These 12 Cheap Places in Spain Still Feel Like a Splurge
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The fact that Barcelona and Madrid rank as some of Europe’s most expensive destinations does not mean you should put off your Spanish trip as a budget traveler. You will be glad to know that there are still super affordable destinations throughout Spain. Looking for Spanish destinations that will have your dollars stretch unexpectedly further? Whether you are a beach lover, a history fan, or a culture vulture, we have got you covered in this article.
Read on to discover where to make the most of your Spanish adventure without hurting your wallet.
Granada, Andalusia
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Granada has something to offer everyone, whether you are a backpacker on a shoestring budget or a traveler seeking economic value. One of the top attractions of Granada is its affordability. Expect to spend about $132 daily on meals, local transportation, and accommodation.
Affordability aside, Granada’s rich cultural heritage means there are plenty of attractions to explore, many of which are free or charge low admission fees. Among the city’s top tourist destinations is the Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress complex that dates back to Moorish rule. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into the lavish Islamic architecture, with its intricate carvings, beautiful gardens, and panoramic city views.
Other noteworthy attractions include the Cathedral of Granada, the Royal Chapel of Granada, and Parque de las Ciencias, a science center and museum.
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Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a budget-friendly Spanish getaway that might be your ticket to paradise. You’ll find yourself basking in year-round sunshine without denting your bank account. Picture this: a week-long holiday for around $1,073 per person on the picturesque Gran Canaria island – a dream every island life lover should grab.
Las Canteras Beach is your go-to spot for free fun. Stretch out on golden sands, take a dip in crystal-clear waters, or try your hand at surfing. When hungry, wander into the nearby streets for wallet-friendly tapas bars. You’ll be living like a local without emptying your pockets.
Vegueta district, a founding neighborhood of this city, is also worth visiting. It’s like stepping back in time, minus the hefty price tag. Stroll through cobblestone streets, admire the colonial architecture, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Your Instagram feed will thank you, and your bank account won’t complain!
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Seville, Andalusia
Seville, one of the most budget-friendly cities in Spain, welcomes many budget tourists annually. This enchanting Andalusian city offers a blend of history, culture, and mouthwatering tapas. Spend your days wandering through the picturesque streets of Santa Cruz, marveling at the stunning Alcazar, or catching a flamenco show in Triana.
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On a shoestring? No worries! You can easily enjoy Seville for about $1,232 per week. That includes a cozy hotel bed, delicious local eats, and entrance fees to some tourist sites. Stretch your dollars further by taking advantage of free walking tours and “menu del dia” lunch specials.
Don’t miss out on the Royal Alcazar of Seville, Seville Cathedral, and Maria Luisa Park when visiting.
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Oviedo, Asturias
With its affordable attractions and laid-back vibe, Oviedo is perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking an authentic Spanish experience. You can easily run through a week here for around $800, including accommodation and meals.
Tourist sites in and around this city will make you contemplate extending your visit. Stroll through the picturesque old town, where you’ll find stunning architecture and cozy sidrerias (cider houses). The Metropolitan Cathedral of San Salvador of Oviedo has beautiful Gothic architecture and is free to admire from the outside.
Besides, Mercado El Fontan is a perfect spot for a cheap yet delicious meal. You can grab some local cheese and cider at the market.
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Vigo, Pontevedra
Vigo is not just another city; it’s a place where tradition meets modernity. From its bustling port to its historic old town, Vigo’s unique charm lies in its blend of the past and the present. While cities like Barcelona and Madrid are often crowded and expensive, Vigo offers a more relaxed and affordable alternative. A week in Vigo can cost as little as $749, including accommodation, food, and activities. The average price paid for an individual for accommodation in this Vigo is $47.
The city’s coastal location means you have access to beautiful beaches. Samil Beach and Playa del Vao are perfect spots to relax and enjoy the sun. Besides, Parque Monte do Castro offers stunning views of the city and is an excellent place for a leisurely walk.
