Cheap 10-Day Spain Road Trip from Madrid traveling north to Avila, Leon, Santander, and Valladolid

Your exciting road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Madrid, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Madrid and begin your adventure in Spain.

Madrid is a popular cheap holiday destination in Spain with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Spain, Madrid 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Western Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Madrid, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 28,992 visitors.

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 and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular El miniBAR, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Areia.

Visit Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Cafe Madrid serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Madrid. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is 1862 Dry Bar.

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

Day 2 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Spain. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Madrid! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Madrid and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 2 nights in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Crystal Palace. This building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,270 visitors.

El Retiro Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This urban park has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 162,386 visitors.

Great Pond of El Retiro is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 22,242 visitors.

Puerta de Alcalá is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 43,833 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Matadero Madrid. This museum has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,723 travelers.

Make your vacation in Spain more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Spain and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

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.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at La Mi Venta, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Mas Al Sur is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Prada a Tope Madrid, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

On day 3 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Spain, you’ll go deep into Madrid and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Madrid — 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Main Square. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 152,388 visitors.

Market of San Miguel is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This building has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 106,296 travelers.

Madrid is also the home of Royal Palace of Madrid. Around 77,471 people have rated this royal palace an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Temple of Debod. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from a total of 44,446 reviews, a visit to this egyptian temple is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Madrid is also your chance to admire Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. This must-visit art museum enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 46,855 reviews. Approximately 1 person travel to Madrid every year to see this attraction with their own eyes.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Spain sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Spain. Spain has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Spain that will fill you with new inspiration.

A cheap, budget vacation in Madrid should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Madrid, try some of our top recommendations.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to BiBo Dani García, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Malacatín - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Pum Pum Café promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

On day 4 of your cheap holiday travels in Spain, you’ll tour 1: Madrid. You'll stay in Avila for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Avila, 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 Madrid to Avila may take around 1 hour 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Avila, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Círculo de Bellas Artes, a remarkable movie theater where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 27,540 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 32,846 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 671,078 people visit it every year.

Museo del Prado is another must-visit attraction. This renowned art museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 98,929 travelers and attracting 3,497,345 annual visitors, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This well-loved association football venue boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 120,158 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Casa de Campo awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 50,826 previous visitors.

Avila 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.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Avila is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Restaurante Sanjuaniego, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Cervecería La Cigueña offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Restaurante Bococo is the perfect spot for you!

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar la Mezquita, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, La Oca Cocktail Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Black Rose. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 5 of your self-drive vacation in Spain will take you to the city of Leon, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Leon, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Salamanca and Avila.

Set your GPS to Salamanca and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 4 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Salamanca beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Salamanca Cathedral, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,562 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Calisto and Melibea Vegetable Garden. Calisto and Melibea Vegetable Garden is a park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,760 reviews.

Roman bridge of Salamanca is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,869 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Salamanca. This car ride takes around 1 hour 4 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Walls of Ávila. This extraordinary city walls has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 14,534 visitors.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Leon, 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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Bar Nápoles, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Clandestino Gastrobar - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Four Lions Brewery promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Bar Chelsea is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Café Bar Silver, offering a different kind of charm.

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

On day 6 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Spain, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Leon and Llanes. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Santander, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

After soaking in Leon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Llanes. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 13 min. When you arrive in Llanes, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to León Cathedra. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 30,058 visitors.

Casa de los Botines is another popular attraction you could visit today. This building has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,594 visitors.

Plaza del Grano, León is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,643 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Leon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Llanes may take around 2 hours 13 min. Upon your arrival in Llanes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to El banco más guapu de Llanes. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,929 visitors.

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

A cheap, budget vacation in Santander should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Santander, try some of our top recommendations.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Restaurante la Mayor, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Santa & Co is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Restaurante Agua Salada.

Continue your lively evening at Kings Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Grog is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, HYGGE COCKTAIL ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 7 of your affordable vacation in Spain, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Santander. You’ll stay in Santander for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Spain, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bilbao, 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 Santander to Bilbao may take around 1 hour 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bilbao, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Guggenheim Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum building an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 64,815 reviews. More than 530,967 people visit this place of interest every year.

Next up, make a stop at Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,643 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Europa parkea is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,593 visitors.

When you’re finished at Europa parkea, the perfect next stop is Federiko Moiua enparantza. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,235 reviews.

Set your GPS to Villaescusa and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Villaescusa beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cabarceno Natural Park. This zoo is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Villaescusa, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 45,839 visitors.

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

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to El Sol, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Restaurante Posada Del Mar - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Cadelo Restaurante promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Santander, Little Bobby.

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

Day 8 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 touring 1 wonderful destinations — Santander. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Valladolid, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Valladolid. This car ride takes around 2 hours 25 min.

Make Plaza Porticada your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,395 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Mercado del Este. With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 7,680 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,931 visitors.

When you’re finished at Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria, the perfect next stop is Centro Botin. This art museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,508 reviews. Centro Botin attracts approximately 111,096 visitors annually.

Valladolid 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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Valladolid, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

The other library Café stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Café & copas Murmullo offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at ATYPIKAL, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Café Bar Alborada is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Monasterio is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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 offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Segovia. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Madrid, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Valladolid, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Segovia. Your travel time is around 1 hour 21 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Alcázar of Segovia. This alcázar is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Segovia, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 49,713 visitors. Around 754,946 people visit this attraction every year.

Segovia Cathedral is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,509 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Plaza Mayor. Visitors have rated this plaza mayor an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,239 reviews.

Aqueduct of Segovia is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a stone bridge rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 95,202 reviews.

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

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.

Sagaretxe offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Arrabal Madrid. Or, try Taberna El Sur, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

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 Madrid.

As you approach the end of your journey in Spain, take a moment for some retail therapy in Madrid’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. Hold onto the magic of Spain with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Madrid, consider a top-rated restaurant like James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Restaurante El Espigón Madrid is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Coque, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Madrid.

You’ll then say farewell to Madrid. 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!