Spain-the land of fiery passion, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the sun-kissed beaches of Barcelona through to the winding streets of Madrid, Spain can almost lure a traveler of any kind. But what if you happened to be traveling on a broke budget? Can you still experience the beauty, energy, and warmth of Spain without breaking the bank?
Of course, to the broke backpacker, this would seem like an impossible dream, but let us tell you that it’s possible. As a matter of fact, it is so rewarding: rich in cultural heritage, delicious food, friendly locals, and Spain is where travelers can feel the authentic spirit of the journey.
In this blog, we are going to show you the secret corners, secret spots, and budget-friendly delights of Spain. We will be dishing out professional advice on everything from free tapas bars, to wild camping, hitchhiking, and hostel-hopping on how to explore this incredible country on a broke budget.
Leave the luxury resorts behind, skip all the tourist traps, and strap yourself in for a real Spanish immersion with this broke backpacking adventure. All it takes is some curiosity, a dash of courage, and a will to take the road less traveled. You’ll find that Spain has never been more accessible-or unforgettable.
Vamanos! (Let’s go!)
How to get there:
By Bus:
Bus companies like Eurolines, FlixBus, and ALSA connect Spain to major cities in Portugal, France, Andorra, and Morocco. You can find affordable fares starting from €10-20.
- From Portugal: Take the bus from Lisbon or Porto to Madrid or Barcelona.
- From France: Depart from Paris, Lyon, or Marseille to Barcelona, Madrid, or Valencia.
- From Andorra: Regular buses connect Andorra la Vella to Barcelona.
By Train:
Renfe, Spain’s national railway operator, offers international connections to France and Portugal.
- From Portugal: Take the train from Lisbon to Madrid or Barcelona.
- From France: Travel from Paris or Lyon to Madrid or Barcelona.
By Hitchhiking:
For the adventurous traveler, hitchhiking is a great way to reach Spain. Here are some popular routes and highways:
From Portugal:
- A6 highway (Lisbon to Madrid): Stop at the toll booths near the Spanish border.
- A3 highway (Porto to Barcelona): Connect to the AP-7 near the Spanish border.
- Best spots:
- Near the border town of Badajoz.
- Gas stations along the A6 and A3 highways.
From France:
- A9 highway (Paris to Barcelona): Stop near the Spanish border.
- A7 highway (Lyon to Madrid): Connect to the AP-6 near the Spanish border.
- Best spots:
- Near the border town of Hendaye.
- Service stations along the A9 and A7 highways.
From Andorra:
Gas stations along the CG-1 highway.
CG-1 highway (Andorra la Vella to Barcelona): Stop at the toll booths near the Spanish border.
Best spots:
Near the border town of Puigcerdà.
When to go:
Spring (March to May)
Pros:
- Mild weather (15-20°C/59-68°F)
- Fewer tourists
- Festivals like Semana Santa and Feria de Abril
- Beautiful blooming flowers
Cons:
- Some attractions may still be closed after winter
- Occasional rain showers
Summer (June to August)
Pros:
- Warm weather (25-30°C/77-86°F)
- Longer days
- Beaches and coastal towns come alive
- Festivals like Tomatina and Fiesta de la Mercè
Cons:
- Peak tourist season, higher prices
- Crowded cities and popular attractions
Autumn (September to November)
Pros:
- Comfortable temperatures (15-25°C/59-77°F)
- Harvest festivals and wine tastings
- Fewer tourists
- Beautiful foliage
Cons:
- Some attractions may start to close for winter
Winter (December to February)
Pros:
- Low prices
- Christmas markets and festivals
- Skiing and snowboarding in the Pyrenees
Cons:
- Cold weather (5-15°C/41-59°F)
- Some attractions may be closed
Special Events and Festivals
- La Tomatina (August)
- Semana Santa (March/April)
- Feria de Abril (April)
- Fiesta de la Mercè (September)
- Las Fallas (March)
Best time for ski enthusiasts: Winter (December-February)
Best time for travelers: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October)
Best time for beach lovers: Summer (June-August)
Best Itineraries:
Day 1:
- Explore Madrid’s city center: Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Retiro Park
