A Broken Backpack

Complete Guide: Backpacking Spain Itinerary

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 24, 2023 | Europe , Spain , Travel Tips

Backpacking Spain is a superb option for backpackers and solo travelers. Spain is filled with many attractions – amazing landscapes, interesting museums, mesmerizing architecture, and bustling cities.

Spain has a vibrant culture with fascinating locals, many expats, and travelers, meaning there are always events happening or people to meet if you do feel like socializing on your Spain backpacking route.

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Traveling to Spain soon? Read the Spain entry requirements for us citizens .

For more inspiration, read about the 20 most beautiful places in Spain .

Barcelona Spain

Spain Backpacking Route

Spain has an abundance of stunning beaches and iconic islands, plenty of parties, and vast history with a Moorish influence, medieval architecture, impressive Catholic Churches and cathedrals.

The ultimate thing about backpacking around Spain is its many regions: the traditional Andulucía, the proud Basque nation, historical Galicia, and many more.

This guide will provide you with all the information on how to travel around Spain, with the perfect Spain itinerary and travel tips. At the end of this guide, you may want to look at these fun Spain bucket list experiences too.

If you’d rather drive around the country, make sure to check our road trip itineraries in Spain .

Mediterranean Coast

The East Coast is a well-visited destination for travelers backpacking through Spain.

The Mediterranean Coast is a place where Spanish lands meet the Mediterranean Sea, including the coastal beaches like Barcelona , Almeria, and Valencia found along the coastline.

Murcia and Tarragona should be added to your Spain backpacking itinerary.

There are long stretches of coastline, a perfect place for backpacking through Spain, as there are plenty of locations and you are able to continue down to Andalucia if you want, and move throughout the Costa del Sol.

Obviously, Barcelona is a popular destination amongst backpackers. Good news – it’s possible to travel to Barcelona on a budget .

Find Affordable Accommodation In This Area

Barcelona

Northern Spain

A visit to Northern Spain is often overlooked by most people backpacking in Spain, which means you will be backpacking a less touristy area.

Northern Spain is one of the most fascinating areas, the character and culture are unbelievable!

Even Galicia has cultural spots that are intriguing and beautiful. While still traveling the area, places such as Santiago, Vigo, and Coruna are must-visits!

While you’re in the north, you can also visit Basque country. You can visit Cantabria and the seaside town of Santander.

Due to the lower tourist rates compared to the rest of the country, northern Spain is great for your backpacking Spain budget.

Galicia

Next head to Málaga, the white town coastal town by the Mediterranean Sea. Málaga has an international airport in the South of Spain on the Costa Del Sol.

If your backpacking Spain route allows, you must visit Ronda. It is just a couple of hours out Málaga , and the other whitewashed villages in this area are something out of a postcard.

A visit to Andalucia works well if you intend to see Morocco on your trip, why not hop over to Africa for the day? You can purchase a day trip ticket to Morocco from Malaga!

You can then visit the most beautiful city in Spain, the city of Seville well known for its winding alleyways, flamenco, great tapas, and scorching hot weather, from here you can visit Córdoba for a day.

Next, visit Granada and enjoy its unique Moorish heritage. There is so much to do and see in Granada, famous for the Alhambra, free tapas, and stunning views!

Granada

Spain Backpacking Itinerary: Best Cities To Visit In Spain

The best city to start your backpacking through Spain is… Barcelona!  It’s possible to finish your journey in Malaga and bask in the Costa Del Sol.

If you’re starting in Barcelona – you should also take a look at these best day trips from Barcelona ! You can also read more about the beautiful Sagrada Familia .

This Spain itinerary includes the very best Spanish cities and can be done in between 2-3 weeks. Begin your Spanish backpacking trip in Barcelona.

After, you can head to Madrid, the capital city for a Couple of Days. From Madrid, you can take an overnight bus to historical Córdoba before visiting Moorish Granada and Seville.

Still unsure about whether Barcelona is worth visiting , our guide will talk you through it.

Spain Travel Tips

Make sure to note these essential Spain travel tips for your Spanish backpacking adventure.

Best time to visit Spain:   The best time to visit Spain is between April and June in the summer months and September – October in the wintertime, allowing you to miss the big crowd of tourists.

Siesta: Remember, between the hours of 2 pm-4 pm most shops, will close for a few hours for lunchtime.

Eating hours: Spanish tend to eat later in the day, you should expect cafes to open for breakfast later, lunch is usually served after 2 pm and restaurants and plazas get busier with diners after 9:00 pm.

Is Spain safe? Spain is safe, but like most big cities there are risks of being pickpocketed – especially in the infamous streets of Barcelona! Be aware, and keep your belongings hidden.

Spain Backpacking Budget Tips

Spain is an ideal country to visit on a budget, with plenty of easy ways to save your Euros.

Read our backpacking Spain Budget tips:

  • Free Tapas In Granada: for every alcoholic drink you can score free tapas! Beers and free food? Why not give it a go and save your Euros!
  • Use the Metro Spanish metro system: it’s easy to use and incredibly cheap.
  • Book in advance: Book your flights to Spain in advance, budget airlines offer cheap flights around Europe months before the travel date.
  • Car Share: Spanish are really into their car-sharing, saving you money and helping the environment. Bla Bla Car is an amazing app that lets you share a car journey around Spain for day trips and even long road trips from city to city.
  • Getting around Spain: Spanish buses offer great routes, allowing you to travel around the country comfortably and on a budget. Make sure you book your bus seats in advance! In fact, any kind of traveling within the country should be booked in advance if you want to save money. You can get around Spain using Omio .  This website helps you compare and book the best trains, buses, or flights to get around the country (and in Europe ).
  • Menu Del Dia: If you want to eat on a budget, choose the Menu Del Dia which will provide you with a tasty local meal and is what the locals usually choose for their lunch too.

Final Thoughts On Backpacking In Spain

The ultimate reason why Spain remains one of the world’s top travel destinations could be down the vibrant variety of unique cities, traditional and fascinating culture, delicious food, and its budget-friendly, laid-back way of life!

Backpacking Spain is a fun journey and as you can see, there are many Spain backpacking routes available.

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The ULTIMATE Backpacking Spain Travel Guide

Introduction.

Welcome to the ultimate backpacking Spain travel guide! Spain is a country of rich history, vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or embarking on your very first adventure, Spain has something for everyone.

From the stunning Mediterranean beaches of Costa Brava to the vibrant city life of Barcelona and Madrid, to the enchanting streets of Seville and Granada, Spain offers a diverse range of experiences that will leave you awe-struck.

With its mild climate, affordable cost of living, and excellent transportation network, Spain is an ideal destination for backpackers. Whether you’re exploring the famous pilgrimage route of Camino de Santiago, immersing yourself in the colorful festivals like La Tomatina or the Running of the Bulls, or simply wandering through the charming narrow streets of medieval towns, Spain will captivate your heart and leave you wanting for more.

In this guide, we will provide you with essential information to make your backpacking journey in Spain a memorable one. You’ll find details about the best time to visit, what to pack, visa requirements, getting around the country, accommodation options, top destinations to visit, must-try food and drinks, safety tips, budgeting advice, cultural etiquette, and even some useful phrases to help you navigate your way around.

So, get ready to pack your bags, put on your hiking boots, and embark on an incredible backpacking adventure in Spain. Let’s dive right in!

Best Time to Go Backpacking in Spain

When it comes to backpacking in Spain, timing is key. The best time to visit the country depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to indulge in.

If you’re a fan of warm weather and vibrant festivals, then the summer months of June to August are perfect for you. During this time, you can soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches of Costa del Sol, party all night long in Ibiza, or witness the electrifying atmosphere of the San Fermín festival in Pamplona.

However, it’s important to note that summer is also the peak tourist season in Spain, meaning popular destinations can become crowded, and prices for accommodation and flights tend to be higher. If you don’t mind the crowds and are willing to spend a bit more, summer can still be a fantastic time to explore the country.

If you prefer milder temperatures and want to avoid the masses of tourists, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, you can enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.

Spring is an especially beautiful time to visit Spain as the countryside bursts into bloom, and you can witness the famous Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions that take place across the country. Autumn, on the other hand, offers pleasant temperatures and the opportunity to experience local festivities such as La Mercè in Barcelona or the Grape Harvest Festival in La Rioja.

If you’re a winter enthusiast or looking for a unique experience, consider backpacking in Spain during the off-peak winter months of December to February. While some regions may experience colder temperatures, you can still enjoy pleasant weather in southern Spain and the Canary Islands. Plus, you’ll have the advantage of fewer tourists and better rates for accommodation.

Ultimately, the best time to go backpacking in Spain depends on your preferences and the experiences you’re seeking. Whether you’re chasing the sun, immersing yourself in local traditions, or looking for a budget-friendly adventure, Spain has something to offer year-round. Just be sure to plan in advance and consider the pros and cons of each season to make the most of your backpacking journey.

Essential Packing List for Backpacking in Spain

When embarking on a backpacking adventure in Spain, it’s important to pack wisely and efficiently to ensure you have everything you need while keeping your backpack light and manageable. Here is a list of essential items to include in your backpack:

  • Comfortable Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the season. Include t-shirts, shorts, pants, a light jacket, and a swimsuit if you plan on hitting the beach.
  • Good Walking Shoes: Invest in a pair of comfortable, durable walking shoes or hiking boots. Spain is known for its beautiful landscapes and captivating hikes, so sturdy footwear is essential.
  • Travel Adapter: Spain uses Europlug sockets, so make sure to bring a travel adapter to charge your devices.
  • Sunscreen and Hat: Protect yourself from the sun’s intense rays by packing sunscreen with a high SPF and a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face.
  • Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle. The tap water in most parts of Spain is safe to drink, so you can refill it as needed.
  • Travel-sized Toiletries: Bring travel-sized toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and a small towel to keep yourself fresh throughout your journey.
  • First Aid Kit: Include essential items like band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic cream, and any necessary prescription medications.
  • Insect Repellent: Don’t forget to pack insect repellent, especially if you plan on spending time outdoors or in rural areas.
  • Portable Charger: Keep your devices powered up on the go by bringing a portable charger.
  • Travel Insurance: It’s always wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost/stolen belongings.

Additionally, don’t forget to bring your passport, a photocopy of important documents, a money belt or secure pouch to carry valuables, a lock for your backpack, and a lightweight daypack for day trips.

Remember, it’s easy to overpack, so be mindful of the weight of your backpack and focus on essentials that will make your journey comfortable and enjoyable. Leave some room for souvenirs and treasures you might find along the way!

Spanish Visa and Immigration Requirements

Before backpacking in Spain, it’s important to understand the visa and immigration requirements to ensure a smooth entry into the country. The specific requirements will depend on your nationality and the duration of your stay.

For citizens of the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA), including Switzerland, a visa is not required to enter Spain. You can enter and stay in the country for up to 90 days within a 180-day period using your valid passport or national identification card.

If you are a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA, you may need to apply for a Schengen visa before your trip. The Schengen visa allows you to travel within the Schengen Area, which includes Spain, for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. You will need to provide various documents such as a passport with at least six months’ validity, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient financial means.

It’s important to note that visa policies may vary depending on your country of citizenship, so it’s best to check with the Spanish embassy or consulate in your home country or consult their official website for the most up-to-date information.

Upon arrival in Spain, you may be required to go through passport control, where your passport will be checked and stamped. Make sure to carry your passport with you at all times during your stay in Spain as you may be asked to present it when checking into accommodation or when dealing with authorities.

It’s also important to be aware of the local immigration laws and regulations in Spain. If you plan to stay in the country for longer than 90 days or want to work or study, additional requirements and permits may apply. In such cases, it’s recommended to seek advice from the Spanish embassy or consulate in your home country well in advance of your trip.

By understanding the visa and immigration requirements before your trip, you can ensure a hassle-free entry into Spain and fully enjoy your backpacking adventure in this magnificent country.

Getting Around in Spain

Getting around in Spain during your backpacking adventure is relatively easy, thanks to the country’s efficient transportation system. Here are some popular modes of transportation to consider:

  • Trains: Spain has an extensive network of trains, including high-speed trains (AVE), regional trains, and suburban trains. Renfe is the primary train operator in the country, offering connections to major cities and tourist destinations. Train travel is comfortable, convenient, and offers stunning views of the Spanish countryside.
  • Buses: If you’re looking for a cost-effective option, buses are a great choice. Several bus companies operate in Spain, providing connections to both major cities and smaller towns. ALSA and Avanza are two of the largest bus operators, offering affordable fares and comfortable buses.
  • Metro and Tram: Major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia have comprehensive metro and tram systems that make it easy to navigate within the city. These systems are efficient, affordable, and can take you to popular attractions and neighborhoods.
  • Flights: If you’re short on time or want to reach distant destinations quickly, domestic flights are available between major cities in Spain. Airlines like Iberia, Vueling, and Ryanair offer domestic flights at competitive prices.
  • Car Rental: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore the country at your own pace, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas or rural regions. Just be aware of parking restrictions and toll roads, which may incur additional costs.

It’s worth noting that Spain has a well-developed network of public transportation, making it easy to reach even the most remote corners of the country. Whether you’re traveling by train, bus, or metro, it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred schedule and avoid last-minute price increases.

For intercity travel, consider purchasing a transportation card or pass, such as the Spain Pass offered by Renfe, which offers discounted fares for multiple journeys within a specific timeframe.

When navigating public transportation or driving in Spain, keep in mind that the Spanish are generally punctual and adhere to schedules. It’s always wise to arrive at stations or bus stops a few minutes early to avoid any potential delays.

By utilizing Spain’s excellent transportation options, you can easily explore the country’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and charming towns, ensuring that your backpacking journey in Spain is both convenient and enjoyable.

