Spain Trip Budget: Cost for 7, 10 & 15 Days
Spain captivates travelers with its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful landscapes. From the artistic wonders of Barcelona to the historic streets of Madrid and the sun-drenched beaches of Andalusia, Spain offers incredible experiences for every type of traveler. But how much should you budget for your Spanish adventure? This comprehensive guide breaks down realistic costs for 7, 10, and 15-day trips to help you plan effectively and make the most of your time in this enchanting Mediterranean country.
Understanding Your Spain Trip Budget Framework
Before diving into specific trip durations, let's establish a clear framework for your Spain trip budget. Costs can vary significantly based on your travel style, the regions you visit, and when you travel. We'll break down expenses into five key categories to help you create a personalized budget.
Key Budget Categories
Accommodation
Spain offers lodging options for every budget:
- Budget: Hostels, guesthouses, budget hotels (€20-40/night)
- Mid-range: 3-star hotels, Airbnbs, vacation rentals (€60-120/night)
- Luxury: 4-5 star hotels, premium apartments (€150-300+/night)
Food & Drink
Spanish cuisine is a highlight of any visit:
- Budget: Self-catering, street food, "menú del día" lunch specials (€15-25/day)
- Mid-range: Mix of casual restaurants and self-catering (€30-50/day)
- Luxury: Fine dining and premium restaurants (€70-100+/day)
Transportation
Getting around Spain and between cities:
- Local: Metro, buses, trams (€1.50-3 per ride)
- Intercity: Trains (RENFE), buses (ALSA) (€20-80 per journey)
- Rental car: €30-60/day plus fuel
Activities & Entertainment
Experiences that make your trip memorable:
- Attractions: Museums, monuments, historic sites (€8-26 per entry)
- Tours: Walking tours, day trips, cultural experiences (€15-100)
- Entertainment: Flamenco shows, concerts, nightlife (€20-60)
Miscellaneous & Souvenirs
Don't forget to budget for souvenirs, shopping, and unexpected expenses (approximately 10-15% of your total budget).
Seasonal Price Variations
Spain's travel costs fluctuate significantly throughout the year:
High Season (June-August)
Peak tourist season with the highest prices, especially in coastal areas and major cities. Expect to pay 30-50% more for accommodation and some activities.
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October)
Excellent balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and more reasonable prices. Savings of 15-30% compared to high season.
Low Season (November-March)
Lowest prices with potential savings of 30-50% on accommodation, though some coastal destinations have limited services. Perfect for city exploration.
7-Day Spain Trip Budget
A week in Spain allows you to explore one region in depth or visit 2-3 major cities. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect to spend for a 7-day trip:
| Expense Category | Budget (€) | Mid-Range (€) | Luxury (€) |
| Accommodation (6 nights) | 120-240 | 360-720 | 900-1,800 |
| Food & Drink | 105-175 | 210-350 | 490-700 |
| Local Transportation | 40-70 | 80-140 | 210-420 |
| Intercity Transportation | 40-80 | 80-160 | 160-300 |
| Activities & Entertainment | 70-120 | 120-210 | 210-350 |
| Miscellaneous & Souvenirs | 40-70 | 80-150 | 200-350 |
| Total (per person) | 415-755 | 930-1,730 | 2,170-3,920 |
Sample 7-Day Itinerary Cost Snapshot
For a 7-day trip focusing on Barcelona and Madrid with a day trip to Toledo, a mid-range traveler might spend:
- Accommodation: €480 (6 nights in 3-star hotels or Airbnbs)
- Food & Drink: €280 (mix of restaurants and casual dining)
- Local Transportation: €100 (metro passes in both cities)
- Intercity Transportation: €120 (high-speed train between cities)
- Activities: €180 (Sagrada Familia, Prado Museum, day trip to Toledo)
- Miscellaneous: €100 (souvenirs, contingency)
Total: €1,260 per person
10-Day Spain Trip Budget
A 10-day trip allows for a more comprehensive exploration of Spain, perhaps covering two regions or 3-4 cities. Here's what you can expect to spend:
| Expense Category | Budget (€) | Mid-Range (€) | Luxury (€) |
| Accommodation (9 nights) | 180-360 | 540-1,080 | 1,350-2,700 |
| Food & Drink | 150-250 | 300-500 | 700-1,000 |
| Local Transportation | 60-100 | 120-200 | 300-600 |
| Intercity Transportation | 80-140 | 140-240 | 240-450 |
| Activities & Entertainment | 100-170 | 170-300 | 300-500 |
| Miscellaneous & Souvenirs | 60-100 | 120-220 | 290-500 |
| Total (per person) | 630-1,120 | 1,390-2,540 | 3,180-5,750 |
