10-Day Adventure and Relaxation Road Trip in Spain on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Explore Urban Marvels

Barcelona, Spain

9:00AM

Breakfast at Chök

Start your first day in Barcelona at Chök, the chocolate kitchen, where you can savor delightful pastries and hot chocolate.
Located in the Gothic Quarter, walk towards La Rambla afterwards.
EUR8, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit La Sagrada Familia

Marvel at Gaudí's iconic masterpiece, La Sagrada Familia, an unparalleled example of modernist architecture.
Take metro L2 to Sagrada Família.
EUR26, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Xampanyet

Enjoy authentic tapas and a glass of sparkling Cava at this vibrant bar amidst Barcelona’s art district.
Walk 15 min to El Born.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Park Güell

Wander through the colourful mosaics and gardens of Park Güell while sipping in the stunning views of the city.
Take Bus 24 from El Born directly to Park Güell.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:30PM

Stroll the Gothic Quarter

Get lost in the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter and discover the whimsical charm and history of this enchanting area.
Walk around the neighbourhood; it’s pedestrian-friendly.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at La Fonda

Indulge in paella and other local delights at this affordable local restaurant, perfect for food lovers on a budget.
Take a 10 min walk back towards La Rambla.
EUR18, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Savor the Local Culture

Barcelona, Spain

9:00AM

Breakfast at Brunch & Cake

Fuel your day with a variety of organic brunch options at this popular spot that prides itself on delicious presentations.
Take metro L1 to Urquinaona station.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Casa Batlló

Explore another of Gaudí's masterpieces — the Casa Batlló, famed for its incredible architecture and design.
Walk 5 minutes from Brunch & Cake.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Mercado de La Boqueria

Peruse stalls filled with fresh produce, meats, and cheeses and grab some affordable tapas at this bustling market.
Walk about 15 minutes; it offers great photo opportunities.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Montjuïc Hill

Spend the afternoon on Montjuïc Hill to enjoy splendid gardens and views of the city and port.
Take the funicular from Paral·lel metro station.
EUR12 (funicular return), 3 hours

5:30PM

Relax at the Beach

Unwind at the vibrant Barceloneta Beach, perfect for soaking up the sun or enjoying a refreshing swim.
Take the metro (Line 4) to Barceloneta station.
Free, 3 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Cal Pep

End your culinary day with some tapas at one of the city's renowned dining spots where the waiting in line is well worth it.
Walk for about 15 minutes to arrive.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Valencia

Valencia, Spain

8:00AM

Travel from Barcelona to Valencia

Catch an early morning Renfe train, enjoying views of the Mediterranean coastline along the way.
Depart from Barcelona Sants station.
EUR30, 3.5 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Hostel

Arrive in Valencia and check into your budget-friendly hostel to drop off your luggage.
Walk 10 minutes to your hostel in the City Centre.
EUR15, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Central Market

Head to one of Europe’s largest markets for fresh produce, where you can munch on local delicacies at a pocket-friendly price.
Walk 8 minutes; grab some fresh fruit as a snack.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit La Lonja de la Seda

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that speaks to Valencia's prosperous silk trade.
Just next to the market, a short walk.
EUR2, 1 hour

3:30PM

Stroll through Turia Gardens

Wander through the lush greenery of Turia Gardens, showcasing the transformation of a riverbed into a vibrant park.
Walk towards the park from La Lonja; it’s a lovely walk.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Casa de la Cerveza

Enjoy a rustic atmosphere and taste traditional Spanish food, famous for their generous portions.
Head back towards the city center; it’s a short walk.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Explore the Charms of Valencia

Valencia, Spain

9:00AM

Breakfast at Dulce de Leche

Start your day with artisanal pastries and specialty coffee at this cozy café, perfect for foodies.
Located in the city center, it’s within walking distance.
EUR8, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the City of Arts and Sciences

Discover this architectural marvel, a cultural complex with fascinating museums and attractions to explore.
Take bus 35 from the city center.
EUR8, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at La Rita

Savor gastronomic delights like authentic paella from this local favorite restaurant in Valencia.
Return to the city center before wandering to La Rita.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Valencia Cathedral

Explore this stunning cathedral known for its intricate architecture and the supposed Holy Grail it houses.
Walk from La Rita, only takes about 10 minutes.
EUR6, 1 hour

4:30PM

Relax at Playa de Malvarrosa

Spend the late afternoon at Valencia’s beach, enjoying sun and sea, highly popular amongst locals.
Take tram line 6 towards Malvarrosa.
EUR3, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Restaurant El Rall

Finish the day with a delicious meal at this charming eatery offering local specialties at reasonable prices.
Tram back to the city; it’s a 20-minute ride.
EUR14, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Travel to Historic Granada

Granada, Spain

7:00AM

Travel from Valencia to Granada

Catch an early bus to Granada to experience the scenic route through Andalusia.
Leave from Estación de Autobuses Valencia.
EUR20, 4 hours

11:00AM

Check-in at Hostel

Settle into your budget-friendly hostel and freshen up before heading out.
Hostels are located near the city center, usually within walking distance.
EUR10, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Bar Los Diamantes

Enjoy local tapas at this bustling bar renowned for its generous portions and lively atmosphere.
Walk 10 minutes to the bar.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Alhambra

Tour the iconic Alhambra Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing stunning Islamic architecture.
Walk or take a bus; approx. 30 minutes from the city center.
EUR14, 3 hours

5:00PM

Explore the Albayzín Neighborhood

Stroll through the narrow winding streets of the historic Albayzín, offering breathtaking views of the Alhambra.
Walk down from Alhambra to Albayzín; it’s a lovely walk.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante Casa Julio