Accommodation Options for Backpackers in Spain

When it comes to finding accommodation during your backpacking adventure in Spain, you’ll have a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular choices for backpackers:

  • Hostels: Hostels are a popular choice for budget-conscious backpackers. Spain has a wide range of hostels that offer affordable dormitory-style rooms or private rooms. Hostels are a great way to meet fellow travelers, and many offer additional amenities such as communal kitchens, social areas, and organized activities.
  • Guesthouses and Bed & Breakfasts: If you’re looking for a more intimate and cozy atmosphere, consider staying in a guesthouse or bed & breakfast. These accommodations often provide comfortable rooms with breakfast included and are a good option for those seeking a more personal touch.
  • Apartments or Vacation Rentals: If you’re traveling with a group or prefer more privacy and independence, renting an apartment or vacation rental can be a great option. Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com offer a wide selection of apartments and vacation homes across Spain, allowing you to have your own space and kitchen facilities.
  • Camping: For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, camping is a popular option. Spain has numerous campsites with facilities such as toilets, showers, and sometimes even swimming pools. Whether you prefer pitching a tent or staying in a bungalow, camping allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the country.
  • Work Exchanges and Volunteer Programs: Another unique option for backpackers is to participate in work exchanges or volunteer programs. Platforms like Workaway and HelpX connect travelers with local hosts who offer accommodation in exchange for help with tasks such as gardening, farming, or language tutoring. It’s a great way to save money, contribute to local communities, and have an immersive cultural experience.

When booking accommodation, it’s advisable to compare prices, read reviews, and consider the location in relation to your planned activities and attractions. Popular cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville tend to have a wide range of accommodation options, but booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.

Lastly, don’t forget to respect the rules and regulations of your chosen accommodation and be considerate towards other guests. It’s always a good idea to communicate any special requests or concerns with your host or the staff to ensure a pleasant stay.

With a diverse range of accommodation options available, you’re sure to find the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate after a day of exploring the wonders of Spain.

Top Destinations for Backpacking in Spain

Spain is a treasure trove of stunning destinations that are perfect for backpackers seeking adventure, rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. Here are some top destinations to include in your backpacking itinerary:

  • Barcelona: With its unique mix of Gothic and modernist architecture, lively street culture, and beautiful beaches, Barcelona is a must-visit destination. Explore the famous works of Antoni Gaudí, stroll along Las Ramblas, and indulge in delicious tapas.
  • Madrid: As the capital city of Spain, Madrid offers a blend of history, art, and cosmopolitan vibes. Visit world-class museums like the Prado and Reina Sofia, wander through the beautiful Retiro Park, and experience the vibrant nightlife.
  • Seville: Known for its rich Moorish heritage and stunning architecture, Seville is a magical city full of enchanting plazas, narrow streets, and the iconic Real Alcázar. Don’t miss the flamenco performances and try the traditional Andalusian cuisine.
  • Granada: Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada is famous for the breathtaking Alhambra palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Moorish quarter of Albaicín, try the delicious tapas culture, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Valencia: Located on the Mediterranean coast, Valencia offers a mix of history, modern architecture, and beautiful beaches. Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, wander through the charming old town, and indulge in the famous Valencian paella.
  • Camino de Santiago: If you’re a hiking enthusiast or seeking a spiritual journey, consider embarking on the Camino de Santiago. This famous pilgrimage route offers different paths across the country, leading to the ultimate destination of Santiago de Compostela.
  • Costa del Sol: For sun and beach lovers, the Costa del Sol on the southern coast of Spain is a paradise. Explore the glamorous city of Marbella, relax on the pristine beaches of Malaga, and enjoy the energetic nightlife in popular towns like Torremolinos.
  • Basque Country: Discover the unique culture, stunning landscapes, and exquisite cuisine of the Basque Country. Visit the vibrant city of Bilbao and its iconic Guggenheim Museum, explore the charming coastal town of San Sebastián, and experience the distinctive Basque cuisine.

These are just a few of the many incredible destinations to explore during your backpacking journey in Spain. Each region offers its own charm, history, and traditions, ensuring that you have an unforgettable experience and discover the diverse beauty of the country.

Remember to plan your itinerary according to your interests, allocate sufficient time for each destination, and embrace the spontaneous adventures that come your way while backpacking in Spain.

Must-Try Food and Drinks in Spain

Spain is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, with a diverse array of flavors and dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Here are some must-try food and drinks during your backpacking adventure in Spain:

  • Tapas: The famous Spanish tradition of tapas is a must-try experience. These small plates of delicious nibbles range from classic options like patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy tomato sauce) and tortilla española (Spanish omelette) to more adventurous choices like jamón ibérico (cured ham) and gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp).
  • Paella: Originating from the coastal regions of Valencia, paella is an iconic Spanish dish. Made with saffron-infused rice and a variety of ingredients such as seafood, chicken, or rabbit, it’s a flavorful and aromatic delight.
  • Sangria: Spain’s beloved fruity wine punch is a refreshing and popular choice for a drink. Made with red or white wine, chopped fruit, and a dash of brandy, Sangria is best enjoyed on a sunny day at a local terrace or beach bar.
  • Jamon: Spain is famous for its cured hams, and jamón ibérico is a true delicacy. The rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavors of this premium ham make it an essential part of the Spanish culinary experience. Be sure to try it in local tapas bars or markets.
  • Gazpacho: Especially refreshing during the warmer months, gazpacho is a chilled tomato-based soup with garlic, cucumber, and bell peppers. It’s a light and healthy dish bursting with flavors and perfect for cooling down.
  • Pintxos: Popular in the Basque Country, pintxos are bite-sized delights served on small slices of bread. Often found in bars, you can choose from a variety of toppings, allowing you to sample different flavors in one meal.
  • Churros with Chocolate: Indulge your sweet tooth with a plate of freshly fried churros served with a cup of thick, rich hot chocolate for dipping. It’s a classic Spanish treat enjoyed any time of day, from breakfast to a late-night snack.
  • Rioja Wine: Spain is renowned for its excellent wines, and Rioja is one of the country’s most famous wine regions. Sample a glass or two of Rioja wine and discover the robust flavors of this well-loved Spanish red.

These are just a few examples of the many delicious dishes and drinks Spain has to offer. From the coastal seafood delicacies to the hearty regional stews and enticing sweets, venture out and explore the local cuisine to truly immerse yourself in the flavors of Spain.

As you travel, be sure to visit local markets, tapas bars, and traditional restaurants to experience the authentic flavors and dishes of each region. The culinary journey in Spain is sure to be a highlight of your backpacking adventure!

Safety Tips for Backpacking in Spain

Spain is generally a safe country for backpackers, but it’s always important to prioritize your safety while exploring. Here are some key safety tips to keep in mind during your backpacking journey in Spain:

  • Stay Alert in Crowded Areas: Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas, as pickpocketing can occur. Keep your valuables secure and be mindful of your belongings at all times. Consider using a money belt or a secure bag to carry your important documents and cash.
  • Use Reliable Transportation: When using public transportation, ensure you use licensed services and official taxis. Be cautious of unmarked taxis or individuals offering unsolicited rides. If possible, book transportation in advance or through reputable apps to ensure safety and avoid scams.
  • Be Aware of Common Scams: Be vigilant of common scams targeted at tourists, such as distraction techniques, fake petitions, or unwanted offers for assistance. Be cautious when approached by strangers and trust your instincts.
  • Stay Connected: Keep a copy of important documents like your passport, identification cards, and emergency contact information. It’s also recommended to have a local SIM card or access to reliable internet to stay connected and access emergency services if needed.
  • Respect Local Laws and Customs: Familiarize yourself with the local laws and cultural norms of the region you are visiting. Respect religious sites, dress modestly in conservative areas, and be mindful of local customs. This will show respect to the local culture and help you avoid any unnecessary conflicts or misunderstandings.
  • Stay Hydrated and Practice Sun Safety: Spain can have high temperatures, especially during the summer months. Stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle and protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and lightweight, breathable clothing.
  • Share Itinerary and Inform Others: It’s always a good practice to share your travel itinerary with a trusted family member or friend. Let them know your plans, accommodation details, and any updates to your schedule. Regularly check-in with them so they know you’re safe and informed.
  • Trust Your Instincts: Trust your instincts and use common sense during your backpacking journey. If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, remove yourself from it. Pay attention to your own well-being and prioritize your safety at all times.

By following these safety tips and remaining vigilant, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable backpacking experience in Spain. Remember, it’s always better to be proactive and prepared when it comes to your safety while exploring a new country.

Budgeting for Backpacking in Spain

Spain offers a range of options for backpackers with different budgets. By planning ahead and being mindful of your expenses, you can have an affordable backpacking experience in this beautiful country. Here are some budgeting tips to help you make the most of your trip:

  • Accommodation: Hostels are the most budget-friendly option for accommodation in Spain, with options ranging from dormitory beds to private rooms. Consider booking in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
  • Transportation: Opt for public transportation like trains and buses, which are often more affordable than renting a car or taking flights. Consider purchasing transportation passes or cards for discounts on multiple journeys.
  • Meals: Take advantage of the tapas culture in Spain, where you can enjoy small, affordable plates at local bars. Look for “menu del dia” or daily menu specials at restaurants, offering a fixed-price meal that includes various courses. Additionally, visit local markets to buy fresh produce and groceries for self-catering if you have access to a kitchen in your accommodation.
  • Drinks: Alcoholic beverages can quickly add up to your expenses. Save money by opting for local wines, beer, or regional specialties rather than expensive cocktails or imported drinks.
  • Attractions and Activities: Prioritize the attractions or activities that interest you the most and budget accordingly. Many cities offer free walking tours or discounted entry to museums on certain days. Take advantage of these offers to experience the culture and history without breaking the bank.
  • Discount Cards and Deals: Look for discount cards or city passes that offer savings on various attractions, public transportation, or restaurants. These cards often provide access to multiple attractions at a discounted price.
  • Plan Your Itinerary: Consider the distances between cities and attractions while planning your itinerary to save on transportation costs. Staying longer in one location can also help reduce expenses by allowing you to take advantage of weekly or monthly accommodation rates.
  • Money Exchange: Be mindful of currency exchange rates and fees. Compare rates at different exchange locations or consider using a credit or debit card with low or no foreign transaction fees. Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.
  • Stay in the Off-Peak Season: Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons or off-peak months to find better deals on accommodation and transportation. Prices tend to be higher during the summer months and major holidays when tourism is at its peak.

By budgeting smartly and being conscious of your expenses, you can make your backpacking adventure in Spain an affordable and memorable experience. Don’t forget to allow for some flexibility in your budget to indulge in local specialties or unexpected opportunities that may arise along the way.

Cultural Etiquette and Customs in Spain

As you embark on your backpacking adventure in Spain, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the cultural etiquette and customs of the country. Understanding and respecting the local customs will not only show your appreciation for the culture but also help you navigate social interactions smoothly. Here are some important cultural etiquette tips to keep in mind:

  • Greetings: When meeting someone, it is customary to greet them with a handshake or kiss on both cheeks, even among strangers. A firm handshake with direct eye contact is considered polite and respectful.
  • Meal Times: Spanish meal times differ from those in other countries. Lunch, known as “la comida,” is the main meal and typically takes place between 1 pm and 3 pm. Dinner, or “la cena,” is usually served later in the evening, starting around 8 pm or even 9 pm.
  • Table Manners: When dining in Spain, it is common practice to keep your hands visible on the table, wrists resting on the edge. Avoid placing your elbows on the table. Also, remember to wait for the host or others at the table to start eating before you begin.
  • Siesta: The concept of siesta, a midday break or nap, is still prevalent in some regions of Spain. In smaller towns or rural areas, you may find shops and businesses closed during the siesta hours, typically from 2 pm to 5 pm. Respect the local customs by keeping noise levels low during these hours.
  • Dress Code: Spain has a relaxed dress code, particularly in more touristy areas and during the summer months. However, when visiting religious sites or dining in upscale establishments, it is advisable to dress modestly and avoid wearing beachwear or revealing clothing.
  • Respect for Public Spaces: Spanish people take pride in their public spaces and keep them clean and well-maintained. It is important to dispose of trash properly and avoid littering. Respect the local laws and guidelines when it comes to smoking, drinking, and public behavior.
  • Socializing: Spanish people are known for their warm and friendly nature. Engage in conversations with locals, be open-minded, and show interest in their culture and traditions. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases can go a long way in bridging communication gaps and building connections.
  • Tipping: In Spain, tipping is not as common or expected as in some other countries. However, it has become more customary, particularly in tourist areas. It is polite to leave a small tip of around 5-10% of the bill or round up the total amount as a gesture of appreciation for good service.

By observing these cultural etiquette tips, you can immerse yourself in the Spanish way of life and show respect for the local customs. Embracing the cultural diversity and traditions will enhance your backpacking experience, foster positive interactions, and create lasting memories.

Useful Phrases for Backpacking in Spain

While many people in Spain can speak English, making an effort to communicate in the local language can greatly enhance your backpacking experience. Here are some useful phrases in Spanish that will help you connect with locals and navigate through your journey:

  • Hello/Hi – Hola
  • Thank you – Gracias
  • You’re welcome – De nada
  • Please – Por favor
  • Excuse me – Perdón/Disculpe
  • Sorry – Lo siento
  • Goodbye – Adiós
  • Yes – Sí
  • No – No
  • I don’t understand – No entiendo
  • Could you help me, please? – ¿Me puedes ayudar, por favor?
  • Where is…? – ¿Dónde está…?
  • How much does it cost? – ¿Cuánto cuesta?
  • Can I have the menu, please? – ¿Me puedes dar la carta, por favor?
  • I would like… – Me gustaría…
  • Do you have vegetarian options? – ¿Tienes opciones vegetarianas?
  • Where is the bathroom? – ¿Dónde está el baño?
  • I need a doctor – Necesito un médico
  • Can you recommend a good restaurant? – ¿Puedes recomendarme un buen restaurante?
  • How do I get to…? – ¿Cómo llego a…?

Don’t worry if you’re not fluent in Spanish. Even attempting a few basic phrases will be appreciated by the locals and can go a long way in building connections and showing respect for the culture. Spanish people are often patient and helpful, so don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or assistance if needed.

Carrying a pocket-sized Spanish phrasebook or using language-learning apps can be handy for quick reference on the go. Additionally, learning some basic greetings and phrases beforehand will help you feel more confident and enable smoother interactions during your backpacking adventure in Spain.