Sample 10-Day Itinerary Cost Snapshot
For a 10-day trip covering Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville with day trips to Montserrat and Córdoba, a mid-range traveler might spend:
- Accommodation: €810 (9 nights in 3-star hotels)
- Food & Drink: €400 (mix of restaurants and casual dining)
- Local Transportation: €150 (metro and bus passes)
- Intercity Transportation: €180 (high-speed trains between cities)
- Activities: €250 (major attractions and two guided day trips)
- Miscellaneous: €180 (souvenirs, contingency)
Total: €1,970 per person
15-Day Spain Trip Budget
A 15-day trip offers the opportunity to explore Spain more comprehensively, perhaps covering 3-4 regions or 5-6 cities. Here's what you can expect to spend:
| Expense Category | Budget (€) | Mid-Range (€) | Luxury (€) |
| Accommodation (14 nights) | 280-560 | 840-1,680 | 2,100-4,200 |
| Food & Drink | 225-375 | 450-750 | 1,050-1,500 |
| Local Transportation | 90-150 | 180-300 | 450-900 |
| Intercity Transportation | 120-200 | 200-350 | 350-650 |
| Activities & Entertainment | 150-250 | 250-450 | 450-750 |
| Miscellaneous & Souvenirs | 90-150 | 180-330 | 440-750 |
| Total (per person) | 955-1,685 | 2,100-3,860 | 4,840-8,750 |
Sample 15-Day Itinerary Cost Snapshot
For a 15-day trip covering Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Granada, and Valencia with day trips to Montserrat, Toledo, and Córdoba, a mid-range traveler might spend:
- Accommodation: €1,260 (14 nights in 3-star hotels)
- Food & Drink: €600 (mix of restaurants and casual dining)
- Local Transportation: €240 (metro and bus passes in multiple cities)
- Intercity Transportation: €280 (high-speed trains between cities)
- Activities: €380 (major attractions and three guided day trips)
- Miscellaneous: €270 (souvenirs, contingency)
Total: €3,030 per person
Money-Saving Tips for Your Spain Trip Budget
Spain can be enjoyed on almost any budget with some strategic planning. Here are practical tips to help you save money without sacrificing experiences:
Accommodation Savings
- Book in advance for the best rates, especially during high season
- Stay slightly outside city centers where prices drop significantly
- Consider apartment rentals for longer stays (weekly discounts often apply)
- Use booking sites with free cancellation to lock in rates early
- Look for accommodations with kitchen access to save on meal costs
Food & Drink Savings
- Eat your main meal at lunch with "menú del día" specials (€10-15)
- Shop at local markets for picnic supplies and fresh produce
- Visit Granada where tapas are often free with drink purchases
- Carry a reusable water bottle instead of buying bottled water
- Look for "aperitivo" hours when drinks come with free snacks
Transportation Savings
- Book RENFE trains in advance for discounts up to 60%
- Consider ALSA buses between cities (slower but much cheaper)
- Purchase 10-trip metro tickets in major cities for significant savings
- Use BlaBlaCar for intercity ridesharing at a fraction of train costs
- Walk whenever possible - Spanish cities are very pedestrian-friendly
Activities & Sightseeing Savings
- Research free museum days (many offer free entry certain hours/days)
- Join free walking tours available in most major cities (tip-based)
- Purchase city cards if visiting multiple attractions
- Book attractions online in advance for discounted rates
- Look for student/senior discounts if applicable
Timing Strategies
- Travel during shoulder season (April-May or September-October)
- Avoid August when many Spaniards vacation (prices peak)
- Book flights 2-3 months in advance for best rates
- Stay longer in each location to reduce transportation costs
- Consider winter visits for city exploration at lowest prices
General Budget Tips
- Get a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card before your trip
- Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
- Use ATMs for cash rather than currency exchange services
- Consider travel insurance to protect your investment
- Track expenses with a budget app during your trip
Regional Cost Variations in Spain
Spain's diverse regions offer varying price points that can significantly impact your overall budget:
| Region | Cost Level | Budget Notes |
| Catalonia (Barcelona) | High | Barcelona is one of Spain's most expensive cities, particularly for accommodation and tourist attractions. Budget 20-30% more than the national average. |
| Madrid | Medium-High | As the capital, prices are above average but still offer good value. Excellent public transportation reduces costs. |
