Cheap 7-Day Spain Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Santander to Valladolid, Madrid, and Vitoria-Gasteiz
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Kickstart an unforgettable journey with this 7-day cheap road trip in Spain, tailored for travelers on a budget. Explore Santander, Cueto, Valladolid, San Lorenzo de El Escorial, El Escorial, Madrid, Vitoria-Gasteiz, and Bilbao, where every turn is a new discovery.
Explore Spain for less and on your own terms. This customizable and cheap Spain travel package promises an exhilarating 7-day adventure. We'll introduce you to many famous and affordable vacation spots in the country.
Stay comfortably at a top-rated budget hotel for 2 nights in Santander, 1 night in Valladolid, 2 nights in Madrid, and 1 night in Vitoria-Gasteiz. Dine with locals at popular restaurants and bars across Spain and get a taste of the people’s hospitality and authentic food. We'll help you have an unforgettable road trip experience in Spain at the lowest price!
On arrival in Santander, you'll pick up your rental vehicle. From there, you'll begin your journey to the best and cheapest places to travel to in Spain. Spain offers a wealth of world-class natural and scenic beauty you wouldn't want to miss!
During your cheap holiday in Spain, the choice of accommodation is entirely yours. Enjoy the freedom to select the ideal budget-friendly stay that perfectly matches your needs. Rest assured, your affordable accommodation will provide a welcoming retreat after a day of exploration and discovery.
Throughout your road trip in Spain, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Spain.
This affordable holiday package includes everything you need for a fantastic 7-day vacation in Spain. We'll offer you cheap flights and arrange your hotel reservations for 6 nights. We'll also provide you with the best budget rental car in Spain with CDW insurance.
You can customize your Spain travel plan for a more personalized holiday experience. Choose from popular and competitively-priced tours and tickets in Spain and add your picks to your itinerary. For example, get cheap tour tickets to uncover the stories behind Spain's famous sights. Or, try out some of the most fantastic excursions. There's no better way to add more culture and inspiration to your trip!
Booking this cheap holiday package in Spain offers you many perks. You'll get 24/7 travel support. In addition, you'll have access to a step-by-step guide in our mobile app. Here, you'll find all your travel documents organized in one place.
So what are you waiting for? Enjoy a hassle-free vacation in Spain with this cheap holiday deal! The best and most affordable tours in Spain fill up fast, so book your adventure today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Santander - arrival day
- Santander - Arrival day
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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.
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.
Santander is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Mercado Del Este or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
A cheap, budget vacation in Santander should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Santander, try some of our top recommendations.
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, Marcello Restaurante promises to deliver a feast for the senses.
Kings Pub offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Santander, check out Grog. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Hygge Cocktail.
Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Spain!
Day 2 – Santander, Cueto, and Valladolid
- Santander
- Cueto
- Valladolid
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Drive 263 km, 3 hours 6 min
- Llamas Park
- Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico
- Centro de Arte Faro Cabo Mayor
- Botin Centre
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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 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Cueto and Santander.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Santander, including a maritime museum and an art gallery. Start your day with a visit to Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico. This frequently visited maritime museum is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Centro Botin, which may be one of the most detailed places you will experience today.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cueto.
Your self-guided tour starts at Llamas Park, a locally appreciated park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor and admire its picture-perfect features.
While exploring Spain is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Valladolid has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Valladolid 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 Valladolid offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Spain.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Panoramix. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Esgueva, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Largo Adiós provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Spain with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Spain!
Day 3 – Valladolid, San Lorenzo de El Escorial, El Escorial, and Madrid
- Valladolid
- San Lorenzo de El Escorial
- El Escorial
- Madrid
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Drive 234 km, 3 hours 27 min
- Royal Basilica of San Lorenzo de El Escorial
- Silla de Felipe II
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Day 3 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 — San Lorenzo de El Escorial and El Escorial. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Madrid, where you'll be spending 2 nights.
Take your self-guided tour to “puerto De Navacerrada” Ski Station, an interesting ski resort that everyone visiting San Lorenzo de El Escorial should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
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 San Lorenzo de El Escorial to Madrid may take around 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Madrid, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take your self-guided tour to Royal Monastery Of San Lorenzo De El Escorial, a popular monastery that everyone visiting San Lorenzo de El Escorial should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Frailes Garden. This romantic park is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Silla De Felipe Ii, an enchanting historical landmark, popular among locals as well as travelers.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, El Escorial.
Spend your afternoon discovering Casita Del Príncipe, an increasingly popular palace known for its history-steeped features.
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.
A cheap, budget vacation in Madrid should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Madrid, try some of our top recommendations.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Yambala, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cafe Madrid is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
A road trip vacation in San Lorenzo de El Escorial can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Spain!
Day 4 – Madrid
- Madrid
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Drive 10 km, 47 min
- Puerta de Alcalá
- Museo del Prado
- El Retiro Park
- Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
- Market of San Miguel
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Day 4 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.
Start by visiting Puerta De Alcalá, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Museo Del Prado, another must-visit landmark and globally renowned museum renowned for its heritage-rich features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Madrid by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to El Retiro Park. This standout park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Museo Nacional Centro De Arte Reina Sofía also adds charm to your journey, and Market Of San Miguel wraps up your day with its instagrammable appeal.
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.
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.
Start your foodie adventure at Alhambra, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Restaurante Alabaster, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!
After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Madrid, Jazz Bar. Alternatively, visit España Building, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by 1862 Dry Bar, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.
Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Spain! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Madrid!
Day 5 – Madrid and Vitoria-Gasteiz
- Madrid
- Vitoria-Gasteiz
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Drive 356 km, 4 hours 2 min
- Main Square
- Royal Palace of Madrid
- plaza de España
- Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
- El Retiro Park
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On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Spain, you’ll tour 1 destination: Madrid. You'll stay in Vitoria-Gasteiz for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.
Madrid is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square, a palace, and a stadium. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the globally renowned Main Square. Just a short distance away is Royal Palace Of Madrid, a romantic palace that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Plaza De España, one of the city’s most astonishing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the globally renowned Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Vitoria-Gasteiz, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.
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, Vitoria-Gasteiz 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Mano lenta jatetxea, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is La Riojana Restaurante - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Soho Vitoria-cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Taberna Txustarra offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Aldapa Taberna is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Spain. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Spain!
Day 6 – Vitoria-Gasteiz, Bilbao, and Santander
- Vitoria-Gasteiz
- Bilbao
- Santander
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Drive 171 km, 2 hours 30 min
- Parque Etxebarria
- Guggenheim Museum
- Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao
- Federiko Moiua enparantza
- Doña Casilda Iturrizar park
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Day 6 of your road trip across Spain offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Bilbao. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Santander, where you'll stay for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Vitoria-Gasteiz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bilbao. This drive usually takes around 58 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your journey at Etxebarri Parkea and explore the instagrammable features. Next, make your way to Guggenheim Museum, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the museum building, continue to Museum Of Fine Arts Of Bilbao, an instagrammable museum. Nearby, you will also find Federico Moyúa Enparantza. This locally appreciated point of interest is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park, a romantic park that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.
While exploring Spain is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Santander has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Santander on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.
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. Santander has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.
Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Little Bobby, known for its lively atmosphere.
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 – Santander - departure day
- Santander - Departure day
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- Plaza Porticada
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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 Santander.
Maximize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Santander’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Spain.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Santander is the remarkable Plaza Porticada. This public square and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,321 visitors.
Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Santander.
If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Santander, consider a top-rated restaurant like Restaurante La Nueva Gaviota, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. El Sol is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Restaurante Posada Del Mar, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Santander.
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!
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