Spain is a charming destination, well-known for its artistic landmarks, marvelous historical sights, amazing festivals, and hip vibrant cities. And the best thing about this European country is that it’s not a pricey destination. So whether you are a backpacker or someone who lives in Spain on a tight budget, it’s easy to save your money in Spain.

For more ideas, check out this guide on top budget things to do in Spain or precisely in its five major cities.

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Here are 20 things to do in Spain on a budget

By Neha from DubaiWikia

Barcelona budget activities

Beautiful view of Gaudi's Park in Barcelona.

#1 Admire Gaudí’s Park Güell for Free 

It is one of Barcelona’s most visited attractions. Designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudi, this early 20th century residential complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It comprises two sections: Monumental Zone and Public Park. Al though a nominal charge is applicable to visit Monumental Zone (which houses majority of the architect’s classic works), its park area offers free entry.

#2 Make the Most of Free Museum Days 

From National Art Museum of Catalunya and Museum Frederic Marès to Picasso Museum, Barcelona has to its credit some of the region’s most enlightening museums. While they are unmissable in their own right, they are quite pricey too. However, you can cut down on your museum visit in Barcelona as majority of them offer free entry on every month’s first Sunday. 

#3 Check out the Intriguing Street Art

Awe-inspiring art is everywhere in Barcelona and Spain! Just take a leisurely stroll through its vibrant neighborhoods to glance into the colorful street art or graffiti. Don’t miss the neighborhood of Poble Nou in particular, where its walls are graced with massive murals that are certain to take your breath away. 

#4 Take a Free Walking Tour

There is no better way to see Barcelona and its prime attractions than on a hassle-free walking tour with a friendly local guide. And the best thing is that there are some tour companies which make it available absolutely for free. Simply make sure that you arrive early or secure your spot in advance. 

#5 Admire the Magic Fountain Show 

Launched in 1929 as part of the Great Universal Exhibition, this fountain show – in perfect harmony light, color, music and aquatic acrobatics – continues to be one of the region’s magical sights. You will be delighted to know that you can watch it completely for free. 

Madrid budget activities

Beautiful building in Madrid, Spain.

#6 Browse the El Rastro Flea Market  

A trip to Madrid or Spain itself is incomplete without a visit to this celebrated flea market. After all, this is one of the Europe’s most historical markets that have been here since 1740. Open on every Sunday, it lets you shop almost everything including vintage items, unique souvenirs, home décor, clothing and age-old antiques for bargain rates. Thanks to its over 700 stalls. 

#7 See the Temple de Debod

This prized historical monument is another free attraction that you shouldn’t miss during your Spain holiday. This ancient shrine with a history dating back to the 2nd century BC was gifted to Spain by Egypt. 

#8 Join an Exciting Bike Tour

Madrid is full of stunning sights and one of the best ways to see them all is on two wheels. Yes, rent a flexible, environmental-friendly bike from one of the stands anywhere in the city and pedal your way along the region’s both must-sees and hidden gems. You can also go on a guided biking tour for around 25 Euro.

#9 Enjoy Free Tapas

Madrid has some really generous bars where you can enjoy free tapas when you order beer or a drink of your choice. El Tigre, La Pequeña Graná, El Respiro, and Bar La Rosa are among the top destinations to head for amazing drinks with unlimited free tapas. 

#10 Relax at El Retiro Park 

Opened in the 1700s, its entry was once reserved to the royal family only. But its stunningly landscaped gardens, along with its cool pathways, and amazing lakes and fountains, are now open to all. What is even more endearing is that it is open on all days and you can access it for free. 

Valencia budget activities

Beauitful architecture building in Valencia, Spain.

#11 Check out the Old Town

Valencia is the country’s third largest city where you can explore its more than 2000 year old history. And the perfect place to start is its Old Town which is right in the centre of the city. Admire the 13th century Valencia Cathedral, savor the finest tapas from the restaurants here, and mostly visit the Central Market (or Mercado Central) which is one of the European world’s oldest indoor markets. 

#12 Enjoy a Relaxed Stroll in its Lush Parks and Gardens 

Visiting its parks and gardens, especially the well-known Turia River Gardens, Monforte Gardens and Royal Gardens, is one of the best things to do in Valencia. And you can do it without spending a dime. 

#13 Unwind in its Beaches 

One reason that contributes to the fame of Valencia is undoubtedly its magnificent beaches. From Playa del Cabanyal and Playa del Malvarrosa Beach to Playa Saplaya Beach, each of them is worth visiting for its pristine settings and fantastic facilities including kids’ playground, soccer goals etc. 

#14 Get Your Fill of History and Culture for Free 

Valencia is the place to be if you want to discover the region’s artistic heritage and past for less. It’s courtesy to its most significant museums such as Fine Arts Museum, the Museum of Prehistory and the Bullfighting Museum which allow for free entry. 

#15 Discover the City of Arts and Science 

With its intricate yet mindblowing structures, the famous City of Arts and Science is hard to miss for the enthusiasts of avant-garde architecture. It may set you back quite a good amount to enter some of its main attractions like Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia, Hemisferic, Oceanografic etc, but you don’t have to pay nothing to walk around and marvel at these stunning architecture styles. 

Seville budget activities

#16 Visit the Plaza de España

Designed by Aníbal González – a Sevillian architect, for the Ibero-American Expo in 1929, this is one of the most majestic plazas in the whole of Spain, with its semi-circular brick structure. Located right next to the incredible María Luisa Park, this 50,000-square-meter space is noteworthy for its Renaissance and neo-Moorish styles. It also boasts of a Venice-style that extends for about 515 meters long. 

#17 Amble along the Parque María Luisa

Parque María Luisa is a park of historical significance as it is the oldest park in the country. Stroll through its tranquil pathways lined by palms, discover its pavilions, and enjoy a look at its fountains and lakes inhabited by fish as well as ducks. 

#18 Access the Inquisition Museum with Free Entry 

Being once the center of the Spanish Inquisition, the medieval fortress of Castillo de San Jorge had a notorious reputation. As it is now converted into a museum, you can now discover the remnants of its dark past with its intriguing exhibits.

Granada budget activities

Beautiful view from Granada, Spain.

#19 Watch Granda’s Flamenco Street Performance 

You can watch Flamenco performance all over the country. That said, watching this show in Granada is extra special as it is regarded as Flamenco’s birth place. You can watch it in its more traditional form here, with the exclusive Zambra (mostly performed by the Romani folks) in the neighborhood of Sacromonte. 

#20 Immerse in the Quietude Ambience of Carmen De Los Martires

This 19th century palace along with its supremely lush landscape is truly a sanctuary of peace and tranquility in Granada. Get lost in its exquisite French and English gardens, appreciate its neo-Nasrid courtyard, and discover the ancient aqueduct, among others, all for free. 

Travel Essentials To Visit Spain 

Being Spain a member state of European Union, the main thing you will need for your entry into the country is a Schengen Visa. There are different types of Schengen Visa and you can pick one depending on the purpose and duration of your Spain visit.

However, the nationals of certain countries or regions are exempted from obtaining a visa before their travel to Spain or Schengen area; check with the embassy or your visa service provider to know more about this.

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Recap of the best things to do in Spain on a budget

Traveling to Spain on a budget is easier than you think. Just make sure that you have a proper plan and a clear know-how on the top things to do in Spain on a budget. So come take a cue from our above list; you can be rest assured of a treasured holiday in Spain with minimal spending. 

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