

Collect your car upon arrival at the airport. Explore Bilbao. Although the capital of the autonomous region of Euskadi – also known as the Basque Country – is Vitoria, the port city of Bilbao is, in fact, the largest of all Basque cities. The renewal of this industrial city has been continuous since the opening of the Guggenheim Museum in 1997, with various projects designed by famous architects, including a new tram system, a subway system designed by Sir Norman Foster, a pedestrian bridge, the Zubizuri bridge by Santiago Calatrava, a jagged glass-fronted public health building, and the reconversion following the indications of well-known designer Philippe Starck of a disused warehouse turned into a public multifunction building, the Alhóndiga. 

Overnight in Bilbao.

Day 2 : BILBAO - SAN SEBASTIÁN - LOGROÑO (265km - 3hrs)

Location: Bilbao, San Sebastián, Pamplona, Logroño

Accommodation Name: F&G Logroño or similar 3*

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, hop into your car and drive to San Sebastian. Continue to the seaside cosmopolitan city of San Sebastian and explore this fabulous city. Enjoy a stroll down the promenade at La Concha beach to the sculpture named ‘El Peine del Viento’ from renowned artist Eduardo Chillida. ake the funicular up to the top of Igueldo hill for a panoramic view over the city (not included) and try the famous Basque “pintxos” (tapas/snacks) in one of the many bars in the old town. In the afternoon, continue to Pamplona, where you will spend the night. 

Overnight in Logroño.

Day 3 : LOGROÑO

Location: Logroño, La Rioja, Laguardia, Elciego, Haro

Accommodation Name: F&G Logroño or similar 3*

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, step out into the streets of Logroño and go discover its monumental legacy by losing yourself through its charming old town. This city that embraces the banks of the river Ebro has historically been a stop-by location, being at the crossroads of many important routes. While you’re at it, head out to explore the gorgeous wine country of La Rioja. Drive up to the hilltop town of Laguardia and visit one of its famous bodegas, some of which boast spectacular architecture, around Elciego or Haro. 

Overnight in Logroño.

Day 4 : LOGROÑO - BURGOS (135km – 1.5hrs)

Location: Burgos

Accommodation Name: Abba Burgos or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at your hotel, depart towards Burgos. Learn about the city’s fascinating history as you stroll through the winding streets and alleys of the old quarter, which lies in the shadow of a magnificent hilltop castle. Dedicate some time to admiring its stunning Gothic cathedral, a Unesco-listed World Heritage Site. Make your way to the city’s eastern outskirts and pay a visit to the Miraflores Charterhouse, a wonderfully-preserved Gothic monastery belonging to the Carthusian order, which hosts a priceless collection of religious artifacts.  

Overnight in Burgos.

Day 5 : BURGOS - SANTANDER (185km - 2.10hrs)

Location: Santander

Accommodation Name: Silken Rio Santander or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Eat up your breakfast at the hotel to replenish your energy for a drive back to Santander. Santander is, without a doubt, one of the most elegant and beautiful cities on the northern coast of Spain. Both the sea and the mountains are continually present in this city, captivating you with its aristocratic atmosphere, 19th-century buildings, charming outdoor terraces and spectacular bay – considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world! There are several beaches and harbours on the northern side of the city and a charming old quarter. In the 19th century, the city used to be a renowned tourist resort for Spanish politicians, aristocrats and other members of the upper class. The city still contains wonderful palaces and promenades, bay-type architecture with white buildings, old cafés and a famous casino. 

Overnight in Santander.

Day 6 : SANTANDER - BILBAO (100km - 1.15hrs)

Location: Santander, Bilbao

Accommodation Name: Silken Indauchu or similar 4*

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy your breakfast and before departing to Bilbao stroll around Santander. There are several beaches and harbours on the northern side of the city and a charming old quarter. In the 19th century, the city used to be a renowned tourist resort for Spanish politicians, aristocrats and other members of the upper class. The city still contains wonderful palaces and promenades, bay-type architecture with white buildings, old cafés and a famous casino. 

Overnight in Bilbao.

Day 7 : DEPARTURE BILBAO

Location: Bilbao

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bid farewell to Bilbao after breakfast at the hotel and drive back to airport to drop off the car. You'll be told the return procedure and exact designated area by a Rent a Car Company when you pick up the car on arrival day. Catch your departure flight back home. 

