Cheap 9-Day Spain Road Trip from Valencia traveling west to Cuenca, Madrid, and Albacete

Your exciting road trip through Spain starts when you reach the incredible city of Valencia, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Valencia and begin your adventure in Spain.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mercado de Colón. This building is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Valencia, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 37,146 visitors.

Savor the culinary delights of Valencia, 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 foodie adventure at Ubik Cafè Cafeteria Llibreria, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to USUAL resto-bar, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Éter Valencia, 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 Valencia, Café Negrito. Alternatively, visit Cafe de las Horas, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks.

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

Day 2 means another chance to make the best memories in Valencia. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Valencia 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!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to L'Oceanogràfic. This public aquarium is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Valencia, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 76,085 visitors.

City of Arts and Sciences is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 125,881 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Instal·lacions dels Jardins del Túria. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 37,810 reviews.

Jardins del Real de València is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an urban park rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,212 reviews.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Valencia. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Casa Montaña, 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 Salita de Begoña Rodrigo - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on El Lleón bar, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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

On day 3 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Spain, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Valencia. 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Valencia and set your GPS to Cuenca. 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 2 hours 7 min. Upon reaching Cuenca, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Mercat Central, a remarkable market hall where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 79,570 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Plaça de la Reina (València). This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 28,058 travelers.

Plaça de la Mare de Déu is another must-visit attraction. This renowned square offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,170 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Serrano Towers. This well-loved fortified tower boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 39,998 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Valencia Bioparc awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a zoo, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,210 previous visitors.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Cuenca, 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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Restaurante Sidrería La Figal, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Marisqueria Joni.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Café Hispano after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bogart, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, CAFE BAR PRINCESA also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 4 of your cheap holiday travels in Spain, you’ll tour 1: Toledo. You'll stay in Madrid for 3 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Toledo, 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 Cuenca to Toledo may take around 1 hour 55 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Toledo, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mirador del Valle. This landmark is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 10,058 visitors.

Alcázar of Toledo is another popular attraction you could visit today. This alcázar has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 30,193 visitors.

Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo is also highly recommended by travelers. This church has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,938 visitors.

Zocodover is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,930 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.

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. Madrid has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Discover the heart of Madrid through its culinary scene, starting with El miniBAR. 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 Restaurante De María - Felíx Boix, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Areia, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Baton Rouge Cocktail Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Cafe Madrid is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, 1862 Dry Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 5 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 2 nights to stay in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Market of San Miguel. This extraordinary building is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 106,296 visitors.

Next, make your way to Main Square. This top attraction is a square with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 152,388 visitors.

Your discovery of Madrid does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Madrid 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.

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

Discover the heart of Madrid through its culinary scene, starting with La Mi Venta. 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 Mas Al Sur, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Prada a Tope Madrid, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

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

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

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, a remarkable association football venue where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 120,158 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Puerta de Alcalá. This triumphal arch has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 43,833 travelers.

Museo del Prado is another must-visit attraction. This renowned art museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 98,929 travelers and attracting 3,497,345 annual visitors, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. This well-loved art museum boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 46,855 reviews. In a single year, approximately 1 visitor add this sightseeing spot to their travel itineraries.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Casa de Campo awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 50,826 previous visitors.

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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Madrid, 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.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at BiBo Dani García, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Malacatín, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Pum Pum Café, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

Day 7 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 Albacete, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Albacete. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Royal Palace of Madrid. This much-appreciated royal palace is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 77,471 reviews.

Next up is plaza de España. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 98,199 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Temple of Debod. This egyptian temple has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,446 reviews.

El Retiro Park is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This urban park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 162,386 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Crystal Palace. This building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,270 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Albacete. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Albacete, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places 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, Albacete 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 El Callejón de los Gatos, 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 Restaurante Sublime - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Don Gil Restaurante promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Keep the evening going at Bar History, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Liverpool Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Torito, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 8 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 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Alicante.

Alicante’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Albacete behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 46 min. Alicante welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Parc Canalejas. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,593 visitors.

Passeig Esplanada d'Espanya is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 5 out of 5 stars by 4 travelers.

Alicante is also the home of Arte en la pared. Around 3 people have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Valencia, 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.

Bar Vermudez offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Restaurante Asador Argentino Gordon 10. Or, try Beer & Travels, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

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

As you approach the end of your journey in Spain, take a moment for some retail therapy in Valencia’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.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Valencia, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Restaurante Canela, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, A huevo Restaurante features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Bar Tonyina is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Valencia. 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!