Embark on a memorable week-long journey through the vibrant cities and stunning landscapes of Spain without breaking the bank! With its rich history, captivating architecture, delectable cuisine, and friendly locals, Spain offers a truly unforgettable travel experience. This comprehensive guide will provide you with an itinerary and practical tips on how to travel to Spain for a week under $2000 while enjoying the country's best spots. We've accounted for every expense, from meal prices and transportation to activities and accommodations, ensuring you can have the trip of a lifetime while staying within your budget.
Spain is a diverse and enchanting country, where you can find everything from sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches to snow-capped mountain peaks, bustling modern cities to quaint medieval villages, and world-famous art museums to awe-inspiring ancient ruins. As you explore the cities of Madrid and Barcelona, you will be captivated by their stunning architecture, which ranges from the intricate Gothic cathedrals of the Middle Ages to the whimsical creations of modernist architect Antoni Gaudí. Spain is also known for its rich and varied culinary scene, where you can sample a multitude of mouth-watering dishes, such as paella, tapas, churros, and tortilla española. By following this budget-friendly itinerary, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the very best of Spanish culture, history, and cuisine, all while sticking to your budget.
To make the most of this itinerary, we recommend following the day-by-day schedule closely, while also remaining flexible and open to spontaneous experiences that may arise during your journey. Wake up early and start your day with a traditional Spanish breakfast at a local café, as this will fuel you for a day of exploration and adventure. Be prepared to walk, as many of Spain's most charming neighborhoods and historic sites are best discovered on foot. Take advantage of free walking tours in both Madrid and Barcelona, as these guided excursions provide an excellent introduction to each city's history, culture, and must-see attractions.
Throughout your journey, be sure to sample some of Spain's most famous and delicious dishes, such as paella, a sumptuous rice dish that typically features seafood, chicken, or rabbit; tapas, small plates meant for sharing, which can include anything from patatas bravas (fried potatoes in a spicy tomato sauce) to gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp); churros, a fried-dough pastry that is often served with a cup of thick, velvety hot chocolate for dipping; and tortilla española, a hearty potato and onion omelette. These dishes, along with countless others, showcase the incredible flavors and culinary traditions of Spain and are not to be missed.
To further enhance your experience, immerse yourself in the local culture by striking up conversations with friendly locals, participating in traditional festivities, and taking the time to simply relax and enjoy the laid-back Spanish way of life. Whether you're sipping a glass of sangria on a sun-soaked terrace, strolling through the bustling streets of Madrid's lively neighborhoods, or gazing upon the architectural marvels of Barcelona, you'll find that Spain is a country that truly has something for everyone.
Day 1: Arrival in Madrid Airfare: $800 (round-trip from the USA to Spain, booked in advance)
Upon your arrival in Madrid, head to your accommodation for a quick rest before starting your Spanish adventure.
Accommodation: Hostel - $30 per night
Lunch: Mercado San Miguel - $10 Begin your gastronomic journey at the historic Mercado San Miguel, where you can savor delicious tapas and Spanish delicacies.
Activity: Free Walking Tour - $0 Join a free walking tour to explore the city's rich history and fascinating landmarks, such as the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, and Puerta del Sol.
Dinner: El Tigre - $15 End your first day with a filling dinner at El Tigre, where you can indulge in generous portions of tapas for a reasonable price.
Day 1 Total: $855
Day 2: Exploring Madrid Breakfast: Local café - $5 Start your day with a traditional Spanish breakfast, such as churros con chocolate or tostada con tomate, at a nearby café.
Activity: Prado Museum - $20 Spend your morning admiring the masterpieces at the Prado Museum, home to some of the world's finest European art.
Lunch: Cervecería 100 Montaditos - $10 Refuel at Cervecería 100 Montaditos, where you can choose from a wide array of affordable, scrumptious sandwiches.
Activity: Retiro Park - $0 Relax in the beautiful Retiro Park, where you can rent a rowboat, marvel at the Crystal Palace, or simply wander the lush gardens.
Dinner: Casa Mono - $20 Dine at Casa Mono for an authentic Spanish meal, featuring dishes like paella and patatas bravas, without breaking the bank.
Day 2 Total: $55
Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo Breakfast: Local café - $5 Fuel up with another traditional Spanish breakfast at a nearby café.
Transportation: Train to Toledo - $25 (round-trip) Hop on a train to the picturesque city of Toledo, just a short ride from Madrid.
Lunch: La Abadía - $15 Savor a delightful meal at La Abadía, known for its delicious tapas and unbeatable views of the city.
Activity: Toledo Sightseeing - $0 Wander the charming cobblestone streets of Toledo and visit iconic landmarks such as the Alcázar and the Cathedral.
