Cheap 12-Day Spain Road Trip from Málaga to Granada, Ciudad Real, Madrid, Plasencia, and Seville

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

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

After a long day of exploring and making the most of your budget vacation in Spain, treat yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Málaga that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

One musty-try restaurant is Buenavista Gastrobar & Tapas. This restaurant offers good food at reasonable prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,277 customers.

La Casa del Perro is an excellent alternative with an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 604 reviews. La Casa del Perro is known for its delicious meals that will surely satisfy your hunger.

Another of the best places to eat in the area is Los Mellizos Málaga. This restaurant has an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 7,269 customers because of their good food, service, and ambiance.

Speakeasy “The Pharmacy” offers many snacks and liquors at different price points and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 535 customers.

If you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Málaga, check out Nusa Malaga. This bar is an excellent place to hang out and relax after a busy day, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,443 customers.

To ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination, visit Morrissey's Irish Pub. Morrissey's Irish Pub offers affordable drinks and snacks and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,462 reviews.

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

Day 2 of your road trip across Spain offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Málaga and Granada. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Granada.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Iglesia Catedral de la Encarnación. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,609 visitors.

Picasso Museum Málaga is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 24,075 visitors.

Plaza de la Merced is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,095 visitors.

Alcazaba is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,648 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Castle of Gibralpharo. This museum has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,046 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Granada, 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 Málaga to Granada may take around 1 hour 30 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

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

Eat at Restaurante Palacio Andaluz Almona. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,367 reviews.

You can also check out El Mercader. Offering appetizing foods and refreshing beverages at reasonable prices, this restaurant is an excellent choice for budget travelers. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 998 diners.

Another great restaurant we recommend you go to after your activities is La Cuchara de Carmela. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,305 customers, this restaurant is sure to provide you with a memorable dining experience.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, an awesome bar you can go to is Flamenco Granada - Tablao Jardines de Zoraya. This place has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,495 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Continental Café Pub Granada. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,318 customers.

Puerta del Carmen is another great place where you can celebrate your adventures in Granada. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,595 customers.

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

On day 3 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Spain, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Granada, Jaen, and Ciudad Real. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Ciudad Real.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Nasrid Palaces. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 20,263 reviews.

Palace of Charles V is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This palace is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,429 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Alhambra. This architectural ensemble is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 127,431 reviews.

Set your GPS to Jaen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Jaen beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Andrés de Vandelvira Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,950 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Jaen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ciudad Real. This drive usually takes around 2 hours. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Ciudad Real 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.

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, Ciudad Real is also home to a variety of excellent dining spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and drink.

A road trip vacation in Granada 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 Madrid, where you'll be staying for 5 nights. On your way to Madrid, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Toledo and Madrid.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Toledo. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Zocodover. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,930 visitors.

Alcázar of Toledo is another popular attraction you could visit today. This alcázar has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,193 visitors.

Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo is also highly recommended by travelers. This church has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,938 visitors.

Mirador del Valle is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This landmark is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,058 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is San Martin's Bridge. This sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,516 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Madrid, 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 Toledo to Madrid may take around 59 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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.

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Madrid, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best dining options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate.

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended Salmon Guru. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,802 customers.

Coque is another local-favorite restaurant in Madrid. Coque serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,191 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, El Social is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Toledo. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 of 5 stars from around 944 customers.

When you’ve finished dinner and you’re in the mood for a drink, we recommend visiting one of the best bars in Madrid. El miniBAR offers plenty of drink options for every taste and budget. Around 4,297 customers have given this bar an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Alternatively, go to a bar that locals recommend, like Areia. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,973 customers.

If you're looking for something else, check out James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid. This bar is one of the best places to enjoy a drink and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,124 customers.

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

On day 5 of your budget-friendly road trip adventures in Spain, you’ll go deep into Segovia, making the most of your 4 nights in the city. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Segovia, and meet locals along the way!

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

We recommend a local favorite like El Jardín Secreto Madrid. This restaurant serves delicious dishes at surprisingly cheap prices and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,058 customers.

Pum Pum Café is another excellent restaurant we recommend for budget travelers in Madrid. This restaurant offers good food at even better prices and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,614 customers.

Another popular restaurant in Madrid you might want to check out is Corral de la Morería. Corral de la Morería is a local favorite with a variety of value-for-money dishes on their menu. Customers have rated this fantastic restaurant an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,011 reviews.

Enjoy a drink or two at 1862 Dry Bar. Around 1,987 customers have given this incredible bar an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Taberna del Alabardero de Madrid, where you can relax and have some fun. Taberna del Alabardero de Madrid is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,525 customers.

Another top-rated bar option is Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, averaging 4.6 out of 5 stars in 966 reviews. This bar is known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

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

Day 6 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Spain. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Madrid!

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

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.

One place locals and cheap holiday-goers recommend is La Mi Venta. This restaurant is known for its delicious and comforting foods and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,658 customers.

Malacatín is another popular restaurant you can eat at to ensure an affordable and pleasant vacation. This restaurant serves good food at low prices and has an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,017 customers.

