Cheap 9-Day Spain Road Trip from Santander to Oviedo, Arévalo, Madrid, and Valladolid

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.

Santander is a popular cheap holiday destination in Spain with something to offer every traveler. 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.

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

We recommend a local favorite like Cadelo Restaurante. This restaurant serves delicious dishes at surprisingly cheap prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 855 customers.

Casa Lita is another excellent restaurant we recommend for budget travelers in Santander. This restaurant offers good food at even better prices and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 6,651 customers.

Another popular restaurant in Santander you might want to check out is Cañadío. Cañadío is a local favorite with a variety of value-for-money dishes on their menu. Customers have rated this fantastic restaurant an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,193 reviews.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into the top-rated La Magnolia. This bar is considered one of the best in Santander and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,129 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Little Bobby, rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 920 customers. Alternatively, go to Kings Pub. This is one of the most frequently recommended bars in Santander and boasts an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 857 reviews.

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

Day 2 of your self-drive vacation in Spain will take you to the city of Oviedo, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Oviedo, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Santander, Cueto, and Oviedo.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Catedral de Santander. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 6,521 visitors.

Next, make your way to Mercado del Este. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 7,680 reviews.

While in Santander, we also recommend a visit to Plaza Porticada. This square has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,395 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Centro Botin. This attraction gets around 111,096 yearly visitors. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 14,508 travelers, this art museum is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Santander.

Oviedo’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Santander behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours. Oviedo 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 Oviedo. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Oviedo, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

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

Casa Fermín is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 671 customers.

La Finca Sidrería Agrobar is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,955 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at Restaurante La Tagliatella | Oviedo / Uviéu, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,123 reviews.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the city. Per Se Café is a popular option with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,642 customers.

Another top option is Mala Saña. This bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,642 customers.

L'Esperteyu Pub - Cervecería is also a great place to continue your evening. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 778 customers.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday 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 3 wonderful destinations — Oviedo, Valencia de Don Juan, and Arévalo.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at El Fontán Square, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,309 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at El Fontán Market. This marketplace has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,436 travelers.

Parque de Invierno is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,020 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 Mafalda statue. This well-loved monument boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 7,537 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Oviedo, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Valencia de Don Juan may take around 1 hour 38 min. Upon your arrival in Valencia de Don Juan, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Arévalo. This car ride takes around 1 hour 45 min.

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

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

Savor the culinary delights of Arévalo, 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.

After dinner, stop by one of the best bars in Arévalo.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Spain offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Segovia, Real Sitio de San Ildefonso, and Madrid. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Madrid.

After soaking in Arévalo’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Segovia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 51 min. When you arrive in Segovia, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Segovia, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Real Sitio de San Ildefonso. This drive usually takes around 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’ve had your share of Real Sitio de San Ildefonso, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Madrid. Your travel time is around 1 hour 14 min.

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.

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.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Madrid, El miniBAR. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,297 customers.

Travelers and locals alike also recommend Areia. This bar has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,973 customers.

James Joyce Irish Pub Madrid is another popular place for a drink, considered one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,124 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 5 of your budget-friendly road trip adventures in Spain, you’ll go deep into Madrid, making the most of your 2 nights in the city. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Madrid, and meet locals along the way!

Spain is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in Spain, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to Spain. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in Spain that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.

After a long day of exploring and making the most of your budget vacation in Spain, treat 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.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try El Jardín Secreto Madrid, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,058 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Pum Pum Café, so you'll want to drop by this place. Pum Pum Café serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,614 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Madrid is Corral de la Morería. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,011 customers.

Visit 1862 Dry Bar, an excellent place to enjoy a couple of drinks. This bar is one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,987 customers.

Taberna del Alabardero de Madrid serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Madrid. Customers have rated Taberna del Alabardero de Madrid an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,525 reviews.

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

Day 6 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Spain. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Madrid!

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.

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

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended La Mi Venta. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,658 customers.

Malacatín is another local-favorite restaurant in Madrid. Malacatín serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,017 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, JUNGLEKING - International Food & XL Brunch in Madrid is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Madrid. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 of 5 stars from around 2,533 customers.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into the top-rated Harvey's Cocktail Bar. This bar is considered one of the best in Madrid and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,137 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Cafe Madrid, rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 662 customers. Alternatively, go to Inclán Brutal Bar. This is one of the most frequently recommended bars in Madrid and boasts an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,713 reviews.

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

On day 7 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Spain, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Madrid and Valladolid. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Valladolid.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Círculo de Bellas Artes. This much-appreciated movie theater is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 27,540 reviews.

Next up is Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 32,846 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum welcomes 671,078 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Museo del Prado. This art museum has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 98,929 reviews. Every year, 3,497,345 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Plaza de España is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 98,199 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Temple of Debod. This egyptian temple is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,446 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Valladolid. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Valladolid. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Valladolid, 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. Valladolid has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

One musty-try restaurant is La Parrilla De San Lorenzo. This restaurant offers good food at reasonable prices and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,433 customers.

Restaurante Jero is an excellent alternative with an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,796 reviews. Restaurante Jero is known for its delicious meals that will surely satisfy your hunger.

Another of the best places to eat in the area is La Tasquita. This restaurant has an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,612 customers because of their good food, service, and ambiance.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Villa Paramesa, one of the best bars in the city. Villa Paramesa is an excellent place to have a refreshing evening drink after exploring Valladolid. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,082 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals at Café Bar Alborada. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,054 customers.

Restaurante Pide por esa Boquita also belongs to the list of the best bars in Valladolid, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 669 customers.

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

Day 8 of your self-drive vacation in Spain will take you to the city of Santander, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Santander, you'll explore 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in Spain, including Cerrazo, Villaescusa, Santillana del Mar, and Santander.

Set your GPS to Cerrazo and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cerrazo beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Laberinto De Villapresente. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,994 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Santillana del Mar, 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 Cerrazo to Santillana del Mar may take around 5 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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.

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

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended Restaurante Los Peñucas. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,136 customers.

Bodega del Riojano is another local-favorite restaurant in Santander. Bodega del Riojano serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,195 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, Taberna La Radio is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Cerrazo. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 of 5 stars from around 3,408 customers.

When you’ve finished your meal, Santa & Co is one of the best bars in Santander for an after-dinner drink. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 887 customers.

La Barruca de Calderón is another of the most popular bars in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,014 customers.

Alternatively, check out Cantabria Restaurant. This popular place has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, as rated by 1,226 customers.

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 Santander.

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Santander’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Spain. Each store here is brimming with unique finds.

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 La Bombi. This restaurant has a menu of appetizing and affordable meals and is rated at an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,500 customers.

Restaurante Posada Del Mar 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 4.6 out of 5 stars from 993 customers.

Another popular restaurant you could check out is Restaurante la Mayor. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 921 customers, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of Spain and 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!