Perfect 10-Day Spain Itinerary on a Budget
Spain captivates travelers with its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and passionate people. But can you experience all this Mediterranean gem has to offer without emptying your wallet? Absolutely! This carefully crafted 10-day Spain itinerary on a budget proves you don't need to spend a fortune to immerse yourself in Spanish culture. From the architectural wonders of Barcelona to the Moorish splendors of Andalusia, we'll guide you through an unforgettable journey that balances must-see attractions with hidden gems—all while keeping your budget intact. Get ready to discover how savvy travelers can experience the best of Spain without the premium price tag!
Pre-Trip Budget Essentials
Before diving into our day-by-day itinerary, let's cover some essential Spain itinerary on a budget strategies that will help you maximize your Spanish adventure while minimizing costs.
Finding Affordable Flights
Flights typically represent the largest expense for international travelers visiting Spain. Here's how to secure the best deals:
- Book 2-3 months in advance for the best prices
- Use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights
- Consider flying into Madrid and out of Barcelona (or vice versa) to avoid backtracking
- Be flexible with dates—midweek flights are often cheaper
- Sign up for fare alerts from airlines that frequently fly to Spain
- Look for budget carriers like Ryanair, EasyJet, or Vueling for European connections
Budget Accommodation Options
Spain offers excellent value accommodation options that won't compromise your experience:
Hostels
Spain boasts some of Europe's best hostels, many offering private rooms alongside dormitories. Expect to pay €15-25 per night for dorms and €40-60 for private rooms. Look for hostels with free breakfast and kitchen facilities to save even more on meals.
Guesthouses & Pensiones
These family-run accommodations provide authentic Spanish hospitality at reasonable prices (€40-70 per night). They're often centrally located and offer a more local experience than chain hotels.
Budget Hotels
Two-star hotels in Spain often provide clean, comfortable rooms with private bathrooms for €50-80 per night. Book properties slightly outside city centers for better rates.
Apartment Rentals
For stays of 3+ nights in one location, apartment rentals can be economical, especially for couples or groups. They also provide kitchen facilities to prepare some of your own meals.
Transportation Passes & Options
Getting around Spain efficiently is key to maximizing your 10-day itinerary:
- Consider the Renfe Spain Pass if you'll be taking multiple high-speed trains (starting at €195 for 4 journeys)
- Book regional trains instead of AVE high-speed services when time permits (savings of 30-50%)
- Purchase train tickets in advance through the official Renfe website for early booking discounts
- In cities, get multi-day public transportation passes (like the T-Casual in Barcelona)
- For shorter distances between southern cities, ALSA buses offer comfortable service at lower prices than trains
Your 10-Day Spain Itinerary at a Glance
This itinerary is designed to maximize your experience while minimizing costs. We'll focus on Spain's most iconic destinations while incorporating money-saving strategies throughout.
| Days | Destinations | Highlights | Budget Range (per person) |
| Days 1-3 | Barcelona | Sagrada Familia, Gothic Quarter, Park Güell | €60-80/day |
| Days 4-5 | Madrid + Toledo (day trip) | Prado Museum, Royal Palace, Toledo's historic center | €55-75/day |
| Days 6-7 | Cordoba & Seville | Mezquita-Cathedral, Alcazar, Plaza de España | €50-70/day |
| Days 8-10 | Granada | Alhambra, Albaicín, Sacromonte | €50-70/day |
Days 1-3: Barcelona
Barcelona combines stunning architecture, Mediterranean beaches, and vibrant street life. While it's one of Spain's pricier cities, our budget-conscious approach ensures you'll experience its highlights without overspending.
Day 1: Arrival & Gothic Quarter Exploration
Getting from the Airport
Skip the expensive taxis (€30+) and take the RENFE R2 Nord train (€4.60) or Aerobus (€5.90) to the city center.
Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options
- Hostel: Kabul Party Hostel (€18-25/night, Gothic Quarter)
- Budget Hotel: Praktik Rambla (€60-80/night, central location)
- Guesthouse: Pensión Ciudadela (€45-65/night, near Ciutadella Park)
Afternoon Activities
After checking in, spend your first afternoon exploring Barcelona's historic heart:
- Las Ramblas: Stroll down Barcelona's famous pedestrian boulevard (free)
- La Boqueria Market: Explore this colorful food market for affordable snacks (€5-10)
- Gothic Quarter: Wander through medieval streets and discover hidden plazas (free)
- Barcelona Cathedral: Visit during free entry hours (5-8pm, donation suggested)
Budget Dining
For your first dinner, avoid tourist traps on Las Ramblas and try these affordable options:
- Lunch: Create your own picnic from La Boqueria Market (€5-8)
- Dinner: Bo de B for massive sandwiches near Barceloneta (€4-6)
- Drink: Join a hostel pub crawl for discounted drinks (€12-15 including some drinks)
Day 2: Gaudí's Barcelona
Morning
- Park Güell: Visit the free sections early morning to avoid crowds (paid monumental zone: €10 online vs €14 at entrance)
- Sagrada Familia: Marvel at Gaudí's masterpiece from the outside (free) or book the basic ticket online in advance (€26 vs €31 on-site)
Afternoon
- Casa Batlló & Casa Milà: Admire these architectural wonders from outside (free) rather than paying for entry (€25-35 each)
- Ciutadella Park: Relax in this beautiful green space with a fountain designed by Gaudí (free)
Budget Dining
- Breakfast: Grab pastries from a local bakery (€2-4)
- Lunch: Try the "Menu del Día" at El Jardí in the Gothic Quarter (€12-15 for 3 courses including drink)
- Dinner: Visit La Paradeta for affordable seafood where you pay by weight (€15-20)
Day 3: Beach Day & Local Neighborhoods
Morning
- Barceloneta Beach: Enjoy the Mediterranean without spending a cent (free)
- Barceloneta Neighborhood: Explore this former fishermen's quarter with character (free)
Afternoon
- Montjuïc: Take the public bus up (€2.40) instead of the cable car (€14.50) and enjoy panoramic views
- Free Museums: Visit MUHBA (Barcelona History Museum) during free entry hours (3pm-8pm Sundays)
Budget Dining
- Breakfast: Grab coffee and toast at a local café (€3-5)
- Lunch: Enjoy affordable tapas at El Xampanyet in El Born (€15-20)
- Dinner: Try Carrer Blai in Poble Sec for pintxos bars where each small dish costs €1-2
Estimated Daily Budget for Barcelona
| Expense | Budget Option | Mid-Range Option |
| Accommodation | €18-25 (hostel dorm) | €45-65 (private room/guesthouse) |
| Food | €20-25 (markets, street food) | €30-40 (casual restaurants) |
| Attractions | €0-10 (free activities, limited paid entries) | €15-30 (1-2 paid attractions daily) |
| Transportation | €5-7 (T-Casual ticket shared) | €7-10 (multiple journeys) |
| Miscellaneous | €5-10 | €10-15 |
| Daily Total | €48-77 | €107-160 |
Days 4-5: Madrid & Toledo
Spain's capital offers world-class museums, beautiful parks, and a vibrant street life. The nearby UNESCO World Heritage city of Toledo makes for a perfect day trip that showcases Spain's multicultural history.
Day 4: Madrid's Highlights
Getting to Madrid
Take an early morning regional train from Barcelona-Sants to Madrid-Atocha (3 hours, €30-45 if booked in advance vs. €60-90 for high-speed AVE).
Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options
- Hostel: The Hat Madrid (€20-28/night, central location)
- Budget Hotel: Ibis Madrid Centro (€55-75/night, near Gran Vía)
- Guesthouse: Hostal Oriente (€40-60/night, Sol area)
Afternoon Activities
After checking in, maximize your first day in Madrid:
- Free Walking Tour: Join a tip-based tour of central Madrid (€5-10 suggested tip)
- Prado Museum: Visit during free hours (6-8pm Mon-Sat, 5-7pm Sundays) instead of paying €15
- Retiro Park: Explore Madrid's beautiful central park and Crystal Palace (free)
- Puerta del Sol & Plaza Mayor: Wander through Madrid's iconic squares (free)
Budget Dining
- Lunch: Grab a bocadillo (sandwich) from a local deli (€3-5)
- Dinner: Visit El Tigre in Chueca where large drinks come with free tapas (€5-8)
- Dessert: Try churros con chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés (€4)
Day 5: Toledo Day Trip
Getting to Toledo
Take the regional train from Madrid-Atocha to Toledo (30 minutes, €10-14 round trip) instead of the more expensive high-speed option.
