But to help you make sense of it all, we’ve compiled a list of our top 7 cheap hotels in Barcelona. There’s a little of everything here, from spots that are low on rates to those that are high on style.

Our Barcelona Hotel Guide

• Read all hotel reviews in Barcelona
• Read our articles on Barcelona hotel advice
• More ways to save on your Barcelona vacation

7 Best cheap hotels in Barcelona

Whether you are looking for a private room with a balcony overlooking Las Ramblas or a quiet room with a shared bathroom to save a little extra money, here’s a list of our favorite budget hotels in Barcelona.

Make friends in the comfy lounge at Itaca Hostel.

Itaca Hostel

Neighborhood: Barri Gotic
Doubles averaging $85

Extraverted travelers, unite! The communal vibe at the Itaca Hostel welcomes guests and make it easy for you to make new friends during your trip. Rooms vary from shared dorms to private singles and doubles, to apartments that sleep five or six people. You’ll save a pretty penny thanks to the clean shared bathrooms. Read the full review

Enjoy low rates and charming rooms at Hostal Lausanne.

Hostal Lausanne

Neighborhood: Barri Gotic
Doubles averaging $129

We adore the charming, 18th-century building that Hostal Lausanne calls home, and those who come to Barcelona to shop won’t be disappointed by the location on Portal de l’Angel. While the building has beautiful flourishes, like ornate ceilings and chandeliers, the decor here is otherwise minimal. We love the balcony views off the hotel’s communal lounge space. Read the full review

The outdoor patio is a welcome oasis at the Fashion House.

Fashion House

Neighborhood: Eixample
Doubles averaging $157

Rooms at the Fashion House are, well, very fashionable, with tasteful décor and not a speck of dust in sight. Some rooms also have balconies, so be sure to ask ahead when reserving if you want a view. Our favorite part of the hotel? The flower-filled oasis that is the veranda, where guests can linger and mingle. Read the full review

Be sure to request a balcony room at Hostal Levante. Photo: Booking.com

Hostal Levante

Neighborhood: Barri Gotic
Doubles averaging $158

Nestled into an old telephone company building built in 1903, the Hostal Levante offers an excellent Gothic Quarter location. Rooms feature standard hotel decor, but ask for a room with a balcony when booking for an extra treat. The area is a little noisy and touristy, but there’s plenty to see and do here. Read the full review

Score excellent deals on the balcony rooms at Hotel Lloret Ramblas. Photo: Booking.com

Hotel Lloret Ramblas

Neighborhood: La Rambla
Doubles averaging $158

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better location than Hotel Lloret Ramblas, located at the top of La Rambla. Not only does it deliver on location, but the family-run hotel features plenty of modern amenities, like AC and free Wi-Fi. Plus, some rooms have private balconies with city views. Read the full review

The breakfast room at Hostal Mare Nostrum overlooks La Rambla.

Hostal Mare Nostrum

Neighborhood: La Rambla
Doubles averaging $160

With a location off Las Ramblas, the Hostal Mare Nostrum is a great pick. Rooms feature air conditioning, television and telephone, and those looking to save even more money can opt for one of the few rooms with a shared bathroom. Breakfast is included in the room rate and is served in a nice room with a view of the action on Las Ramblas. Read the full review

Hostal Eixample offers 7 rooms in a lovely residential building in Barcelona.

Hostal Eixample

Neighborhood: Eixample
Doubles averaging $165

With just seven rooms, Hostal Eixample books up quick. Rooms are cozy and simply decorated, and most of them even have balconies to take in views of the street below. Free coffee and breakfast sweeten the deal at this quiet spot. Don’t worry, despite the quiet location, you’ll find plenty to do nearby, plus there is a metro stop close to the hotel. Read the full review

Looking for more hotels and hostels? Check out our full hotel guide to Barcelona.

The post The 7 best cheap hotels in Barcelona for 2026 appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Sporting an iridescent scaled facade and curving, bony balconies, the building always manages to give off an otherworldly feel. Unfortunately, a visit to this Gaudí masterpiece can mean slapping down €29-€35 and getting jostled by passers-by while you inch toward the entrance. Meanwhile, you might wish you’d spared yourself the fuss, snapped a shot from across the street, and taken your euros elsewhere for tapas and beer.

Instead, you can make the most of your time and money when visiting this architectural jewel by following these easy tips for visiting Gaudi’s Casa Batlló:

Related Articles
• Tips for saving time and money at the Sagrada Familia
• 8 Ways to save money at Park Güell
• Best hotels for sleeping near Gaudí architecture

1. Book your tickets online ahead of time

This can’t be stressed enough. If you don’t book your tickets online ahead of time, you’ll have to wait in not one, but two lines when you arrive, and during the busy summer months, there’s always a chance that you won’t be able to get a ticket for the same day. Plus, booking in advance can save up to €15 per ticket.

If you really hate to wait in line, you can pay about €5 extra to skip the line with a “FastPass” ticket. When you book your ticket online, book a time of the day that’s still marked green for high availability — that means fewer people have already bought tickets.

2. Be sure to buy the right ticket

Don’t pay more than you have to! There are discounts for kids between 12-17 years of age, students with an I.D., Barcelona city and province residents, adults over 65, and visitors with disabilities and their companions. Children under 12 years old are free. Teachers and tour guides accompanying a group also get in free.

3. Take advantage of any discounts available

Have you purchased other tickets or tourist cards? If so, you might be eligible for a discounted ticket. You’re in luck if you’ve purchased tickets for the Tourist Bus, Barcelona City Tours, the Modernism Route, the Barcelona Walking Tours, or bought the Barcelona Card or Pass.