Congratulations! You are now equipped with the ultimate backpacking Spain travel guide. From the best time to visit to essential packing tips, visa requirements to cultural etiquette, and the must-try food and drinks, you have all the information needed for an incredible backpacking adventure in Spain.

Spain offers a wealth of experiences, from exploring historic cities to lounging on pristine beaches, indulging in delectable cuisine to hiking through breathtaking landscapes. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm and friendly locals, Spain is sure to captivate your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories.

As you embark on your journey, keep in mind the safety tips, budget wisely, and immerse yourself in the local customs and traditions. Embrace new experiences, step out of your comfort zone, and connect with fellow travelers and locals along the way.

Whether you’re strolling along the bustling streets of Barcelona, marveling at the architectural wonders of Madrid, or enjoying the coastal beauty of Valencia, Spain has something to offer every kind of backpacker.

Get ready to explore the enchanting corners of Spain, try mouthwatering tapas, sip on sangria, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this captivating country. So pack your bags, put on your adventurer’s hat, and get ready for an unforgettable backpacking journey through the beautiful land of Spain.

¡Buen viaje! (Have a great trip!)

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The Ultimate Guide To Hiking In Spain In 2024

If you’re interested in hiking in Spain, our ultimate trekking guide has everything you need to know to enjoy your time!

When you think of Spain you probably think of beaches, Barcelona Football Club, and awesome food. But there are so many more amazing reasons to visit Spain, including hiking.

Hiking in Spain is quickly becoming a popular activity in Europe and rightly so! Spain has a wide variety of landscapes and trails, making it a unique and beautiful place to explore.

From coastal walks along the Mediterranean to volcano treks in the Canary Islands, to high-altitude hikes in the Pyrenees Mountains, there are so many cool places to hike in Spain.

Most of the trails in Spain are listed as easy to moderate, so there are suitable trails for people of all fitness levels. Also, you’ll most likely enjoy pleasant weather year-round.

Walking holidays in Spain are becoming more popular among Europeans, and even among those coming to the continent for a holiday.

This ultimate guide to hiking and trekking in Spain is designed to inspire and educate readers about the trails and tips you may need for your journey. All that’s left is investing in some good hiking shoes and booking a flight to Spain!

Table of Contents

The Best Time To Go Hiking In Spain

Ruta del cares, chillar river, el caminito del rey, barceloneta beach, masca gorge trek, igueste de san andres to chamorga, el teide caldera, lago de la ercina, breche de roland, cap de creus national park loop, san adrian tunnel, gr221 drystone route, la senda del oso, route of the monasteries of valencia, sierra de aitana, beas de granada to granada, via verde de la sierra, camino de santiago, tips to know before hiking in spain, accommodation in spain, hiking in spain packing list, the ultimate guide to hiking in spain.

This travel guide will cover all the best hiking trails in Spain so you have some idea of which trails you’d like to tackle.

From hiking the tallest mountain in Spain to trekking past volcanic lakes and odd rock formations to strolling along other hiking trails through the countryside and monasteries, there are so many options for the best hikes in Spain.

This article will also include tips about when to go hiking, what to pack, and other useful information.

Always respect the land, local culture, and trails while hiking. Check out our guide to Sustainable Tourism for 2022 !

Spain is one of those countries that literally doesn’t have a bad season, so it just comes down to how many people you want to be hiking next to.

June to September are the warmest months, so you’ll have better weather and more crowds. The higher altitude hikes in the mountains will be pleasant, and there will b less snow. Hiking along the coast can be quite hot in summer, but you’ll get cool ocean breezes and the chance to go for a dip after hiking.

The summer months also tend to be slightly more humid so it’s better to hit the trails earlier in the morning and finish by lunch to avoid losing all of your fluids via sweat. Always pack plenty of water for the best hikes in Spain, regardless of the weather forecast.

March to April is the best time to head to the high mountains like the Sierra Nevada or the Pyrenees. Wildflower season begins and the spring season means cooler temperatures which are nice for longer multi-day treks. Spring also sees fewer crowds than summer.

Winter in Spain is from December to February. Snow is rare in most of Spain, with the exception of the high mountains. The weather will be pretty cold and snowy at high altitudes in winter, so if you plan on hiking then just pack plenty of warm clothes and proper gear.

Spain has just so many options for hiking and the weather never gets too unfavorable. So it just comes down to a matter of where and when you would like to visit.

Pyrenees Mountains Spain

The Best Day Hikes in Spain

If you are looking for day hikes in Spain you’ll be spoilt for choice. There are so many different landscapes to check out, and the trails vary from easy to hard.

Here’s my list of the best hiking trails in Spain that can be done in one day. You’ll find volcano hikes, ancient pilgrim routes, beach trails, and much more.

  • Distance  – 24 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Poncebos to Cain de Valdeon and back
  • Time  – 8 hours
  • Difficulty  – Moderate

Ruta del Cares is often described as one of the best hikes in the Picos de Europa (Picos translates to peaks). You get to trek through a breathtaking mountain range of limestone peaks along the Cares River.

While trekking through the mountains, you will see dramatic gorges, stone huts and ruins, and plenty of animals. Mountain goats often make an appearance on this trail.

Some parts of the trail are steep, but overall it is fairly easy. The first part of the trail is rocky and rugged, but as you near the Cares River the scenery becomes more lush and green. The views are jaw-dropping, and many would call Ruta Del Cares the best hike in Spain.

  • Distance  – Various
  • Start/ Finish  – Municipal Sports Centre at Nerja
  • Time  – 1 day
  • Difficulty  – Easy

For this day hike, we head to Southern Spain for an adventure near the Chillar River. There’s a pretty high chance you are going to get wet shoes no matter how waterproof they are during this hike.

Towards the end of the river, there are a few narrow sections that eventually lead to stunning views of the Chillar Valley. Trekking in Spain doesn’t get much cooler than the Chillar River!

The suggested time for hiking along the Chillar River is one day, however you can shorten or lengthen your trip accordingly. If you decide to pitch your tent along the Chillar River, make sure it is well above the water line in case there are any unexpected river rises.

  • Distance  – 4 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Gaitanes Gorge
  • Time  – 1 hour

El Caminito Del Rey was once known as one of the most dangerous hiking trails in the world, but don’t let this scare you too much!

It’s also one of the most popular hikes in Spain, and the trail was closed for many years of renovations. Nowadays it is perfectly safe and secure, but it’s definitely not recommended for those who are afraid of heights.

The entire trail consists of a walkway through a rugged gorge. Part of it is pinned against the wall of the gorge, and part of it is suspended about 100 metres above the floor of the valley. It was originally built to give access to workers who would need to manage and work on a hydroelectric power plant.

Caminito Del Rey may still be called one of Spain’s most dangerous hikes, but it is an incredible adventure for daredevils who love to live life on the edge (literally).

You can also hire a local guide on Get Your Guide for this famous trail. A guided hike is a great way to learn about the history and construction of the trail.

Caminito Del Rey

  • Distance  – 1.1 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Optional start and finish points

Beach hiking is a thing? Barcelona is known for its stunning beaches so if you have a bit of time to chill before heading out to the mountains of Spain, head down to Barceloneta Beach for a short shoes-off walk.

Barceloneta Beach used to be the old fisherman’s quarter, but nowadays it is a popular tourist spot. It is a long stretch of sand that is fun for having a beach picnic or going for a swim.

Anyone looking for an easy and relaxing walk in Spain will enjoy a sunset stroll along the soft sand of Barcelona’s best beach.

  • Distance  – 8 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Masca to Bay of Masca
  • Time  – 3 hours

Spain is home to some stunning islands that have their own mountain ranges and walking trails. The Masca Gorge Trek is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Canary Islands which are found off the northwest coast of Africa.

Situated on Santa Cruz de Tenerife which is the largest of the Canary Islands, Masca Gorge Trek is a relatively easy 8 kilometre hike through an alien-like world.

What’s quite amazing about this trek is where you finish it. After rock-hopping through a divine gorge for a good 3 hours, you will find yourself at the Bay of Masca which is stunning.

Getting back to Masca or Los Gigantes can be done by boat which you will need to organise before heading out on this beautiful Spanish trek.

  • Distance  – 13 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Iguesta de San Andres to Chamorga
  • Time  – 4 hours

Located north of the tourist hot spots on Tenerife in the Canary Islands, the Igueste de San Andreas trek is the perfect opportunity to get out and explore the more mountainous side of this beautiful landscape.

The trail begins in the quiet village of Iguesta de San Andres and takes you through the amazing scenery of the Anaga Peninsula. The trek ends in Chamorga which is a rather small town nestled into the surrounding Anaga mountain range.

Trekking in Spain doesn’t get much more beautiful than the Igueste de San Andreas to Chamorga.

  • Distance  – 10.5 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Parador Hotel
  • Time  – 2 to 3 hours
  • Difficulty  – Easy to Moderate

Another one of the best hikes in Spain is El Teide Caldera, a volcano hike in Teide National Park in Tenerife, Canary Islands.

The El Teide Caldera is the highest mountain in Spain and the highest point in the Atlantic, which has been placed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The landscapes along the El Teide are just as strange as they are beautiful, with a dazzling display of multicolored rocks and the unique shapes of old lava fields.

El Teide can be quite spectacular to climb, but be prepared for pretty gnarly conditions at the summit as weather can change almost instantly due to its altitude.

This would have to be one of the most adventurous hikes you can do in Spain hands down.

Other fun things to do in Teide National Park after your hike include a dolphin or whale watching tour , a stargazing experience in the park, or a quad bike adventure tour .

El Teide Caldera

  • Distance  – 7.5 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Lago de la Ercina

The Lago de la Ercina hike is a moderate 3-hour hike through a beautiful, untouched alpine zone. You will see gorgeous fields of wildflowers and rocky stretches of land with patches of beech trees at the lower altitudes.

If you prefer a longer hike, there is an option to do so via the  Refugio Vega de Ario  which overlooks the mountains and lakes below.

Lago de la Ercina is a highland lake in the Cantabrian Mountains, near Asturias, Spain.

  • Distance  – 5.5 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Col de Tentes
  • Time  – 2.5 hours
  • Difficulty  – Moderate to Hard

The Pyrenees Mountains act as a natural border between Spain and France. Right in between the mountains is the Breche de Roland, a 5.5 kilometre trail that is one of the best hikes in Spain.

The famous trail follows around a limestone ridge around a natural gap in the earth. Local legens state that Roland, the nephew of Charlemagne, threw his sword down which created the gap in the cliffs.

Anything you see in The Pyrenees Mountains is bound to be amazing, especially that of the Cirque de Gavarnie. This is a massive amphitheatre of mountains that are all over 3,000 metres in height. It’s an absolutely stunning place.

  • Distance  – 16 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Cadaques in Catalonia
  • Time  – 7.5 hours
  • Difficulty  – Hard

The Cap de Creus Peninsula and National Park is a gorgeous area of eastern Spain, right next to the French border. For an amazing day of hiking, take on this circular route which starts and ends in the sleepy coastal town of Cadaques.

The hike begins next to the Salvador Dali Museum and House, which you can check out before you begin exploring nature.

From town, you’ll head through the national park towards Cap De Creus Lighthouse. Enjoy the rugged coastal views, and bring a bathing suit so you can go for a dip. This hike isn’t very steep, but it’s considered difficult because the path is quite rocky and you will have to do some scrambling.

Just make sure you have good shoes and be careful with your footing. Otherwise, it’s a serene place in Spain on the Costa Brava.

Cap De Creus National Park

  • Distance  – 15 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Zegama on the Gipuzkoa Province side to Zalduondo

San Adrian Tunnel is an intricate natural cave in the Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Park near Basque Country. This fascinating tunnel was formed through water erosion, and has a  rich history  as part of the pilgrimage network: the Way of Saint James.

The tunnel served as an important milestone during pilgrimage routes from Alava province to the Gipuzkoa province during thirteenth century disputes.

Within a section of San Adrian Tunnel, a small stone church offers breathtaking views of the plains of the Alava which provides a unique and special opportunity to capture on camera.

Looking for more epic hikes in Europe? Check out our article about Hiking the Monasteries of Meteora in Greece!

The Best Multi-day Trekking in Spain

Continuing on with our list of the best hikes in Spain, here are several trails that can last for multiple days.

These are more challenging hikes than the one-day hikes, simply because you have to take your accommodation into consideration. You can camp, or spend the night at any lodges that reside along the hiking routes.

You’ll have to trek with more gear, so make sure you have everything you need for your multi-day trek. We have a packing list at the end of this article to help you plan!

  • Distance  – 140 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Port d’Andratx to Port de Pollenca
  • Time  – 8 days

This trek was designed to get people off the beaches of Mallorca and into the mountains to truly take in the wonders of this awesome area. Maybe you can go lay on the beach when you have completed this 140-kilometre-long walking trail. You will definitely deserve it!

Off the coast of Spain is the island of Mallorca (Majorca) which has spectacular beaches and mountains. The Drystone Route allows you to see all the best views in Mallorca, and it is easily one of the best hikes in Spain.

The Drystone Route begins near the village of Port d’Andratx and takes you through a combination of rough scrub and native pine forest until you arrive at the seaside port of Port de Pollenca. The Drystone Route is a great option for a walking holiday in Spain.

Mallorca Spain

  • Distance  – 21 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Tunon to Entrago (optional endpoint)
  • Time  – 2 days

La Senda Del Oso is an old rail line converted to a hiking trail in northwestern Spain, in the region of Asturias.  Oso  means “bear” in Spanish, so there is a small chance you may catch a glimpse of one on this trail.

This particular trail is mostly forested from the time you leave Tunon to the time you end at Entrago.

Most of the trail is very straightforward apart from a Y intersection that leads to two completely different places but either way you choose, you won’t be disappointed. The left route takes you through a series of bridges and tunnels, while the right route provides more stunning trails through forests that ‘may’ have a bear or two.

This 2-day trek is quite peaceful, and it’s an easy walk without many tourists.

