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.

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.

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.

But even though Spain easily figures among Western Europe’s cheapest destinations, with a good dose of common sense, you can stretch those euros even farther on your amazing Spanish adventure.

Check out 50 of our best tips for saving money on your trip to Spain below.

Related:
• Spain: 10 First-time mistakes to avoid when visiting
• 10-Day Itinerary in Spain: A Budget trip through Madrid, Barcelona & Seville
• 10 Spanish phrases every traveler should learn before their trip

Spain Budget Travel Guide: 50 Ways to save

This is a “Cheapo Checklist” to Spain. We’ve included links through to more in-depth articles wherever possible. Also, check out comments for additional tips and to add your own.

When to go

1. Spanish cities can be cheaper in August

Spain’s biggest cities (Madrid, Barcelona, Seville) will be quite hot, sure, but come August, most locals are on vacation. Spaniards flee urban areas en masse and head to the beach or abroad, making for a much less expensive time to visit. That said, some restaurants and shops will be closed or operating reduced hours.

2. Avoid major events in Madrid and Barcelona

Whenever possible, try to plan your trip on dates that don’t coincide with major local events — avoid visiting while the Mobile World Congress is in Barcelona (usually in late February) when room rates double and triple, and skip Madrid’s Fashion Week (usually in the Summer) unless you’re actually in town to see the latest from Spanish designers.

3. Plan your trip during Spain’s off-season

If the dates work for you, save tons of cash on your trip by choosing the time of year you visit carefully. Try for winter (not Christmas or New Year’s) for the best rates on rooms. Or if you’d like warmer temperatures, aim for the late fall or early spring shoulder seasons for competitive rates on rooms and better weather.

How to get cheaper flights to Spain

With low-cost airlines offering more and more flights to Spain, now is a great time to find cheap airfare.

4. You don’t have to fly round trip

Consider buying two one-way tickets or booking your flights into one city and home from another. For example, fly into Madrid and explore the central part of Spain before you head north and fly home from Barcelona. “Open jaw” trips, as these sorts of itineraries are called, can save you time and money as you don’t have to travel all the way back to where you started. Sometimes these tickets can be even cheaper than regular round-trip tickets.

CheapoSearch: Find low-cost flights to Spain

5. You don’t have to fly into Madrid 

Flying in from the US or Canada? Madrid isn’t your only option. You can also fly into Barcelona, or if fares directly into Spain are pricey, fly into a major hub like London, Munich, Dublin or Paris, and hop a budget airline to your Spanish city of choice.

6. Try flying a low-cost airline

Be sure to take into account budget air carrier options from the US to Europe. There’s also a new kid on the block, Level, a budget airline by Spanish carrier Iberia, with fares starting at $400 RT from Los Angeles, San Francisco, NYC, Boston, or Miami to Barcelona or Madrid. It’s important to note that the cheapest fares don’t include a checked bag or a meal.

7. Add a stopover for extra savings

Not finding a cheap fare directly to Barcelona or Madrid isn’t the end of the world. In fact, it could mean something even better. Stopping over in a major hub city for a day could bring your flight expenses way down and give you the perfect excuse to see a new place.

8. Skip the taxi into the city center

Don’t pick up your bags and head straight to the taxi ranks. In Barcelona and Madrid, there are inexpensive public transit options that will take you directly to the city center from the airport. In Madrid, the subway may be your best bet, but in Barcelona, we recommend the train (if you’re flying into T1 you’ll have to take the free shuttle to T2 to get it.)

Organizing your itinerary

Check out our 10-day itinerary through Spain for a classic trip to the highlights of Madrid, Barcelona and Seville.

9. Take things slowly

Signing up to do too many things in too little time is a sure way to overspend and not have a spare moment to relax. Take your time. Choose a few highlights you don’t want to miss (i.e., see one or two Modernista architectural masterpieces in Barcelona, not all of them) and spend some of your time wandering — sometimes getting lost is the first step to finding your new favorite place

10. Focus on a smaller area 

Instead of trying to see sights from across the entire country, decide on a specific region to explore — you’ll get a much more in-depth understanding of a place and spend less money traveling. More off-the-beaten-path parts of Spain, like Galicia (don’t miss Santiago de Compostela), Asturias, or Teruel and Valderrobres in Aragon, are good choices for extra savings on food and accommodation.