| Basque Country | High | San Sebastian and Bilbao have some of Spain's highest food and accommodation costs, reflecting their gastronomic reputation. |
| Andalusia | Medium-Low | Seville, Granada, and Córdoba offer excellent value, with lower accommodation costs and many affordable dining options. |
| Valencia | Medium | More affordable than Barcelona or Madrid while offering beautiful beaches, culture, and excellent food. |
| Galicia | Low-Medium | One of Spain's more affordable regions with excellent seafood and beautiful landscapes. Santiago de Compostela is reasonably priced. |
| Balearic Islands | High (seasonal) | Mallorca and Ibiza prices surge in summer but offer better value in shoulder seasons. Budget for higher transportation costs. |
| Canary Islands | Medium | Despite being remote, these islands offer good value with year-round good weather. Budget extra for flights. |
Accommodation Options Across Spain
Your accommodation choices will significantly impact your Spain trip budget. Here's a more detailed look at options across different price points:
Budget Accommodation
€20-40 per night
- Hostel dormitory beds (€15-25)
- Private rooms in hostels (€35-50)
- Budget guesthouses in less central areas
- Room rentals in shared apartments
- Basic hotels in smaller towns and cities
Best for: Solo travelers, backpackers, and those prioritizing experiences over accommodations
Mid-Range Accommodation
€60-120 per night
- 3-star hotels in good locations
- Well-appointed Airbnb apartments
- Boutique guesthouses and B&Bs
- Small family-run hotels
- Vacation rentals (better value for longer stays)
Best for: Couples, families, and travelers seeking comfort without luxury prices
Luxury Accommodation
€150-300+ per night
- 4-5 star hotels in prime locations
- Historic paradores (state-run luxury hotels)
- Luxury apartments and penthouses
- Boutique hotels in historic buildings
- Resort properties in coastal areas
Best for: Travelers seeking premium experiences, special occasions, and those with higher budgets
Accommodation Money-Saving Strategies
- Weekly discounts: Many apartments offer 10-20% off for 7+ night stays
- Location trade-offs: Staying one metro stop away from prime areas can save 30%
- Shoulder season visits: Same accommodations can cost half the high-season price
- Booking.com Genius program: Free to join and offers 10-15% discounts
- Hostels with private rooms: Often cheaper than hotels with similar amenities
- Breakfast inclusion: Consider if the convenience justifies the cost
Food & Drink Budget Breakdown
Spanish cuisine is a highlight of any visit, and fortunately, you can enjoy amazing food across all budget levels:
Budget Food Options
€15-25 per day
- Self-catering breakfast (€3-5)
- "Menú del día" lunch specials (€10-15)
- Grocery store picnic dinners (€5-8)
- Bocadillos (sandwiches) from local shops (€3-5)
- Tapas in Granada (free with drinks)
- Market food stalls and street food
Mid-Range Food Options
€30-50 per day
- Café breakfast with coffee and pastry (€5-8)
- "Menú del día" at better restaurants (€15-20)
- Casual dinner with wine at local restaurants (€20-30)
- Mix of self-catering and dining out
- Tapas hopping for dinner (€20-25)
- Occasional nicer restaurants
Luxury Food Options
€70-100+ per day
- Full hotel breakfast buffets (€15-20)
- Fine dining lunch experiences (€30-50)
- Gourmet dinners at top restaurants (€50-100+)
- Wine pairings and premium drinks
- Michelin-starred restaurants
- Food tours and cooking classes
Must-Try Spanish Food Experiences
- Paella: Authentic versions in Valencia (€15-20 per person)
- Tapas crawl: In Seville or Madrid (€20-30 per person)
- Pintxos: In San Sebastian's old town (€2-4 each)
- Churros con chocolate: For breakfast (€4-6)
- Jamón ibérico: Spain's famous cured ham (€10-20 plate)
- Local wines: Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Albariño (€3-5 glass)
Transportation Cost Breakdown
Getting around Spain is efficient and relatively affordable with multiple options to suit different budgets:
Local Transportation
- Single metro/bus tickets: €1.50-2.40 depending on the city
- 10-trip metro tickets: €7.50-12 (significant savings)
- 24/48/72-hour tourist cards: €15-30 with unlimited rides
- Airport transfers: €5-15 by public transport, €25-40 by taxi
- City bikes: €5-10 daily rental or subscription services
- Taxis: Starting fare €2-4 plus €1-1.50 per km
- Ride-sharing apps: Available in major cities (similar to taxi prices)
- Walking: Free and often the best way to experience Spanish cities!