What's Included

  • Car Hire

    The tour includes car hire options such as the Seat Ibiza or Seat Leon, with unlimited mileage, 24-hour road assistance, and comprehensive insurance coverage.

  • Comprehensive Insurance

    The car hire includes Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCWD) and Vehicle Theft Protection (STP).

  • Local Taxes and Surcharges

    Applicable local taxes (VAT) and airport/city surcharges are included in the tour.

What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, laundry, drinks, and meals not stated explicitly in the programme are not included.

  • Flights

    National or International flights are not included in the tour package.

  • Additional Insurance

    All types of insurance except the mentioned car insurance are not included.

  • Entry Visas

    Entry visas to Spain and Gibraltar (if applicable) are not included.

  • Entrance Tickets

    Entrance tickets to any venue, museum, or activity are not included.

  • Car Hire Exclusions

    Damage to a third party or the hire vehicle due to negligence, loss or damage to vehicle components, theft of the vehicle with keys left in the ignition, fines due to breaking traffic laws, additional driver fee, young driver surcharge, one way fees, petrol refueling charge, any extra equipment (GPS, baby seat etc), and no insurance coverage in Gibraltar are not included.

Requirements

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Spain. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent in summer can be very useful during your stay.

Please Note



  • Drivers age from 26 to 75 years old (must have had their driver´s licence for a minimum of one year)
  • Drivers who are not citizens of the European Union must present an international driver’s licence together with the original from their country of origin.
  • If the customer returns the vehicle earlier than the agreed upon drop-off date stated in the rental contract, the rental company will not refund the customer for any unused days
  • Deposit credit card Visa or MasterCard only
  • Accident/theft reporting must be notified within 48hours of incident
  • In cases where, following the return of the vehicle, additional cleaning is required due to the car being dirty beyond the level expected from normal vehicle use, an additional charge shall apply, against evidence of the cost of the service provided

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1 & 6 Bilbao:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Silken Indauchu or similar 4*

Day 2, 3 Logroño:

  • Standard Hotel Category = F&G Logroño or similar 3*

Day 4 Burgos:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Abba Burgos or similar 4*

Day 5 Santander:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Silken Rio Santander or similar 4*

CAR HIRE OPTIONS

  • Car Group Category B = Seat Ibiza or similar
  • Car Group Category C = Seat Leon or similar

Mode of Transport

Travel at your own pace with a self-drive tour, featuring car hire options such as the Seat Ibiza or Seat Leon, including unlimited mileage, 24-hour road assistance, and comprehensive insurance coverage.

Accommodation

Enjoy 6 nights' accommodation in comfortable hotels, including the Silken Indauchu in Bilbao, F&G Logroño in Logroño, Abba Burgos in Burgos, and Silken Rio Santander in Santander, all offering 3 to 4-star amenities.

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1 & 6 Bilbao:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Silken Indauchu or similar 4*

Day 2, 3 Logroño:

  • Standard Hotel Category = F&G Logroño or similar 3*

Day 4 Burgos:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Abba Burgos or similar 4*

Day 5 Santander:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Silken Rio Santander or similar 4*

CAR HIRE OPTIONS

  • Car Group B = Opel Corsa or similar
  • Car Group C = Ford Focus or similar

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of car can I expect for the self-drive tour?

    You can expect car hire options such as the Seat Ibiza or Seat Leon, with unlimited mileage, 24-hour road assistance, and comprehensive insurance coverage.

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 6 nights' accommodation in comfortable hotels with 3 to 4-star amenities, such as the Silken Indauchu in Bilbao, F&G Logroño in Logroño, Abba Burgos in Burgos, and Silken Rio Santander in Santander.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 6 breakfasts.

  • What is the age requirement for drivers on this tour?

    Drivers must be between 26 to 75 years old and have had their driver's license for a minimum of one year.

  • Is an international driver's license required for non-EU citizens?

    Yes, drivers who are not citizens of the European Union must present an international driver's license along with the original from their country of origin.

  • What should I do if I need to return the car earlier than planned?

    If you return the vehicle earlier than the agreed drop-off date stated in the rental contract, the rental company will not refund you for any unused days.

  • What are some of the highlights of the cities visited on this tour?

    Highlights include the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, the Gothic cathedral in Burgos, the elegant city of Santander, and the famous Basque 'pintxos' in San Sebastián.

  • Do you offer any travel insurance?

    We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure. 

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • What does the price include?

