Budget Travel Tips for Spain
Compared to the rest of Europe, Spain is easy on the eyes and even easier on the wallet. Between the low cost of food and alcohol and the ease of finding budget accommodation outside the large city centers and resort areas, your Spanish holiday doesn’t need to be extravagantly expensive.
Trimmed with nearly 5000km (3107 miles) of sparkling coastline and filled with natural parks, Spain offers many beautiful landscapes that you can see for free. If you prefer cities, you can sync your sightseeing with local festivals and free entry days to maximize your time and wallet in Spain.
Daily Costs in Spain
- Hostel room: €15–30
- Basic room for two: €100–150
- Self-catering apartment: €100–300
- Public transport ticket: €1.50–3
- Coffee: €1–3
- Sandwich: €3–6
- Dinner for two: €24–40
- Museum ticket: €15–20
- Tapas: €4–12
- House wine: €3–5
- Beer: €2–5
Average daily cost per person: €150-200
Travel During the Off-Peak Months
The cheapest months to go to Spain are the cooler ones: either January or February, when the fun of the holidays has passed and the chillier weather keeps most other tourists away. Although temperatures drop, you will still find some people enjoying the warmth of a sunbeam at an al fresco cafe.
Have Some Cash on You
In most places in Spain, you can tap your card on the machine and be on your way. However, it’s essential to have pocket money on hand, especially in more rural areas. Trying to keep between €20 and €30 is advisable; more could be risky due to pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.
Opt for Public Transportation from the Airport
As long as you’ve packed light, it’s worth getting to the city center on your own. In cities like Barcelona, the Aerobus connects you straight to Plaza Catalunya. In Madrid, you can take the metro to the center; however, consider that you might have to transfer once or twice to reach your destination.
Stay in Hostels
Hostels in Spain are a great way to save on accommodation, and they are quite common throughout the country. While prices may be higher in major cities, along the Camino de Santiago (where hostels are known as albergues), you will find a variety of price points catering to long-distance walkers.
Camp in Rural Destinations
Spain boasts 16 national parks, plus hundreds of smaller parks. You can find campsites along the coasts or in the mountains, with a range of amenities from basic wild spots to well-equipped camping resorts offering hot showers and restaurants.
Pick Lesser-Known Regions
Spain has plenty of open space, allowing you to discover quiet villages or mountaintop hideouts. Rather than flocking to Madrid, Barcelona, or Ibiza, consider spending time in midsize cities like Valencia and Bilbao or in peaceful regions like Extremadura or Aragón. You’ll encounter far fewer crowds, especially during high season.
Find Free Walking Tours
In many Spanish cities, guides offer free walking tours that provide a great introduction to the area. While these tours come at no cost, it’s customary to tip at the end.
Get Cheap Museum Tickets or Go for Free
Spain is rich in cultural heritage, boasting an impressive art legacy, epic history, contemporary fashion, and modern architecture. Fortunately for budget travelers, tickets are frequently affordable, and some museums offer free entry during specific hours or on designated days. Checking in advance can be advantageous to align your visit with these free options.
Make the Most of Free Attractions
Exploring a bustling city doesn’t have to drain your finances. In fact, many major tourist areas are home to remarkable ruins and historical sites that you can discover simply by wandering around.
Spend the Night in a Monastery
A travel budget hack for seasoned Eurotrippers: many monasteries throughout Europe function as guesthouses. These accommodations are typically simple and cost less than €100 per night. Fortunately, you don’t need to be a believer to check in.
Use Public Transportation, But Skip the Tourist Ticket
Public transportation in Spain is affordable, clean, and relatively reliable. Whenever feasible, opt for the bus or metro instead of a cab. However, think twice before purchasing an unlimited multiday pass; it may not save you substantial money compared to buying single tickets as needed.
Pack a Picnic
While tapas are usually inexpensive, there’s no need to dine out for every meal in Spain. Many locals enjoy their packed lunches and snacks on picnic blankets in parks or at the beach. You can find good selections in tobacco shops, which typically offer jamón, cheese, fresh fruit, and affordable Spanish beers.
