12 Budget-Friendly Cities in Spain Where Your Euros Stretch Further Than a Flamenco Dancer's Moves

Spain is one of the most visited countries. In 2023, it ranked the second most visited country in the world, just behind France. With such a big tourism industry, it is inevitable that the prices of services, including dining, lodging, and activities, will be inflated.

However, you do not need to have bottomless pockets to visit Spain. You just need to know which expensive cities to avoid and which budget-friendly ones to consider.

Are you seeking budget-friendly cities in Spain? Whether you’re considering a new place to relocate or affordable spots to explore, rest assured we’ve got you covered in this article. Whatever you’re after, your money will stretch further in these 12 budget-friendly Spanish cities.

Table of Contents

Granada

Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is a charming Andalusian city with a low cost of living. The monthly rent for a 480-square-foot furnished studio in a normal area of the city averages around $465, and you can find a combo meal in a fast-food restaurant for under $10.

Granada’s biggest allure is the breathtaking Alhambra Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Spain’s most captivating attractions. You could easily lose yourself for a day exploring the grounds. And the best part? You can venture into the stunning Sierra Nevada National Park, the largest national park in Spain, free of charge. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast seeking endless exploration opportunities, you’re in for a treat.

With a large student population, Granada has a buzzing nightlife – you’ll find everything from cozy wine bars to thumping clubs open late into the evening.

Valencia

A charming port city on Spain’s eastern coast, Valencia offers a perfect mix of beachy vibes and cultural attractions at a budget-friendly price. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in this city averages between $857 and $1,500 per month, which is way cheaper than the likes of Barcelona and Madrid.

In the city center, you’ll find Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco buildings galore, including Valencia Cathedral and the Palau de la Generalitat. Make sure you also explore the City of Arts and Sciences, a massive futuristic complex housing a science museum and an aquarium.

Valencia’s beaches, including Malvarrosa Beach, offer soft white sand and azure waters. You can rent a bike to explore the beach promenade or try your hand at watersports like sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing.

Seville

Seville, the capital of Andalusia, is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning Moorish architecture. Despite its charm, Seville remains affordable, especially compared to other major Spanish cities. The rent for a 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center is around $699 monthly. When it comes to food, you can get a meal at a mid-range restaurant for under $11.

Seville’s low cost of living means you’ll have more to spend on enjoying its many attractions. Must-sees include the Royal Alcázar of Seville, a historic royal palace with exquisite Moorish architecture, and the Seville Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Alicante

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The port city of Alicante on Spain’s Costa Blanca is a budget-friendly delight. You can rent a 1-bedroom apartment measuring 430 square feet for around $586 per month.

Aside from its affordability, Alicante’s Mediterranean climate promises mild winters and hot summers, with an average of 300 days of sunshine each year. Imagine spending your days basking on Postiguet Beach, strolling through the Explanada de España palm-lined promenades, or hiking in the nearby Serra Gelada Natural Park. And don’t forget to check out Santa Barbara Castle, a medieval fortress offering sweeping city views.

Córdoba

Cordoba’s mild climate means you can enjoy its charms any time of year. Further, with budget-friendly prices for food, accommodation, and activities, this Andalusian gem is ideal for penny-pinching travelers who want to experience Spain without maxing out their credit cards.

Cordoba’s center is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for architectural gems like the Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba, an 8th-century mosque converted into a Renaissance cathedral.

For sweeping views of the city, head to the Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs, a medieval fortress with lush gardens. You will enjoy panoramic vistas of Cordoba’s terracotta rooftops and the Guadalquivir River at this attraction site.

Málaga

Malaga is a port city in southern Spain with a rich culture thanks to its history that spans over 2,800 years. Today, Malaga is a popular tourist destination, attracting many visitors with its Mediterranean beaches, stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and fantastic weather.

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Although Malaga is a modern city, it retains its historic charm. One of the many historical sites worth exploring is Alcazaba, a medieval palace complex dating back to the 11th century.

