Cheap 10-Day Spain Road Trip from Granada traveling east to Almeria, Alicante, Valencia, Cuenca, Madrid, and Ciudad Real

Your exciting road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Granada, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Granada and begin your adventure in Spain.

Granada is a popular cheap holiday destination in Spain with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Spain, Granada is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Granada, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try Restaurante Palacio Andaluz Almona, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,367 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend El Mercader, so you'll want to drop by this place. El Mercader serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 998 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Granada is La Cuchara de Carmela. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,305 customers.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Granada, Flamenco Granada - Tablao Jardines de Zoraya. This bar offers a variety of liquors at different price points and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,495 customers.

Continental Café Pub Granada is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. This bar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,318 customers.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Spain!

On day 2 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Spain, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Granada and Almeria. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Almeria.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to S. A. I. Catedral Metropolitana de la Encarnación. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,036 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Plaza Isabel La Católica. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,894 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Alhambra. This architectural ensemble has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 127,431 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Nasrid Palaces. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 20,263 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Mirador de San Nicolas, Granada. This scenic viewpoint is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 63,173 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Granada, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Almeria may take around 1 hour 47 min. Upon your arrival in Almeria, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Almeria offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Spain. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Almeria offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Spain.

One musty-try restaurant is Jovellanos 16. This restaurant offers good food at reasonable prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,101 customers.

Tony Garcia Espacio Gastronómico is an excellent alternative with an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,200 reviews. Tony Garcia Espacio Gastronómico is known for its delicious meals that will surely satisfy your hunger.

Another of the best places to eat in the area is Stanley & de Marco. This restaurant has an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 856 customers because of their good food, service, and ambiance.

Milestone Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 695 customers.

You can also enjoy having some snacks and drinks at La Consentida. This bar is a popular hangout spot among locals and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,010 customers.

Casa Puga is another top-rated city bar we recommend in Almeria. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,567 customers, this bar is a great place to cap off the night.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Spain!

Day 3 of your self-drive vacation in Spain will take you to the city of Alicante, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Alicante, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Cartagena and Alicante.

Cartagena’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Almeria behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 4 min. Cartagena welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Barco Turístico is a great place to start with. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 957 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is City Hall of Cartagena, Spain. This casa consistorial has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 799 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Roman theatre of Cartagena. The archaeological site has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,504 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting National Museum of Underwater Archaeology. This museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,845 reviews.

Set your GPS to Alicante and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Alicante beckons with new experiences!

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Alicante. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Alicante, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Savor the culinary delights of Alicante, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended Nou Manolín. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,895 customers.

Heladería Borgonesse is another local-favorite restaurant in Alicante. Heladería Borgonesse serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,861 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, La Taberna del Gourmet is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Cartagena. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 of 5 stars from around 3,691 customers.

An excellent example is El Portal Alicante - Krug Ambassade, which has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,120 customers.

Another of the best bars you should consider going to is Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar. This bar offers a selection of great meals and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,140 customers.

Locals also enjoy 26 Cocktail Room, and you might too. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 960 customers, an after-dinner drink at 26 Cocktail Room is the perfect way to end this day.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Spain!

Day 4 of your road trip across Spain is another proof that cheap holidays in Spain can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes exploring 3 wonderful destinations — Alicante, el Castell de Guadalest, and Valencia.

When you're ready to see some sights, El Carrer dels Bolets is a great place to start with. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,121 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Mercado Central de Alicante. This building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,503 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Santa Bárbara Castle. The castle has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 35,044 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Archaeological Museum of Alicante. This archaeological museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,768 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Alicante, you’ll hit the road in the direction of el Castell de Guadalest. This drive usually takes around 55 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’ve had your share of el Castell de Guadalest, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Valencia. Your travel time is around 1 hour 53 min.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

While exploring Spain is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Valencia has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Valencia on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Spain shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Valencia is also home to a variety of excellent dining spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and drink.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try Asador El Porteño, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,693 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10, so you'll want to drop by this place. Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10 serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,075 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Valencia is Restaurante Belmonte. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,179 customers.

Experience the local nightlife scene. Cafe de las Horas is a highly recommended bar with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,922 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar among locals like Puerta del Mar. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,372 bar-goers.

Bar Tonyina is another great bar that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,516 customers.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Spain with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Spain!

Day 5 of your road trip across Spain offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Valencia and Cuenca. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Cuenca.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Mercat Central. Previous visitors have rated this market hall an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 79,570 reviews.

City of Arts and Sciences is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This tourist destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 125,881 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 37,810 reviews.

L'Oceanogràfic is another outstanding experience in Valencia. Around 76,085 travelers have rated this public aquarium an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Set your GPS to Cuenca and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cuenca beckons with new experiences!