  • Distance  – 90 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Gandia to Alzira
  • Time  – 3 to 4 days

Famously used as a pilgrimage trail for Roman Catholics, the Route of the Monasteries is becoming more popular with those non-religious folk who just want to complete some of the best hikes in Spain.

Non-religious hikers are drawn to this trail for the breathtaking views of the Spanish countryside as you pass from monastery to monastery.

As for the monasteries themselves, this trail presents a unique opportunity to get an understanding of the architecture and Roman influence upon Spain.

The trail runs through many small towns and municipalities of central Spain, and you get to admire the natural beauty and learn about the cultural and religious significance of the monasteries along the way.

  • Distance  – 96.5 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Benimantell to Sella
  • Time  – 4 days

Full of dramatic cliffs and spectacular views, Sierra de Aitana is another one of the best hikes in Spain. Full of limestone rock formations and groves of olive trees, this hike certainly makes it feel as if you are immersed in a true Mediterranean lifestyle.

This mountainous part of western Spain is idyllic and popular for rock climbing and trekking with 4 fantastic, not overly challenging peaks of the Sierra de Aitana.

These 4 peaks are quite unique and steep, and it is possible to tackle just one at a time as a day hike. But those looking for a really challenging hike can conquer all 4 peaks over the span of a few days.

  • Start/ Finish  – Beas de Granada to Granada

Beas de Granada provides hikers with amazing views of the Sierra Nevada’s snow-capped mountains. ‘Beas’ translates to ‘path’, and this path takes you to the historic and beautiful town of Granada which has one of the best backdrops in all of mainland Spain.

Getting to Granada will require a traverse of a relatively easy ridge with a few narrow spots to watch out for. Other than that this is one of the best hikes in Spain. At 16 kilometres long, you can do this hike in one day, or break it up into two days.

However you choose to do it, you can follow the ancient tracks of shepherds who walked this path daily while moving stock from one region to another. Beas de Granada is truly one of the best hikes in Spain.

Granada Spain

  • Distance  – 35 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – Puerto Serrano to Olvera
  • Time  – 2 to 3 days

A change of pace from the mountain and forest trails of Spain, the Via Verde de la Sierra is an easy multi-day trekking option.

The trail consists of compact earth and asphalt, so it’s not too challenging and it takes you to some pretty special places along the Via Verde del la Sierra.

What to expect? Most of the hiking along this trail will be pristine countryside, so expect to see fields of green backed by the Sierra Nevada. One place to look out for is the Rock of Zaframagon which is home to a rare species of vultures.

  • Distance  – 780 kilometres
  • Start/ Finish  – St. Jean-Pied-du-Port (France) to Santiago de Compostela
  • Time  – 1 month
  • Difficulty  – Easy to moderate

Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of Saint James, is by far the longest trek you can do in Spain stretching over a massive 780 kilometres. It is also possibly the most famous trail in Spain, as travelers come from all over the world to complete this epic trek.

Camino de Santiago is known to most as the ‘pilgrim’s way’ which can be trekked all year around. Despite the length of the Camino, it is said to be fairly easy as it avoids places like the Sierra Nevada and the Pyrenees although some places are often quite hard on the feet.

If you are considering doing this hike you will need to allocate at least a month in order to complete it.

The trail finishes at Santiago de Compostela, where the apostle Saint James is supposedly buried. You can book a guided tour of the cathedral to learn more about its history and religious significance.

Santiago De Compostela Cathedral

Hiking in Spain varies because you can hike along sandy coastal tracks, lush national parks, rugged volcanoes, or snowy mountains. From the Mediterranean Sea, to the far-off islands, to the majestic Pyrenees or Sierra Nevada mountains, there is a wide range of hikes in Spain.

Once you decide where you want to hike, take the time to really do some research. Decide what equipment you will need, how long will the trek take, and when you are going on the trek. Check the local weather reports as well.

Remember when out hiking especially on multi-day treks, less is more. If you think you won’t need it, don’t take it as it will take up more space in your hiking bag and also create extra weight which you won’t need. I’ll discuss packing in greater detail in the next section.

As for accommodation while hiking in Spain, there are plenty of options for travelers of all budgets.

However, it does depend on where you are going. Some of these hikes leave from popular tourist spots like Granada, Barcelona, or Valencia. There will be plenty of hotels and hostels to choose from.

We recommend checking Hostelworld for budget accommodation in Spain.

For all other hotels, bed and breakfasts, and local lodges, Booking.com or Agoda are great websites to use. Airbnb also has amazing options!

If you’re looking for an awesome place to stay in the area, we personally love using Airbnb. If you’ve never used the platform before, sign up using this link to get USD$35 off your first booking .

If you are doing some of the more remote hikes on this list, or you’re tackling a multi-day trek, you may have to do extra research about where to stay. Pack appropriate gear for camping, or check if there are local guesthouses or lodges available.

Read next: Hiking and Canyoning in Montenegro

We’ll wrap up this Spain Hiking Travel Guide with a basic packing list.

Though the climate consists of mostly warm weather year-round, remember that the landscape can vary around the country.

If you’re heading into the mountains, the weather is cooler and more unpredictable. If you’re hiking a coastal track you may not need to pack as much as the temperatures will be more humid and hot.

The list below will focus on those packing for a hike in the high mountains of the Pyrenees or the Sierra Nevada. Because the environments are more extreme in these areas, packing is a bit trickier. If you’re doing an easy walk by the coast, just remove the stuff you don’t need from this list.

Also, if you’re just doing a day hike, of course, you won’t need to pack all the camping gear listed!

  • Lightweight and compact tent
  • A decent water supply – 4 to 5 litres is necessary
  • Portable gas burner
  • Pots, pans and cutlery
  • Food supply big enough to support yourself for the duration of the trail
  • Quality sleeping bag with silk liner
  • Thermal gear for higher altitudes
  • Waterproof hiking boots
  • Plenty of socks
  • Breathable clothes
  • Rain jacket
  • Hiking pants or hiking shorts
  • Down jacket for cold nights
  • Hiking pole – even using one pole can help you along tricky sections and save your knees
  • Sun protection – hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
  • Emergency beacon
  • Portable power packs and a portable solar panel
  • Emergency blanket
  • Spanish dictionary (The chances of coming across a small town or village in a remote part of your trek is likely and not everyone speaks English)
  • Camera gear with extra batteries and SD cards. (Don’t forget to take your batteries out of your camera at night in order to stop the cold from draining their charge)

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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About the Author - Calumn Hockey

Started travelling in 2010, so far reaching the trails of the Upper Mustang, Nepal, scaled Mount Ollivier, New Zealand (first ascent of Sir Edmund Hillary), got hot chilli in my eye in Vietnam, chased by a pack of wild monkeys in Singapore, stupidly climbed the Eiffel Tower, France in shorts and a shirt while it was raining and 6 degrees while in Venice, Italy I managed to get lost in order to get found while in Central Australia my best friends were camels. My passion burns for culture and exploration as I would say “I think I’m quite ready for another adventure”. Check it all our on my photography website and Instagram .

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Backpacking in Spain Travel Guide

The ultimate foodie backpacking trip complete with tonnes of culture, beautiful architecture, and some really friendly locals..

The Spanish are dedicated to living the good life – and that’s exactly what you get when you visit. It’s the land of siestas, the flamenco, fiestas and more, and it’s one of the most visited countries in the world – which should come as no surprise to anyone visiting.

From the diverse landscape, the Pyrenees mountains, the charming coves along the Mediterranean coast and timeless, medieval villages perched on hilltops, to the countless Roman and Moorish ruins and the life of a party attitude, you won’t want to leave after backpacking in Spain.

Whether you’re looking to soak up the culture of Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, and Antoni Gaudí, or enjoy a party on every street, you won’t be disappointed. And we have all the tips and insider knowledge to make your Spanish backpacking trip great.

A Brief History of Spain

Spain has been inhabited since the prehistoric times, with the earliest evidence of human activity stretching back as far as 800,000 years ago. Roughly 4000 BC was when the Iberians inhabited – hence the region is known as the Iberian Peninsula – before it was occupied by Rome from roughly 200 BC until 400 AD.

Following the fall of the Roman Empire, Moors from northern Africa launched an invasion across Gibraltar, occupying most of the peninsula within a few years- an occupation that lasted for 700 years.

The most famous part of Spanish history is undoubtedly the discovery of the New World by Christopher Columbus, with treasure from this discovery pushing the country to the forefront of European power.

Recently, Spain has been divided between conservatives and liberals, with the abdication of King Alfonso XIII in 1931 ending the monarchy in favour of a republic. This sparked the Spanish Civil War, and following the death of Franco in 1975 the kingdom returned with King Juan Carlos I, who led the country towards democracy.

Where to Go in Spain

One of the most diverse places in Europe, it’s not easy to plan your backpacking trip to Spain as there is genuinely just so much choice. To make it a bit easier, we scoured and hunted for the absolute best places to go to experience all the best the country has to offer. You’re welcome.

The second-largest city in the country, Barcelona is one of the main tourist hotspots in Spain, with visitors travelling from all over the world to see the famous Barri Gotic architecture and try the unique Catalan fish dishes.

For the culture lovers, there’s the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art with hundreds of exhibits by artists from all over the world, as well as the Gothic cathedral in the heart of Barri Gotic, built right on top of a church first created when Edward the Confessor was on the English throne.

Arguably one of the best cities for food lovers, Barcelona is also home to some fantastic food tours , where guides will lead travellers to small, family-owned businesses for a chance to try true, authentic Spanish cuisine.

If you’re backpacking in Spain, Barcelona is a top choice, with plenty of brilliant hostels geared to travellers that are passing through.

The largest city in the county, and the capital of Spain, Madrid is one for the backpacking bucket list for sure. A fantastic blend between modern infrastructure and historic neighbourhoods and streets, it’s sprawling and exciting to explore.

Madrid is one of those European cities that start late. As in, dinner will be at 9pm earliest typically, and nightclubs are open until the late hours of the morning. It’s also slow-paced, and you’ll find yourself wandering through the tiny neighbourhoods and streets, discovering tapas restaurants and the best sangria in town.

The city includes the Prado Museum, known as one of the world’s best art galleries containing work by Goya, Raphael, and Bosch, as well as the El Retiro Park and the Palacio Real, otherwise known as the Royal Palace. For all the football fans, there’s also the Real Madrid football stadium, the best place in the country to catch a football match.

The capital of Andalusia, Seville is nicely tucked away in the south of Spain and is best known for its incredible flamenco culture. The fourth largest city in the country, it’s one of the most-loved in the whole of Europe – and it’s not hard to see why.

A city with undeniable personality, it’s home to Roman and Moorish architecture and artefacts, with a tremendous mix of different cultures influencing the architecture, food, and society. A veritable labyrinth of winding streets interspersed with tapas bars and architecturally exquisite cathedrals.

It’s here in Seville that travellers can discover the Casa de Pilatos, a palace first built in 1500 AD, as well as the historic Jewish Quarter, full of charming, winding streets.

Granada is a city absolutely teeming with history and unique architecture, much of which actually dates back to the time of the Moors and Romans who inhabited the area thousands of years ago. Still heavily influenced by its Moorish heritage, the city would perhaps be more at home in a Disney fairy tale.

From the Alhambra Palace to the Sierra Nevada (the highest mountain range in all of Europe) and the birthplace of flamenco dance and music, Granada will quickly become your favourite place to visit when backpacking in Spain. Plus, it’s home to a unique blend of different cultures, complete with incredible food, cobbled streets, snow-capped mountains along the horizon, and a friendly, bubbly atmosphere like nowhere else.

The beauty of Alicante is that mostly, holidaymakers will fly into the airport and then head off elsewhere – maybe Barcelona, or Madrid. That means it’s typically fairly quieter – although still heavily influenced by tourism – but that only adds to the beauty and serenity of the city.

A bustling port city, Alicante has everything: snorkelling at Tabarca, the Santa Bárbara Castle, the promenade along Playa del Postiguet, and the Basilica of Santa Maria, which is a stunning gothic church first built during the 16th century.

The city is home to fantastic seafood restaurants – given that it’s minutes from the sea, a lot of the menu is caught that same day – as well as a number of thriving nightclubs. Plus, the brightly coloured houses and sweeping views along the Mediterranean coast make it an amazing spot to get a great pic for your Instagram feed.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is one of those cities that looks like its stepped straight out of a movie, with golden beaches, lush rolling hillsides, art nouveau buildings, ornate bridges, and more. Packed full of character, it has an allure that simply can’t be ignored and is a great alternative option when you’re backpacking in Spain.

Perhaps surprisingly, it’s one of the best places in the world for great food; whether your favourite is fresh oysters paired with sparkling white wine, or traditional tapas, or even Michelin-starred restaurants, you’ll find what you’re looking for in San Sebastian.

The city is also home to a coastline that stretches for miles, with Playa de la Concha proving the best for relaxing, while Playa de la Zurriola takes the medal for the best beach to go surfing. If that’s not enough, there’s also the International Film Festival in September which sees Hollywood stars descend on the city, as well as the Semana Grande festival in August.

What to Do in Spain

Spain is known for its great beaches undoubtedly, but it’s more than just a tourist hotspot for sunbathing. The country is full of culture, hiking opportunities, diving sites, museums, and more, all completely unique to this part of the world. And that’s what makes the backpacking experience exactly that, rather than just a holiday.

Visit the Alhambra

Pretty much the best spot in Granada, the Alhambra it’s practically impossible to avoid. A palace and fortress first built by the Moors over a thousand years ago, it looks just as beautiful up close as it does from afar – so you don’t have to hike all the way up if that’s not your thing.

From afar, the best viewing point is at the Mirador de San Nicolas in the large square here, or head to El Huerto de Juan Ranas for dinner if you want to watch the sunset over the palace. If you’d like to learn more about the history of this famous landmark, a guided tour is a great idea.

Lounge on the Costa del Sol

With so many amazing beaches to choose from, you can’t go to Spain and not spend at least an afternoon sunbathing or splashing in the ocean. In fact, the laid-back lifestyle for Spain is famous, so make sure you get your fill.

Head to Malaga for great beaches coupled with nightclubs and bars, or Playa de la Zurriola if you want to go surfing.