11. Go where the locals go 

If you’ve already seen major highlights from around Spain like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona and the Prado in Madrid, head to lesser-known attractions that locals frequent and small villages and towns near big cities where urbanites go to get away from it all. One of our favorites? The beautiful coastal town of Tossa de Mar near Barcelona.

Want some more itinerary tips? Check out the following articles:

• Spain: 8 Overlooked destinations worth adding to your itinerary
• Best affordable seaside escapes in Spain
• How to save on your trip to Madrid

A Renfe train rolling through a mountain landscape in Spain. Photo: Nelso S

Saving on transportation in Spain

12. Tourist passes aren’t always worth it

Public transportation in Spain is very reasonably priced and easy to use, particularly when it’s aimed at locals. That’s why, for the most part, deals aimed at travelers (Eurorail passes, visitor passes in Barcelona and Madrid) aren’t the best value for your money unless you plan to use transit constantly.

13. Book Renfe train tickets ahead of time

Especially during peak travel times like Easter Week, Christmas, and summer, book your train tickets on the Renfe website ahead of time to get the cheapest tickets. Later in the game, you might not be able to get a tourist class ticket — it’s not worthwhile to pay for first class on Spanish trains.

14. Buy your tickets directly from Renfe

Whatever you do, don’t buy your tickets from third-party vendors. For the lowest prices and a legit ticket, always buy your tickets either from the ticket office in the train station or from Renfe’s official website, renfe.com.

15. Book tickets online for extra savings

There are special offers marked “promo only” available online that will save you a few euros, or quite a few if you want to book a high-speed AVE train.

16. Take the slow train for extra savings

Spain’s high-speed rail, AVE, is understandably more expensive than the plodding regional trains that stop in every village. But unless you’re rushing to make a flight, we think taking the slow train is a great way to see the countryside — and keep your budget in check.

17. Reserve AVE tickets as far in advance as possible

The high-speed AVE tickets are generally more expensive than any other way of arriving at a destination, with one caveat — if you book an AVE ticket far enough in advance, you could get a very good price — we found fares for around €50 each way online.

18. Consider taking the bus

Regional transportation companies like Sagalés buses go places the rails don’t and are usually cheaper than the train.

19. Fly budget for larger distances 

Flying a budget airline between Spanish cities is almost always cheaper than taking the high-speed train, and a good portion of the time, it’s cheaper than taking a slow train.

20. Use a rideshare service for greater flexibility 

If the trains, buses, and flights don’t go where you want to go when you want to go, arrange a rideshare with Bla Bla Car instead. It’s cheaper than a taxi and less hassle than renting a car. For more tips, read our guide to using Bla Bla Car.

Rental cars are a great way to see Spain. Just book in advance! Photo: Travis

Save on rental cars and driving

To really get out and see the Spanish countryside, renting a car is the way to go. However, before you hit book on your reservation or get behind the wheel, there are several tips you should know about. To find the latest prices, check out CheapoSearch to find good rates on car rentals across Europe.

21. Book a car with free cancellation 

Particularly during peak travel times, it’s best to book a car with free cancellation as early as you can. You wouldn’t want to do without a vehicle on your Spanish road trip, would you?

22. Cancel if you find a better deal 

If you’ve booked a car with free cancellation (or cheap cancellation if you didn’t follow through with our first piece of advice), keep looking for better deals as your travel dates approach, and if you find something better, book it and cancel your original reservation. Don’t feel too guilty, the car you’re not taking might end up being some other traveler’s windfall.

23. Pick up your car at the airport

It’s always more money to pick up a car in the city center, and it’s almost never worth the hassle. Even if it means you have to hop a bus to the airport, and a shuttle to the rental parking lot, it’s well worth the money saved, not to mention saving yourself the struggle of driving in traffic in Barcelona or Madrid.

