Cheap 12-Day Spain Road Trip from Madrid traveling north to Valencia, Barcelona, Zaragoza, Santander, and Leon

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.

Take the opportunity to see Western Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 28,992 visitors.

Savor the culinary delights of Madrid, 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.

El miniBAR offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix. Or, try Areia, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

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’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 2 nights left in Madrid. 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 Museo Del Prado. This much-appreciated art museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 98,929 reviews. Each year, 3,497,345 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is El Retiro Park. This urban park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 162,386 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.

Main Square is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 152,388 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Market Of San Miguel. This building is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 106,296 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.

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

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

Day 3 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 Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This association football venue is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 120,158 reviews.

Continue your journey at National Archaeological Museum. This national museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,100 travelers from near and far.

Madrid is also the home of Puerta De Alcalá. This triumphal arch has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 43,833 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Thyssen-bornemisza Museum. A total of 671,078 people explore this attraction every year. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 32,846 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Círculo De Bellas Artes. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,540 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this movie theater.

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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Madrid, 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 BiBo Dani García, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Malacatín is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Pum Pum Café.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Palace Of Madrid. This royal palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,471 visitors.

Temple Of Debod is another popular attraction you could visit today. This egyptian temple has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 44,446 visitors.

Plaza De España is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 98,199 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.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Valencia. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Valencia, 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 Valencia offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Spain.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café Negrito is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cafe De Las Horas, offering a different kind of charm.

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

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Spain, you’ll tour 1 destination: Valencia. You'll stay in Barcelona for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Mercat Central. This extraordinary market hall has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 79,570 visitors.

Next, make your way to Serrano Towers. This fortified tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,998 reviews.

While in Valencia, we also recommend a visit to City Of Arts And Sciences. This tourist destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 125,881 reviews.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Barcelona, 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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bobby's Free is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Torre Rosa is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 6 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Spain. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Barcelona and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Park Güell. This sculpture garden is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 181,403 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Sagrada Família. This minor basilica has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 226,955 reviews. Usually, around 4,527,427 people visit Sagrada Família every year.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to La Pedrera. This monument has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 85,188 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Casa Batlló. This tourist attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 125,060 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Cathedral Of The Holy Cross And Saint Eulalia. This catholic cathedral is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 62,263 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Barcelona. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Barcelona offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Spain worth remembering for a lifetime.

Savor the culinary delights of Barcelona, 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 ARTiSA Barcelona, 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 Restaurant El Foro - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Braseria La Selva Barcelona promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Dr Stravinsky, considered one of the best bars in Barcelona. You can also enjoy drinks at El Xampanyet, known for its fun atmosphere.

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

On day 7 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Spain, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Barcelona. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Zaragoza, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Parc De La Ciutadella. This urban park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Barcelona, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 68,100 visitors.

Arc De Triomf is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,887 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 Catalunya. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 175,036 reviews.

Mercado De La Boqueria is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a point of interest rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 160,835 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Magic Fountain Of Montjuïc, perhaps the most famous fountain in Barcelona. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 85,986 travelers.

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza, 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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Be A Legend Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar El Circo for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Rock & Blues Cafe is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 8 of your road trip across Spain is another proof that cheap holidays in Spain can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 1 wonderful destinations — Bilbao. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Santander, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Zaragoza, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bilbao. Your travel time is around 3 hours 3 min.

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

Next up, make a stop at Puppy. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,913 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Guggenheim Museum is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This museum building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 64,815 visitors. Up to 530,967 travelers come to Bilbao every year to see Guggenheim Museum with their own eyes.

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.

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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kings Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Grog offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Santander. Hygge Cocktail is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 9 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 1 night 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 for some sightseeing, make your way to Centro Botin. This much-appreciated art museum is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 14,508 reviews. Each year, 111,096 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Mercado Del Este. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 7,680 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Catedral De Santander. This museum has been rated 4.2 out of 5 stars in 6,521 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Santillana del Mar. This drive usually takes around 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cave Of Altamira. This extraordinary cave with prehistoric art is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 13,460 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Villaescusa. This car ride takes around 29 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cabarceno Natural Park. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 45,839 reviews.

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

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 El Sol, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Restaurante Posada Del Mar offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Cadelo Restaurante is the perfect spot for you!

Little Bobby is an excellent example of a great bar in Santander offering drinks at reasonable prices.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday 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 Gijon. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Leon, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Gijon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Santander behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 47 min. Gijon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Universidad Laboral De Gijón. This labor universities is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,743 reviews.

Continue your journey at San Lorenzo Beach. This beach is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,583 travelers from near and far.

Gijon is also the home of Begoña Park. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,212 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Las Letronas. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,615 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Elogio Del Horizonte. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,387 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this sculpture.

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

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, Leon 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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Chelsea, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Café Bar Silver provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

Day 11 of your self-drive vacation in Spain will take you to the city of Madrid, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Madrid, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Leon.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to León Cathedra. This much-appreciated catholic cathedral is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 30,058 reviews.

Next up is Basilica Of San Isidoro. This collegiate church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,015 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Casa De Los Botines. This building has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,594 reviews.

Madrid 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 Madrid. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Sagaretxe 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, Arrabal Madrid offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Taberna El Sur, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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

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

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Madrid’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Madrid is the remarkable Toledo Gate. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,684 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!