4. Go first thing in the morning on a weekday

Trust us, you want to avoid the crowds. Arrive 10-15 minutes before Casa Batlló opens at 8:30 a.m. on a weekday, preferably between Monday and Thursday, when there are fewer Spanish and European tourists in the city. Weekdays in January and February are even better, as Barcelona has fewer visitors during these colder months.

Or, if you’re willing to pay extra, you can buy a “Morning Visit” pass for €45 to ensure that you beat the crowds.

5. Once inside, go straight to the roof

Most visitors gradually work their way up through the house, following the numbers on the audio guide. Get away from the crowds by taking the stairs straight to the top and spending some time alone on the building’s rooftop terrace, posing with its iconic chimneys.

6. Skip the gift shop

The museum’s store has lots of beautiful souvenirs, but they come at too steep a price in cash, not to mention the wait in line. Time is too precious waiting in line for postcards and magnets, even when they’re printed with designs from Barcelona’s most famous modernista master.

7. Go late for a “magical night”

While it may not save you cash on admission, you might end up ahead by going for an evening concert and tour of the museum. Called “Magical Nights”, you can roam the house without the crowds, then stick around for live music and a glass of cava on the rooftop terrace. You can reserve a tour plus the rooftop concert, or only the concert for a slightly lower entry price. (And if you’re willing to risk it, some concert attendees without the tour add-on have been permitted to roam the house some when they first arrived.)

8. Use the free Wi-Fi

Finally, and perhaps of least important, you can also take advantage of the museum’s free Wi-Fi. This will at least save you the hassle of searching for bar or café with free wireless after your tour…

Your tips for visiting Gaudi’s Casa Batlló?

Have some tips for visiting Gaudi’s Casa Batlló? Add them in our comments section below!

The post Barcelona: 8 Tips for visiting Gaudi’s Casa Batlló appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

While rooms in the Catalan capital may be substantially cheaper in comparison to other large European cities, there are a few tricks to getting the best possible price on your accommodations.

And all things considered, wouldn’t you rather spend a little less on a place to lay your head to have even more euros for tapas and wine?

More tips for Barcelona
• The 7 best cheap hotels in Barcelona 
• A Budget travel guide to Barcelona
• How to survive Barcelona’s top 4 attractions

How to save on your hotel in Barcelona

No matter when you’re planning your trip, for maximum savings, it’s important to pay close attention to the details. Location, type of accommodations, and when to book are all key. Read on for our advice on how to save on your hotel in Barcelona.

Are you ready to spend a few days in Barcelona? Check rates for Barcelona hotels now.

Stay near the center of Barcelona to be close to the action.

1. Stay somewhere central but not too central

Resist the temptation of staying too close to La Rambla or Plaça Catalunya. Beyond budget considerations, these areas of town are less desirable because of the noise factor, too. And it’s not just your room that will cost substantially more in these neighborhoods — food and drink are priced higher, too.

Related: Is La Rambla a tourist trap? 5 Tips for strolling like a local

Other neighborhoods that can get a little noisy include Raval, Plaça Reial, and Gaixample, Barcelona’s boisterous gay neighborhood. So what’s our recommendation for a centrally located but quiet and budget-friendly neighborhood? Stay in Eixample, especially from around Comté d’Urgell Street until Plaça Espanya.

2. Always stay near transit

Depending on the time of year and what’s on in the city, you may want to stay a little bit outside the center or even in one of Barcelona’s sleeper communities like Sant Adría or Badalona. Barcelona is easy to navigate and the inexpensive transit system makes sleeping a little bit further afield worth the savings — sometimes — as long as you’re near a metro or bus stop, less than one zone away. At approximately €1 per ride (if you buy a 10-ride pass) or €8.42 per day (for an unlimited 5-day pass), hopping the metro into the center to see the sights is easy, even on a tight budget.

3. Select your dates carefully

Before you book plane tickets, check out this calendar of Barcelona events. If there’s a major conference or big sporting event going on, room rates are guaranteed to go way up. Summer, Christmas, late spring, and early fall are also high-occupancy times of the year for hotels. For the best possible rates on a room, plan a visit from mid-January through March. For more information, check out our guide to beating the crowds and saving money on your Barcelona hotel.

Hostal Benidorm is a renovated two-star stay right on Las Ramblas. Photo: Booking.com

4. Avoid staying weekends when possible

Unless you want to stay in Barcelona’s business-y upper districts (Sarria and Diagonal), room rates almost always go up weekends. Why? Barcelona’s a popular weekender destination for Spaniards living elsewhere in Spain, as well as folks from all over Europe.

Related: 7 Rookie mistakes to avoid on your first trip to Barcelona

5. Book a refundable room in advance

This is especially true if you plan to stay in the Catalan capital during peak season or dates coinciding with major events like the Mobile World Congress. If you find a reasonable rate on a centrally located room, book it at a refundable rate, even if you have to pay a little more. That way you can always cancel your reservation if you find a better deal or change your plans.

6. Shop last-minute deals

If you’re more of a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants traveler, this is the option for you. Wait until the last possible minute — same-day deals are often exceptional if you book online. We’ve found that in-person, last-minute room rates are atrociously expensive, as many desk clerks assume you’re not willing to walk away and find another spot.

Check rates on CheapoSearch for last-minute deals.

You can choose from cheap dorms or private rooms at Hostal Fernando.

7. Consider staying at a hostel or pension

While you won’t always have an elevator or a private bathroom in a hostel or pension, sometimes it’s worth schlepping up the stairs with your luggage and sharing the shower with the room next door for the savings. Just don’t forget to bring your flip-flops!

Related: Hostal? Hostel? Hotel? Understanding Barcelona’s accommodation options

Have you been to Barcelona? What are your best tips for saving on accommodations in the city? Share in the comments below.

The post 7 Tips for saving on your hotel in Barcelona appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

And although it is one of the top cities in the world, Madrid can still be explored on a cheapo budget.