Hike in the Sierra Nevada

One of the best hiking spots in Spain, the Sierra Nevada is great whether you’re visiting in the summer, winter, or anytime in between. With plenty of trails to choose from, and small towns dotted along the way, beginners and experienced hikers will enjoy this outdoor activity.

Great Cathedral and Mosque

The Mezquita de Cordoba in Andalusia is exquisitely beautiful, with giant arches, jasper columns, Byzantine mosaics decorating the walls, and marble floors. Known as one of the greatest works of Islamic architecture in the world, it was first created when Cordoba was still under Muslim influence over a thousand years ago. Take part in a guided tour around the UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn all about its rich history.

Visit the Guggenheim Museum

Arguably one of the most famous art museums in the world, the Guggenheim museum can be found in Bilbao and it specialises in modern art exhibits. Designed exclusively by Frank Gehry, one of the most famous architects in the world, the building alone is an exceptional sight.

Go on a Rooftop Crawl in Madrid

Rooftop bars are popular in Madrid, perhaps because of the famous Madrid saying: “De Madrid al cielo” which means “from Madrid to the sky”. There are countless bars to make that saying a reality, from some well-known bars to some off the beaten track, some with amazing views of the sunset over Gran Via, and some even with swimming pools.

Hike the Pyrenees

One of the greatest mountain ranges in all of Europe, the Pyrenees mountains consists of a string of snow-capped peaks along the border between Spain and France. During the winter they’re perfect for hitting the ski slopes, while the spring and summer provide endless opportunities to go hiking along the numerous walking trails, discovering tiny, medieval French villages on the way.

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Best time to visit spain.

Spain is subject to a Mediterranean climate, which means really nice, hot, dry summers coupled with cool and wet winters. Typically, the weather can vary whether you’re backpacking to the north or the south – with places like Andalusia in the south suffering from very warm weather in the summer.

As a backpacker, the best time to visit is spring or autumn, with bright blue skies, warm weather, and a cool breeze preventing it from becoming too stifling. Plus, it’s out of European school holiday times, so there will be fewer families travelling and you can enjoy cheaper prices for accommodation and activities.

Luckily, spring is also great for festivals: Las Fallas takes place every March in Valencia, celebrating the commemoration of St. Joseph. A festival of fire, expect to see a number of large puppets burnt on bonfires.

If you brave the high temperatures of summer, you’ll be rewarded with the Running with the Bulls festival in Pamplona in July, as well as La Tomatina in August which sees people from all over the world throwing tomatoes at each other.

How Much Does it Cost to Backpack in Spain?

Like any country, Spain could be really expensive or really cheap – depending on what style of trip you’re looking for. The hostel rooms and food is where you can easily save money, but if you’re looking to go diving or check out all of the museums, these can be up to €10 a time.

The cheapest part of Western Europe, a daily budget in this part of the Iberian Peninsula would be between €45 and €60 a day, which will cover staying in a hostel, cooking most of your meals, public transport, a few attractions, and a couple nights out.

Typical costs while backpacking across Spain:

Budget hotel

Pint of beer

Street food

Attraction entry

Public transport

Restaurant meal

Budget Tips for Backpacking in Spain

It can actually be fairly easy to save money when backpacking in Spain, especially if you’re eating in local restaurants and staying in hostels.

Travel during the summer if you want to couch surf – which will save you money on accommodation – and try and buy groceries where you can rather than eating out every night. Also, try and stay in smaller towns and villages on the outskirts of popular locations and then travel in to see the main attractions.

If you do feel like eating out, then ask for the “menu of the day” that most of the local restaurants will offer, and take the bus wherever you can because the train system is quite expensive.

What to Pack

You’ve booked your flights, you know where you’re staying, and your itinerary has been planned down to the wire – but what do you need to bring with you to ensure your Spanish backpacking trip is going to fulfil all your expectations?

The warm weather means you need shorts, a swimsuit of some sort, t-shirts, and sun cream. Trust us. Plus, you’ll want to invest in bug spray, and make sure you have at least one pair of jeans, a long sleeve t-shirt, and a jumper – just in case.

A pair of flip-flops is essential, especially if you’re in a hostel with shared shower facilities, as is shampoo, toothpaste, soap, a towel, and deodorant. You’re also going to need a first aid kit (just in case), a universal adapter, hand sanitiser and, of course, your passport.

If you have the space in your luggage, a travel guide will never go amiss, and a pair of walking shoes if you fancy a little hike here and there.

Spanish Backpacker Accommodation

Tourism is the main industry in Spain, which means no matter where you’re visiting, you’ll be able to find somewhere to stay – typically at affordable prices as well. If you fancy staying in a hotel then take note that large city hotels will typically offer discounted weekend rates.

The two main styles of accommodation for backpackers looking to save money are the hostel and guest house , both providing private rooms that come with or without a bathroom. Typically, they’re run by families, and they’re generally 1 or 2 stars.

A niche style of accommodation found in Spain is the casa rural, which are essentially rural houses scattered throughout the countryside in a number of different regions across Spain. They’re normally very comfortable and come with breakfast, all while set amongst a beautiful natural setting.

Food and Drink in Spain

Spain is famous for its paella and tapas, but the local food you’ll find will actually vary a lot depending on what region you’re visiting.

Local dishes you have to try include churros con chocolate, which are traditional for breakfast, as well as Gazpacho – a chilled tomato and vegetable soup – and pintxos, an invention from the north of Spain that can involve prawn skewers, gulas prepared with garlic and olive oil, or tuna stew with tomatoes and potatoes.

If you have a bit of a sweet tooth, then make sure you check out the deliciously Spanish pastries, such as napolitanas, or palmeras de chocolate.

The legal age for drinking in Spain is 18, but if you’re old enough then make sure to get a jug – yes, a jug – of sangria at least once. It’s just red wine, a soft mixer, and fruit, but it’s incredible. Kind of like the Spanish version of Pimm’s, but better.

Cultural Tips

Spain is one of the most welcoming countries you’ll ever visit, and although its fairly diverse with a number of regional identities, each with their own characteristics, a lot of the local clichés remain the same. 

A few things to bear in mind when backpacking in Spain: 

  • If you’re invited to someone’s house for dinner, take a small; gift for any children, chocolates, a bottle of wine, or flowers
  • Drinking a lot isn’t common – bars are for socialising more than heavy drinking
  • Tipping is common but not expected, and locals are small tippers just dropping 20 cents or 5%
  • Cover up in a church; shorts and sleeveless tops should be avoided
  • When meeting someone for the first time, shake their hand

Handy Phrases in Spanish

Although you will find that most people in Spain speak English, it’s never a bad idea to pick up a few local phrases to use while you’re there. Not only will this really help you out in an emergency, but it’s also a good way to get friendly with the locals.

  • Buenos dias / tardes / noches
  • Como estás?
  • Una cerveza y una tapa
  • Sin bolsa de plastic
  • No entiendo
  • Me puedes ayudar, por favour?
  • Translation
  • Good day / evening / night
  • How are you?
  • One beer with a tapa
  • No plastic bag
  • I don’t understand
  • Can you help me, please?

Getting Around Spain

The public transport system in Spain varies, with an extensive metro system across Madrid and Barcelona, while Valencia, Zaragoza, Bilbao, and Seville have limited but ultimately very practical systems in place. This is the same for buses, although travellers will be able to find taxis wherever they go in major cities.

If you’re really stuck for time, there is also the option of flying. Mainland Spain has approximately 40 different airports connected to each other, and if you book in advance it won’t be too pricey.

Visa Requirements

Travellers from EU countries do not need a tourist visa to visit Spain, but you do need a passport valid for three months after your visit, and visitors from Australia, Canada or the USA also don’t need a visa if their trip is under 90 days long.

Is Spain Safe?

Spain is one of the safest countries to visit in Europe, if not the world, which makes it a great destination for backpacking holidays. The second most visited country, every year it averages over 80 million tourists, and tourism is the third biggest sector in the country. Essentially, that means pretty much every part of Spanish travel culture is designed with tourists – and their safety – in mind.

One key thing to note is that, since Spain is one of the major European powers, it is a target for terrorist activity – but no more so than any other Western country. This should definitely not be a deterrent to visiting.

If you want to ensure that you and your belongings stay safe, then just exercise caution. Pickpocketing is an issue in the cities, just as it is in any major cities, and stay away from various political gatherings that may be taking place – especially with regard to the Catalonian battle for independence.

Interesting Facts

  • It’s the world’s largest producer of olive oil, producing 44% of the world’s supply
  • It has the most bars of any country in Europe
  • It’s home to the world’s oldest restaurant: Botin, opened in 1725
  • Smoking cannabis is completely legal – but not in public spaces
  • There is no law against public nudity
  • The national anthem of Spain has no words

Extra Resources

If you really want to make the most of your time in Spain, then check out these useful resources. When you’re backpacking, it’s always better to be safe and prepared than winging it.

  • Hostel World guide to Spain
  • ‘Undiscovered’ destinations in Spain
  • Skyscanner flights to Spain from the UK

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Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in Spain

Escape to sunny Spain for tapas, flamenco dancing and a wealth of stunning walking and hiking routes. Wander the endless trails of the Camino de Santiago , a network of pilgrimage routes threading through the hilly northwestern region, and pay a visit to the jewel of the Costa del Sol, Malaga.

142 Hiking & Trekking tour packages in Spain with 561 reviews

Walk the Camino de Santiago Tour

  • Hiking & Trekking

Walk the Camino de Santiago

I really enjoyed our 6-day Camino de Santiago walk with G Adventures. Although we probably could have organized it ourselves, going on a tour was nice to have it all taken care of. The walk itself is gorgeous and very interesting. The hotels were very basic at 2-stars but at least we had a decent bed and hot shower every night. The breakfasts were included in the tour price but were not very good. Many times they were late to serve us in the mornings and we got little food and drinks. Our tour guide was very good in letting us walk at our own pace but was always looking out for us to ensure we were ok. I think our CEO could have explained a bit more about the history of the Camino and offered a walking tour of Santiago de Compostela on the final day. Some of the organized lunch or dinner spots were not ideal but it was nice to have the option to eat with the group. We were overall very pleased with the tour and would recommend it.

Walking the Picos de Europa Tour

  • Mountain Hikes

Walking the Picos de Europa

Wonderful countryside and guide. Great experience. Pace could have been a little faster. Also suggest that Tour Radar snd Exodus improve their coordination. Lots of complications up front due to poor info flow.

Walking in Andalucia Tour

  • Christmas & New Year

Walking in Andalucia

Really enjoyed it. Nice accommodations. Good guide

Walk the Camino de Santiago Tour

Hiking Southern Spain: Authentic Andalusia

My first trip with G Adventures, was great. Andalusia is a unique place. Beautiful nature, friendly people and delicious food. It was lovely to be part of this hiking tour. I met amazing people from all over the world. Of course I have to mention our two sweet leaders. Irene and Daniel were super nice with great spirit. Definitely I'm doing this again.

Mallorca Tour

  • Self Guided Walking Holidays
Charming route, and very well signposted and with the eurohike app you could find the routes quite easily. The selected hotels and the luggage transport and organization was a dream. Thanks to the whole eurohike team for the great trip in Mallorca. And I will recommend you very much. With warm regards your eurohike fan Erich
  • Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Gran Bucle-Trek Nationalpark Aigüestortes Tour

Gran Bucle-Trek Nationalpark Aigüestortes

Walking the Camino de Santiago Tour

  • Walking Adventure
  • Spiritual Walks
  • In-depth Cultural

Walking the Camino de Santiago

Walk was amazing. Much harder than I expected but more than worth it. The blessing of the pilgrims inLeon and then the pilgrims mass in Santiago were the perfect way to start and finish
  • 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Trekking in Spain - Picos de Europa Tour

Trekking in Spain - Picos de Europa

Camino de Santiago Adventure Tour

Camino de Santiago Adventure

\"Camino de Santiago\" (Way of St James): Fisterra Epilogue Tour

"Camino de Santiago" (Way of St James): Fisterra Epilogue

  • €70 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Hiking the High Trails of the Picos de Europa Tour

Hiking the High Trails of the Picos de Europa

Camino del Norte hike Tour

Camino del Norte hike

Mallorca\'s Highlights Tour

Mallorca's Highlights

Camino de Santiago Walking Experience 7D/6N (from Sarria) Tour

Camino de Santiago Walking Experience 7D/6N (from Sarria)

Would definitely use again. They did everything they said they would do and baggage and rooms were handled very well. No problems

Reviews of Hiking & Trekking Tours in Spain

Our guide got us safely to Santiago which was a big part of his job. We had a nice group of people on our tour. The leader had good recommendations for restaurants and city tours. However, the guide was very impatient with me when my backpack was missing, and I only found my pack due to my air tags. Gadventures was responsible for moving my pack during the day so I am not sure about the reason for the impatience.
I had a great time on this tour, but there are some treks more difficult than I expected. One guy in our group feel down and broke a rib. Maybe the treks should be graduate again. Apart that, everything else was wonderful. Good hotel , Torrecerredo, with great food and very nice people.Totally recommend. Gustavo
It's a great trip - beautiful scenery, great guide, comfy accommodations and good food. Highly recommended.

Hiking & Trekking Tours

  • Mountain Hikes (11)
  • Self Guided Walking Holidays (10)
  • Attraction-Based Hikes (6)
  • Coastal Walks (6)
  • Pyrenees (14)

Regions in Spain

  • Northern Spain (42)
  • Galicia (31)
  • Canary Islands (29)
  • Balearic Islands (25)
  • Mallorca (20)
  • Andalucia (15)
  • Southern Spain (14)
  • Costa Brava (12)
  • Tenerife (10)
  • Catalonia (8)
  • La Gomera (8)
  • Cantabria & Asturias (5)
  • La Palma (5)

Travel Styles

  • 10 Best Hiking & Trekking Companies
  • Your Guide to Planning a Private Hike 2024/2025
  • Best Hiking Tours in The World 2024/2025
  • Spain Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
  • 10 Days in Spain: Best Itineraries 2024/2025

International Versions

  • Deutsch: Wandern & Trekking in Spanien
  • Français: Espagne : Treks et randonnées
  • Español: Senderismo y Trekking Circuitos en España
  • Nederlands: Wandelen & trekking Rondreizen in Spanje

5 of the best hiking routes in Spain: find magic on the trail

Sep 27, 2022 • 5 min read

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Here are some of the very best hiking routes in Spain © Andrea Comi / Getty Images

Spain is sculpted by extensive mountain ranges surrounding a high inland plateau and has nearly 6000km (3728 miles) of coastline. This extraordinary geographic interplay means that hikers can enjoy staggering natural tableaus along their routes, featuring rugged cliff edges, granite rock formations, snowcapped mountains, rushing rivers, glacial lakes, deep canyons and turquoise-colored waters fringed by white sand beaches .

