Cheap 9-Day Spain Road Trip from Granada traveling east to Almeria, Alicante, Valencia, Cuenca, Madrid, and Ciudad Real

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

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

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.

An excellent option with an exciting menu is Restaurante Palacio Andaluz Almona. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,367 customers.

Another dining option is El Mercader. This restaurant is popular among locals and cheap holiday-goers for its delicious food and reasonable prices. El Mercader has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 998 reviews.

Make sure to stop by La Cuchara de Carmela for a great dining experience. A favorite place to eat among many, around 3,305 customers have rated the irresistible La Cuchara de Carmela an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Granada, Flamenco Granada - Tablao Jardines de Zoraya. This bar offers a variety of liquors at different price points and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,495 customers.

Continental Café Pub Granada is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. This bar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,318 customers.

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 2 charming destinations — Granada and Almeria. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Almeria.

Journey into the unknown at S. A. I. Catedral Metropolitana de la Encarnación, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,036 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Alhambra is a recommended place to visit. This architectural ensemble is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 127,431 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Granada is Palace of Charles V. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,429 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Granada offers an experience you will remember.

Nasrid Palaces is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Granada. This point of interest promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.8 out of 5 stars in 20,263 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Mirador de San Nicolas, Granada. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 63,173 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Almeria’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Granada behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 47 min. Almeria welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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

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

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended Jovellanos 16. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,101 customers.

Tony Garcia Espacio Gastronómico is another local-favorite restaurant in Almeria. Tony Garcia Espacio Gastronómico serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,200 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, Stanley & de Marco is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Granada. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 of 5 stars from around 856 customers.

We recommend Milestone Restaurant & Bar for many reasons. But most importantly, this bar serves a variety of food and beverages and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 695 reviews.

You can also visit a popular bar like La Consentida to have refreshing drinks and interact with locals and other travelers. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,010 bar-goers.

When you would rather go somewhere else, try Casa Puga. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,567 customers, this bar is one of Almeria’s best places to relax after a long day.

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 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 — Cartagena and Alicante.

When you’ve had your share of Almeria, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cartagena. Your travel time is around 1 hour 59 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Naval Museum Cartagena. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,771 reviews.

Continue your journey at Roman theatre of Cartagena. This archaeological site is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,504 travelers from near and far.

Cartagena is also the home of Parque de Alfonso Torres. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,477 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Cartagena, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Alicante. Your travel time is around 1 hour 22 min.

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.

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.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Alicante, 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 a long day of exploring, we recommend you try Nou Manolín, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,895 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Heladería Borgonesse, so you'll want to drop by this place. Heladería Borgonesse serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,861 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Alicante is La Taberna del Gourmet. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,691 customers.

To get a drink at one of the best bars in the city, go to El Portal Alicante - Krug Ambassade. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,120 customers.

If you’d like to continue your evening somewhere else, we recommend heading to Pinocchio Gelateria Cocktail Bar. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,140 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is 26 Cocktail Room. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 960 customers.

A road trip vacation in Cartagena 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 Valencia, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Valencia, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Alicante, el Castell de Guadalest, and Valencia.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to El Carrer dels Bolets. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,121 visitors.

Mercado Central de Alicante is another popular attraction you could visit today. This building has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 24,503 visitors.

Santa Bárbara Castle is also highly recommended by travelers. This castle has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 35,044 visitors.

Archaeological Museum of Alicante is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,768 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Alicante and set your GPS to el Castell de Guadalest. 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 55 min. Upon reaching el Castell de Guadalest, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Valencia. This car ride takes around 1 hour 53 min.

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.

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

Eat at Asador El Porteño. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,693 reviews.

You can also check out Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10. 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 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,075 diners.

Another great restaurant we recommend you go to after your activities is Restaurante Belmonte. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,179 customers, this restaurant is sure to provide you with a memorable dining experience.

Cafe de las Horas is one of the best bars you can visit in Valencia tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,922 customers.

You can also enjoy a glass or two at a popular place like Puerta del Mar. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,372 customers.