Case in point: The abundance of high-quality cheapo-friendly hotels across the city. So brush up on your Spanish and start planning your trip!

More tips for Madrid:
• 5 Budget tips for visiting Madrid
• 8 Ways to save on drinking and eating in Madrid
• How to save time and money at the Prado Museum

The top budget hotels in Madrid

We’ve searched through our listings to find our favorite budget hotels in Madrid based on comfort, amenities, and the overall atmosphere.

Before you book, you can read up on how to save at Marid hotels.

The view from a balcony at Hostal Gonzalo.

Hostal Gonzalo

Neighborhood: Near Atocha Train Station & Prado Museum
Doubles from $89

If you want a room at the charming, family-run Hostal Gonzalo, you’d better book now! The hotel’s low rates coupled with its location near the Museum Triangle and the Atocha Train Station means it’s often fully booked. Amenities include air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. And down the quaint street, you’ll find fruit bodegas, bookshops, and neighborhood taverns. Read the full review

A charming reception greets you at Hostal Marlasca. Photo: Booking.com

Marlasca

Neighborhood: Huertas & Santa Ana
Doubles from $97

Tucked away on a quiet side street in central Madrid, Marlasca is cozy and homey. The hotel has been upgraded to sport modern, minimalist-style rooms, but that doesn’t mean it skimps on amenities. You can find flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. As an added bonus, exterior rooms open up to balconies. Read the full review

We highly recommend the airy corner rooms at Hotel Plaza Mayor.

Hotel Plaza Mayor

Neighborhood: La Latina-Lavapies
Doubles from $88

You’ll be warmly welcomed at the Hotel Plaza Mayor, which is situated near — you guessed it — Plaza Mayor. You can save money in the regular rooms, and still get plenty of wonderful amenities, but we suggest the superior corner rooms, which boast floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the plaza. Read the full review

Peek out the window at Hostal La Macarena for this classic city scene.

Hostal La Macarena

Neighborhood: Huertas & Santa Ana
Doubles from $85

Right across from Plaza Mayor is the Hostal La Macarena, a cozy hotel in the heart of Madrid. Nearby, you’ll find plenty of traditional restaurants and tapas bars. Plus, most rooms are complete with wrought-iron balconies, so you can peer out onto the beautiful streets below — perfect for people-watching. Read the full review

Hostal Benamar offers an excellent location at an excellent price.

Hostal Benamar

Neighborhood: Chueca
Doubles from $105

At Hostal Benamar, you’ll find clean and comfortable rooms, complete with flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Rooms also come with a view, of either the quiet street below or Hostal Benamar’s courtyard. It’s a great place to stay if you want to get a taste of the vibrant Chueca neighborhood from restaurants to nightlife. Read the full review

More recommendations in Madrid on where to stay

• Full hotel guide to Madrid
• Madrid hotels under $100
• Best value hotels in Madrid

The post The top budget hotels in Madrid for 2025 appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Indeed, you’ve not quite seen Spain if you’ve only been to Barcelona. Many tourists come here and ask where they can find the following: bullfights, flamenco and sangria. In Barcelona, bullfighting has essentially been banned. It’s not part of the Catalan culture, and neither is flamenco for that matter.

Can you see a flamenco show in Barcelona? Oh yeah. And go for it, but keep in mind that it’s from the south of Spain, and you should head to Seville if you’re truly interested in experiencing “real” flamenco. In fact, why not travel to Madrid too, one of the finest cities in the world.

So with an average, 10-day vacation, where should you go in Spain? There are many itinerary combinations you could concoct, but here is one suggestion that includes highlights of things to see and do along the way:

Famous architecture by Gaudi is a must-see on any trip to Barcelona. Photo: Regina W Bryan

Days 1, 2, 3: Start in Barcelona

I recommend starting your journey in Barcelona.

Highlights:

• Gaudi architecture is everywhere you look, but don’t miss the famous cathedral La Sagrada Família or Parc Güell.

• Get a sip of Catalan cava, reds and whites at fun wine bars.

• Taste local Catalan delicacies at these affordable restaurants, cafes and tapas bars.

• Stroll down Las Ramblas and explore La Boqueria, Barcelona’s famous food market.

• See a concert at the Palau de la Música

• Take a lovely stroll (or even swim!) along Barcelona’s many beautiful beaches.

• Check out one of the city’s best neighborhoods, El Born, a trendy and historic place to explore.

• Wander through the historic streets of the Gothic Quarter.

Related: EuroCheapo’s budget tips for Barcelona and EuroCheapo’s recommended budget hotels in Barcelona.

Days 4, 5, 6: Explore Seville

To save time, hop on a cheapo flight from Barcelona to Seville that takes less than two hours. The train can take more than five hours.

Highlights:

• Take in the difference in climate and vibe. Seville is much smaller and quieter than Barcelona and less overwhelming. It’s a nice change of pace.

• Eat delicious and cheap tapas in the plethora of bars all over town. The low prices in Seville restaurants will make Cheapos very happy.

• Get on the train for a 45-minute ride to Córdoba to tour La Mezquita (now the city’s cathedral). Prepare to have your socks knocked right off.

• Drink sherry, which is a delicious fortified wine produced in Andalusia.

• Gawk at the architecture of the Real Alcázar.

• See a flamenco show for free (or at least the price of a drink) and visit the flamenco museum. Ask around to avoid touristy spots.

Related: EuroCheapo’s budget tips for Seville and EuroCheapo’s recommended budget hotels in Seville.

Madrid is a quick ride from Barcelona thanks to frequent express trains. Photo: Regina W Bryan

Days 7, 8: Explore Madrid

Take the Ave fast train to Madrid for a quick 2 hour, 30-minute journey.

