Affordable 11-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 3 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Paseo Marítimo de Santander, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,078 reviews.

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. Santander has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Restaurante la Mayor, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Santa & Co offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Restaurante Agua Salada is the perfect spot for you!

Visit Kings Pub, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Grog serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Santander. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is HYGGE COCKTAIL.

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!

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

When you're ready to see some sights, Catedral de Santander is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 6,521 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Plaza Porticada. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,395 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Mercado del Este. The point of interest has been rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 7,680 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Centro Botin. This art museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 14,508 reviews. As a top-rated attraction, it's no surprise that 111,096 people visit Centro Botin every year.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Monte, 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 Monte may take around 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Monte, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to La Maruca. This extraordinary beach is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,192 visitors.

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

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

Little Bobby is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day.

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 exciting road trip across Spain is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Santander 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 Santander.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico. Previous visitors have rated this maritime museum an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,771 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Santander, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cueto may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Cueto, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Centro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,037 visitors.

Next, make your way to Playa de Mataleñas. This beach is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,910 reviews.

While in Cueto, we also recommend a visit to Parque de Mataleñas. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,724 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Llamas Park. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,849 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Cueto.

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

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 exploring, unwind at the popular Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. La Barruca de Calderón is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to La Bombi.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through 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 touring 4 wonderful destinations — Portugalete, Getxo, Urkiola, and Sukarrieta. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Bilbao, where you'll be spending 4 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Santander, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Portugalete. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Vizcaya Bridge, a remarkable suspension bridge where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 28,202 reviews.

Getxo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Portugalete behind. This drive usually takes around 21 min. Getxo welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Playa de Ereaga, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,632 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Puerto Viejo is a recommended place to visit. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,111 reviews.

Set your GPS to Urkiola and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 46 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Urkiola beckons with new experiences!

Make Urkiola parke naturala one of your first sightseeing stops in Urkiola. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,381 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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. Bilbao has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Stromboli taberna, 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.

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 — 3 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Artxanda Funicular. This funicular is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,055 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Europa parkea. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,593 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Guggenheim Museum. This museum building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 64,815 visitors. Up to 530,967 people visit this place of interest annually.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Puppy. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,913 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Athletic Club Museoa · Tour San Mamés. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,025 visitors.

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.

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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Café Bar Bilbao, 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 El Globo taberna - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, La Barraca jatetxea promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

Day 6 means another chance to make the best memories in Bilbao. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Bilbao 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!

Make Euskalduna Bridge one of your first sightseeing stops in Bilbao. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,852 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Itsasmuseum Bilbao 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 1,942 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,643 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao. A trip to this popular museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 8,312 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Federiko Moiua enparantza. This sightseeing destination enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,235 local and international travelers.

Your discovery of Bilbao does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Bilbao 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.

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

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

Cheers for a relaxing road trip vacation in Spain! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Bilbao!

Day 7’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, proving that cheap holidays in Spain can be extraordinary. You have 1 night left in Bilbao. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Bilboko Donejakue katedrala. This much-appreciated church is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 6,802 reviews.

Next up is Etxebarria parkea. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,229 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Albiako Lorategiak. This park has been rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 4,047 reviews.

Zubizuri is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This footbridge has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 10,295 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Furnicular bottom station. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,866 reviews.

Spain is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in Spain, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to Spain. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in Spain that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.

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. Bilbao has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

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

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

On day 8 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Spain, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Burgos Province. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Valladolid, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Burgos Province, 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 Bilbao to Burgos Province may take around 1 hour 43 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Burgos Province, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Castillo de Burgos your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 4,597 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Mirador Del Castillo. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,666 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Burgos Cathedral is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 28,435 visitors.

When you’re finished at Burgos Cathedral, the perfect next stop is Abbey of Santa María la Real de Las Huelgas. This cistercian nunnery is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,194 reviews.

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.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, considered one of the best bars in Valladolid. You can also enjoy drinks at Café Bar Alborada, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Monasterio, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Valladolid.

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

Ready for day 9 of your road trip vacation in Spain? Discover more of Valladolid 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!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Segovia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Alcázar of Segovia. This alcázar gets 754,946 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 49,713 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Segovia Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,509 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Plaza Mayor. This plaza mayor has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,239 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Aqueduct of Segovia. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 95,202 visitors.

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

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

Restaurante Niza 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, El Corcho offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at La Pícara, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at RUGBY BAR THE CENTRAL, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at THE VILLA GIN BAR, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment.

Cheers for a relaxing road trip vacation in Spain! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Valladolid!

Day 10 of your self-drive vacation in Spain will take you to the city of Santander, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Santander, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Fontibre, Santillana del Mar, and Villaescusa.

After soaking in Valladolid’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Fontibre. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 50 min. When you arrive in Fontibre, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Nacimiento del Rio Ebro. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,575 visitors.

Set your GPS to Santillana del Mar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 47 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Santillana del Mar beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at National Museum and Research Center of Altamira. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,249 visitors.

When you’re finished at National Museum and Research Center of Altamira, head to Cave of Altamira. This one-of-a-kind cave with prehistoric art is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 13,460 reviews.

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 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Cabarceno Natural Park. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 45,839 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 your preferred affordable place to stay.

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, Santander 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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Casa Lita, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Bodega del Riojano offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, La Magnolia is the perfect spot for you!

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

It’s soon time to say goodbye to Spain as your leisurely vacation is about to end. Day 11 is your departure day and your last chance to make the most of your affordable travels in Santander.

Make the most of your final day in Spain by visiting Santander’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 Santander is the remarkable Ascensor Río de la Pila. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 1,667 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 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 Daría, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Cervecería Isae features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Restaurante Gele 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!