Spain’s rich cultural heritage also means that hikers are treated to ancient ruins, historical towns, old churches and even random castles along the way. Here is a rundown of emblematic hiking routes that show off the incredibly diverse beauty of this Iberian destination.

La Maliciosa, La Bola del Mundo, Navacerrada, La Pedriza, El Yelmo and the oak forests in autumn in the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. Madrid's community. Spain

Best hike for viewing glacial lakes

14km (8.7 miles), 4 hours, intermediate

Just about an hour’s drive from Madrid is the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range, which forms the spectacular backdrop of the Spanish capital’s most popular hiking routes . One of the most well-loved trails is the Peñalara circular route, which is accessed via the Puerto de Cotos pass in the mountain town of Rascafría.

This intermediate-level trek will take you to the peak of Peñalara, Madrid’s highest summit at 2428m (7966ft), and will slowly reveal its wondrous natural landmarks — amphitheater-like valleys and glacial lakes, formed by millions of years of glacial erosion. Laguna Grande (Big Lagoon), Lagunas de los Claveles (Lagoons of the Carnations) and Laguna Chica (Small Lagoon) are the trail’s three prominent lakes, which make up part of the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park.

El Caminito del Rey 

Best steep trail with archaeological highlights.

8km (1.9 miles), 2.5 hours, easy

Translated to “The King’s Little Path” after King Alfonso XIII’s visit in 1921, this top tourist attraction in the southern Spanish city of Málaga is not for the vertigo-challenged. The trek takes you on a long, wooden bridge affixed on the jagged steep walls of the Gaitanes Gorge. Historically, this was used as a service route for the upkeep of the El Chorro hydroelectric plant and was once dubbed “the scariest walk in the world.” Thankfully, recent renovations have reinforced the walkway with protective steel fencing.

This is an easy, non-ascending trek that nevertheless rewards with spellbinding views of the emerald green waters of the Guadalhorce River below. Along the way, you’ll encounter archeological marvels like Neolithic caves dating back 7000 years and Jurassic-era fossils embedded on the gorge walls. Its official website offers general visit tickets for hikers who wish to do the trek independently, but for an extra cost, you could avail of a guide who could share about the Caminito’s unique history and geological story.

Laguna de los Pájaros

Best hike for rugged mountains

12km (7.5 miles), 3 hours, intermediate

The La Pedriza trail starts right at the town of Manzanares El Real, about 50km (31 miles) from central Madrid, situated close to the Manzanares upper river basin and on the southern edge of the Sierra de Guadarrama. This is part of a Unesco Biosphere Reserve that is characterized by rugged granite formations grazed by gentle streams and churning waterfalls. The most famous pool, Charca Verde (“Green Pool”) is so named for its deep emerald hue. Rising over 1700m (5577ft), the peak of El Yelmo ("The Helmet") is La Pedriza’s highest summit and dominant landmark. While you're here, you should take time to visit the Castillo de los Mendoza , a 15th-century stone castle.

Carefree couple admiring the view while standing on mountain at Ruta Del Cares, Asturias, Spain

Cares Trail (Picos de Europa National Park)

Best hike for dramatic scenery.

21.9 km, 6.5 hours, intermediate

Towering high above northern Spain are the iconic, cloud-grazing Picos de Europa (“Peaks of Europe”) that encompass Asturias, Cantabria and Castilla y León, offering some of Europe’s most breathtaking mountain views. These limestone summits form the dramatic setting of the Cares Trail, the most popular and emblematic route in the Picos de Europa National Park.

Also known as La Garganta Divina (“The Divine Gorge”), the Cares Trail is a moderate route that was initially carved into the limestone in 1916 to make way for workers maintaining a water canal that powered the Camarmeña Power Plant in Asturias. Presently, this route is considered to be one of the most beautiful in Spain, as you zigzag along plunging ravines (again, this not for people afraid of heights), caged bridges and walkways connecting the jagged mountain faces, with spectacular views of the Cares River below and mountains rising 2000m (6562ft). Even non-advanced hikers can enjoy this leisurely experience if they start in the quaint mountain village of Caín de Valdeón in the province of León, which eventually progresses downhill.

Girl walking on Camino de Santiago

Camino de Santiago (French Way)

Best historic hike to retrace pilgrims’ footsteps.

100km (62 miles), 7 days, intermediate to difficult

Follow in the footsteps of 8th-century pilgrims who have walked this 500-mile stretch of northern Spain . For ten centuries, this tradition has attracted not only spiritual trekkers but nature lovers and sports enthusiasts of all levels because of its majestic scenery. The route takes you from the Pyrenees mountains straddling the border between Spain and France, across rugged coastlines, lush forests, traditional villages and vineyards, and finally to the Basilica of Santiago de Compostela in the capital of Galicia , where Saint James the Apostle is believed to be buried.

Traditionally, the Camino de Santiago starts in the town of Saint Jean Pied de Port in the Pyrenees in southwest France , which is the most popular route, but many pilgrims also choose to begin in the Galician town of Sarria to be able to walk the final 100km (62 miles) stretch of the French Way and get their pilgrim passports stamped. This multiple-day trail will take you through the small towns of Portomarín, Melide, and Arzúa, across the Miño River — Galicia’s longest river — picturesque woods and Romanesque churches. After accomplishing a day’s hike, it is a longstanding tradition to mingle with fellow pilgrims, most likely while drinking albariño (traditional Galician wine) before getting a good night’s rest.

This article was first published September 2021 and updated September 2022

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Spain Travel Guide

Last Updated: February 12, 2024

classic Spanish architecture in Seville

Spain is a country that moves slow. This is the land of the siesta. It’s a place for foodies, night owls, history buffs, religious pilgrims, and anyone not in a rush to do just about anything!

It’s a huge country with a lot of variety: Madrid and Barcelona are hip and energetic cities, Granada has a Moorish touch, Valencia has its own vibe, Catalonia has its own language and culture, and the Basque region (an autonomous community in northern Spain) feels like you’re in an entirely different country.

And, as an added bonus, Spain is an incredibly affordable place to visit. I’ve been traveling to the country for over a decade and I never break the bank while I’m there. It’s really easy to get by on a budget.

This budget travel guide to Spain can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this vibrant country.

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Spain

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in spain.

The massive historic palace in Seville, Spain

1. Enjoy Barcelona

Barcelona is famous for its all-hours partying, late-night meals, and historic streets. Embrace the nocturnal lifestyle and you’ll fit right in. Don’t miss the Museu d’Història de la Ciutat — it’s one of the best in Europe and contains the largest Roman excavation outside of Rome itself. Other highlights include the Picasso Museum (Museo Picasso), where you’ll need some time to peruse 5,000 or so of the artist’s works; the towering and iconic Basilica De La Sagrada Família , one of a number of striking buildings across the city by famous architect Antoni Gaudí; Barri Gòtic (the Gothic Quarter), where winding streets create a welcome maze built for wandering; and finding your way through the actual labyrinth that is the city’s oldest green space, Parc del Laberint d’Horta.

2. Explore the history of Granada

Granada is one of my favorite cities in Spain. It’s a place where culture, architecture, and ideas from North Africa and Europe collide in a unique way, and no trip to the south of Spain is complete without a visit. Don’t miss the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Moorish palace and fortress built in the 13th century, and the Fajalauza ceramic factory, which dates back to 1517 and still remains in the same family. There are also a number of cathedrals and monasteries, including the peaceful Monastery of San Jeronimo, with leafy cloisters and a lavish chapel (5 EUR). Be sure to watch a flamenco show while you’re here (they’re usually around 20 EUR) and visit a Moorish tearoom for mint tea (locals recommend it with plenty of sugar).

3. Wander Madrid

Madrid , the capital of Spain, is famous for its museums, tapas, and nightlife. Like Barcelona, this is a city that doesn’t get going until midnight, which makes for quiet mornings with empty streets if you want the city all to yourself. Make sure you visit Museo Del Prado, one of the largest art museums in the world (get skip-the-line tickets from Get Your Guide ), and the Royal Palace — with nearly 3,500 rooms, it’s the largest palace in all of Western Europe. Other highlights include the Temple of Debod (an Egyptian temple from the 2nd century BCE), El Retiro Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the 15th-century Plaza Mayor, the city’s central square, and El Rastro market every Sunday — a mix of flea market finds, clothing, and jewelry.

4. Revel in La Tomatina

La Tomatina is an epic hour-long tomato fight that draws upwards of 20,000 people to the small town of Buñol (only 9,000 people live in the town itself). Started in 1945, this festival is held on the last Wednesday of August, and over 360,000 pounds of tomatoes are thrown during the event. It starts when water cannons fire, and it ends after exactly one hour. It’s the most amazing and messy festival I’ve ever been to! (Tip: Stay in Valencia for more overnight options.)

5. Discover Seville

Other things to see and do in spain, 1. lounge on the costa del sol.

Hang out on the beach and enjoy the laid-back lifestyle for which Spain is famous. This slice of southern Spain is renowned for its beaches, nightlife…and tons of tourists. That said, it’s still a fun place to eat great food in seaside restaurants (the region is famous for pescaito frito , or deep-fried fish), enjoy watersports in the clear Alboran Sea, drink sunset cocktails, and relax on beautiful beaches. Malaga is one of the go-to destinations on the coast, but I think there are better places further down, like El Bajondillo’s white sand beach and the incredible seafood surrounding La Carihuela beach. To beat the crowds, visit during the shoulder season. The weather will still be warm, but it won’t be as crowded.

2. See Valencia

Valencia is a pretty amazing town. Initially, I wasn’t attracted to Valencia — I simply went for the tomato fight in nearby Buñol (most participants use Valencia as their base during the festival). However, Valencia grew on me as I explored the city, as it makes for a quiet stop between Spain’s more lively cities. Originally a Roman colony and once the capital of Spain, it has delicious seafood, a unique local paella (rather than seafood, the recipe uses chicken, rabbit, and beans), a popular soccer club (Valencia CF), and a giant food market (Mercado Central) housed in an extravagant domed building that looks like a cathedral. It’s a cool city that straddles the past and future with historic streets, futuristic museums — there’s literally a museum focused on “enlightenment and modernity,” and an awesome seaside boardwalk that passes plenty of great tapas spots and the historic fishing district of Cabanyal.

3. Walk the Camino de Santiago

El Camino de Santiago, or The Way of St. James, is one of the most popular pilgrimage routes in the world. The path most people take, the French Way, runs from the border of France all the way to Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. Stretching 800 kilometers (500 miles), you need around a month to complete the entire route. The mostly flat Camino is best done in May¬–June or September–October (July and August are both very busy and very warm). If you have the time, it’s a really great way to see the country and some of the less-visited areas of Spain. Of course, you can also walk sections of it if you just want to see what it’s like on a day hike.

4. Tour the islands

Spain has some of the most beautiful islands in all of Europe. Unsurprisingly, during July and August, they’re crowded and expensive, so try to avoid peak season. If you love beaches, surfing, hiking, or cycling, then be sure to hit up Gran Canaria, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve filled with beautiful landscapes and wildlife, including dolphins. If you’re coming to Spain to party, a stop in Ibiza for its all-night clubs is a must. Other islands worth checking out are Tenerife (home to Teide National Park and the highest peak in Spain), Majorca (for turquoise water and medieval architecture), and La Palma (a certified Starlight Reserve). Ferries from Barcelona and Valencia run frequently from late spring to early summer. In the winter, ferries only run a few times a week.

5. Visit Gibraltar

Bordering Spain on the Iberian peninsula, Gibraltar has actually been an overseas territory of the United Kingdom since 1713. It’s known as “The Rock,” owing to the 426-meter-high (1,397-foot) limestone ridge that dominates the island — you can ride a cable car to the top, or get great views by climbing the 18th-century Mediterranean Steps. There’s an interesting mix of cultures here too, with influences from Britain, Spain, and North Africa. With sunny days year-round, views of two continents (Europe and Africa), wildlife galore (including Gibraltar monkeys, which are actually Barbary Macaques and the only population of wild monkeys in Europe). There are also plenty of sandy of beaches and caves to explore (St Michaels Cave is probably the most popular), it’s a small swatch of land with enough to see and do to make a short visit worthwhile.

6. Play in the Sierra Nevadas

This mountain range, located within Spain’s largest nathional park, is in southeastern Spain near the Mediterranean Sea. It’s the perfect place for summer hiking, winter skiing, and exploring small towns year-round. The area is one of the prettiest and most rugged regions in Spain and one of the better areas for outdoor activities in the country. There are plenty of trails ranging in length and difficulty, as well as the possibility for guided tours. Popular hikes include Mulhacen (6 hours), El Chullo (4-5 hours), and Pico de Veleta (4-5 hours). Lift passes for skiing at Sierra Nevada resort in the winter start at around 50 EUR per day.

7. Visit San Sebastián

Known as Donostia in Basque, San Sebastián is at the center of the Basque area of Spain. This place has killer nightlife and beaches (La Concha beach is the most popular), as well as loads of history throughout the city. It was founded in 1180 in the area that’s now become the Old Quarter. = The architecture — a cool mix of 16th-century Gothic churches, 19th-century mansions, and ultra-modern buildings — makes it one of the most beautiful and unique cities in all of Spain. For stunning views of the coast, hike up one of the 4 trails of Monte Urgull, located at the tip of La Concha. The city sees a fraction of the visitors compared to c Madrid or Barcelona so it’s much less crowded (and less expensive ). The regional Basque cuisine here is delicious, so be sure to take a food tour while you’re here.

