Cheap 11-Day Spain Road Trip from Madrid traveling east to Calatayud, Tarragona, Valencia, and Cuenca

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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Plaza De España. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 98,199 reviews.

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at El miniBAR, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Areia, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Cafe Madrid is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at 1862 Dry Bar, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

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

Day 2 means another chance to make the best memories in Madrid. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Madrid and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 2 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This association football venue is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 120,158 visitors.

Great Pond Of El Retiro is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 22,242 visitors.

El Retiro Park is also highly recommended by travelers. This urban park has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 162,386 visitors.

Crystal Palace is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,270 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Las Ventas. This bullring has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 29,501 travelers.

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.

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 Madrid that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

A road trip vacation in Madrid can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Spain!

Day 3’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Madrid, proving that cheap holidays in Spain can be extraordinary. You have 1 night left in Madrid. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Drop by the renowned Royal Palace Of Madrid. This popular royal palace has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 77,471 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Círculo De Bellas Artes. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 27,540 visitors, this movie theater deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Thyssen-bornemisza Museum. Hosting around 671,078 visitors every year, the fascinating Thyssen-bornemisza Museum is one of the best places to visit in Madrid. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 32,846 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Museo Del Prado, drawing over 3,497,345 yearly visitors. This art museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 98,929 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Casa De Campo. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 50,826 travelers, this park is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Madrid.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Madrid. 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.

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 of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at BiBo Dani García, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Malacatín, 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 Pum Pum Café, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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 4 of your self-drive vacation in Spain will take you to the town of Calatayud, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Calatayud, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Madrid.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Main Square. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 152,388 reviews.

Next up is Market Of San Miguel. This building has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía. This art museum has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 46,855 reviews. Every year, 1 traveler include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Temple Of Debod is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This egyptian temple has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 44,446 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Western Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 28,992 reviews.

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

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Calatayud has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

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 is another proof that cheap holidays in Spain can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 1 wonderful destinations — Zaragoza. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Tarragona, where you'll be spending 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Calatayud, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Zaragoza. Your travel time is around 1 hour 4 min.

Take the opportunity to see José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,535 visitors.

Cathedral Of The Savior In His Epiphany Of Zaragoza is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This co-cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,249 travelers.

Zaragoza is also the home of Puente De Piedra. Around 7,689 people have rated this bridge an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 34,215 reviews, a visit to this co-cathedral is a great idea.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at EL VERGEL VEGGIE RESTAURANT, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is CReeA - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Cube Night, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Cafeteria Florida provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Tolo offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Spain. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Spain!

On day 6 of your cheap holiday travels in Spain, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Tarragona, and Peníscola / Peñíscola. You'll stay in Valencia for 3 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Roman Circus Of Tárraco, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable chogang elementary school has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,761 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Tarragona Amphitheatre is a recommended place to visit. This roman amphitheatre is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,655 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Tarragona is Balcó Del Mediterrani. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,291 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Tarragona offers an experience you will remember.

After soaking in Tarragona’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Peníscola / Peñíscola. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 31 min. When you arrive in Peníscola / Peñíscola, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Bufador. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,367 reviews.

Next up is Peniscola Castle. This monument has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 61,572 visitors.

Valencia 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.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Café Negrito, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Cafe De Las Horas offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

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

On day 7 of your affordable vacation in Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Valencia, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 2 nights left in Valencia, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Jardins Del Real De València. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,212 reviews.

Next up, make your way to City Of Arts And Sciences. This tourist destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 125,881 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to L'oceanogràfic. This public aquarium has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 76,085 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Valencia, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to la Vall d'Uixó may take around 45 min. Upon your arrival in la Vall d'Uixó, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Coves De Sant Josep your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this cave an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,967 reviews.

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

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 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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Casa Montaña, 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 Salita de Begoña Rodrigo - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, El Lleón bar 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!

Day 8 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Valencia, 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 Valencia, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Kick off the day at Valencia Bioparc, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 43,210 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Quart Towers. Quart Towers is a fortified tower with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,889 reviews.

Mercat Central is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This market hall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 79,570 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Plaça De L'ajuntament. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,316 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Mercado De Colón, a famous building in Valencia. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 37,146 travelers.

Your discovery of Valencia does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Valencia on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Spain.

Savor the culinary delights of Valencia, 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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Bar Vermudez, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10 offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Beer & Travels is the perfect spot for you!

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday 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 Valencia. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Cuenca, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Plaça De La Reina (valència). This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Valencia, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 28,058 visitors.

Valencia Cathedral is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,457 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Plaça De La Mare De Déu. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,170 reviews.

Serrano Towers is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a fortified tower rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,998 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Instal·lacions Dels Jardins Del Túria, perhaps the most famous park in Valencia. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 37,810 travelers.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Cuenca, 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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Restaurante Sidrería La Figal, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar is another great hotspot for culinary gems.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café Hispano, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bogart. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cafe Bar Princesa, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 10 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Spain, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Cuenca. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Madrid, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Castilla-la Mancha Paleontological Museum is a great place to start. This fossil museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,372 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Castillo De Cuenca. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,266 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Science Museum Of Castilla La Mancha. The museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,072 visitors.

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.

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

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.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Spain is about to end. Day 11 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Madrid.

Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Madrid’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Spain.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Madrid is the remarkable Puerta De Alcalá. This triumphal arch and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 43,833 visitors.

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!