Cheap 7-Day Spain Road Trip from Alicante to Valencia and Cartagena and surrounding area

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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Parc Canalejas. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,593 reviews.

Savor the culinary delights of Alicante, 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.

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!

Café-Pub Bubyston offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Alicante, check out Canibal Lounge Pub. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at AUSTIN.

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 Valencia, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari d'Alacant. This extraordinary church has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,219 visitors.

Next, make your way to Santa Bárbara Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 35,044 reviews.

While in Alicante, we also recommend a visit to Archaeological Museum of Alicante. This archaeological museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,768 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Mercado Central de Alicante. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 24,503 travelers, this building is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Alicante.

Make your way to Parc El Palmeral, perhaps the most famous park in Alicante. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,211 reviews.

Valencia 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.

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

Ubik Cafè Cafeteria Llibreria 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, USUAL resto-bar offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Éter Valencia, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café Negrito, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cafe de las Horas offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

Day 3 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Valencia, 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 Valencia, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Make Mercat Central your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this market hall an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 79,570 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Serrano Towers. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,998 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this fortified tower every year.

City of Arts and Sciences is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This tourist destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 125,881 visitors.

When you’re finished at City of Arts and Sciences, the perfect next stop is L'Oceanogràfic. This public aquarium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 76,085 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.

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Casa Montaña, 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 La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, El Lleón bar promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

On day 4 of your cheap holiday travels in Spain, you’ll tour 2: Benidorm and Murcia. You'll stay in Cartagena 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 Valencia and set your GPS to Benidorm. 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 33 min. Upon reaching Benidorm, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Plaça Triangular, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,047 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Benidorm, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Murcia. Your travel time is around 1 hour 27 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Murcia's Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Murcia, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,947 visitors.

Plaza de las Flores is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,389 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Jardín de Floridablanca. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,929 reviews.

While exploring Spain is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Cartagena has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Cartagena 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 Cartagena. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to La Cartela, 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 Omkara - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Restaurante Magoga promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Mostacho Café Bar III offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, El escondite is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Sol is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 5 means another chance to make the best memories in Cartagena. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Cartagena and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Batería de Castillitos. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,055 reviews.

Naval Museum Cartagena is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,771 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is National Museum of Underwater Archaeology. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,845 reviews.

Experiencia 43 is another outstanding experience in Cartagena. Around 1,012 travelers have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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.

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at Restaurante La Taranta, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? El Trovador offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Restaurante la sella cartagena is the perfect spot for you!

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Cartagena, Cervecería "Gas". Camden Bar is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Mr. Witt Café, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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

Day 6 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 — Cartagena. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Alicante, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Roman theatre of Cartagena, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable archaeological site has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,504 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, House of Fortune is a recommended place to visit. This domus is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,104 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Cartagena is Parque de Alfonso Torres. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,477 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Cartagena offers an experience you will remember.

Estatua Icue is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Cartagena. This point of interest promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,302 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Museo Foro Romano. Molinete. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,591 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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

Discovering the culinary wonders of Alicante 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 Alicante through its culinary scene, starting with La Taberna del Gourmet. 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 Heladería Borgonesse, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Restaurant Piripi, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Cap off your dinner by heading to 26 Cocktail Room, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Spain is about to end. Day 7 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Alicante.

Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Alicante’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Spain, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Spain home with you through these charming souvenirs.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Alicante is the remarkable El Carrer dels Bolets. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,121 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!