8. Admire the Great Cathedral and Mosque

The Mezquita de Córdoba (Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption) is by far the most exquisite example of Muslim influence in Spain. Located in Córdoba just east of Seville, its giant arches, jasper columns, marble floors, richly gilded prayer niches, and the awe-inspiring domed shrine of Byzantine mosaics take you back to when Córdoba was under Muslim influence in the 12th century. Admission is 13 EUR and skip-the-line guided tours are 24 EUR.

9. Unwind in Salamanca

Salamanca seems to be in the middle of nowhere (it’s 2.5 hours northeast of Madrid by car), but it’s worth the detour for the history (it dates back to the Celtic era), and its historical Old Quarter which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The university town has a mix of small-town atmosphere, great nightlife, and plenty of backpackers. In the old quarter, join the other tourists trying to spot the frog carved into the 16th-century university facade — said to bring professional success. The main square, Plaza Mayor, is one of the largest in Spain and is great for soaking up the city, and the nearby cathedral is gorgeous. It’s actually two cathedrals —an Old, from the 12th and 13th centuries, and New, from the 16th — joined together.

10. Hike the Pyrenees

The majestic mountain chain that walls off France is laced with medieval villages, high mountain walking trails, and great skiing. It’s also the traditional start of the Camino (see #3 above). You can hike through the Pyrenees on one of three established routes, but it takes most people almost two months to complete the entire trek (choose spring or fall, summer will be extremely hot). Of course, you can also just hop on the Camino for a single-day hike or weekend hiking trip along one of the moderate routes. If you don’t want to go solo, you can take a full-day hiking tour of the Pyrenees from Barcelona with Get Your Guide .

11. Visit the Guggenheim Museum

One of the most famous museums in the world, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao (a port city in northern Spain) always has some interesting exhibitions on modern art (including a permanent sculpture, “Snake,” that’s made of hot-rolled steel and spans more than 100 feet long!). There is also the iconic (and giant) spider sculpture outside the museum, and pieces by Rothko hang inside. Even if you’re not a modern art fan (I personally don’t love it), it’s still worth stopping by because the building is art itself. Frank Gehry, arguably one of the most famous living architects, designed it to have an eye-catching, undulating style, and the grand atrium alone is worth a visit. Admission starts at 16 EUR.

12. Explore Basque Country

Basque Country is an autonomous region in Spain, a place with its own unique culture and heritage. (The Basque people inhabited the area before Spain became a nation.) Located in the northeast corner of the country, you’ll notice the cultural and linguistic differences as soon as you step foot in the region. If you’re into off-the-beaten-path locations, be sure to tour Basque Country, which offers coastal areas, small towns, and mountains. Don’t miss the 153-year-old La Bretxa market in San Sebastian (open every day except Sunday), the Gothic-style St. Mary’s Cathedral in Bayonne, and Le Grand Stroll in Biarritz while you’re here. (The start of the Camino passes through the area as well.) La Rioja wine region can also be found in Basque Country — try its famous drink, a white wine called txakoli . Expect lots of seafood, lamb dishes, and pintxos (Basque tapas).

  For more information on specific cities in Spain, check out these guides:

  • Barcelona Travel Guide
  • Granada Travel Guide
  • Madrid Travel Guide
  • Seville Travel Guide
  • Valencia Travel Guide

Spain Travel Costs

A wide open street in Barcelona, Spain with a huge arch

Budget hotels begin around 125 EUR for a twin or double and go up from there. Prices are slightly lower outside of the major cities and tourist areas but are about 20-30% higher during peak season. For larger cities during the summer high season, expect to spend closer to 200 EUR or more a night.

Airbnb is common in most major cities, with a private room starting around 60 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 120 EUR per night (often double that in the big cities or during peak season).

For those traveling with a tent, there are hundreds of campsites across Spain. Campground costs around 20 – 40 EUR per night. They can be as low as 5-10 EUR for a basic tent plot without electricity, while other costlier sites (around 50 EUR per site) often include extra luxuries like a pool, electricity, and Wi-Fi.

Food – Spain has a strong food culture. Meals can last for hours, and dinner often isn’t served until after 8 p.m. Each region in the country has its own local dishes and food culture, but there are some common favorites, like paella (originally from Valencia), gazpacho, churros, jámon ibérico (cured pork), patatas bravas (fried potatoes with sauce), gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and tortilla (Spanish omelet).

You can usually find tapas and sandwiches for 5–10 EUR. Assembling a meal of tapas at a casual bar usually costs around 15-20 EUR, including a glass of wine. Cheap fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 9 EUR for a combo meal. Chinese food is around 10 EUR for a main dish, while pizza costs 10-14 EUR.

Beer is 3–4 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-4 EUR, and a latte/cappuccino is around 2 EUR. Bottled water is about 1.50 EUR. (In general, tap water is safe to drink in Spain.)

A decent casual restaurant meal costs around 25-30 EUR with a drink. If you go out for paella, drinks, or appetizers, plan to spend around 35-45 EUR for a meal.

Spain has a lot of expensive restaurants if you want to splash out. Meals at finer establishments begin around 55 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own food, groceries cost around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat or seafood. You can find the cheapest (and freshest) produce and meat at local markets.

Backpacking Spain Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 90 EUR per day, you can afford to stay in a hostel dorm or private Airbnb room, cook most of your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like free walking tours and relaxing in the parks. Add at least 20 EUR per day to your budget if you plan on drinking or partying a lot.

On a mid-range budget of around 215 EUR per day, you can stay in a private room in a hostel, or a 2-star budget hotel, eat out at inexpensive restaurants for most meals, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like cooking classes and museum visits.

On a “luxury” budget of 350 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a nicer hotel or entire Airbnb apartment, eat out regularly, drink more, take more taxis, and enjoy more guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget work. Prices are in EUR.

Spain Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Overall, Spain is pretty affordable. While accommodation costs in most touristy as well as larger cities have risen greatly in the last few years, everything else is still affordable. Individual city guides have more specific information on how to save in each city, but here are some general ways to save money while traveling around Spain:

  • Get the menu of the day – Most restaurants offer a cheap and filling “menu of the day” ( menu del dia during lunch for around 10–15 EUR per person. They are a good way to save money while enjoying some delicious Spanish food. Wine or water are generally included, too. Look for more crowded spots — that’s how you know the food is good. Skip eating out for dinner — it’s too expensive!
  • Eat free tapas – In some cities (like Granada), you can find bars where free tapas are given out when you order drinks. Bounce around the bars to eat cheap while enjoying a few drinks.
  • Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a great way to save money on accommodations while also getting some insights from locals. You might have better luck in the larger cities, but be sure to book early as the major cities also see the most requests.
  • Take the bus – While the train system is fast, it’s expensive, with high speed trains double (or more) the cost of buses. If you have the time and want to save money, take buses to get around the country. It will take longer but, if you’re on a budget, it will be worth it. And look at booking your tickets online and in advance — it can save you money.
  • Get a city pass – Most of the major cities have multiple museums, attractions, and activities worth checking out. Buying a city pass — like the Madrid City Card (from 8.40 EUR) or Malaga–Costa Del Sol Sightseeing Pass (starting at 14 EUR) — can save you money on these activities and also get you free transportation. These passes will save you a lot of money if you’re planning on visiting the major sights.
  • Ride a bike – Tourists can use public bikes in cities such as Madrid and Seville for a daily or weekly fee. Take note, Barcelona’s red city bikes (Bicing) are for residents only, but you can find shops that offer daily or weekly bike rentals.
  • Use BlaBlaCar – This app connects you with drivers who have room in their cars for additional passengers. Drivers are vetted and verified, so it’s a cool way to get out of stuffy trains and buses, meet interesting characters, and take a mini road trip. It’s one of my preferred methods of travel for medium- and long-distance trips.
  • Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. Spain now offers more water fountains and bottle-filling stations than in the past. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Spain

Spain has plenty of budget-friendly hostels and hotels all around the country. Here are some of my recommended places to stay:

  • HelloBCN Hostel (Barcelona)
  • Hotel BestPrice Gràcia (Barcelona)
  • OK Hostel (Madrid)
  • Petit Palace Puerta del Sol (Madrid)
  • The River Hostel (Valencia)
  • Red Nest Hostel (Valencia)
  • Oasis Backpacker’s Hostel (Seville)
  • Onefam Centro (Seville)
  • ECO Hostel (Granada)
  • Hostal Antares (Granada)

For more places to stay, check out the city specific destination guides.

How to Get Around Spain

A relaxing street scene in sunny Valencia, Spain, featuring historic buildings and locals out for a stroll

Bus – The bus is the cheapest option for getting between cities in Spain. FlixBus has tickets starting as low as 6 EUR. Most buses come with outlets and free Wi-Fi. A 9–hour trip from Madrid to Barcelona starts from about 35 EUR, while the 4–hour trip between Seville and Granada costs around 25 EUR. Alsa is another popular bus company for travel throughout the country.

Trains – RENFE is the national rail line in Spain. High-speed trains are more expensive, but you can travel between Madrid and Barcelona in just 2.5 hours. Even on the more expensive high-speed train, however, you can find tickets from Madrid to Barcelona for as low as 55 EUR during off peak times in the offseason. The trip from Madrid to Seville is around 2.5 hours and costs 35 EUR, while Madrid to Valencia is just under 2 hours and costs 30 EUR.

A Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period, might also be a good option depending on your plans. For more information, here’s a detailed breakdown of how Eurail passes work and can save you money .

Flying – If you’re pressed for time and are looking to hop from one city to the next, a budget airline. You can find really cheap fares on most routes.

However, be aware that you have to pay for all the extras on these cheap flights (such as checked baggage, picking your own seat, etc.) So, while flights are cheap (Madrid to Barcelona can be found for as little as 65 EUR round trip), the little expenses add up. And when you factor in getting to/from the airport, most flights really aren’t much faster than the train.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 25 EUR per day for compact vehicles when booked in advance. Make sure to check if the car is standard or automatic when reserving. Renters will need an International Driving Permit prior to book. The minimum age for renting a car is 21. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

Ridesharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the biggest company.

When to Go to Spain

Spain is lovely year-round, but the peak season — meaning, busiest and most expensive— is in the summer, from June to August. Popular destinations like Barcelona and Ibiza experience a massive influx of tourism — so much so that Barcelona’s residents have started clamping down on overtourism. Accommodations in the larger cities require serval months of advance booking is summer, and small shops may be closed in August for family holidays. The weather is fabulous this time of year, with high temperatures well into the 30s°C (90s°F)

The temperature in Spain doesn’t often drop too low, with winter temps between 4-10°C (40-50°F) country-wide. However, Northern Spain does sometimes experience snowfall — especially in the mountainous areas. While I wouldn’t aim to visit in the winter, if you’re already in Europe, this is going to be one of the warmer destinations on the continent, especially in the south. Madrid and Barcelona have plenty of holiday festivals in December and early January for Christmas and Three Kings Day. If you are in Spain during the holidays, visit a bakery to try traditional, seasonal desserts.

The shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) are great times to visit. Tourist sites are less congested (think Gaudi attractions in Barcelona)and prices are a bit cheaper, especially accommodations in Barcelona or Madrid. Temperatures are pleasant, although it’s not exactly beach season. Beach destinations like Ibiza and Mallorca tend to get very quiet during this time, but there is still plenty to see and do around the rest of the country. If you plan on outdoor activities or hiking the Camino de Santiago, this is the time of year to do it.

How to Stay Safe in Spain

Spain is pretty safe to visit. Violent attacks are uncommon, and the country is safe for solo travelers However, petty crime is really widespread and pickpocketing is very common in the larger cities, especially near major tourist sites (such as La Rambla in Barcelona) and on public transportation. Always keep your valuables secure and out of sight when on public transportation and when out and about. The thieves here are incredibly quick here. Report thefts to the local police, or ask your hotel or hostel how to file a report.

Be extra careful in Barcelona, especially in high season, where people may try to snatch your phone on the street or grab your stuff in crowded subways (pickpocketing is not as bad elsewhere in Spain). Also, never leave your backpack, phone, or laptop out and unsecured when at a cafe or restaurant. They can disappear in the blink of an eye.

Scams are also very common, especially in the larger cities (not that common though in smaller cities). Keep an eye out for kids in groups who might try to distract you before lifting your wallet, as well as people who might offer to “help” carry your luggage or take your photo, only to expect a hefty tip as thanks. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard safety precautions apply (always keep an eye on your drink at the bar, never walk home alone at night while intoxicated, etc.). Many hostels also have female-only dorm rooms. For specific tips on staying safe, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on Spain. They’ll be able to provide specific advice that I, a man, can’t.

If you experience an emergency, dial 122 for assistance.

Always trust your gut. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, and keep them separate from your originals. When you’re walking around, take minimal cash and one form of ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Spain Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
  • Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
  • FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
  • BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!
  • Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Spain.

Spain Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Spain travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Barcelona

The 7 Best Hotels in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Seville

The Best Walking Tours in Seville

The Perfect 3 Day Granada Itinerary

The Perfect 3 Day Granada Itinerary

The 7 Best Hostels in Seville

The 7 Best Hostels in Seville

The 7 Best Hostels in Madrid

The 7 Best Hostels in Madrid

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  • Where To Stay
  • Transportation
  • Booking Resources
  • Related Blogs

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Backpacking Spain Travel Guide

This backpacking Spain travel guide is for travelers who want to get the most out of their trip.

In this ultimate guide you will find local advice, itinerary for traveling and backpacking through Spain, and next-level travel tips so you can travel the Iberian Peninsula like a Spaniard.

Because you’re going to need it – Spain is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe! It also features an extensive coastline and is home to some of the most amazing beaches, stunning landscapes, and heritage places. The land of sun, siesta, and sangría is, in fact, a melting pot where different cultures have left their mark thought out the centuries.