Unwind at this charming restaurant known for its superb grilled fish and traditional Andalusian dishes.
Back towards the city center; it's a short walk.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Discover More of Granada

Granada, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café 4 Gatos

Start your day at this beautiful café known for its fresh coffee and traditional breakfast options.
Stroll through the city to reach it; about 15 minutes away.
EUR7, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Generalife

Explore the beautiful gardens and summer palace of the Generalife, where you can enjoy stunning floral vistas of Granada.
Walk or take a bus from the city center.
EUR7, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Taberna La Tana

Savor regional wines and traditional tapas at this cozy tavern that captures the spirit of Granada.
Return to the city center; about 15 minutes’ walk.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Cathedral of Granada

Explore the stunning Renaissance architecture of the Granada Cathedral and its adjacent Royal Chapel.
Just a few blocks from the restaurant.
EUR5, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Mirador de San Nicolás

Enjoy a breathtaking view of the Alhambra while sipping coffee and taking in the old-world charm.
Walk about 20 minutes to the viewpoint.
EUR3 (for coffee), 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Bar Pozo

Grab some affordable traditional tapas while enjoying the local vibe at this popular bar.
Back in the Albayzín area, walk 10 minutes.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Journey to Seville

Seville, Spain

7:00AM

Travel from Granada to Seville

Take a morning bus to Seville and enjoy the beautiful Andalusian countryside along your journey.
Visit the bus station in Granada.
EUR20, 3 hours

10:00AM

Check-in at Hostel

Arrive in Seville and settle into your inexpensive hostel to drop off your bags.
Hostels are located close to the city center.
EUR10, 1 hour

11:00AM

Lunch at El Rinconcillo

Enjoy lunch at the oldest tapas bar in Seville, offering genuinely local dishes.
Walk about 15 minutes from your hostel.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit the Seville Cathedral

Marvel at the impressive Seville Cathedral and the Giralda Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site that captures the heart of the city.
It's right next to your lunch spot; just a short stroll.
EUR9, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore Plaza de España

Wander through the grand Plaza de España, a stunning architectural wonder with a picturesque fountain.
Take a bus or walk to María Luisa Park, which is nearby.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Casa de la Memoria

Experience the essence of flamenco while enjoying a traditional dinner in an authentic setting.
Return to the city center while taking in the evening charm.
EUR20, 2 hours
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Day 8: Explore the Heart of Seville

Seville, Spain

9:00AM

Breakfast at La Ciudadela

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast featuring Andalusian pastries at a quaint local café.
Located centrally; 10 min walk.
EUR6, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Real Alcázar

Explore the historical Real Alcázar, renowned for its exquisite Moorish architecture and stunning gardens.
Walk 15 minutes from the café.
EUR13, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Contenedor

Dine at this stylish eatery known for innovative Mediterranean dishes served at reasonable prices.
Head back to the city center; around a 20-minute walk.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Barrio Santa Cruz

Stroll through the narrow, winding streets of the historic Santa Cruz neighborhood, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Walk through the area at your leisure.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Parque de María Luisa

Spend the afternoon enjoying the lush greenery of this park, great for a leisurely walk or reading a book.
It’s adjacent to Plaza de España, so you can stroll over.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Cantaora

Finish your culinary day with traditional Sevillian dishes at a lively local restaurant.
Walk back through Salta Cruz area; it’s a picturesque stroll.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Beach Relaxation in Málaga

Málaga, Spain

7:00AM

Travel from Seville to Málaga

Catch a morning bus that takes you from Seville to the stunning coastal city of Málaga.
Head to the bus station in Seville.
EUR15, 2.5 hours

9:30AM

Check-in at Hostel

Settle into your hostel in Málaga, ideally located for beach access.
Easily walk from the bus station to central hostels.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Breakfast at Café Central

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at this local café known for its fresh ingredients and warm atmosphere.
Only a short walk from the hostel.
EUR7, 1 hour

11:30AM

Relax at Malagueta Beach

Spend a leisurely morning at Malagueta Beach, soaking up the sun and the sound of the waves.
Take a 15-min stroll to the beach.
Free, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at La Tetería

Savor delicious Middle Eastern dishes and local favorites in a unique setting for your afternoon meal.
Stroll back to the city center after spending time at the beach.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Picasso Museum

Enjoy an afternoon of art at the Picasso Museum, which showcases the works of the legendary artist born in Málaga.
It’s very close to La Tetería, a brief walk away.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Casa Juanito

End your day with a flavorful seafood dinner at this lovely restaurant renowned in Málaga for its fresh ingredients.
Walk towards the beach once more, creating a relaxing stroll.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Last Moments in Málaga

Málaga, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Tahona

Wrap up your trip with an irresistible breakfast at this bakery famous for its fresh bread and pastries.
Just a short walk from your hostel.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Castillo de Gibralfaro

Take a walk to the Castell de Gibralfaro and enjoy panoramic views of Málaga’s coastline.
It's a steep walk or you can opt for a bus.
EUR8, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at El Tapeo de Cervantes

Indulge in traditional Andalusian tapas at this charming eatery renowned for its authentic flavors.
Head back down; it's downhill from the castle.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Málaga Cathedral

Finish off your adventure by visiting the beautiful Málaga Cathedral, affectionately known as 'La Manquita' (the one-armed lady).
A simple walk from the lunch spot.
EUR6, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend your last few hours enjoying the sun and refreshing beach vibes at Malagueta Beach.
Head back to Malagueta Beach and soak in the last moments.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at El Pimpi

Conclude your Spanish adventure with a memorable meal at El Pimpi, known for its tapas and lively ambience.
Return to the city center, close to the beach.
EUR20, 2 hours
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