24. Give yourself plenty of time for car pick-up

Give yourself a generous window of time after your flight lands to pick up the car, because if you’re late, the company might give your vehicle away or mark you a no-show, which is no fun.

25. Park carefully in Spain

Parking in the wrong spot in Spain can cost you dearly. Beyond the fines, parking in the wrong space might also get your vehicle hauled off to the local tow lot.

26. Don’t speed 

This is a no-brainer. Take your foot off the gas. An encounter with a police officer in a foreign language is no fun, especially not in a country where fines for speeding range up to €300!

27. Have a paper map

Everywhere I’ve been in Spain, the GPS occasionally fails. Sometimes the signal doesn’t come through or the digital maps haven’t been updated to reflect improvements. Either way, having a current paper map (preferably from your rental company or a tourist office) can really help out in a pinch… not to mention that maps don’t have batteries that run out.

28. Use GPS

That having been said, whether you prefer to use a GPS program on your phone or rent a GPS terminal from the rental office, having the technology will make navigating the confusing bird’s nest of Spanish roads far easier, especially if you’re traveling alone and have to be your own navigator.

29. Don’t drive in big cities (if you can avoid it) 

Big cities in Spain have cheap and reliable public transportation, which begs the question: why drive at all? Especially when driving means you can’t enjoy wine with lunch. If you’re stopping at a big city on your way somewhere else, park the car in a lot on the outskirts. If you’re thinking about keeping the car a few extra days to explore Barcelona or Madrid, return it and hop the Metro instead.

More tips: 10 Tips for renting a car in Spain | How to calculate the “real cost” of a rental car in Europe

Save on budget hotels in Spain

Check out EuroCheapo’s recommended budget hotels in Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville — and book at hundreds more Spanish destinations through our homepage.

30. Book early for the best deals 

Book your accommodations as far in advance as you can. Spain’s excellent selection of basic but comfortable accommodations in 2-star hotels, pensiones and B&Bs fill up fast with locals.

31. Rent something with a kitchen

If staying for a while at the same hotel, we recommend renting something with access to a kitchen to save money on eating out. Especially if you’re going to stay multiple nights, having the option of cooking for yourself will make you feel more at home. Access to a kitchen is particularly advantageous for family travelers and folks who have dietary restrictions.

32. Sleep in a pension

In Spain, pensiones are basic family-run accommodations. Usually, they only have a few rooms but they make for a truly local experience at a very low cost.

33. Save big when you book last minute 

If you’re willing to gamble a little, you could win big by booking your hotel at the last minute. Sometimes waiting to book until the day-of will win you a 4-stary room at a 1-star price. One of my favorite methods is booking a hotel with free cancellation ahead, and then canceling it if I get a better deal on a cheaper room. It’s important to note that as a general rule, walking in the day-of doesn’t usually get you any extra savings.

34. Stay somewhere without a view

Year-round, lodging with a view (beach, mountain or cityscape) will cost you substantially more than a comfortable room facing the inside of a city block or a garden. Since chances are your room is just a place to sleep, the view might not be worth the extra cash.

More hotels tips: How to save on your hotel in Madrid | Saving on your Barcelona accommodations | Our favorite cheap hotels in Seville

Save on sightseeing

35. Pre-book your “can’t-miss” activities

If there’s something you’re sure you absolutely must see that’s in high-demand, book it. Booking ahead will usually cost about the same, but it can save you the fuss of waiting in line. That said, don’t organize your days down to the minute. At most, book one activity per day and be sure to allow yourself lots of free time.

Also, don’t waste your money booking anything right after landing. You might be so exhausted that you sleep through that wine tasting you’ve spent months dreaming about, and who wants that?

Related:
• How to save time and money at the Prado Museum
• How to buy tickets to Alhambra, even at the last minute
• Tips for visiting La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

36. Hit up tourist information booths for tips

Even the most experienced travelers go to tourist information for tips (and free maps!). It’s a good place to get your first dose of local advice on where to eat, sights to see, and how to get places. The free maps will save you, so you don’t have to get a cab back to your hotel, and the advice on where to eat will usually save you from tourist traps like the restaurants on La Rambla.