- Visit the Prado Museum (free admission 6-8 pm)
- Enjoy tapas in Malasaña neighborhood
Day 2:
- Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid (optional)
- Explore the lively La Latina neighborhood
- Enjoy flamenco music at a local tablao
Day 3:
- Visit the Reina Sofia Museum (free admission)
- Relax in the Royal Botanical Garden
- Depart for next destination
1-Week Itinerary: Southern Spain
Day 1-2: Seville
- Explore the Alcázar Palace and Gardens
- Visit the Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower
- Enjoy tapas in Santa Cruz neighborhood
Day 3-4: Granada
- Visit the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens
- Explore the narrow streets of Albaicín neighborhood
- Enjoy flamenco music in Sacromonte
Day 5-6: Córdoba
- Visit the Mezquita (Mosque-Cathedral)
- Explore the Jewish Quarter
- Enjoy local cuisine
Day 7: Return to Madrid or depart
2-Week Itinerary: Northern Spain
Day 1-3: Barcelona
- Explore La Rambla, Barceloneta, and Park Güell
- Visit the Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló
- Enjoy beach time and seafood
Day 4-6: Valencia
- Visit the City of Arts and Sciences
- Explore the historic center and Central Market
- Enjoy paella and local cuisine
Day 7-9: Bilbao and San Sebastián
- Visit the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
- Explore the old town and beach in San Sebastián
- Enjoy pintxos and local cuisine
Day 10-14: Return to Barcelona or depart
1-Month Itinerary: Spain Grand Tour
Week 1: Madrid and Central Spain
Week 2: Southern Spain (Seville, Granada, Córdoba)
Week 3: Northern Spain (Barcelona, Valencia, Bilbao)
Week 4: Eastern Spain (Alicante, Murcia, Cartagena)
3-Month Itinerary: Spain and Portugal
Month 1: Spain (Madrid, Southern Spain, Northern Spain)
Month 2: Portugal (Lisbon, Porto, Algarve)
Month 3: Return to Spain (explore new regions or revisit favorites)
Transportation:
Types of Public Transportation in Spain
- Renfe Trains: Spain’s national railway operator, connecting major cities.
- Metro: Underground subway systems in major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia.
- Bus: Urban and intercity buses, including companies like ALSA and FlixBus.
- Autobuses: Regional buses connecting smaller towns and villages.
- Taxis: Widely available, but more expensive than public transportation.
Train Travel in Spain
- Renfe Types:
- AVE (High-Speed)
- Alvia (Medium-Speed)
- Regional (Local)
- Routes: Madrid-Barcelona, Madrid-Seville, Barcelona-Valencia
- Booking: (link unavailable), ticket machines, or stations
Metro Systems in Spain
- Madrid Metro: 13 lines, 300 stations
- Barcelona Metro: 8 lines, 180 stations
- Valencia Metro: 5 lines, 100 stations
- Ticketing: Single tickets, 10-trip passes, or tourist cards
Bus Travel in Spain
- ALSA: Connecting major cities and regional towns
- FlixBus: Budget-friendly, international routes
- Autobuses: Regional services
- Ticketing: Online, ticket machines, or bus stations
Regional Transportation Options
Basque Country: Euskotren trains, Bilbobus
Catalonia: Rodalies de Catalunya trains, TMB buses
Andalusia: Renfe, ALSA, and local buses
Top things to do:
Madrid and Central Spain
- Explore the Prado Museum (free admission 6-8 pm)
- Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid (optional)
- Relax in Retiro Park
- Enjoy tapas in Malasaña neighborhood
- Visit the Reina Sofia Museum (free admission)
- Take a stroll in the historic center (Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor)
- Day trip to Toledo (€10-20 return by bus)
- Visit the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
- Explore the trendy Tribeca neighborhood
- Attend a Real Madrid or Atlético Madrid football match
Southern Spain (Andalusia)
- Explore the Alcázar Palace and Gardens in Seville
- Visit the Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower
- Wander through Santa Cruz neighborhood
- Visit the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens in Granada
- Explore the narrow streets of Albaicín neighborhood
- Enjoy flamenco music in Sacromonte
- Visit the Mezquita (Mosque-Cathedral) in Córdoba
- Relax on the beach in Málaga