Highlights:

• Madrileños know how to have fun, so check out the nightlife scene, said to be the best in Spain. Whether you like bar hopping or live music and cinema, there’s something for everyone. Here are some tips for a great night on the town.

• Madrid’s museums are among the best in the country. Check out the Prado, Reina Sofia or Thyssen-Bornemisza, all of which offer free and reduced admission times.

• Sample traditional foods and drinks of Madrid at our favorite local restaurants or a tasty tapas tour.

• See a bullfight, if that’s your bag. Madrid is a good place to experience it.

Related: EuroCheapo’s Madrid full city guide and EuroCheapo’s recommended budget hotels in Madrid.

Day 9, 10: Back to Barcelona

Train: Getting from Madrid back to Barcelona is easy. You can take the Ave fast train from Atocha Station to Barcelona is less than 3 hours.

Flying: You might be able to find a flight that’s cheaper than the train, but in the end with transportation to the airport and security, it will take about the same time.

It’s almost time to go home, but you still have one more night on the town. Just make sure to stay centrally to have easy access to the El Prato airport bus, which takes about an hour. We like the Hotel Atlantis, a clean and efficient stay in the heart of the city.

Related: The top 10 affordable hotels in Barcelona

A whirlwind tour? Yes, and very much not in step with the popular slow-travel movement. However, with stops in Barcelona, Seville, Córdoba, and Madrid, you’ll have a great introduction to the country and a much better idea of what Spain really is — a beautiful country with rich and diverse cultures and climates.

Your trip ideas for Spain

How would you organize a 10-day trip to Spain? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

The post 10-day Itinerary in Spain: Touring Barcelona, Seville & Madrid, with budget tips appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

As a traveler in a new culture, it will be really hard, if not impossible, to look “local” so why not just be comfortable and go with the flow? (However, this doesn’t mean wandering La Rambla with three cameras tied around your neck wearing socks and sandals — there are limits!)

Acting like a tourist is a different subject. We’re here to help you overcome some common mistakes that tourists make when visiting Barcelona, from spending too much time on La Rambla to trying to eat at 6 p.m.

Related:
• How to navigate Barcelona’s most popular attractions
• 10 Best cheap hotels in Barcelona

25 Things to do in Barcelona & What to Avoid

Follow our lead and you’ll be acting (and eating) like a local in no time!

Barcelona Basics

1. Do try to learn a few words in Spanish and Catalan.

Por favor, gracias and bon dia go a long way.

2. Do try to adhere to local customs and schedules.

Remember that Spaniards eat late and that many shops will be closed midday for lunch and on Sundays.

3. Don’t get too political.

It’s fine to ask locals their opinion on Catalan independence, but be careful if you’re voicing very pro-Catalonia or pro-Spain opinions. You might end up offending those around you and find yourself in a heated debate or fight.

Late dinner means more time for snacking on tapas beforehand! Photo: Craig Nelson

Eating & drinking in Barcelona

4. Don’t eat on La Rambla if you can avoid it.

We’ve been over this many times before, but it’s worth mentioning again.

5. Do visit Barcelona’s wine bars.

Head to these spots to sip reds and whites from all over Spain.

6. Don’t tip 20% on your restaurant bill.

Tipping is not common in Spain. If you want to leave something, leave your change or a couple of euros.

7. Do take a cooking class.

Learn how to make Catalan dishes and Spanish classics like paella.

8. Don’t try to go to dinner at 6 p.m.

Any respectable restaurant won’t even open the doors until 8 p.m. (Here are 18 tips for eating like a local in Barcelona.)

9. Do eat delicious tapas.

Tapas will get you over the 6 p.m. hump and tide you over until your late Spanish dinner.

10. Do visit the famous Boqueria Market, but…

Also visit Barcelona’s lesser-known markets, all of which will be less crowded. Santa Caterina is a good option.

11. Don’t order paella for dinner.

It’s a lunch dish considered too heavy for a late meal.

A shop selling Spanish jamón in La Boqueria Market. Photo: Jessica Spengler

Shopping

12. Don’t take photos in shops or at market stands unless you’ve asked permission.

Fortunately, most of the time, the vendors will say yes.

13. Do shop for exquisite Spanish shoes and clothing.

Looking for Zara, Mango, etc.? Head to the Gothic Quarter around Portal de l’Àngel and Carrer Comtal.

14. Do score deep discounts during the twice-annual city-wide sales.

They’re held in Barcelona in January/February and July/August.

15. Don’t buy souvenirs on La Rambla.

Look for locally made goodies to take home on side-streets off La Rambla.

16. Do check out museum stores.

They offer a great selection of books on Barcelona and artsy souvenirs crafted in Barcelona.

The spectacular Park Güell designed by Gaudí. Photo: Jorge Franganillo on Flickr

Sightseeing

17. Do pay the entrance fee to see La Sagrada Família.

It’s Barcelona’s most important sight and there is a reason for this — it’s stunning! Cough up the entrance fee and spend a few hours inside gawking at Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece. (And do get tickets online and skip the wait. Read all of our tips for visiting Sagrada Familia.)

18. Don’t go to Park Güell if you’re short on time.

It’s a bit of trek to get up to Park Güell that can easily eat up most of the day. Stick to Gaudí sights in the city center if you’ve only got a couple of days.

19. Do rent a bike.

Ride along Barcelona’s beachfront boardwalk from La Barceloneta to Llevant beach. Stop along the way for lunch at a seaside eatery.

20. Don’t spend all your time on La Rambla.

It’s tempting to spend too much time with the human statues, cheesy vendors and crowds of tourists. But do walk down La Rambla at least once and stop in to see La Boqueria Market.

21. Do take a tour of the Gothic Quarter.

Get an in-depth look at what Barcelona was like in Roman times.

22. Don’t confine yourself to Barcelona’s city limits.

Consider a day trip to Girona to wander its medieval lanes, Figueres to see the Salvador Dalí Museum, or the Penedès region for wine tasting.