37. Seek out free things to do 

Barcelona’s Parc Güell may not be free anymore but all of Spain’s major cities have plenty of art and culture available for free — try to plan your museum visits on free days or afternoons. Besides, one of the best activities anywhere in Spain, wandering around, is 100% free everywhere.

38. Be careful buying museum and city passes

Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, and other Spanish cities will try to sell you museum and city passes, and for most travelers, they’re just not worth the investment. Unless you’re a serious museum buff, or you plan to zigzag around the city all day like a crazed mosquito, you should probably just skip it.

Eating and drinking for less in Spain

Spain is a paradise for foodies on a budget. From cheap eats in Barcelona to tapas in Bilbao, you’ll find something tasty (and affordable!) around every corner. Just be careful of overpriced restaurants in more touristy areas like Las Ramblas.

39. Shop for food at grocery stores and local markets

Food out in Spain is cheap, but it’s still cheaper to eat food from the grocery store or the local markets like the famous La Boqueria, even if you stick to prepared stuff. Here are the top grocery stores in Barcelona.

40. Dine out during lunchtime

There’s just no better deal than the menu del día in Spain — in every-day sorts of restaurants you can get a feast of an appetizer, a main course, and a dessert, with bread, coffee and wine for around €8-12. Keep an eye out for these must-try local dishes in Spain. Here are our favorite lunch spots in Barcelona.

41. Don’t overtip

Tips aren’t expected in Spain but rounding up small change is appreciated, as is a euro or two for exceptionally good service.

42. Stick to wine and beer 

Keep your alcohol bills to a minimum by drinking like locals do. Spanish wine and local beers (mostly Estrella and Mahou) are very cheap and available almost everywhere.

Still hungry? Check out these 18 tips for eating like a local in Barcelona.

Save on shopping

43.  Rebajas, ofertas and liquidacion are your new best friends

Want to save on your shopping trips in Spain? Make a beeline for establishments advertising discounted merchandise, sales, and clearance. In Spain major sales happen twice yearly, in early January (after 3 Kings) and in August.

44. Don’t forget to get your taxes back

If you’re doing triple to quadruple digit shopping in Spain, make sure to sign up for tax-free refunds. In 2018, Spain removed the minimum spend requirement, but note that for small purchases, the amount of cash involved is probably not worth the hassle. Also, you technically can’t use goods before you leave if you want the VAT refunded.

Stop! Check your phone plan before sharing that selfie in Barcelona. Photo: mingusmutter

Staying in touch for less

45. Buy a Spanish SIM card 

If you want or need to have your phone in full working order during your trip, spring for a pay-as-you-go Spanish SIM card. They’re cheap, and they’ll keep you from racking up insane international roaming charges. Find out more details on buying a SIM card in Europe.

46. Negotiate with your carrier

If you only want to use your phone in case of emergencies or very, very occasionally, it might be of interest to negotiate international roaming terms with your carrier. Whatever you do, don’t travel with a cell phone and use it without having talked to your carrier. Your phone may not work, but if it does, it may cost you a small fortune.

Check out these tips for using your cell phone in Europe without going broke.

47. Use free Wi-Fi

McDonald’s locations, many cafes and bars and even Barcelona’s El Prat airport all offer some form of free Wi-Fi (sometimes it’s limited or with purchase). Make the most of it to stay in touch without jacking up your cell phone bill.

Banks and money

48. Use a no-fee credit card

Before you travel, look at your credit card terms and grab the cards that offer no extra charges on international transactions. You can also rack up your points or miles on chargeable purchases during your trip. Although in the past, it was hard to use credit cards around Spain, more and more businesses are fully equipped to accept your Visa and MasterCard (sorry, no Discover and rarely Amex).

Also, be sure to call the provider ahead of time so that charges aren’t blocked.

49. Don’t change money

If you must take some cash, stash it away in the safe, and don’t change it to euros unless you absolutely have to — the fees and poor rates for converting from dollars just aren’t worth the hassle. Instead, use your bank card for the best exchange rates and lowest commissions. Just be sure to get the all clear with your bank before you leave.

Related: Should you buy euros before your trip to Europe?