Dinner: Alfileritos 24 - $20 Treat yourself to a mouth-watering dinner at Alfileritos 24, which offers a perfect blend of traditional and modern Spanish cuisine.
Transportation: Train back to Madrid - $0 (round-trip ticket) Return to Madrid for a good night's rest
Day 3 Total: $65
Day 4: Travel to Barcelona Breakfast: Local café - $5 Enjoy your last breakfast in Madrid before departing for Barcelona.
Transportation: Bus to Barcelona - $50 Board a bus to Barcelona, a more budget-friendly option compared to the high-speed train.
Lunch: Bo de B - $10 Upon arriving in Barcelona, grab a delicious sandwich at Bo de B, a local favorite known for its fresh and flavorful ingredients.
Accommodation: Hostel - $35 per night
Activity: Free Walking Tour - $0 Join another free walking tour to explore the architectural gems and historic sites of Barcelona, including the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas.
Dinner: La Xampanyeria - $15 End your day with a delicious and affordable dinner at La Xampanyeria, a bustling eatery offering a range of tapas and Spanish wines.
Day 4 Total: $115
Day 5: Exploring Barcelona Breakfast: Local café - $5 Kick off your day with a hearty Spanish breakfast at a nearby café.
Activity: Park Güell - $12 Visit the enchanting Park Güell, a UNESCO World Heritage site designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí.
Lunch: La Taqueria - $10 Enjoy a tasty and affordable lunch at La Taqueria, which offers an array of Mexican dishes in a vibrant setting.
Activity: Sagrada Família - $30 Spend your afternoon marveling at the breathtaking Sagrada Família, Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece and a must-see Barcelona landmark.
Dinner: Taller de Tapas - $20 Indulge in a mouth-watering dinner at Taller de Tapas, a popular eatery that serves a wide variety of traditional and innovative tapas.
Day 5 Total: $77
Day 6: Day Trip to Montserrat Breakfast: Local café - $5 Fuel up with a tasty breakfast at a local café before setting off for your day trip to Montserrat.
Transportation: Train to Montserrat - $35 (round-trip) Take a train to Montserrat, a stunning mountain range located just outside of Barcelona, and explore its unique natural beauty.
Lunch: Montserrat Monastery Cafeteria - $15 Refuel at the Montserrat Monastery Cafeteria, which offers a selection of sandwiches and salads with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Activity: Montserrat Monastery and Hiking - $0 Visit the historic Montserrat Monastery and hike the surrounding trails for unforgettable panoramas of the Catalan countryside.
Dinner: La Piazzenza - $20 Back in Barcelona, unwind with a scrumptious dinner at La Piazzenza, an Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and affordable prices.
Transportation: Train back to Barcelona - $0 (round-trip ticket) Return to Barcelona for your final night.
Day 6 Total: $75
Day 7: Departure Breakfast: Local café - $5 Savor your final Spanish breakfast at a local café before heading to the airport.
Transportation: Airport Transfer - $10 Arrange for an affordable airport transfer, such as a shared shuttle service or public transportation, to reach the airport in time for your flight.
Day 7 Total: $15
Total Trip Cost: $1,957
By following this carefully planned itinerary and considering these budget-saving tips, you can make the most of your Spanish adventure while staying under your $2000 budget. Enjoy the rich culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning sights that Spain has to offer without breaking the bank!
Q&A Section:
Q: Is it possible to travel to Spain for a week under $2000?
A: Yes, it's possible to travel to Spain for a week under $2000 by staying in budget accommodations, using affordable transportation options, and enjoying reasonably priced meals and activities.
Q: Which cities should I visit during my one-week trip
to Spain on a budget? A: Madrid and Barcelona are two must-visit cities for a one-week trip to Spain on a budget. You can also take day trips to nearby destinations, such as Toledo from Madrid and Montserrat from Barcelona.
Q: What are some budget-friendly transportation options in Spain?
A: Budget-friendly transportation options in Spain include buses, regional trains, and shared airport shuttles. Booking tickets in advance can also help you secure better deals.
Q: What are some budget accommodations in Spain?
A: Hostels and budget hotels are great options for budget accommodations in Spain. Booking well in advance and opting for dormitory-style rooms can further reduce costs.
Q: What are some affordable attractions and activities in Spain?
A: Free walking tours, exploring public parks like Retiro Park in Madrid and Park Güell in Barcelona, and visiting landmarks such as the Prado Museum and Sagrada Família are some affordable attractions and activities in Spain.
Q: How can I save on food while traveling in Spain?
A: Eating at local cafés, markets, and budget-friendly restaurants can help you save on food costs while traveling in Spain. Opt for tapas or affordable set menus, and avoid dining at touristy areas where prices tend to be higher.