Hostal Fernando offers a central location and rooms for every budget. Photo: EuroCheapo

Barcelona Hotels

23. Don’t try to save money by staying at an out-of-the-way hotel.

It’s worth it to spend a little more to be central. You’ll save time and money getting to popular sights, and it will be easier to walk home at night. Check out these affordable hotels near Barcelona’s most popular attractions.

24. Do make sure your hotel has a safe in the room or at the reception desk.

Leave your passport, extra cash and credit cards, and anything else of value that you will not need on you in the safe. Here are 10 tips for staying safe in Barcelona.

25. Don’t pay for an expensive hotel breakfast at your hotel.

Instead, head to the nearest cafe and eat breakfast like a local for about $5-$6 (coffee and a small sandwich or pastry).

Finally, do come to Barcelona with an open mind and flexible itinerary.

Travel is tricky and things may not pan out the way you planned. It could rain, a museum could be closed for remodeling, or the taxi drivers could go on strike.

However, good things can crop up too, and it’s rewarding to be able to spot these opportunities when they surface and embrace them. A restaurant owner offers you something that’s not on the menu, and it turns out to be the best meal of your life. A local invites you over to their condo for coffee, and you make a new friend. A wrong turn takes you down a winding alleyway with unique bars and boutiques.

The unplanned can many times be the best part of the journey — embrace it!

The post 25 Things to Do in Barcelona (and Avoid!) That Will Improve Your Trip appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Luckily, the city is also ripe with charming family-run hotels that are quite affordable. Whether you prefer something simple, historic, or modern, there’s a budget hotel for you. So start planning your itinerary through Spain and add a stop in Seville.

More tips for exploring Spain:
• 10 first-time mistakes to avoid in Spain
• How to buy tickets to the Alhambra in Granada
• The best SIM cards for your trip to Spain

The top budget hotels in Seville, Spain

Below, we’ve highlighted some of our favorite affordable hotels across the city.

Hotel Simon

Neighborhood: El Arenal
Doubles from $70

With historic touches throughout, the Hotel Simon is a wonderful cheapo pick. The hotel is nestled within an 18th-century mansion, and some rooms have balconies with excellent street views. You can enjoy peace and quiet here, too, as there are no TVs and no Wi-Fi (in the guest rooms, at least). Read the full review

Now that’s a patio!

Un Patio al Sur

Neighborhood: El Arenal
Doubles from $89

Un Patio al Sur offers pristine modern rooms at excellent rates. Guests can enjoy an array of amenities, from air conditioning and flat-screen TVs to free Wi-Fi and private marble bathrooms. You’ll also find plenty of delicious restaurants and cafe in the area. Read the full review

Soak in the sun on the roof terrace of Callejón del Agua.

Callejón del Agua

Neighborhood: El Centro
Doubles from $45

The quaint Callejón del Agua offers lovely rooms in the center of the city. Guests can enjoy the air conditioning and stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi. The rooftop terrace also provides wonderful views. Read the full review

We like the rooms and the price at the handsome Hotel Maestranza.

Hotel Maestranza

Neighborhood: El Centro
Doubles from $70

Rooms at the Hotel Maestranza are simple and elegant with chic headboards and a neutral color palette. You’ll enjoy air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and soundproof windows. Be sure to ask for a room with a balcony for the best views! Read the full review

The impressive entrance to Alcántara Hotel.

Alcántara

Neighborhood: Santa Cruz
Doubles from $45

If you’re looking for a little excitement, check out Alcántara. Sharing a space with a flamenco salon, the hotel experiences a bit of a hustle and bustle on show nights. On the flip side, rooms are calming and offer air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and sparkling private bathrooms. Read the full review

Take in the regal scenery at Hotel Abanico.

Abanico

Neighborhood: El Centro
Doubles from $54

Near the lively Plaza de Alfalfa, the Abanico offers cozy rooms and bright, attractive communal spaces all at budget-friendly rates. You’ll find all the comforts of home, like AC, flat-screen televisions, and free Wi-Fi. Enjoy breakfast, available for an extra fee, in the beautifully tiled dining room. Read the full review

Sleep peacefully and the family-run Pension Córdoba.

Pension Córdoba

Neighborhood: Santa Cruz
Doubles from $55

While rooms at Pension Córdoba are simply, they are immaculately clean and comfortable thanks to the attention and care of the family that runs the place. Guests will enjoy perks like AC and free Wi-Fi. For anything you need, from breakfast to sites to see, the thoughtful staff is happy to share their best recommendations. Read the full review

Looking for more budget hotels in Seville?

Read through out Seville hotel guide or check out more than 10,000 hotels in Andalusia.

The post Spain: Our favorite budget hotels in Seville appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

And there’s something to be said for a culture where everyone’s favorite fermented grape beverage is such a part of the daily fabric of people’s lives that there is local wine available for any price point — even Cheapos!

But even in a culture where wine is for everyone, there are some easy tricks to incorporate into your repertoire to save on Spanish wines during your time in Barcelona, Madrid and beyond. Here are a few of our favorites tips to help you make the most of your wine budget while you’re in Iberia.

Related:
• Spain Budget Travel Guide: 50 Ways to save in Spain
• Madrid Cheap Eats: 8 Tips to save on dining and drinking in Madrid
• The Best Food in Spain: Here are 7 dishes to try in Spain

1. Order house wine

Unless you’re picky when it comes to wine or you’re looking for a certain vintage or varietal, chances are you’ll be pleased with the house wine served in Spanish restaurants and bars.

Most importantly for Cheapos, it will give you significant savings when dining out — think €2-3 per glass or €6-7 for a whole carafe!