50. Leave the traveler’s checks at home

Traveler’s checks are another thing that just aren’t worth the hassle for most folks. Lots of Spanish banks won’t even cash them unless you’re a client at their bank and the places that accept them charge a hefty processing commission. If you’re worried about getting into a pinch if lose your cards, or they stop working, remember that there are Western Union offices all around major cities and Spain, and in a pinch, you could have a friend or family member wire you money.

More tips to save in Spain

Want more of our best advice on spending less in Spain? Check out our favorite budget hotels in Barcelona and Madrid, or search over 60,000 accommodations across Spain including hotels, pensiones, B&Bs and vacation apartments.

For more tips, visit our Spain budget guide for more blog posts.

Are there other ways you’ve used to save cash on your trips to Spain? Share them with us in the comments below.

The post Spain Budget Travel Guide: 50 Ways to save in Spain appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Am I? When it comes down to it, I don’t like swimming with plastic bags and other things that I won’t describe here.

So, when I go to the beach to take the waters, I head out of Barcelona. Here are a few swim-friendly destinations I’d stick a big toe in:

Best beaches near Barcelona

Sitges

I’ll admit that Sitges beaches are a bit packed in the summer months, mostly with men (this is a gay getaway). It can be hard to find a plot of sand upon which to lay. Get a sun umbrella and a chair for €5-€10 a day and enjoy.

Garraf, Spain. Photo: Eduard Maluquer

Sitges also makes my list because it’s close to Barcelona (45 minutes to the south), easy to get to by Renfe train, and is basically just a really fun little city. Lots of choices here for eating out, bars, nightlife and cafes. Makes for an excellent day-trip or weekend away from Barcelona. Read more here.

Garraf

I looked at houses here and imagined moving to Garraf, a small village a couple train stops before Sitges, snug in the mountains and overlooking the Mediterranean.

Sigh. It’s lovely.

Alas, the issue with Garraf is that not all trains stop in this petite beach town, so be careful to get a Renfe train that hits all the stops or you might chug right on by. Also note that Garraf is a village, but also a region. In the village there are two main beaches: one which is large and more popular, and another which is much smaller on the other side of the port. It takes about 35 minutes to get to Garraf from Barcelona’s Pssg de Gracia station.

The beaches of Sant Pol de Mar. Photo: Olivier Bruchez

Sant Pol de Mar

About an hour north of Barcelona in the Maresme area of the Catalan coastline, Sant Pol is about as charming as Mediterranean fishing villages come.

Does it have all the boutiques and cafes that Sitges does? No, not even close. It’s tranquil, not crowded and I recall the sand being especially fluffy (that may just be me). An ideal day-trip for those who want to swim, read, nap and snack on a picnic lunch.

More beaches near Barcelona

Farther away from Barcelona and only accessed by bus and car, I recommend the Costa Brava, especially Cap de Creus, Tamariu and Begur. To the south try some of the many beaches around Tarragona. Tarragona, the city, also has an ample beach (Tarragona is reached by train).

Also in our guide: If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona and looking for the perfect affordable place to stay, make sure you check out our budget hotel recommendations. Our editors have scouted out the best deals on accommodation in the city’s historic center. Read more in our Barcelona guide.

The post Best Beaches Near Barcelona appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

You’ve booked your flights, reserved your accommodations, and built yourself an itinerary for your adventure in Iberia. But what about staying in touch? Spain’s a budget traveler’s best friend — but not if you rack up insane roaming charges on your phone. Calling home, finding your way around town with Google Maps, and updating your Instagram can take a big toll on your phone bill.

One option is to turn your phone into a console and only use it in places with free Wi-Fi, but that can get frustrating fast. Want to look up the Prado’s opening times? You better hope the password that comes with your café con leche is on a network that isn’t overloaded and slow.

So, what can Cheapos do to use their phones like they do at home? Buy Sim Cards and use them in unlocked phones! Not sure how to unlock your phone? Check out our articles on buying an unlocked phone and buying a SIM Card in Europe for more details.

