Affordable 10-Day Relaxed Spain Road Trip Vacation from Santander to Bilbao, and Valladolid

Your relaxed road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Santander, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Santander and begin your adventure in Spain.

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

One thing you have to know about Santander is that this city is an outstanding hub for culture, exploration, and relaxation. When you're ready to begin your tour of the city, stop at some of the best places to visit in Santander.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Santander, 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 of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Restaurante la Mayor, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Santa & Co, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Restaurante Agua Salada, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Santander, Kings Pub. Grog is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Hygge Cocktail, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Spain! Expect more to come as you continue this budget-friendly and laid-back road trip in Spain!

Ready for day 2 of your road trip vacation in Spain? Discover more of Santander and beyond on this leg of your journey. Explore more top attractions, dive into new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Today is all about maximizing your 1 night in this vibrant destination!

Kick off the day at Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This maritime museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,771 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Mercado Del Este. Mercado Del Este is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 7,680 reviews.

Plaza Porticada is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,395 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Centro Botin. This art museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 14,508 visitors. Visiting Centro Botin means you'll be one of 111,096 people who do so every year.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cueto. This drive usually takes around 8 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Parque De Mataleñas, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,724 reviews.

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

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

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Little Bobby, a must-visit destination for a great night out.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, budget-friendly adventure across Spain.

Day 3 of your road trip across Spain offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Santillana del Mar, Villaescusa, and Castro-Urdiales. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Bilbao, where you'll stay for 4 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Santillana del Mar. This car ride takes around 33 min.

Make Cave Of Altamira one of your first sightseeing stops in Santillana del Mar. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 13,460 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

National Museum And Research Center Of Altamira is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,249 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Museum Of Torture - Inquisicion. This museum has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 4,958 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Villaescusa. This drive usually takes around 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Cabarceno Natural Park, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 45,839 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Castro-Urdiales. This car ride takes around 43 min.

Kick off the day at Playa Ostende / Urdiales, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,595 reviews.

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

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

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Stromboli Taberna and try some of its cocktails and snacks.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, budget-friendly adventure across Spain.

On day 4 of your affordable vacation in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Bilbao, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 3 nights left in Bilbao, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sukarrieta. This car ride takes around 42 min.

Make Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,342 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bermeo. This car ride takes around 31 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, San Juan De Gaztelugatxe Hermitage is a great place to start. This hermitage church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,392 visitors.

After soaking in Bermeo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Getxo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 52 min. When you arrive in Getxo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Puerto Viejo. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,111 visitors.

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

Make the most of your budget vacation in Spain by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Bilbao that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Café Bar Bilbao, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. El Globo taberna is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to La Barraca jatetxea.

Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Spain! Make every second of your affordable travels in Bilbao count!

On day 5 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Spain, you’ll go deep into Bilbao 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 Bilbao — 2 nights.

Kick off the day at Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 6,802 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Etxebarria Parkea. Etxebarria Parkea is a park with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,229 reviews.

Albiako Lorategiak is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,047 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Zubizuri. This footbridge is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 10,295 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Artxanda Funicular, a famous funicular in Bilbao. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,055 travelers.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Bilbao. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Bilbao, 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.

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

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, budget-friendly adventure across Spain.

Day 6 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, proving that cheap holidays in Spain can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Bilbao, with 1 night to stay in the area.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Federiko Moiua Enparantza. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,235 reviews.

Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,643 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,312 reviews.

Puppy is another outstanding experience in Bilbao. Around 5,913 travelers have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Guggenheim Museum is not far away. This museum building is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 64,815 reviews.

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.

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

Mugi taberna offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Cerveceria Baskian. Or, try Gure Kabi jatetxea, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Spain!

Day 7 of your self-drive vacation in Spain will take you to the city of Valladolid, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. On your way to Valladolid, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Burgos Province.

Burgos Province’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bilbao behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 43 min. Burgos Province welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Arco De Santa María, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable triumphal arch has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,973 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Burgos Cathedral is a recommended place to visit. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 28,435 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Burgos Province is Mirador Del Castillo. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,666 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Burgos Province offers an experience you will remember.

Castillo De Burgos is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Burgos Province. This sightseeing destination promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.2 out of 5 stars in 4,597 reviews.

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

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

The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar is an excellent example of a great bar in Valladolid offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Café Bar Alborada, another of locals’ go-to bars in Valladolid. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Valladolid, Monasterio is for you.

Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Spain.

Day 8 of your exciting road trip across Spain is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Valladolid and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 1 night left in Valladolid.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Segovia, 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 Valladolid to Segovia may take around 1 hour 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Segovia, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Alcázar Of Segovia. This much-appreciated alcázar is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 49,713 reviews. Each year, 754,946 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Segovia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,509 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Plaza Mayor. This plaza mayor has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,239 reviews.

Aqueduct Of Segovia is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This stone bridge has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 95,202 reviews.

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

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Valladolid. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Restaurante Niza offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to El Corcho. Or, try La Pícara, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Rugby Bar The Central is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, The Villa Gin Bar is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day.

Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Spain.

On day 9 of your cheap holiday travels in Spain, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Valladolid, and Cerrazo. You'll stay in Santander for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Plaza Mayor is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,713 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Cathedral Of Valladolid. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 5,791 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Plaza De Zorrilla. The square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,590 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Parque Campo Grande. This park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,850 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cerrazo, 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 Valladolid to Cerrazo may take around 2 hours 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cerrazo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Drop by the renowned Laberinto De Villapresente. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,994 visitors.

Santander 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 culinary delights of Santander, 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 La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos, 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 La Barruca de Calderón - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, La Bombi promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Spain!

It’s soon time to say goodbye to Spain as your leisurely vacation is about to end. Day 10 is your departure day and your last chance to make the most of your affordable travels in Santander.

Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Santander’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Spain.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Santander is the remarkable Paseo Marítimo De Santander. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,078 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Santander or just grab something light to keep you going.

As you prepare to bid farewell to Santander, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Casa Lita, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Bodega del Riojano features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, La Magnolia is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Santander and begin your journey home. You’ll leave filled with unforgettable memories from your terrific and affordable slow-paced adventures in Spain!