2. Share a bottle

If you’re drinking in a party of two or more, try to agree on a vintage and order by the bottle or carafe instead of by the glass. With lovely bottles of Spanish reds, whites and even sparkling Cavas starting at just €8, it’s a better bargain than ordering a glass or two each.

If you want to drink wine for less like a local, order a really cheap tipple called vino turbio. It’s a very cheap wine, served cold and shaken up to make it a little bubbly. However, it’s not available just anywhere — think hole-in-the-wall style neighborhood taverns.

3. Shop for bottles at wine stores

Looking for a bottle of wine for a picnic or to take one home as a souvenir? You’re far better off buying wine at neighborhood shops. While supermarket wines in Spain are plenty cheap, there’s a wider selection for similar prices in specialized wine shops.

At shops, you’ll have access to an expert who can help you find the perfect bottle and may even invite you to taste it beforehand. For the best prices, steer clear of shops in central, touristy spots (think La Rambla in Barcelona or Plaza de Sol in Madrid).  There is an exception to this rule: the wine shops in local food markets. They’re usually competitively priced, have English-speaking staff on hand and tend to be set up for customer tastings.

4. Organize your own winery visit

You don’t always have to stick to organized tours of wineries. Instead, after you’ve had a bottle of wine that you really enjoy or on a recommendation from a local or expert at a wine shop, rent a car or hop public transit to the winery of your choice.

Just be sure to call ahead to make sure there’s someone to receive you and that the winery in question allows tours. Many wineries in Spain allow visits, and the cost is in the single digits or even free of charge for a tour and a taste of one of the vintages made on site.

Ready to hit the road to search for the best wine? Here are our best tips for renting a car in Spain.

Grapes growing in a vineyard in Ribera de Duero. Photo: David A

5. Try wines from lesser-known regions and wineries

Rioja may be Spain’s best-known wine region, and Cordoniu and Freixenet may be Catalonia’s most famous producers of Cava (Spain’s famous sparkling wine) but that also means these products are widely exported, resulting in higher price tags. And as all Cheapos know, bigger prices don’t always equal better quality.

For inexpensive, hearty reds, try a bottle from Ribera de Duero, a wine region within an easy drive of Madrid that reminds us a little of Tuscany. In Basque Country, skip the Cava and seek out the refreshing slightly sparkling regional wine, Txacoli.

Bonus Tip: Buy Spanish wines in other destinations

Now that we’ve established that buying Spanish wine in Spain is very cheap, did you know Spanish wines are among the cheapest and best available in other parts of the world?  In places we’ve visited around the U.K., Spanish wines are always among the cheapest on offer. And on a recent trip to San Francisco, we noticed that Spanish Riojas were cheaper than many of the Sonoma California wines up for sale — even with the added expense of importation and long-haul shipping. Salud!

Want to read more about buying wine around Europe? Check out these articles:

• 6 Tips for buying wine in France on a budget
• Buying wine like a local in Florence
• Visiting Slovakia’s affordable wine region

The post Spain Wine Tips: How to save on Spanish wine appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Beyond its amazing architecture, most of the things to do in Barcelona cost much lower than elsewhere in Western Europe. Tasty Mediterranean cuisine, clean and comfortable budget accommodations, discounted and free entry to shows, museums, and attractions — Barca has something for every visitor and every pocketbook, even Cheapos!

Budget tips for visiting Barcelona
• Barcelona: The best cheap hotels near top attractions
• 25 Do’s & don’ts to improve your trip to Barcelona
• 7 Phrases to learn before your trip to Barcelona

Budget travel guide to Barcelona

Read on for our best advice on making the most of your euros (and your time) in Barcelona.

Flying into Barcelona–El Prat Airport on a budget airline. Photo: James A

When to visit Barcelona

When it comes to finances, the best time of year to visit Barcelona is mid-January through February. It’s not particularly warm or sunny but it’s not freezing outside either. Besides, once the local Christmas holidays end on Three Kings Day (January 6th), airfare prices plummet and accommodations are especially reasonable, given the low occupancy levels during the lull between the holiday rush and when things warm up again for spring.

That said, deals can be had in Barcelona pretty much year-round, especially from late October through early December and then from mid-January up until Easter week. After Easter week, prices are on the rise but get exponentially higher after locals welcome the summer months in with fireworks and bonfires for Sant Joan’s Eve on June 23rd.

If you must visit for a major city event like the festival of La Merce (September 20-24 in 2024) or the Mobile World Congress (March 3-5 in 2025) our best advice is to book in advance — and not just flights and accommodations but any must-sees on your monument list, too. Gaudi sites like Sagrada Familia are known to sell-out regularly, particularly when your visit coincides with local holidays or an important conference.

Related: How to find the best dates in Barcelona and beat the crowds

Getting to Barcelona

Transatlantic fares to Barcelona start as low as $300 round-trip, if you’re flexible and shop around. For example, we recently found deals from Newark Airport on Tap Air Portugal from $401 and deals in the fall and winter from Boston with Iberia Airlines starting at $399.

If prices for flights to Barcelona seem a bit high for the dates you need, you can always fly into London or Paris, then hop a budget airline to Barcelona from about $33. Look for low-cost airfare to Europe with CheapoSearch.

Getting around

From the airport

To get to the city center from the airport, the best value for your money is to take the train from Barcelona’s old terminal, T2. If you arrive into T1, follow the arrows to the shuttle to T2 and the train. At about €4.50, or even less per ride if you buy and use a T-casual ticket (€12.15 for 10 rides) for your time in Barcelona, it’s cheaper than the Aerobus (€9.75) or the Metro (€5.15) and much cheaper than a taxi (about €30-€45). If you time it right and don’t have to wait for the next train, it’s also slightly faster than taking a regular city bus (46/N16/N17), a €2.40 option.