- Explore the white villages of Ronda and Frigiliana
- Visit the ancient city of Carmona
Northern Spain (Catalonia, Basque Country)
- Explore La Rambla, Barceloneta, and Park Güell in Barcelona
- Visit the Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló
- Relax on Barceloneta Beach
- Visit the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
- Explore the old town and beach in San Sebastián
- Enjoy pintxos and local cuisine
- Hike in the Pyrenees mountains
- Visit the medieval town of Girona
- Explore the scenic Costa Brava coastline
- Attend a Barcelona or Espanyol football match
Eastern Spain (Valencia, Alicante)
- Visit the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia
- Explore the historic center and Central Market
- Enjoy paella and local cuisine
- Relax on the beach in Alicante
- Visit the ancient city of Cartagena
- Explore the natural park of Coto de Doñana
- Take a boat tour in the Mar Menor
- Visit the stunning waterfalls of the Júcar River
- Explore the historic town of Denia
- Attend the Tomatina festival in Buñol
Islands (Balearic, Canary)
Attend the Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Relax on the beach in Ibiza
Explore the historic center of Palma de Mallorca
Visit the Teide National Park in Tenerife
Enjoy water sports in Fuerteventura
Explore the natural beauty of Gran Canaria
Visit the Jardín Botánico Canario in Tenerife
Take a boat tour around the islands
Explore the scenic village of Valldemossa in Mallorca
Visit the volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote
Food:
From the sun-kissed Mediterranean coastline to the craggy Pyrenees, each autonomous region brings together a complicated dance of flavors, textures, and traditions that make up Spain’s gastronomy. As a traveler, food is importantly part of the trip.
Tapas, those mouthful morsels of pleasure, are part and parcel of Spanish eating out. Born in Andalusia, tapas have grown into an art form with each region adding its twist. From patatas bravas to tortilla española, from croquetas to gazpacho, every single tapas dish whispers stories of local ingredients, history, and passion.
Its long, snaking coastline offers a broad availability of fresh seafood. It is, in fact, the star ingredient in so many classic dishes: from the iconic rice dish of Valencia, paella-featuring succulent seafood combined with saffron-infused rice-to grilled fish and seafood stew, suquet is a type of fisherman’s stew from the north Catalan coast; really summing up the affair Spain has with the sea.
All the meat and poultry dishes make inland Spain proud. That is right, jamón ibérico, that most famous cured ham hailing from the Iberian Peninsula, is really some kind of national treasure. Chorizo, morcilla, and other cured meats add a lot to stews, soups, and tapas in general. Roasted lamb, beef, and pork are staples of Spanish cuisine, often slow-cooked to perfection.
Spanish desserts can come in sweet accents, often with Moorish, Arabic, and European influences. Crema Catalana is the Spanish version of crème brûlée, extremely rich in nature. For those who hanker for sweet snacks, churros con chocolate is the quintessential treat from Madrid. And for Christmas, there are turrón and polvorones.
Wine production, of course, is legendary in Spain, with Rioja, Ribera del Duero and Jerez producing some truly world-class wines. Then there’s Cava-that effervescent sparkling wine hailing from Catalonia-which always works when something’s called for. Meanwhile, beer-particularly up north-is on the rise, while sherry and vermouth are having a new wave of popularity.
Mealtimes are sacrosanct in Spain, and both lunch-e.g., la comida-and dinner-la cena-are social affairs. Tapas bars hum with activity, as strangers turn into friends over shared plates. Be prepared to be swept into a heated discussion or an impromptu flamenco performance.
Each region has its identity, from Asturias with hearty stews to Galicia, which has seafood-rich dishes. You can see that in Catalonia, the Mediterranean diet finds expression in escalivada, or roasted vegetables, and xarcuteria, or cured meat. Sweet pastries reflect Andalusia’s Moorish roots in fragrant spices.