Cuenca offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Spain. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

After a long day of exploring and making the most of your budget vacation in Spain, treat yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Cuenca that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

One restaurant we recommend you try in Cuenca is Grotte del Huécar. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,935 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Cuenca, Restaurante Recreo Peral is a name locals often mention. This local favorite offers a variety of options, helping it earn an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,722 diners.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Las Brasas, one of the top bars you could visit in the city. Las Brasas is an excellent place for a refreshing evening drink and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,335 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals at La Ronería De La Habana. Around 1,072 customers have rated their experience at La Ronería De La Habana an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Restaurante Sidrería La Figal also belongs to the list of the best bars in the Cuenca, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,526 bar-goers.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Cuenca!

On day 6 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Spain, you’ll experience 4 charming destinations — Torrejón De Ardoz, Alcobendas, Pozuelo, and Madrid. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Madrid.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Torrejón De Ardoz. This car ride takes around 1 hour 34 min.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Torrejón De Ardoz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Alcobendas. This drive usually takes around 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Alcobendas, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Pozuelo may take around 19 min. Upon your arrival in Pozuelo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Madrid. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Madrid, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Madrid, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Salmon Guru is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,802 customers.

Coque is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,191 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at El Social, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 944 reviews.

We recommend El miniBAR for many reasons. But most importantly, this bar serves a variety of food and beverages and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,297 reviews.

You can also visit a popular bar like Areia to have refreshing drinks and interact with locals and other travelers. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,973 bar-goers.

When you would rather go somewhere else, try James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,124 customers, this bar is one of Madrid’s best places to relax after a long day.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Spain! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Madrid!

Day 7’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Madrid, proving that cheap holidays in Spain can be extraordinary.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Madrid. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Madrid offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Spain worth remembering for a lifetime.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Spain shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Madrid is also home to a variety of excellent dining spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and drink.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try El Jardín Secreto Madrid, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,058 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Pum Pum Café, so you'll want to drop by this place. Pum Pum Café serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,614 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Madrid is Corral de la Morería. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,011 customers.

1862 Dry Bar offers many snacks and liquors at different price points and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,987 customers.

If you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Madrid, check out Taberna del Alabardero de Madrid. This bar is an excellent place to hang out and relax after a busy day, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,525 customers.

To ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination, visit Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar. Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar offers affordable drinks and snacks and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 966 reviews.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Spain!

Day 8 of your self-drive vacation in Spain will take you to the city of Ciudad Real, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Ciudad Real, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Madrid and Ciudad Real.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Main Square. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 152,388 visitors.

Next, make your way to Market of San Miguel. This building is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 106,296 reviews.

While in Madrid, we also recommend a visit to Royal Palace of Madrid. This royal palace has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 77,471 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to plaza de España. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 98,199 travelers, this square is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Madrid.

Make your way to Museo del Prado, perhaps the most famous art museum in Madrid. This attraction welcomes around 3,497,345 visitors annually and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 98,929 reviews.

After soaking in Madrid’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ciudad Real. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 11 min. When you arrive in Ciudad Real, it's time to take a break from the road.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

While exploring Spain is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Ciudad Real has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Ciudad Real on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Ciudad Real, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best dining options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Spain with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Spain!

Day 9 of your road trip across Spain is another proof that cheap holidays in Spain can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes exploring 2 wonderful destinations — Jaen and Granada.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Jaen, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Ciudad Real to Jaen may take around 2 hours 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Castillo de Santa Catalina. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,060 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Centro Cultural Palacio de Villardompardo. This cultural center has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,420 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Jaén Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,392 visitors.

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

Granada offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Spain. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

A cheap, budget vacation in Granada should not stop you from enjoying incredible food. When you’re ready to have the best dining experience in Granada, try some of our top recommendations.

Eat at Restaurante Jardines Alberto. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,578 reviews.

You can also check out Restaurante Fairuz. Offering appetizing foods and refreshing beverages at reasonable prices, this restaurant is an excellent choice for budget travelers. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,239 diners.

Another great restaurant we recommend you go to after your activities is El Trillo Restaurante Granada. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,605 customers, this restaurant is sure to provide you with a memorable dining experience.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Hannigan & Sons, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,442 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Restaurante Oliver. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,516 customers.

Los Manueles Reyes Católicos - Restaurante Granadino is another top-rated bar where you can spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 15,266 customers.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Spain!

Your budget road trip vacation in Spain is about to end. Day 10 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Granada.

As you approach the end of your journey in Spain, take a moment for some retail therapy in Granada’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family, or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Spain, a variety of items are waiting for you.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Granada, consider a top-rated restaurant like d'Sano. This restaurant has a menu of appetizing and affordable meals and is rated at an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,118 customers.

RESTAURANTE TINTA FINA is an excellent alternative if you feel like eating something else. This restaurant serves a variety of savory and budget-friendly dishes and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,665 customers.

Another popular restaurant you could check out is Botánico Café. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,553 customers, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of Spain and your fun memories in Granada.

You’ll then say farewell to Granada. 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!