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San Sebastián, Basque Country
You might think San Sebastian’s a bit pricey, but don’t let that stop you! This Basque Country’s beauty has budget-friendly tricks up its sleeve. Picture yourself strolling along La Concha Beach, soaking up the sun for free. There are more beaches to explore in San Sebastian, such as Playa de Ondarreta and Zurriola Beach. Hungry? Visit the Old Town for pintxos – bite-sized delights that won’t hurt your bank account.
With good planning, you can enjoy this resort town on the Bay of Biscay for around $97 daily. That’s roughly $679 a week, including accommodation.
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Toledo, Toledo
You’ll feel like you’ve turned back the clock when you visit Toledo. This historic city, perched dramatically on a hilltop, won’t break the bank either. Toledo’s compact size makes it perfect for a quick, budget-friendly getaway that’ll leave you with unforgettable memories and plenty of Instagram-worthy shots.
For about $133 a day, you can explore its winding medieval streets, sleep in a decent hotel, and explore tasty food like marzipan, Toledo’s sweet specialty.
Aside from being affordable, Toledo also has charming tourist sites. Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo and Alcázar de Toledo, a 16th-century fortification, are worth every minute and dollar.
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Lugo, Galicia
Lugo, an off-the-beaten-path city in Galicia, is your token to an affordable Spanish adventure. For history buffs on a budget, Lugo is a dream come true. You’ll be amazed by its well-preserved Roman walls. Lugo Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, is another attraction where tourists can explore the city’s history.
Interestingly, many bars still offer free tapas with your drink – a tradition that’s becoming rare elsewhere. It’s the perfect way to sample Galician flavors without emptying your wallet.
A week in Lugo should be inexpensive. Comfortable accommodations, delicious local cuisine, and sightseeing cost around $737 per person. That’s a steal for experiencing authentic Spanish charm!
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Segovia, Segovia
Segovia is a city steeped in history and architectural marvels. It is easily accessible by train or bus from major cities, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a leisurely weekend getaway. One of the most iconic landmarks in this city is the Segovia Aqueduct. This 1st-century AD structure is remarkably well-preserved, making it a perfect spot to explore unique Roman engineering techniques. The aqueduct spans 2,605 feet (794 meters) and has 167 arches, offering a stunning sight, especially when illuminated at night.
The 12th-century Alcázar of Segovia is another attraction worth your time. This fortress has served as a royal palace, a prison, and a military academy. For about $156 per day, you’ll cover accommodation, food, and sightseeing in Segovia.
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Logroño, La Rioja
Known as the gateway to the famous Rioja wine region, Logroño offers tourists a chance to savor some of Spain’s best wines while exploring its charming streets. Luckily, you can enjoy a week-long getaway here for about $1,074, including accommodation and meals.
Stroll down Calle Laurel, where you’ll find tapas bars galore. You can stop by street vendors for pintxo, a small snack that costs $1 to $2. Don’t miss out on the local Rioja wines – they’re incredibly affordable here.
If you are after a cultural treat, check out the free Cathedral of Santa Maria de la Redonda.
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Santiago de Compostela, Galicia
This historic city in northwestern Spain offers a budget-friendly escape for pilgrims and tourists. When visiting, wander through cobblestone streets and marvel at the stunning Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. The cathedral has a capacity of 1,200 and is believed to be the burial place of Saint James the Great, one of Jesus Christ’s apostles.
Your wallet will thank you here. Grab a bed in a hostel for as low as $19 per night, or splurge a little more on a three-star hotel for around $95. Feast on delicious Galician cuisine at local taverns for $21 or less per meal.
For a three-day visit, allot around $294 per person, including accommodation, food, and sightseeing activities. Stretch it to a week, and you’ll pay $685 per person. Not bad for an unforgettable Spanish adventure, right?
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Pamplona, Navarre
You’ve probably heard of Pamplona’s famous Running of the Bulls, but did you know it’s also a budget-friendly destination? With a budget of around $987, you can enjoy a week-long holiday here. The budget will cater for local transportation, meals, and accommodation.
That aside, there are many attractions worth exploring in Pamplona. You can wander through the picturesque old town or explore the stunning Gothic Pamplona Cathedral. The Pamplona Cathedral houses a beautiful cloister and a museum that offers panoramic city views from its bell tower.
If you’re feeling brave, visit the San Fermin festival in July – just watch out for those bulls!
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