Spain is the journey through the sense of taste. Rich flavors, tantalizing aromas, and time-honored traditions make up Spanish cuisine. So, take this last step in this gastronomic voyage, and let the flavors of Spain mark your palate and heart indelibly.
¡Buen provecho!
Culture:
Spanish culture is a strong, rich fabric with deeply interwoven strands of history, art, literature, music, and tradition. From the passion of flamenco to the intricateness of Antoni Gaudí’s architecture, Spanish culture is a sensual feast that enflames every heartbeat.
Wrapped up in the heart of Spanish culture is a tight sense of community and family. Mealtimes are sacrosanct; lunch and dinner are times to socialize over shared stories and laughter that bond. Festivals and celebrations, such as La Tomatina and Las Fallas, to name but a few, join people together in an explosion of color and music, dancing, and merriment.
History has set its stamp on Spanish culture. The presence of the Moors, who occupied the country for almost eight centuries, is still reflected in Spanish architecture, art, and even food. The age of the masters-El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya-flew with the innovative spirit of the Renaissance and the flamboyant expression of the Baroque.
Literature is an important part of Spanish culture, with famous authors like Cervantes, Lorca, and Hemingway. They received their inspiration from the dramatic countryside and impassioned people. These literary giants molded the Spanish identity in their works, debating such themes as love, honor, and all things human.
Music and dance are closely related to Spanish life, from the energetic passion and beauty of flamenco to the pride and dignity of the traditional dances. The guitar and castanets, with the passionate vocals, project the essence of Spain into a daydream of sun-drenched Andalusia and the drastic Pyrenees.
It speaks of the essence of Spanish culture through art and architecture-from the exquisite Sagrada Família to, arguably, the most personal of spaces, the Prado Museum. Fantastic, organic structures of Gaudí, surrealist masterpieces of Dalí-they surprise and inspire. Spanish art is a reflection of its turbulent history, its resilient people, and their love for life.
Regional identities in Spain are strong; from proud Catalonia to the Basque Country, down to Andalusia, their unique tradition and customs stare at you in your face. From the granite, wind-and-sea-battered coastline of Galicia to the arid sun-scorched plateaus of Castile, each region has its particular culture modeled by history and geography and by the people who call it home.
Spanish culture is about the love of the fiesta, of celebrations. From wild, wine-soaked parties in La Rioja to solemn, candlelit processions during Semana Santa, every occasion should be held with people getting together and sharing stories for the creation of memories.
The Kingdom of Spain combines tradition and modernity in equal measures. Ancient custom sits side by side with innovative art, architecture, and technology, all forming part of a vibrant, dynamic culture that is unmistakably Spanish.
Spanish culture is vivid, pulsating with energy, passion, and creativity. It’s a culture that embraces outsiders with open arms, inviting them into the celebration of life, love, and beauty. Be it taking an easy walk down Barcelona’s La Rambla, meandering through the historic heart of Madrid, or perhaps just sharing a meal with locals, Spanish culture will leave an indelible mark upon your heart.
Accommodations:
With its pulsating cities, breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, and rich culture, Spain is literally the land of every backpacker’s dream. Speaking of which, when considering places to stay, hostels would always remain the best option. Not only are they affordable, but they also offer that unique opportunity to meet fellow travelers and take in the local vibe.
This range of accommodation in Spain fits all tastes and budgets, from sleek modern designs to cozy, family-run establishments. Find social hostels with an energy of vibes and activities, or chill-out hostels-perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Some even focus on ecological awareness and sustainability.
The amenities, which one might find in any of the hostels in Spain, will vary among dorm rooms, private rooms, apartments, shared or en-suite bathrooms, communal kitchens, lounges, and outdoor spaces. Additionally, most of them come with free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and bookings for tours, with 24-hour reception and luggage storage.
It is, therefore, important to book in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay, especially during the peak season. It is also very important to research neighborhoods and how close various attractions are. Reading reviews and checking ratings gives insight into what one should expect. Seek hostels featuring distinctive features like rooftop bars or pool parties that might be helpful in making the stay even more memorable.