Morning
- Toledo Cathedral: Visit this Gothic masterpiece (€10, or exterior only for free)
- Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca: Explore this unique Jewish heritage site (€3)
- Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture (€3)
Afternoon
- Mirador del Valle: Hike up for the best panoramic views of Toledo (free)
- Alcázar: View the impressive fortress from outside (free) or enter the Army Museum (€5)
- Wander the Medieval Streets: Get lost in Toledo's atmospheric lanes (free)
Budget Dining in Toledo
- Breakfast: Have breakfast at your Madrid accommodation before departing
- Lunch: Try a "Menu del Día" at Bar el Trébol (€10-12 for 3 courses)
- Dinner: Return to Madrid and visit Mercado de San Miguel for varied tapas options (€15-20)
Estimated Daily Budget for Madrid & Toledo
| Expense | Budget Option | Mid-Range Option |
| Accommodation | €20-28 (hostel dorm) | €40-60 (private room/guesthouse) |
| Food | €15-25 (street food, tapas bars) | €25-35 (casual restaurants) |
| Attractions | €0-10 (free museums, limited paid entries) | €10-20 (1-2 paid attractions) |
| Transportation | €12-16 (including Toledo day trip) | €15-20 (including Toledo day trip) |
| Miscellaneous | €5-10 | €10-15 |
| Daily Total | €52-89 | €100-150 |
Days 6-7: Cordoba & Seville
Andalusia offers some of Spain's most distinctive cultural experiences and impressive Moorish architecture. This region is also more affordable than Barcelona or Madrid, allowing your budget to stretch further.
Day 6: Cordoba
Getting to Cordoba
Take a morning regional train from Madrid-Atocha to Cordoba (2 hours, €25-40 if booked in advance vs. €50-70 for high-speed AVE).
Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options
- Hostel: Funky Córdoba (€18-25/night, near historic center)
- Budget Hotel: Hotel Maestre (€45-65/night, central location)
- Guesthouse: Pensión El Portillo (€35-50/night, near Mezquita)
Afternoon Activities
Maximize your day in this historic city:
- Mezquita-Cathedral: Visit early morning to avoid crowds (€11, or free 8:30-9:30am Monday-Saturday)
- Jewish Quarter: Wander through the atmospheric whitewashed streets (free)
- Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos: Explore the fortress and gardens (€5, free on Wednesdays)
- Roman Bridge: Walk across this ancient structure for great Mezquita views (free)
- Calleja de las Flores: Photograph this picturesque flower-lined alley (free)
Budget Dining
- Breakfast: Grab coffee and toast at a local café (€2-4)
- Lunch: Try salmorejo (cold tomato soup) at Taberna Salinas (€3-5)
- Dinner: Visit Taberna La Viuda for affordable tapas (€15-20)
Day 7: Seville
Getting to Seville
Take a morning regional train from Cordoba to Seville (45 minutes, €15-25).
Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options
- Hostel: La Banda Rooftop Hostel (€20-28/night, central location)
- Budget Hotel: Hotel Doña Manuela (€50-70/night, Santa Cruz)
- Guesthouse: Pensión Córdoba (€35-55/night, near Cathedral)
Afternoon Activities
Explore Seville's highlights:
- Seville Cathedral: View from outside (free) or enter (€11, or €5 on Mondays)
- Giralda Tower: Included with Cathedral ticket for panoramic views
- Real Alcázar: Visit this stunning palace complex (€12.50, free on Mondays 6-7pm April-September, 4-5pm October-March)
- Plaza de España: Admire this impressive square and ceramic province alcoves (free)
- Santa Cruz Quarter: Wander through the charming former Jewish quarter (free)
Budget Dining
- Breakfast: Try churros at Bar El Comercio (€2-4)
- Lunch: Visit Mercado Lonja del Barranco for varied food stall options (€8-12)
- Dinner: Enjoy tapas at El Rinconcillo, Seville's oldest bar (€15-20)
Estimated Daily Budget for Cordoba & Seville
| Expense | Budget Option | Mid-Range Option |
| Accommodation | €18-28 (hostel dorm) | €35-55 (private room/guesthouse) |
| Food | €15-25 (tapas, street food) | €25-35 (casual restaurants) |
| Attractions | €5-15 (limited paid entries, free hours) | €15-25 (multiple paid attractions) |
| Transportation | €5-10 (public transport) | €10-15 (public transport, occasional taxi) |
| Miscellaneous | €5-10 | €10-15 |
| Daily Total | €48-88 | €95-145 |
Days 8-10: Granada
Granada offers the perfect finale to your Spanish adventure, with the magnificent Alhambra palace complex, atmospheric Arab quarter, and stunning mountain backdrop. It's also one of the few places in Spain where tapas are still regularly served free with drinks!
Day 8: Journey to Granada & First Explorations
Getting to Granada
Take a morning bus from Seville to Granada (3 hours, €18-25) which is more affordable than the train option.
Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options
- Hostel: Oasis Backpackers' Hostel (€18-25/night, near center)
- Budget Hotel: Hotel Molinos (€45-65/night, near Cathedral)
- Guesthouse: Pensión Suecia (€35-50/night, convenient location)
Afternoon Activities
Begin your Granada exploration:
- Granada Cathedral: Visit this impressive Renaissance cathedral (€5)
- Royal Chapel: See the tombs of Ferdinand and Isabella (€5)
- Alcaicería: Browse the former silk market's narrow lanes (free)
- Plaza Nueva & Carrera del Darro: Stroll along this picturesque riverside walk (free)
Budget Dining
- Lunch: Try a kebab in the Moroccan-influenced lower Albaicín (€3-5)
- Dinner: Visit Bodegas Castañeda for drinks with free tapas (€10-15 for several drinks and tapas)
Day 9: Alhambra Day
Morning
- Alhambra: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site (€14 general ticket, book well in advance online to secure your preferred time slot)
- Generalife Gardens: Included with Alhambra ticket
Afternoon
- Albaicín Quarter: Explore the historic Moorish neighborhood (free)
- Mirador de San Nicolás: Enjoy spectacular Alhambra views (free)
- Sacromonte: Visit the traditional cave district (free)
Budget Dining
- Breakfast: Grab pastries from a local bakery (€2-4)
- Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy in the Generalife Gardens (€5-8)
- Dinner: Bar-hop in the Albaicín for drinks with free tapas (€12-18)
Day 10: Final Day & Departure
Morning
- Hammam Al Ándalus: Treat yourself to a traditional Arab bath experience (€35 for basic package)
- Monastery of San Jerónimo: Visit this Renaissance monastery (€5)
- Last-minute souvenir shopping: Browse shops in the Alcaicería
Afternoon
Depending on your departure time:
- Carmen de los Mártires: Explore these beautiful gardens with Alhambra views (free)
- Departure: Take a bus to Málaga Airport (1.5 hours, €12) or train to Madrid (3.5 hours, €30-60 if booked in advance)
Budget Dining
- Breakfast: Try churros con chocolate at Café Fútbol (€3-5)
- Lunch: Enjoy one last tapas crawl around Plaza Nueva (€10-15)
Estimated Daily Budget for Granada
| Expense | Budget Option | Mid-Range Option |
| Accommodation | €18-25 (hostel dorm) | €35-50 (private room/guesthouse) |
| Food | €12-20 (tapas with drinks) | €20-30 (casual restaurants) |
| Attractions | €5-15 (Alhambra + limited others) | €15-40 (Alhambra + hammam + others) |
| Transportation | €3-8 (public transport) | €8-15 (public transport, occasional taxi) |
| Miscellaneous | €5-10 | €10-15 |
| Daily Total | €43-78 | €88-150 |
Complete Budget Breakdown
Here's a comprehensive overview of what you can expect to spend on this 10-day Spain itinerary:
| Expense Category | Budget Option | Mid-Range Option | Notes |
| Accommodation (10 nights) | €180-250 | €400-550 | Hostels vs. private rooms/budget hotels |
| Food & Drinks | €150-220 | €250-350 | Street food & tapas vs. casual restaurants |
| Attractions & Activities | €50-100 | €120-200 | Free activities & limited paid entries vs. more paid attractions |
| Transportation (within Spain) | €120-180 | €180-250 | Regional trains & buses vs. some high-speed trains |
| Local Transportation | €30-50 | €50-80 | Public transport vs. occasional taxis |
| Miscellaneous | €50-100 | €100-150 | Souvenirs, coffee breaks, etc. |
| Total (excluding flights) | €580-900 | €1,100-1,580 | €58-90/day vs. €110-158/day |
Money-Saving Tips & Tricks for Spain
Beyond the specific Spain Itinerary on a budget strategies mentioned in the itinerary, here are additional ways to make your euros go further in Spain:
Food & Dining
- Menu del Día: Look for these fixed-price lunch menus (€10-15) that include 3 courses, bread, and a drink
- Grocery Shopping: Spanish supermarkets like Mercadona and Dia offer quality products at reasonable prices
- Breakfast Like a Local: Skip hotel breakfasts and have toast with tomato (pan con tomate) at a local café for €2-3
- Water Strategy: Tap water is safe in most of Spain; bring a reusable bottle and refill it
- Aperitivo Hour: Many bars offer discounted drinks and free snacks during early evening hours
Attractions & Activities
- Free Museum Days: Research free entry times for major museums and plan accordingly
- Free Walking Tours: Join tip-based walking tours in each city for cultural context
- City Cards: Calculate if city cards like the Barcelona Card or Madrid Card will save you money based on your planned activities
- Student/Youth Discounts: Bring valid ID if you're under 26 or a student for discounted entries
- Free Entertainment: Look for free flamenco performances, street musicians, and local festivals
Transportation
- Book in Advance: Train tickets can be 50-70% cheaper when purchased weeks ahead
- Regional Trains: Choose slower regional trains over high-speed AVE when time permits
- Multi-Journey Tickets: In cities, buy 10-journey tickets to share with travel companions
- Walking: Most historic centers are compact and walkable—save on transportation by booking centrally located accommodation
- Avoid Airport Taxis: Use airport buses or trains that cost a fraction of taxi fares
Accommodation & Timing
- Shoulder Season: Visit in May-June or September-October for lower prices and fewer crowds
- Weekday Stays: Hotel rates are often lower Sunday-Thursday nights
- Location Strategy: Stay slightly outside the tourist center but near public transportation
- Booking Platforms: Compare prices across multiple sites and consider contacting properties directly
- Late Deals: For flexible travelers, last-minute bookings can yield significant discounts
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really possible to visit Spain for 10 days on a budget?