JUNGLEKING - International Food & XL Brunch in Madrid has a menu of appetizing and reasonably priced meals, so you might want to check it out too. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,533 reviews.

Harvey's Cocktail Bar is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,137 customers.

Cafe Madrid is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. Cafe Madrid has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 662 bar-goers, proving it's one of the most popular bars in Madrid.

You might also want to cap the night off at Inclán Brutal Bar, a fascinating bar that 7,713 customers have rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in their reviews.

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

Day 7 means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Spain, Madrid. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Madrid!

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.

After a long day of exploring and making the most of your budget vacation in Spain, treat 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.

Eat at La Bien Aparecida. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,473 reviews.

You can also check out Prada a Tope Madrid. Offering appetizing foods and refreshing beverages at reasonable prices, this restaurant is an excellent choice for budget travelers. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,511 diners.

Another great restaurant we recommend you go to after your activities is Arrabal Madrid. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,924 customers, this restaurant is sure to provide you with a memorable dining experience.

One great example is Taberna El Sur. This bar offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices and has an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,959 customers.

Mercado de la Reina 12 is another popular bar in Madrid. If you ask the 6,470 customers who have rated it an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars, Mercado de la Reina 12 is the perfect place to hang out for a drink or two.

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 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.

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

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Madrid, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best dining options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into the top-rated Mas Al Sur. This bar is considered one of the best in Madrid and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,973 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Cervantes Cervecería, rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,073 customers. Alternatively, go to Sagaretxe. This is one of the most frequently recommended bars in Madrid and boasts an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 3,358 reviews.

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

Day 9 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 exploring 2 wonderful destinations — Madrid and Plasencia.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Main Square. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 152,388 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Market of San Miguel. This building has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 106,296 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Almudena Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,842 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Royal Palace of Madrid. This royal palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 77,471 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to plaza de España. This square is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 98,199 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Madrid, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Plasencia may take around 2 hours 26 min. Upon your arrival in Plasencia, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

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

A cheap, budget vacation in Plasencia should not stop you from enjoying incredible food. When you’re ready to have the best dining experience in Plasencia, try some of our top recommendations.

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

Day 10 of your road trip across Spain offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Merida and Seville. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Seville.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Merida. This car ride takes around 1 hour 31 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Roman Theatre of Emerita Augusta. This roman theatre is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Merida, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 37,382 visitors.

National Museum of Roman Art is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,891 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Pórtico del Foro Municipal de Augusta Emérita. Visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 563 reviews.

Temple of Diana is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a roman temple rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,292 reviews.

Seville’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Merida behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 53 min. Seville welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Seville 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.

When it’s time to eat, treat yourself to a lovely meal without paying more than necessary. Seville has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

An excellent option with an exciting menu is Espacio Eslava. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,248 customers.

Another dining option is Almazen café. This restaurant is popular among locals and cheap holiday-goers for its delicious food and reasonable prices. Almazen café has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,114 reviews.

Make sure to stop by El Rinconcillo for a great dining experience. A favorite place to eat among many, around 10,849 customers have rated the irresistible El Rinconcillo an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

One of the best bars in Seville you could visit tonight after your dinner is La Brunilda Tapas. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,867 customers.

Another popular bar in the city is Ovejas Negras Tapas. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,733 customers.

Locals also enjoy Bar Catedral Sevilla. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,057 customers.

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

On day 11 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Spain, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Seville and Málaga. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Málaga.

Journey into the unknown at Metropol Parasol, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable monument has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 78,849 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Giralda is a recommended place to visit. This bell tower is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 36,814 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Seville is Catedral de Sevilla. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,052 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Seville offers an experience you will remember.

Royal Alcázar of Seville is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Seville. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 74,238 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Plaza de España. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 141,385 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Seville and set your GPS to Málaga. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 21 min. Upon reaching Málaga, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Málaga, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the town offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

One place locals and cheap holiday-goers recommend is Amigos Málaga Centro. This restaurant is known for its delicious and comforting foods and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,715 customers.

Chiringuito El Cachalote is another popular restaurant you can eat at to ensure an affordable and pleasant vacation. This restaurant serves good food at low prices and has an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,090 customers.

Pampa Grill Málaga has a menu of appetizing and reasonably priced meals, so you might want to check it out too. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,897 reviews.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend El Mesón de Cervantes, claiming it’s one of the best. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,011 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the town is Bar Málaga. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,183 customers.

La Terraza De Valeria is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,122 customers.

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 Málaga.

As you approach the end of your journey in Spain, take a moment for some retail therapy in Málaga’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the town’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family, or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Spain, a variety of items are waiting for you.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Málaga, consider a top-rated restaurant like El Gastronauta. This restaurant has a menu of appetizing and affordable meals and is rated at an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,852 customers.

Next Level Specialty Coffee is an excellent alternative if you feel like eating something else. This restaurant serves a variety of savory and budget-friendly dishes and has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 1,291 customers.

Another popular restaurant you could check out is La ristobottega. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,135 customers, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of Spain and your fun memories in Málaga.

You’ll then say farewell to Málaga. 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!