Best Tips for Budgeting Your Trip Expenses in Spain
Spain, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes, offers something for every traveler, but understanding the costs is crucial for a memorable experience. While the countryside is generally cheaper than the cities, regional price variations are minimal, making it fairly easy to budget. For those traveling on a shoestring, sticking to hostels, public transport, and the occasional tapas meal, you can expect to spend between €50 and €75 per day. Budget travelers who enjoy a mix of dorms and budget hotels should plan for €90 to €110 per day, while midrange travelers, staying in comfortable hotels and dining out regularly, should budget between €150 and €200 per day. For those seeking luxury, with five-star hotels and gourmet meals, the sky’s the limit. Accommodation costs vary greatly, from around €15 to €35 for a dorm bed in a hostel or albergue, to €50 to €80 for a budget double room, and €100 to €200 for a midrange hotel. Luxury travelers will find themselves spending upwards of €200 for a double room. Food and drink are where Spain truly shines. Tapas, raciones, and pintxos start at €2.50, with a small beer or glass of house wine costing around €2.50. Set lunches, or menú del día, are a great deal at €10 to €15, while a la carte dinners can range from €25 to €35. For those with a refined palate, four-course tasting menus start at €50. Transport is another consideration. City buses and metros cost between €1.50 and €3, while intercity buses range from €20 to €30 for a two-hour journey. Train fares vary significantly, with regional routes costing €10 to €20 and high-speed AVE trains ranging from €40 to €150. Car hire starts at around €40 per day, and toll roads, or autopistas, can add another €10 to €30, depending on the distance traveled. Be sure to also budget for museums and attractions, which can cost between €3 and €15, though many offer free entry on certain days. Discount cards like the Barcelona Card or Madrid Card can offer substantial savings on public transport and entrance fees, and student cards like ISIC may provide discounts on attractions and even discounted train passes. Tipping is not required in Spain, but rounding up the bill or leaving a few coins is appreciated for good service. Now that you know what to expect, you can plan your Spanish adventure with confidence.