So what exactly are you buying with a Spanish SIM card? Essentially, you’re purchasing a small chip with a Spanish phone number on it. When you put it in an unlocked phone and load it up with credits, you’ll be able to make telephone calls, send texts, and use data on your phone just like at home. Most SIM Cards in Spain will also work all over Europe due to European Union regulations about roaming charges across borders. Just remember to ask for a “tarjeta prepago” (prepaid card), unless you happen to want a long-term contract with a Spanish provider.

Finding the best deal for your particular circumstances can be a bit confusing, but don’t worry, we’re here for you. To make this process easier, we’ve spent some time researching the best options for travelers and have come up with three cost-conscious SIM Cards to help you save while you explore Spain.

This article was updated in November 2021 with new information and prices.

 EuroCheapo is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you!

The best SIM Cards in Spain for your trip

Using SIM Cards in Spain can save you a lot of euros. Photo: zhrefch

1. Orange Holiday Europe Prepaid SIM Card

Cost: €49.90
Pros: The number one option for Cheapos. Great coverage across Europe. Can be purchased in advance.
Cons: Limited to 14 days.

The best bargain for everything a traveler could want is with Orange. The price of €49.90 includes 20GB at 4G+ speed, unlimited calls and SMS within Europe, and 120 minutes of talk time and 1,000 SMS to your home country.

Once you sign up for the €49.90 plan, you have 14 days to use up your balance. If you’ll be traveling for longer, you can renew the prepaid plan for €11 to €40 when your time is up. Orange will send you a reminder. Otherwise, you’re all done.

There are lots of Orange stores in major Spanish cities like Barcelona and Madrid, and for the most part, employees speak enough English to give newbies a hand.

Taking a phone (and smoke) break in Barcelona. Photo: Enric

2. Movistar Prepaid SIM Card

Cost: €19
Pros: Wide coverage in Spain. Stores are located all over the country.
Cons: Only limited data included. Per-minute charges for calls.

Movistar has some of the widest coverage in Spain. If you plan to travel to tiny villages and hike in the middle of nowhere, you may want to go ahead and pay a little extra for a Movistar prepay plan.

The most popular SIM card costs €20. The plan includes 75GB of data and 150 minutes of calls in Spain. International calls are an additional €1.21 per month plus 22 cents per minute (plus EU roaming). SMS is €0.31 each. Since it used to be a part of the Spanish national phone company, Telefónica, Movistar stores are easy to find almost everywhere in Spain.

Finding the next tapas place in Granada on an iPhone. Photo: Manuel

3. Lycamobile SIM Card

Cost: Bundles start at €5
Pros: Affordable for international calls and data.
Cons: Not many stores. Auto-renewal policy can be confusing.

Lycamobile is one of the cheapest options for unlimited international calls and using lots of data. The downside? There are fewer storefronts to sign up, although you can order the SIM card online.

One possibility, if you don’t want to hunt down the nearest shop, is to talk to your accommodation about having it shipped directly there just before your trip. This way, your SIM is waiting for you upon arrival. Just don’t arrange things too far in advance because your SIM comes with a pin that expires in 15 days.

Bundles start as low as €5. If data is your big priority, Lyca Globe 20 is a good option with 35GB for up to 28 days and EU roaming all for €20. If you’re more interested in phoning home, grab the Lyca Globe 15 or Lyca Globe 20, both of which offer unlimited national calls and 1,000 minutes of international calls, plus 20GB to 35GB of data for €15 or €20 for the first 28 days. Just remember to uncheck the auto-renewal box at purchase time unless you’re staying for more than 28 days.

If you’re not sure if you signed up for auto-renewal or just want to double check that you did indeed cancel, dial *190# and follow the instructions to end your service.

More SIM Card tips in Europe

Don’t wait until the last minute before you start researching Sim Cards in Spain (and beyond!). It can be a bit complicated, but we’ve compiled a few articles that will come in handy:

• How to use a SIM card in Europe
• How to set up your American iPhone for a European vacation
• How to keep your iPhone safe in Paris

Have you used SIM cards in Spain or another country in Europe? Let us know your tips for saving on your phone bill.

The post The best SIM Cards in Spain for your trip appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.