Alternatively, try Bar Tonyina. Bar Tonyina is the perfect place to get to know some locals in the city. This top-recommended bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,516 customers.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Spain offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Valencia and Cuenca. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Cuenca.

When you're ready to see some sights, Mercat Central is a great place to start with. This market hall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 79,570 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is City of Arts and Sciences. This tourist destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 125,881 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. The park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 37,810 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting L'Oceanogràfic. This public aquarium is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 76,085 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cuenca. This car ride takes around 2 hours 15 min.

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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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.

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

Visit the popular Grotte del Huécar. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,935 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in Spain is Restaurante Recreo Peral. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,722 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the area's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Restaurante El Torreón. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,390 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

Locals recommend going for a drink at Las Brasas. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,335 customers.

Another popular bar you could swing by after dinner is La Ronería De La Habana. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,072 customers.

Restaurante Sidrería La Figal also makes the list of popular bars you could visit tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,526 customers.

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

On day 6 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Spain, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Toledo and Madrid. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Madrid.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cuenca, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Toledo. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 55 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mirador del Valle. This landmark is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Toledo, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,058 visitors.

Alcázar of Toledo is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,193 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo. Visitors have rated this church an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,938 reviews.

Zocodover is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a sightseeing destination rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,930 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Madrid. This drive usually takes around 59 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

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, Madrid 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.

We recommend a local favorite like Salmon Guru. This restaurant serves delicious dishes at surprisingly cheap prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,802 customers.

Coque 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 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,191 customers.

Another popular restaurant in Madrid you might want to check out is El Social. El Social is a local favorite with a variety of value-for-money dishes on their menu. Customers have rated this fantastic restaurant an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 944 reviews.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend El miniBAR, claiming it’s one of the best. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,297 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the city is Areia. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,973 customers.

James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,124 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday 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 exploring 2 wonderful destinations — Madrid and Ciudad Real.

Make Main Square your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 152,388 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Market of San Miguel. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 106,296 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this building every year.

Museo del Prado is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 98,929 visitors. Up to 3,497,345 travelers come to Madrid every year to see Museo del Prado with their own eyes.

When you’re finished at Museo del Prado, the perfect next stop is El Retiro Park. This urban park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 162,386 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This association football venue is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 120,158 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Ciudad Real, 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 Ciudad Real may take around 2 hours 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

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.

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Ciudad Real, 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.

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

Day 8 of your self-drive vacation in Spain will take you to the city of Granada, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Granada, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Jaen and Granada.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Ciudad Real, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Jaen may take around 2 hours 6 min. Upon your arrival in Jaen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Castillo de Santa Catalina your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,060 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Centro Cultural Palacio de Villardompardo. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,420 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this cultural center every year.

San Lorenzo's Arch is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 497 visitors.

When you’re finished at San Lorenzo's Arch, the perfect next stop is Jaén Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,392 reviews.

After soaking in Jaen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Granada. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 1 min. When you arrive in Granada, it's time to take a break from the road.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Granada, 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 musty-try restaurant is Restaurante Jardines Alberto. This restaurant offers good food at reasonable prices and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,578 customers.

Restaurante Fairuz is an excellent alternative with an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,239 reviews. Restaurante Fairuz is known for its delicious meals that will surely satisfy your hunger.

Another of the best places to eat in the area is El Trillo Restaurante Granada. This restaurant has an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,605 customers because of their good food, service, and ambiance.

Hannigan & Sons is one of the best bars in Granada and the perfect place to go for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,442 customers.

You may also want to check out Restaurante Oliver. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. Restaurante Oliver is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,516 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Los Manueles Reyes Católicos - Restaurante Granadino. Los Manueles Reyes Católicos - Restaurante Granadino has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 15,266 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

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 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Granada.

Optimize your last day in Spain and go on a shopping spree in Granada’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.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Granada, consider a top-rated restaurant like d'Sano. This restaurant has a menu of appetizing and affordable meals and is rated at an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,118 customers.

RESTAURANTE TINTA FINA 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 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,665 customers.

Another popular restaurant you could check out is Botánico Café. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,553 customers, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of Spain and your fun memories in Granada.

You’ll then say farewell to Granada. 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!