    What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival

Reviews of this operator

Maria R  

Very informative tour

05-Dec-2022

Very informative, creative and charming guide Sol made the experience one to remember. Highly recommend to give you an overview of the area.

Andrew W  

Great Scenery

08-Aug-2022

Spectacular scenery. Lovely lunch. The two villages were lovely to see. The stops were short. Best to pre-plan a walk through the villages beforehand to make the most of the time there. The guide was very informative and helpful

Sandra F.  

Great tour! Northern of Spain, Galicia & Portugal (Multi country)

15-Nov-2022

We took an 16-day tour with this firm, and everything exceeded our expectations. The sights we saw were breathtaking, and our tour guides were outstanding. We went on an English/Spanish tour, and the majority of our group was from South America and spoke Spanish. The extra package that includes lunch and select entertainment is highly recommended. Thank you very much for this opportunity!

Grace B  

Down South, Self-drive, couldn't be better

16-Oct-2022

Loved the self-drive tour, gave us the ability to stay on our own schedule. Locations were great with lots to explore in each town as well as along the drive. Ronda and Seville were our favorite! We had the ability to stop while on the road to wine and olive oil taste too, as well as explore Castillo de Almodovar, a beautifully restored castle near Seville where they shot several scenes of Game of Thrones. Location of hotels were good too, easy to get to so you didn't have to drive through some of those difficult narrow one way streets. Only issue was having to pay for parking at some of the hotels, this should have been part of the package. Other than that, it was a great tour!

Steve G  

Excellent Volcano and Village Tour

17-Nov-2022

Amazing volcanic scenery, beautiful village set in deep valleys. Ivan was a very knowledgeable local guide who was great with our toddler!

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Saturday

Feb 01, 2026 - Feb 07, 2026
$804 (USD)

Monday - Sunday

Feb 02, 2026 - Feb 08, 2026
$804 (USD)

Tuesday - Monday

Feb 03, 2026 - Feb 09, 2026
$804 (USD)

Wednesday - Tuesday

Feb 04, 2026 - Feb 10, 2026
$804 (USD)

Thursday - Wednesday

Feb 05, 2026 - Feb 11, 2026
$804 (USD)

Friday - Thursday

Feb 06, 2026 - Feb 12, 2026
$804 (USD)

Saturday - Friday

Feb 07, 2026 - Feb 13, 2026
$804 (USD)

Sunday - Saturday

Feb 08, 2026 - Feb 14, 2026
$804 (USD)

Monday - Sunday

Feb 09, 2026 - Feb 15, 2026
$804 (USD)

Tuesday - Monday

Feb 10, 2026 - Feb 16, 2026
$804 (USD)

Wednesday - Tuesday

Feb 11, 2026 - Feb 17, 2026
$804 (USD)

Thursday - Wednesday

Feb 12, 2026 - Feb 18, 2026
$804 (USD)

Friday - Thursday

Feb 13, 2026 - Feb 19, 2026
$804 (USD)

Saturday - Friday

Feb 14, 2026 - Feb 20, 2026
$804 (USD)

Sunday - Saturday

Feb 15, 2026 - Feb 21, 2026
$804 (USD)

Monday - Sunday

Feb 16, 2026 - Feb 22, 2026
$804 (USD)

Tuesday - Monday

Feb 17, 2026 - Feb 23, 2026
$804 (USD)

Wednesday - Tuesday

Feb 18, 2026 - Feb 24, 2026
$804 (USD)

Thursday - Wednesday

Feb 19, 2026 - Feb 25, 2026
$804 (USD)

Friday - Thursday

Feb 20, 2026 - Feb 26, 2026
$804 (USD)

Saturday - Friday

Feb 21, 2026 - Feb 27, 2026
$804 (USD)

Sunday - Saturday

Feb 22, 2026 - Feb 28, 2026
$804 (USD)

Monday - Sunday

Feb 23, 2026 - Mar 01, 2026
$804 (USD)

Tuesday - Monday

Feb 24, 2026 - Mar 02, 2026
$804 (USD)

Wednesday - Tuesday

Feb 25, 2026 - Mar 03, 2026
$804 (USD)

Thursday - Wednesday

Feb 26, 2026 - Mar 04, 2026
$804 (USD)

Friday - Thursday

Feb 27, 2026 - Mar 05, 2026
$780 (USD)

Saturday - Friday

Feb 28, 2026 - Mar 06, 2026
$780 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Destination Services Spain requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of destination services spain charges.

    Up to 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 17 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 9 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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