Cheap 12-Day Spain Road Trip from Santander traveling east to Valladolid, Madrid, Calatayud, Logrono, and Bilbao

Your exciting road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Santander, where you'll stay for 1 night. 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.

Drop by the renowned Paseo Marítimo De Santander. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,078 visitors.

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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Restaurante la Mayor, 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 Santa & Co - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Restaurante Agua Salada promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Santander, Kings Pub. Alternatively, visit Grog, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Hygge Cocktail, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

Day 2 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 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Santander.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Catedral De Santander. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 6,521 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Plaza Porticada. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,395 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Mercado Del Este. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 7,680 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Centro Botin. This art museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 14,508 visitors. Visiting Centro Botin means you'll be one of 111,096 people who do so every year.

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.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Café Bar Alborada offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Monasterio, another top-rated bar in the area.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Spain. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a 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 — Valladolid, Puerto de Navacerrada, and San Lorenzo de El Escorial. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Madrid, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Plaza Mayor, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,713 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Plaza De Zorrilla. Plaza De Zorrilla is a square with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,590 reviews.

Parque Campo Grande is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,850 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Puerto de Navacerrada. This car ride takes around 1 hour 45 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to “puerto De Navacerrada” Ski Station. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 12,637 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Puerto de Navacerrada, you’ll hit the road in the direction of San Lorenzo de El Escorial. This drive usually takes around 37 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Royal Monastery Of San Lorenzo De El Escorial. This much-appreciated monastery is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,732 reviews.

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

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.

Continue your lively evening at Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cafe Madrid is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, 1862 Dry Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Spain offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Madrid. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Calatayud, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Main Square. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 152,388 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Market Of San Miguel. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 106,296 visitors, this building deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Museo Del Prado. Hosting around 3,497,345 visitors every year, the fascinating Museo Del Prado is one of the best places to visit in Madrid. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 98,929 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is El Retiro Park. This urban park and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 162,386 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 120,158 travelers, this association football venue is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Madrid.

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

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

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

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Calatayud and set your GPS to Zaragoza. 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 1 hour 4 min. Upon reaching Zaragoza, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make José Antonio Labordeta Grand Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,535 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Cathedral Of The Savior In His Epiphany Of Zaragoza. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,249 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this co-cathedral every year.

Puente De Piedra is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,689 visitors.

When you’re finished at Puente De Piedra, the perfect next stop is Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Pillar. This co-cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 34,215 reviews.

Logrono 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, Logrono 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.

Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafeteria Robusta, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. La Laurel is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Casablancavip Cocteleria Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 6 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Spain, you’ll go deep into Logrono 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 Logrono — 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Parque De La Ribera, Logroño. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,347 reviews.

Continue your journey at Paseo De La Florida. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 175 travelers from near and far.

Logrono is also the home of Casa De Las Ciencias. This museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,638 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Bodegas Franco Españolas. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,333 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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

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

Mesón Cid offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to La Taberna de Baco. Or, try Asador El Portalón, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Visit Bar Lorenzo "agus Tio", one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Café Odeon serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Logrono.

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 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 — Logrono. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Bilbao, where you'll be spending 4 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Co-cathedral Of Santa María De La Redonda. This extraordinary catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,610 visitors.

Next, make your way to Mercado San Blas / Plaza De Abastos. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,126 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to La Laurel. This bar is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,694 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Museo De La Rioja. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 855 travelers.

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.

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 your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Stromboli Taberna, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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

Day 8 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 3 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Furnicular Bottom Station. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,866 visitors.

When you’re finished at Furnicular Bottom Station, head to Zubizuri. This one-of-a-kind footbridge is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 10,295 reviews.

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 more, then consider a visit to Guggenheim Museum. This museum building is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 64,815 visitors. Around 530,967 travelers visit Guggenheim Museum every year.

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.

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.

Start your foodie adventure at Café Bar Bilbao, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to El Globo taberna, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss La Barraca jatetxea, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

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

Day 9 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bilbao, 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 Bilbao, with 2 nights to stay in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Albiako Lorategiak. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bilbao, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,047 visitors.

Bilboko Donejakue Katedrala is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,802 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Bilboko Pasoen Museoa. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 171 reviews.

Etxebarria Parkea is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a park rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,229 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Europa Parkea, perhaps the most famous park in Bilbao. This attraction is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,593 travelers.

Touring the best attractions in Spain offers you a glimpse of the country’s history and culture. But, you’ll be surprised to know that there’s more to Spain you are yet to discover. Take part in an eye-opening experience to make the best of your affordable vacation in Spain. Choose from all of the popular and budget-friendly tickets and activities available on this day of your cheap holiday in Spain.

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at Restaurante Pentxo, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Kirol jatetxea offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Arpiku is the perfect spot for you!

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

Day 10 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 Bilbao and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Carola Garabia. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 509 reviews.

Next up is Itsasmuseum Bilbao. This museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,942 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Euskalduna Bridge. This point of interest has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,852 reviews.

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular 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.

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

Day 11 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 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Bilbao.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Federiko Moiua Enparantza. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,235 visitors.

Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,312 visitors.

Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,643 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.

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 your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Little Bobby, known for its lively atmosphere.

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 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.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Santander, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Bar La Cátedra Tapas y Vinos, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, La Barruca de Calderón features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, La Bombi is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Santander. 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!