Cheap 12-Day Spain Road Trip from Bilbao to Santander, Valladolid, Madrid, Arévalo, and Vitoria-Gasteiz

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

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

Make Federiko Moiua enparantza your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,235 reviews.

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

La Viña del Ensanche 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 Iruña offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Iturriza Taberna, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Visit Stromboli taberna, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots.

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

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

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Santander. This car ride takes around 1 hour 11 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Zubizuri. This footbridge is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 10,295 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Puppy. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,913 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 Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,312 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,643 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Restaurante la Mayor, 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 Santa & Co - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Restaurante Agua Salada, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kings Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Grog provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, HYGGE COCKTAIL 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!

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

Upon reaching Villaescusa, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Cabarceno Natural Park. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 45,839 visitors.

When you arrive in Santander, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Plaza Porticada. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,395 reviews.

Continue your journey at Mercado del Este. This point of interest is rated 4.1 out of 5 stars by 7,680 travelers from near and far.

Santander is also the home of Plaza de Pombo. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,913 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Centro Botin. A total of 111,096 people explore this attraction every year. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 14,508 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular The other library Café, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Café & copas Murmullo is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to ATYPIKAL.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Café Bar Alborada, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Monasterio provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

A road trip vacation in Villaescusa can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination 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 touring 2 wonderful destinations — Real Sitio de San Ildefonso and Segovia. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Madrid, where you'll be spending 5 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Real Sitio de San Ildefonso, 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 Segovia to Real Sitio de San Ildefonso may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Real Sitio de San Ildefonso, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,635 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Valladolid, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Segovia. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Alcázar of Segovia one of your first sightseeing stops in Segovia. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 49,713 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This alcázar attracts 754,946 visitors every year.

Segovia Cathedral is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This catholic cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,509 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Aqueduct of Segovia. This stone bridge has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 95,202 visitors.

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.

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at El miniBAR, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Areia is the perfect spot for you!

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cafe Madrid offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Madrid. 1862 Dry Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 5 means another chance to make the best memories in Toledo. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Toledo and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 4 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at La Mi Venta, 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 Mas Al Sur - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Prada a Tope Madrid, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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

Day 6’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 ample time, or 3 nights, to stay in Madrid. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. This extraordinary art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 46,855 visitors. Each year, around 1 person visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Museo del Prado. This art museum welcomes around 3,497,345 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 98,929 reviews.

While in Madrid, we also recommend a visit to Main Square. This square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 152,388 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Market of San Miguel. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 106,296 travelers, this building is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Madrid.

Make your way to Casa de Campo, perhaps the most famous park in Madrid. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 50,826 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.

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at BiBo Dani García, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Malacatín offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Pum Pum Café is the perfect spot for you!

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

On day 7 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 — 2 nights.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, a remarkable association football venue where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 120,158 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Las Ventas. This bullring has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 29,501 travelers.

Zoo Aquarium de Madrid is another must-visit attraction. This renowned zoo offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 33,779 travelers, 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 Puerta de Alcalá. This well-loved triumphal arch boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 43,833 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Círculo de Bellas Artes awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a movie theater, this is a top pick rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 27,540 previous visitors.

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.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Sagaretxe, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Arrabal Madrid, 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 Taberna El Sur, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

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

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Matadero Madrid. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 24,723 reviews.

Continue your journey at Almudena Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,842 travelers from near and far.

Madrid is also the home of Royal Palace of Madrid. This royal palace has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,471 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at plaza de España. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 98,199 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Temple of Debod. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 44,446 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this egyptian temple.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Spain. To have the best affordable travel experience in Spain, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Spain unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Spain.

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.

Start your foodie adventure at James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Restaurante El Espigón Madrid, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Coque, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

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

On day 9 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Spain, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Madrid. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Arévalo, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Madrid, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Arévalo. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. This art museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Madrid, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 32,846 visitors. Around 671,078 people visit this attraction every year.

El Retiro Park is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 162,386 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Crystal Palace. Visitors have rated this building an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,270 reviews.

Great Pond of El Retiro is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a park rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 22,242 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Western Park, perhaps the most famous park in Madrid. This attraction is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 28,992 travelers.

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

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

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

Day 10 of your road trip across Spain offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Burgos Province. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Vitoria-Gasteiz, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Burgos Province’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Arévalo behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 5 min. Burgos Province welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Puente de Santa María. This bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 699 visitors.

When you’re finished at Puente de Santa María, head to Arco de Santa María. This one-of-a-kind triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,973 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Burgos Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 28,435 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Mirador Del Castillo. This point of interest is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,666 visitors.

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

Discover the heart of Vitoria-Gasteiz through its culinary scene, starting with Mano lenta jatetxea. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Restaurante-Asador Matxete, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Bar Txiki, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Soho Vitoria-Cocktail Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Taberna Txustarra, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Aldapa Taberna also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 11 of your cheap holiday travels in Spain, you’ll tour 2: San Sebastian and Portugalete. You'll stay in Bilbao for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

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

Journey into the unknown at Gipuzkoa Plaza, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,940 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Alderdi Eder Parkea is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,442 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in San Sebastian is Beach of La Concha. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,054 travelers, this popular tourist destination in San Sebastian offers an experience you will remember.

Funicular Monte Igueldo is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in San Sebastian. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,567 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Portugalete, 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 San Sebastian to Portugalete may take around 1 hour 22 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Portugalete, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Drop by the renowned Vizcaya Bridge. This popular suspension bridge has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 28,202 visitors.

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 any of the following affordable places 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, Bilbao 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 filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Café Bar Bilbao, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, El Globo taberna is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to La Barraca jatetxea, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Spain is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Bilbao.

As your final day in Spain unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Bilbao’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Spain. Keep the spirit of your trip to Spain alive with these special souvenirs.

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

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

You’ll then say farewell to Bilbao. 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!