Cheap 5-Day Spain Road Trip from Alicante traveling north to Cuenca and Madrid

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

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

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Parc El Palmeral. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,211 visitors.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Alicante, 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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Mish Mish, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Restaurant Dàrsena offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, LA ZONA SOCIAL BAR is the perfect spot for you!

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Café-Pub Bubyston, considered one of the best bars in Alicante. You can also enjoy drinks at Canibal Lounge Pub, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to AUSTIN, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Alicante.

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

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

Make Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant one of your first sightseeing stops in Alicante. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,219 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Santa Bárbara Castle is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This castle is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 35,044 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Archaeological Museum of Alicante. This archaeological museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,768 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Mercado Central de Alicante. A trip to this popular building is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 24,503 previous visitors.

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

Discover the heart of Cuenca through its culinary scene, starting with Restaurante Sidrería La Figal. 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 Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Marisqueria Joni, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Café Hispano, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bogart, a bar catering to every mood and preference. CAFE BAR PRINCESA likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 3 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 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Aranjuez and Aldea del Fresno.

Aranjuez’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cuenca behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 34 min. Aranjuez welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Estanque de los Chinescos. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 790 visitors.

Royal Palace of Aranjuez is another popular attraction you could visit today. This royal palace has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,506 visitors.

Garden of the Island is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,434 visitors.

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

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Safari Madrid. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,564 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.

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!

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cafe Madrid, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is 1862 Dry Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday 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 — Madrid and Albacete. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Alicante, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Main Square, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 152,388 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Market of San Miguel is a recommended place to visit. This building is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 106,296 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Madrid is El Retiro Park. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 162,386 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Madrid offers an experience you will remember.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Albacete, 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 Madrid to Albacete may take around 2 hours 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Albacete, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Passage of Lodares one of your first sightseeing stops in Albacete. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,423 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Alicante, 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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to La Taberna del Gourmet, 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 Heladería Borgonesse - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Restaurant Piripi promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at 26 Cocktail Room.

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!

Your budget road trip vacation in Spain is about to end. Day 5 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Alicante.

As you approach the end of your journey in Spain, take a moment for some retail therapy in Alicante’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’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. Hold onto the magic of Spain with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Alicante is the remarkable Parc Canalejas. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,593 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Alicante, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Restaurant L'Ereta, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Steki Restaurante is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Alicante. 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!