Intercity Transportation
| Route | High-Speed Train (AVE) | Regular Train | Bus | Flight |
| Madrid to Barcelona | €50-120 (2.5h) | N/A | €30-45 (7.5h) | €40-100 (1.5h) |
| Madrid to Seville | €40-90 (2.5h) | €35-60 (5h) | €25-40 (6h) | €50-120 (1h) |
| Barcelona to Valencia | €30-70 (2h) | €25-40 (3h) | €15-30 (4h) | €40-90 (1h) |
| Seville to Granada | €30-60 (2.5h) | €20-40 (3h) | €15-25 (3h) | N/A |
| Madrid to Valencia | €35-80 (1.5h) | €25-50 (3.5h) | €20-35 (4h) | €40-100 (1h) |
Car Rental Considerations
Renting a car gives you flexibility but comes with additional costs:
- Basic rental: €30-60 per day (economy car)
- Fuel: Approximately €1.40-1.60 per liter
- Tolls: Many highways have tolls (€5-20 depending on distance)
- Parking: €15-30 per day in city centers, often free in smaller towns
- Insurance: Consider full coverage for peace of mind (€10-20 extra per day)
Activities & Entertainment Costs
Spain offers countless cultural experiences, attractions, and activities across all price points:
Major Attractions Entrance Fees
| Attraction | City | Standard Price (€) | Money-Saving Tips |
| Sagrada Familia | Barcelona | 26-38 | Book online in advance; basic ticket without tower access is cheaper |
| Park Güell | Barcelona | 10 | Free entry before 8:00 AM; only monumental zone requires ticket |
| Prado Museum | Madrid | 15 | Free entry daily from 6-8 PM (Mon-Sat) and 5-7 PM (Sun) |
| Royal Palace | Madrid | 13 | Free for EU citizens on certain days; check website |
| Alhambra | Granada | 14-19 | Book well in advance (3+ months); gardens-only ticket is cheaper |
| Alcázar | Seville | 13-14 | Free on Mondays for the last hour of the day (Oct-Mar) |
| Seville Cathedral | Seville | 11 | Free on Mondays from 4:30-6 PM |
| City of Arts and Sciences | Valencia | 8-42 | Combined tickets offer savings; exterior is free to explore |
Popular Tours & Experiences
- Free walking tours: Available in most cities (tip-based, €10-15 recommended)
- Food tours: €60-100 for 3-4 hour experiences with tastings
- Flamenco shows: €20-45 depending on venue and drink inclusion
- Day trips: €60-120 for guided excursions from major cities
- Cooking classes: €50-80 for market visit and cooking session
- Wine tours: €70-150 for half-day to full-day experiences
- Boat trips: €30-60 for coastal cruises
- Bike tours: €25-40 for guided city exploration
Planning Your Perfect Spain Trip Budget
Spain offers incredible experiences for travelers on any budget. By understanding the costs associated with different trip durations and travel styles, you can create a realistic budget that allows you to enjoy all this beautiful country has to offer without financial stress.
Key Takeaways
- A 7-day trip to Spain costs approximately €415-755 (budget), €930-1,730 (mid-range), or €2,170-3,920 (luxury) per person
- A 10-day trip increases to approximately €630-1,120 (budget), €1,390-2,540 (mid-range), or €3,180-5,750 (luxury) per person
- A 15-day trip costs approximately €955-1,685 (budget), €2,100-3,860 (mid-range), or €4,840-8,750 (luxury) per person
- Traveling during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) offers the best balance of good weather and reasonable prices
- Accommodation and food represent the largest portions of most travel budgets, offering the greatest potential for savings
- Regional price variations are significant, with Barcelona and San Sebastian being more expensive than Andalusian cities
- With strategic planning, you can enjoy authentic Spanish experiences at any budget level
Remember that the best travel experiences often come from immersing yourself in local culture rather than spending lavishly. Whether you're enjoying free tapas in Granada, wandering through the historic streets of Toledo, or watching the sunset over Barcelona's skyline, Spain's magic is accessible to all travelers willing to plan thoughtfully.
Use this guide as a starting point, then customize your budget based on your personal preferences, travel style, and the specific regions you plan to visit. ¡Buen viaje!
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