Walking

Once you get to the center from the airport, Barcelona is a very walkable city. Most of the major attractions you’ll want to see can be reached on foot, and for the most part, the center is fairly flat. That said, a few attractions, such as Gaudi’s Parc Güell, are far enough away that it’s probably worth your while to hop public transit to get there.

Public transit

Fortunately for residents and visitors alike, public transit in Barcelona is very cheap. A one-zone, multi-person 10-trip ticket, called the T-casual, can be had for €12.15. That’s only around one euro per swipe! See our tips on how to use the Barcelona bus system for more information.

Looking out over the city from Park Güell designed by Gaudi. Photo: Lauren F.

Cheap and free things to do in Barcelona

Gaudi for less

While you’re well-advised to go ahead and spend some cash on seeing the inside of some of Gaudi’s buildings, for travelers on a limited budget, there’s another good option: gawking at the outside of said buildings for free. One more pointer? If you’re going to go inside, go ahead and book your tickets online for Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and Parc Güell. It’s slightly cheaper, saves you a little time waiting in line, and guarantees you won’t be turned away at the door because they’re sold out for the day.

Related: Best hotels for sleeping near Gaudí architecture

Another free thing to do? Head to Ciutadella, Cervantes, or Palau Reial Parks for a picnic and a walk around the grounds. Ciutadella is the most centrally located, Cervantes has a gorgeous rose garden, and Palau Reial has a Palace. Or, if you can scrounge up €2.23 and a metro pass, head to Barcelona’s Garden Labyrinth Park. Scenes from the movie Perfume were filmed in its neoclassical maze.

We also highly recommend visiting Barcelona’s historic cemeteries in Montjuïc and Poble Sec. Full of fascinating funerary art, they offer unique insights into life in the community.

Most of the city’s museums have a free afternoon weekly, a free day monthly and also waive admission on certain holidays.  For example, MNAC, the National Museum of Catalan Art in the palace on Montjuïc is free Saturday afternoons from 3 p.m. until close, as well as the first Sunday of the month, and on four city holidays. Even the Picasso Museum has a free evening weekly, Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m. (November through April) or 7 to 9 p.m. (May through October), in addition to a free day every first Sunday of every month.

Tapas is a tasty and cheap staple of Barcelona life. Photo: Craig Nelson

Wallet-friendly eats and drinks

You can’t leave Barcelona without trying staples like Cava and tapas. And before you walk into a restaurant, cafe or bar in Barcelona, there are only a few rules you need to follow to get more bang for your buck:

Don’t eat right next to a popular attraction

Prices will always be higher and the quality has the potential to be lower. This is particularly true on the Rambla.

Eat when the locals eat

Barcelona eats on a very specific schedule, learn it, and you’ll not only save but you’ll be blending in with the locals (or at least trying to). Here are 18 tips to dine like a local in Barcelona.

Boqueria market is busy but worth exploring for local food. Photo: G0Dex

Explore La Boqueria market

Although La Boqueria can be a mob scene, it also a world-class food market with incredible tastes around every corner.  If you push through the crowds, you’ll be rewarded with a more local experience at La Boqueria.

Avoid places with their menu translated into more than three languages

In a popular city like Barcelona, Catalan, Spanish and English are pretty much a given in the city center. If your menu is in more languages than that, scram, because you’re likely in a tourist trap.

Always read the menu and the prices before you go in

Typically places post the prices outside the restaurant, but if not, ask to take a quick glance at the menu just to know what you’re getting into. For a super cheapo meal, head for these five cheap eats under €6.

Go out for lunch

Looking for the best price on freshly prepared food in massive quantities? Go for lunch around 2 to 4 p.m. and grab a menu del día. Multicourse meals including bread, dessert, coffee, and wine start at around €8. For the lowest prices, get away from Plaça Catalunya and La Rambla and head to the side streets. Here are the 8 best lunch deals in Barcelona.

Turn tapas into a meal

Tapas is a beloved tradition in Barcelona. It’s a chance for a quick drink and snack before dinner, but you can also go for a tapas crawl or settle into one spot and fill up on small plates of cheese, ham, and seafood. Read more: Barcelona Tapas Guide: What, where, and when to eat tapas.

The amazing view from Eddy Rooms Barcelona.

Inexpensive accommodations in Barcelona

Compared to Paris, London or even Madrid, Barcelona’s a very reasonable city to sleep in. Basic budget hotels offer private rooms from about €100 per night, and hostels have beds in shared dorms from €35. Apartment vacation rentals start at €80 per night.

Where to stay

It’s important to note that while accommodations out in Barcelona’s outlying neighborhoods like Horta-Guinardó and Clot and sleepier communities like Hospitalet and Santa Coloma may be cheaper, you’re probably better off staying closer to the center. You’ll save time, money and stress! Check out our list of Barcelona neighborhoods to see where to stay. And if you want to stay at our favorite cheapo picks, here are the top budget hotels in Barcelona.

Looking for even more Barcelona hotels? You can browse and book listings in our Barcelona hotel guide.

Safety tips

Generally speaking, Barcelona is a very safe destination and violent crime is very rare. Even political demonstrations tend to be very peaceful. That said, petty theft is very common, so keep valuables close and pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas. Here are 10 tips to help you stay safe during your trip to Barcelona.

Your tips for Barcelona

Have you been to Barcelona? We’d love to hear from you. Share your favorite tips for exploring the Catalan Capital on a budget in the comments below.

The post Barcelona Budget Travel Guide: How to save in the Catalan capital appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Although the products were first-rate, there were days when shopping at La Boqueria was a real challenge, because of the big crowds of tourists both in the market and on La Rambla (which I had to cross to get to the market).