But let’s let you in on a little secret: cheap often means unforgettable. Without the frilly luxuries, these gnarly little gems focus on what matters most: community, atmosphere, and adventure. Expect impromptu jam sessions, group outings, and random bouts of laughter, and meet fellow travelers from all walks of life.
The styles are deeply different in regions and represent the culture and architecture of Spain. You will find Northern Spain filled with small, rustic hostels in the middle of stunning natural beauty, while Southern Spain has bright-colored hostels with influences of Moorish and Mediterranean traditions. On the islands, you get absolutely perfect places for surfers and sunworms: hostels right on beaches.
Budget adventure, unique experiences, and memories: all these things are full in Spain. Most of the hostels will reveal the very spirit of Spain through their budget-friendly options and create a place to meet other similarly-minded travelers.
Nightlife:
Nightlife in Spain is simply an explosion to one’s senses: colorful, interwoven with threads of music and passion, it is basically joy. The sultry rhythms of flamenco to the pulsating beats of electronic dance music, Spain’s nocturnal landscape is out of a treasure trove of exhilaration and adventure.
When the sun sets below the horizon, Spanish cities liven up to become pulsating hotbeds of action: bars, clubs, and lounges start filling with laughter, conversations, and promises of unforgettable nights. Going out and having fun, “la marcha” in Spanish, is a form of living, and guests are gladly welcomed into the party.
The capital, Madrid, is itself a powerhouse of night time; it has a different scene that will fit every taste: from sophisticated cocktail bars in the Salamanca district to the edgy avant-garde feel of Malasaña, every hue and sound of the kaleidoscope can be expressed in the nightlife of Madrid.
Meanwhile, Barcelona is clubbers’ heaven with its famous beachside discos and underground electronic music scene. This city’s narrow, winding streets and hidden plazas of the Gothic Quarter are just perfect for a night of bar-hopping and discovery.
Down south, Andalusia gives pride of place to passionate flamenco culture. Traditional tablao in the region let the audience get to know better the soul-stirring music, mesmerizing dance, and raw emotion of Spanish folklore.
But Spain’s nightlife is more than clubs and bars; it’s a cultural phenomenon. The country’s love of fiestas and festivals means every night is a reason to celebrate. Be it a full moon party on the beach, or an impromptu street performance in a quiet village, nighttime offers an opportunity to embrace life to the fullest.
Outdoor, in Spain’s nightlife, is an infectious energy that just doesn’t let you be still. Strangers become friends as nights of laughter, music, and promised adventure come together within the night’s air. Be it a party animal or one who simply wants to relax with friends in the evenings; Spain has something in store for everyone.
Come for the experience. Let the rhythms of Spain seduce you; join the never-ending fiesta, which is Spanish nightlife.
Backpacking Spain costs:
Daily Budget: €15-20
- Accommodation: €8-12 (hostel dorm, shared room)
- Food: €4-6 (street food, markets, and cheap eats)
- Transportation: €1-2 (public metro/bus, walking)
- Attractions: €2-4 (free walking tours, parks, and museums)
- Miscellaneous: €1-2 (souvenirs, snacks, and unexpected expenses)
Weekly Budget: €105-140
Miscellaneous: €7-14 (avg. €1-2 per day)
Accommodation: €56-84 (avg. €8-12 per night)
Food: €28-42 (avg. €4-6 per day)
Transportation: €7-14 (avg. €1-2 per day)
Attractions: €14-28 (avg. €2-4 per day)
Conclusion:
As you prepare for this Spanish adventure, remember: broke backpacking is all about being one with the real spirit of Spain, not pinching pennies. On a daily budget of €15-20, the hidden treasures, unforgettable connections, and raw beauty of this captivating country slowly unfold.
With its pulsating culture, breathtaking scenery, and warm reception, Spain can be the haven for any broke backpacker. Embracing the simplicity of hostels, street foods, and public transportation, you will find a real, enchanting, life-changing Spain waiting for you.
So travel light, leave your worries behind, and jump headlong into the Spanish experience. Enjoy every tapa, every strum of flamenco, and each sun-kissed moment.
Hh