What’s more? The cost of living is low compared to a famous Spanish city like Barcelona. A single person’s estimated monthly expenses are about $2,000. The general cost of living in Malaga is approximately 15% cheaper than in Barcelona.

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Lugo

Nestled in the scenic Galicia region, Lugo offers a charming cityscape at affordable prices. Known for its well-preserved Roman wall, Lugo has stunning architecture and nature to admire on a budget.

One of the best free activities is walking or biking atop the Roman walls of Lugo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The wall encircles the old city and offers sweeping views of picturesque plazas and cathedrals. You can climb to the top for a peek at Lugo’s history and panoramic countryside views.

Lugo Cathedral is considered a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. While small, its cloisters and stone facades showcase intricate details. The cathedral’s museum displays religious artifacts, art, and manuscripts, providing insight into Lugo’s cultural heritage.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a beautiful and budget-friendly city to consider living in. Despite its big size and population, Zaragoza remains one of the cheapest cities in Spain. The monthly rent for a 900-square-foot furnished apartment in a normal area is about $656. This city also has a well-developed public transit system, making getting around without a car easy.

Its location along the Ebro River provides lovely scenery and outdoor recreation. Some of the city’s top attractions, including Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, Aljaferia Palace, and the historic city center, are free to explore. The city also has several universities, giving it a lively, youthful vibe.

Murcia

Murcia should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for a taste of authentic Spain without the crowds of Barcelona or Madrid. This charming and budget-friendly city has everything you need for an unforgettable Spanish escape.

The heart of Murcia is Plaza Cardenal Belluga, lined with cafes where you can people-watch for hours over a café con leche and churros. Nearby, the Catedral de Murcia is an architectural wonder you cannot afford to miss. For a small fee, you can climb the cathedral’s tower for panoramic views of Murcia.

The monthly rent for a 480-square-foot furnished studio in a normal area is $453. The city also has a well-connected airport, making it easy to access on a budget airline from within Europe.

Logroño

Logrono is the capital of La Rioja, a region known for producing Tempranillo wine. Despite its small size, Logrofio packs a lot of punch. As a university town, it has a young, lively vibe with plenty of cultural activities, nightlife, and culinary delights to enjoy without breaking the bank.

Logroño’s old town features charming cobblestone streets, shops, bars, and the beautiful Co-Cathedral of Logroño. Another attraction worth exploring is Puente de Piedra, an iconic stone bridge across the Ebro River. It’s incredibly stunning at night when lit up.

With reasonable living costs, welcoming locals, delectable food and wine, and stunning landscapes nearby, Logrono deserves a spot on any budget-friendly traveler’s list.

León

Located in northwestern Spain, Leon offers affordable living in a stunning setting. The city’s architecture is dominated by a 13th-century Gothic cathedral, one of the masterpieces of Spanish medieval constructions. By simply wandering the cobblestone streets of its historic city center, you’ll uncover architectural gems around every turn, like the Basilica of St Isidoro and Casa Botines, designed by Antoni Gaudi.

Further, Leon provides a quiet escape from the bustle of Spain’s larger cities. Its slower pace of life and lower cost of living make it ideal for budget-conscious expats and retirees. Living costs in Leon are up to 47% lower than in Madrid. You can rent a furnished studio apartment for around $413 a month.

Oviedo

As one of Spain’s cheapest cities, Oviedo attracts those looking to enjoy Spanish culture on a budget. Oviedo’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral of San Salvador of Oviedo and the Church of San Tirso. Nearby, San Francisco Park offers green spaces for strolling or relaxing.

For culture, visit the Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias or attend a show at the Teatro Campoamor. The city’s mild climate means you can enjoy these activities year-round.

Blessed with stunning nature, culture, and a rich culinary scene, Oviedo deserves a spot on your Spanish bucket list. In this picturesque northern city, you can experience Spain’s charm without breaking the bank.