These throngs of visitors have become even more of an issue in the last few years, making shopping difficult for locals who want to get their pound of shrimp for an afternoon paella. In 2015, city officials decided to limit the number of tour groups that can enter the market on Friday and Saturday mornings, the busiest days in Barcelona for food shopping. The hope is to reduce congestion and make the market popular with locals again. Tour groups will not be allowed into the market on those days until after 3 p.m.

We’ll see if this helps alleviate congestion, but in the meantime, there are still ways to have a good shopping experience at La Boqueria. With a little bit of patience and navigation skills, you can see a different side of the market that most tourists don’t even know exists.

Related: Budget hotels near La Boqueria market

The snacks up front are for tourists

Upon first glance, it may seem like La Boqueria is nothing more than a string of stalls catering to visitors, but look a little bit closer, and you’ll find that there are two sides to the market. In the front part of La Boqueria, around the main entrance, vendors mostly serve tourists with stalls offering freshly cut fruit and grab-and-go smoothies dominating the options.

While it’s pleasant to sip a citrus drink while strolling La Rambla, this is not a product that most locals would buy. Also clustered around the front of the market are vendors offering prepackaged Iberian ham and other similar foodie souvenirs.

Don’t be shy and make your way through the big crowds to find the best stalls. Photo: EnGuillem

Push through the crowds to find the locals

To get to the part of the market that locals love, you need to charge ahead, moving past the smoothies and down La Boqueria’s long aisles. Don’t be afraid to keep wading through the crowds. Eventually, the tourists will slowly fade away, and you will find some breathing room to explore where the locals shop. Take a look around, and if it looks good, it probably is!

Located along the coast, Barcelona has an incredible variety of shellfish and seafood. Photo: Cha già José

Shopping for seafood & meat

Eventually, you’ll get to the fish and seafood section which is always fascinating. Watch wriggling razor clams and jittery crabs shiver on blankets of crushed ice. Nearby is the meat and poultry area, and if you’re staying at a place with a kitchen, this is the spot to get fresh eggs of all sizes and colors (be on the lookout for the enormous ostrich eggs).

Ham heaven

Near the back of the market, there is a large section dedicated to Spanish ham (jamón). Stalls provide ham in its many forms, including ham flanks, hoof and all, set up for slicing. You can ask for a few grams of ham, and they will masterfully crave off tissue-paper-thin pieces.

Go ahead and try a few slices of the most famous kind, jamón ibérico. It’s not cheap, but it’s much more affordable than buying it abroad, where it can cost over $100 per pound. These stalls also usually have prepackaged ham for sale, perfect for bringing back to your hotel room or taking on a road trip to your next destination after Barcelona.

Specialty shops

Dispersed around the back of the market are diverse specialty stalls selling olive oils, salts, spices, olives and other pickled delights, and bread and sweets such as chocolates and candies. A bottle of fine olive oil makes for a nice gift, and a small tub of green olives stuffed with garlic can be a tasty afternoon snack with a glass of wine, which is also sold in shops along the market’s periphery.

Finding fresh fruit and veggies

Fruit and vegetables stalls are mostly located near the front of the market, but also be sure to check out the ample, uncovered plaza on the market’s right side. Here vendors have less formal stalls, offering their farm-fresh veggies instead from folding tables. Whatever is in season is what they’ll have on offer. If you’re hoping to make a big salad or broil some asparagus, visit these vendors first.

Go at lunch time and grab a stool at El Quim for tapas and wine. Photo: Jeremy Keith

Stop for some tapas and cava

The market is dotted with tapas restaurants. Several can be found near the front and get more attention from tourists. One of the most famous is El Quim de La Boqueria.

If the eateries at the front of the market are full, keep going, there are more in the back. Many of these restaurants are nothing more than long bars with stools around them. Take a look in their glass cases to see what tapas are on offer for the day, and then grab a seat at the bar. Order a glass of cava, a locally produced sparkling wine, and take in the bustling scene around you.

Related: Guide to tapas in Barcelona

Safety and etiquette

However, don’t get so swept up in the market’s hubbub that you set down your purse or camera. Always keep your purse in your lap and your phone near you at all times. Visitors are easy prey for pickpockets in La Boqueria.

And one more thing about cameras: Be considerate when you snap photos. Not all vendors will want you to take their picture or photos of their stalls. If you are trying to get a close-up of a razor clam on a busy morning when the fishmonger has a line of customers, she may rightfully tell you to beat it. When in doubt, ask permission. Usually vendors will say yes with a smile, and of course, it helps if you buy something.

Related: Safety tips for women in Barcelona

Bring cash

Make sure to have your pockets full of euros if you want to make a lot of purchases. Some stores might take credit cards, but it will be a lot quicker and easier for the vendor if you pay the old-fashioned way.

Also, most fresh goods are sold by the kilo (1 kilo = about 2.2 pounds), and it helps to know a little bit of Spanish when ordering. Most vendors speak English thanks to the high volume of tourists, but here are a few Spanish phrases that may come in handy.

Tour and events

Finally, despite the new limit on tour groups in La Boqueria, it can be fun to see the market with a guide. There are a number of cooking classes and food tours that go through the market. Cook & Taste is the only one I have personally experienced, and I would very much recommend it. There also frequent foodie events at La Boqueria. Check the calendar for full details.

Also keep in mind that La Boqueria is just one of many markets in Barcelona, although it is by far the most touristy. For another market in the center of the city with a more local vibe, head for Santa Caterina near the cathedral.

Staying near the market

EuroCheapo lists several affordable hotel options within easy walking distance of La Boqueria. Staying close by means you can wake up early, stroll down La Rambla and beat the midday crowds. Check out our full hotel listings to browse and book a room.

Details

Address: Rambla, 91 Mercat de la Boqueria
Hours: Monday to Saturday from 8:00 a.m – 8:30 p.m.
Website: https://www.boqueria.barcelona/home

The post Barcelona: Local tips for visiting La Boqueria market appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.