Absolutely! Spain offers excellent value compared to many other Western European destinations. By following this itinerary's budget tips—using regional trains, staying in hostels or guesthouses, taking advantage of free museum hours, and eating where locals do—you can enjoy a fulfilling 10-day trip for €60-90 per day excluding flights. The free tapas culture in Granada and affordable Menu del Día lunch specials throughout the country make food costs particularly manageable.
When is the best time to visit Spain on a budget?
The shoulder seasons of late April to early June and September to October offer the best combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. July and August are the most expensive and crowded months, while winter (November-March) offers the lowest prices but some attractions have reduced hours. If you do visit in summer, inland cities like Madrid, Cordoba, and Seville can be uncomfortably hot, often exceeding 100°F (38°C).
Do I need to speak Spanish to travel in Spain?
While you can get by with English in major tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience and potentially save you money by allowing you to venture into more local establishments. Simple greetings, numbers, and food-related vocabulary are particularly useful. In Barcelona, you'll also hear Catalan, though Spanish is widely understood.
Is it worth getting a rail pass for this itinerary?
For this specific 10-day itinerary, a Renfe Spain Pass (starting at €195 for 4 journeys) is usually not the most economical option if you're willing to book regional trains in advance and be flexible with travel times. However, if you prefer the convenience of high-speed trains and the flexibility to change plans, it might be worth considering. Calculate the cost of your specific train journeys on the Renfe website to make an informed decision.
How much should I budget for food in Spain?
On a tight budget, you can eat well in Spain for €15-25 per day by taking advantage of Menu del Día lunch specials (€10-15), having simple breakfasts (€2-4), and enjoying tapas or street food for dinner. In Granada, you can significantly reduce food costs by visiting bars that serve free tapas with drinks. If you want to experience more sit-down restaurants, budget €25-40 per day.
Is it safe to travel in Spain on a budget?
Spain is generally very safe for travelers, including budget travelers. The main concern is pickpocketing in tourist areas, particularly in Barcelona's Las Ramblas and the metro systems in major cities. Take normal precautions like using money belts, not keeping valuables in back pockets, and being alert in crowded areas. Budget accommodations in Spain are typically clean and secure, though you may want to bring earplugs if staying in hostel dormitories.
Conclusion: Experience Spain Without Breaking the Bank
Spain offers an incredible blend of history, culture, architecture, and cuisine that doesn't have to come with a premium price tag. This 10-day Spain itinerary on a budget demonstrates how you can experience the country's highlights—from Barcelona's modernist masterpieces to Andalusia's Moorish treasures—while keeping your budget in check.
By embracing local dining customs like the Menu del Día and free tapas in Granada, taking advantage of free museum hours, using public transportation, and being strategic about accommodation choices, you can enjoy an authentic Spanish experience for €60-90 per day. The memories you'll create wandering through the Alhambra's ornate halls, savoring tapas in a bustling Seville bar, or watching the sunset over Toledo's medieval skyline are priceless—but thankfully, experiencing them doesn't have to be expensive.
Whether you're a student, a budget-conscious traveler, or simply someone who appreciates value, this itinerary proves that Spain's treasures are accessible to all. ¡Buen viaje!
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