But no matter what you want to do, whether it’s taking a road trip through the Ribera del Duero wine region of the north, enjoying the awe-inspiring blend of Moorish and Christian architecture, or simply relaxing by the sea in Barcelona – this backpacking Spain travel guide is here to help you.

With the help of this insider guide, you’ll be able to easily navigate your way around Spain, and know exactly where it is that you want to visit. I will cover the majority of the top things to do in Spain in this budget guide.

Where to Go Backpacking in Spain

If you’re wondering where to go in Spain, you’ll be spoiled for choice. As one of the biggest countries in Europe, there are beautiful islands and golden beaches, vibrant nightlife, and fascinating history behind the complex problems the country facing today.

In fact, there are so many that it would be some feat to cram everything into one trip! Don’t forget that as well as mainland Spain there is also the Canary Islands off the coast of Morocco and the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean! Both of these island chains are attractive destinations for tourists. The thing you should know is that the Balearics could be added as an extension to your southern Spain itinerary!

All of that being said, I think the best part about backpacking Spain is experiencing Spain’s uniquely different regions step by step: prosperous Catalonia, laid-back Andalucía, luscious Galicia, etc.

Travel Itinerary for Backpacking Spain in 12 Days

Start your trip in Barcelona, which has an international airport. You can arrive via bus, train, or flight from France (if you are doing a multi-destination trip in Europe ). Don’t miss out on visiting Passeig de Gracia, Montjuic and Parc Guell!

After spending at least 3 days in Barcelona, I recommend heading to Valencia for a day, and then Seville for a few more. There is so much to do and see in Seville, which is a cultural and historic city of Southern Spain’s Andalusia region. You’re lucky to be visiting Seville around Semana Santa, when there are week-long festivities. Get ready for a fascinating array of architectural styles and delicious serranito sandwiches!

spain backpacking itinerary

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Next head to Málaga, known for its glistening white-washed villages. The city boasts the biggest airport in the South of Spain, so this will most likely be the easiest city to fly out of. If you can allocate more time for Ronda with its breathtaking Puente Nuevo, or “New Bridge”, the trip well worth the effort!

From Málaga, Granada or Seville you can easily travel onwards to Morocco via flight or ferry. It takes just about an hour to get to Tangier, Morocco from Algeciras by ferry.

Another great city to visit in Southern Spain is the marvelous city of Cádiz. I spontaneously visited this city by the sea and had a great time. Like the rest of the cities in Andalusia, there are plenty of cafés and tapas bars, some beautiful plazas to enjoy a cup of coffee, and cathedrals to marvel at. Tarifa (the jump-off point to Morocco) is famous for its kite surfing.

If you are already visiting Málaga, I think you can choose to just visit Málaga or Cádiz. Both cities have a similar feel being on the beach.

Spend your last couple of days in Madrid, a bustling city that requires at least 3 days to appreciate. You can go on a free walking tour around the most famous tourist attractions or explore an incredible art scene, nightlife, and some of Spain’s top restaurants. Some of the world’s leading art museums can be found in Madrid, including Museo del Prado and El Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.

Best Time to Visit Spain

Backpacking Spain instantly conjures images of enchanting sun-drenched beaches , super laid-back atmosphere, and quaint medieval villages. For a good reason. While the weather can vary markedly depending on where you go in Spain, the temperatures in most parts of Spain can get blisteringly hot during the summer, particularly in Andalucia. It is not unusual for the temperature to rise into the high 30s Celsius from June to August.

Let me tell you that is way too hot! If you’re planning on visiting southern Spain in the height of the summer season I would strongly discourage you from doing it. Shoulder season marks the best time to go to Spain for savings! That said, the best times to visit Spain are from March to May and between September and November, when the air is more breathable and the crowds are less oppressive. It’s absolutely vital to take the best time to travel to Spain into consideration when travelling there. It’s a vast country and the weather depends on when and where you go!

Spain Travel Guide to Getting Around

Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport and El Prat Airport in Barcelona are the busiest international airports in Spain by passenger traffic. They serve flights from all over Europe, North America, and Asia. There are many airlines that fly from the United States directly to Spain such as American, Delta, Iberia or Air Europa. If you’re coming from Asia, Emirates, Qatar or KLM are great options too.

That said, Spain is a very well connected country. Local carriers, Iberia and Vueling, as well as Easyjet, WizzAir, and Ryanair, have a big presence in Spain, and prices are very competitive. Flying can be your best bet if you’re pressed for time. However, if time is on your side slow it down and go overland unless you’re going to the Canary or Balearic islands, in which case you might need to travel by air.

Luckily for travelers, Spain’s rail network has improved immensely over the past few years and its high-speed AVE trains now connect virtually every notable tourist destination at speeds over 300km/h. The train service can be more expensive than buses, but more comfortable and quicker, particularly when traveling between Madrid and Barcelona. If you’re travelling to multiple European countries, you may want to purchase a Eurail pass. Alternatively, if you don’t want to take the highways, compare flight and train prices. Keep in mind, RENFE trains will drop you off in the centre of town. Just relax in your seat while watching the scenery rapidly pass by.

traveling to spain alone for the first time

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Spanish buses can get you pretty much everywhere, offer great routes, allowing you to travel around the country comfortably and on a budget. The main bus operator in Spain is ALSA and they have a premium service with snacks, movies, and wifi that could be worth splashing the extra cash on. Some routes are a far bit longer on the bus, like Barcelona to Madrid, which will take more than six hours on wheels, and three on the train. Make sure you book your bus seats in advance! Take my advice, book your mode of transportation in advance if you want to save money. You can get around Spain using Omio. This website helps you compare and book the best trains, buses or flights to get around Spain (or Europe).

In major cities like Madrid and Barcelona , the metro system is really well-connected, although be aware that pickpockets are still there and can cause some troubles! Be sure to watch your belonging, especially when boarding a train with a rush of passengers or traveling to Spain alone for the first time. Metro tickets cost around 2 – 3 EUR per trip. The same goes for Granada, but if you want to go hiking, you can also rely on the local bus system which is easily accessible. Ask the hostel/hotel staff for information on which bus number to take to go somewhere.

Spain Visa Requirements

Spain is part of the European Union, so if you’re a EU citizen, you won’t need a visa to travel and work in Spain. Similarly, citizens of Australia, Canada, Japan , New Zealand, Switzerland, and the United States don’t need to pre-apply for a visa; their valid passport will be stamped on arrival. However, if you’re not from an EU country or the countries above, then you will need to get a Schengen visa beforehand. It will set you back €60 and allows to travel to Schengen countries in Europe for 90 days out of every 180 days. It’s always best to check what your country’s immigration department says about getting a visa before you go. While these things can vary from country to country, here’s a website where you can find the most up-to-date information.

Backpacker Accommodation In Spain

There are a lot of accommodation options in Spain and it can be a little daunting at times to find the best one. There’s a wide array of hotels, hostels and other options in the country, primarily as tourism in Spain is one of the biggest contributors to the economy! When I went backpacking in Spain, I mostly stayed in hostels, as I’m a frugal traveller.

Hostels in Spain

Virtually every big city in Spain has a lot of hostels in it, so you’re normally spoilt for choice. While the country is still growing as a backpackers’ destination, there is a plethora of hostels in almost every city and you’d be smart to investigate the reviews before making your choice. Outside the tourist hotspots hostels can be as cheap as €10 a night, for a dorm bed, going up to €30 and more for the upscale hostels in cosmopolitan cities. Expect to pay more for private dorm rooms, and dorm rooms for female travelers. Sometimes it’s wise to bring your own towel, though normally all hostels provide sheets and linen. Again, just check before you book and an email to the hostel before you arrive won’t hurt either. HostelWorld is one of my favourite resources to compare prices and ratings.

Hotels in Spain

This option varies greatly from place to place, but for the hotspots, like Madrid, Barcelona and Granada, hotels are not only expensive, but often booked out. Especially when the festivals are in full swing. Sometimes, however, you feel like treating yourself and enjoying a little extra privacy. I like to check Agoda for special deals, particularly in less popular places. Some hotels offer seasonal promotional rates and other off-peak reductions.

Camping in Spain

For many travellers, Spain is popular with camping fans, and its seaside campsites delight campers of all ages. Whether you’re going on a solo backpacking trip, a surfing trip, to explore cities, or to enjoy nature, there are campsites in all corners of the country to suit all budgets. That said, you generally won’t have to book in advance. If you’re planning to rent a car and feeling real adventurous, consider picking up a backpacking hammock and a portable backpacking stove. Keep in mind, though, that wild camping is totally illegal in Spain.

Couchsurfing Spain

Couchsurfing can even effectively bring down the costs of your trip and it has certainly allowed me to travel for far longer than I would otherwise have been able to. It was a crucial crux when I travelled around Spain for 1 month on a budget of about €45 a day. This is a great way to save money but this isn’t really what it’s all about. It is more about landing on your feet with a social life and embracing the same common sense, of course.

You are staying with locals who know all of the best places and most fun things to do, you are shown hidden gems of a city that you could spend weeks, or even months failing to discover. When I got to Seville, for example, my host took me on a motorbike tour of the city, took me to an acting class in a leafy suburb and also showed me where I could get delicious tapas for less than €2. I’d say it’s an exchange of ideas and cultures.

Where to Stay in Spain

Below are a few of my favourite hostels and budget accommodation options when backpacking Spain:

Rodamon Hostel, Barcelona Way Hostel, Madrid Black Swan Hostel, Sevilla We Hostel Palma, Majorca Home Youth Hostel, Valencia ECO Hostel, Granada Hola Hostel, Alicante Loop Inn Hostel, Cartagena Surfing Etxea, San Sebastian The Urban Jungle Hostel, Malaga Casa Caracol, Cadiz

backpacking Spain Travel Guide

Top Tips For Backpacking Spain on a Budget

Like everywhere else in Europe, you can drastically cut your expenses while backpacking Spain by following these simple travel tips:

Find Self-Catering Accommodation

It doesn’t take long to understand that staying in hostels that have kitchens can save you money. Specify whether self-catering kitchens available in your hostel before booking. In fact, this is one of the best ways to save money while backpacking Spain, as small expenses can add up when it comes to eating out. Cooking a meal that will last you a few days is another great way to stay longer on the road!

Book Your Transportation Early

While booking your transport as far in advance as possible gives you less freedom to travel around Spain, both plane and train tickets are much cheaper if you purchase them in advance. I found this out to my cost, especially with RENFE trains. The prices do steadily increase the closer to your date of departure. The bus is almost always cheaper than the trains as well, but they do take longer.

Visit Off-Season

Aside from holidays like Las Fallas and Semana Santa, backpacking Spain during spring and fall are the best times to save money on accommodation and transportation.

Eat For Free

If you’re visiting Granada, Santiago or Leon then you’re in luck, as these cities are famous for their free tapas. Simply order a drink and you’ll get a plate of tapas with it for free! You might find this in other places such as A Coruña, Seville, and Madrid, but it’s much rarer. Alternatively, if you eat out get the meal of the day for the best deal. Lunch is always cheaper than dinner, while many bars offer a happy hour in the late afternoon!

Take a Walking Tour

Almost every city in Spain offers a free walking tour and they are generally excellent. Although they tend to work on a tip basis and therefore aren’t entirely free, they do usually offer exceptional value for money and are a great introduction to a city. A lot of the hostels offer free walking tours which you can join.

Backpacking Spain budget – How Much Will it cost?

It’s pretty tough to backpack Spain on €40 a day unless you’re participating in work exchange or home exchange. You can, however, backpack Spain for under €50 by doing the following:

If you want to score the best deal possible, shoulder season from April to May and October can be your best bet. This will be the cheapest time to fly to Spain. June and September are also affordable but stay away during July and August if you are backpacking Spain on a budget.

I recommend splitting costs with other travelers. You’ll end up paying more if you rent separate dorm beds. Rent an apartment with a few people instead. The best way to save money on accommodation is to stay away from the touristy areas, although this means you may have to spend additional money on transportation. Keep in mind, last-minute trains and plane tickets are potential budget killers. Pick 1-3 places to visit instead.

backpacking in spain alone

Tips For Backpacking Belgium

Couch Surfing is the best way to meet locals and stay for free, but snagging a spot can be tough. If all else fails, Galicia and Andalucia have cheap camping! Keep in mind that wild camping is illegal, but you may be able to get away with it away from the tourist hotspots.

I spent an average €45 a day by splitting rental cars, apartments, and groceries with 3 other people. We were able to do everything we wanted to do, splurge on daily paella, and even eat out once and a while. We could have travelled for less, but it was more of a vacation. Renting apartments in smaller cities was affordable but if you camp or couch surf, you can get by on much less.

More Comfortable Spain Backpacker Budget

If you want to splurge a bit while backpacking Spain, then I recommend budgeting at least €60 a day. This will cover eating out more frequently, renting a car during high season, and splurging on the occasional party, or food tour.

Food in Spain

Fresh and local produce is an important component of Spanish cuisine. However, the thing that unites the entire nation is that meals here are for sharing. You will see a lot of people eating out and socializing, communal eating is key here and a great way to try a larger array of Spanish treats. In addition, eating in Spain is cheap! You can try a lot of stuff without spending a fortune.

You’ve probably heard a lot about the country’s tapas culture. There are restaurants across Spain dedicated to tapas that are perfect for sharing. Bread with aioli, patatas bravas, ham croquetas and pimientos de padron are paramount on any tapas menu. These small bite-size pieces are also perfect to fill the gap between a small breakfast and a big lunch. Seville, Granada and San Sebastian are the best places to try these delicious dishes.

Many backpackers visit Spain solely to try sangria. To ensure you have an exceptional wine drinking experience, ask for sangría casera rather than tinto de verano. The latter is a low-quality red wine mixed with gaseosa, which is sparkling, light lemonade. The authentic sangría is finished with rum, sugar, orange juice and fruit. With so many amazing vineyards throughout the country, you can tour some of the best ones in the La Rioja wine region before sampling the wine.

What you eat in Spain is equally as important as when you eat. Breakfast is generally eaten late and can be as simple as a coffee and a croissant, toast with cheese or marmalade, and fried churros. You will need to sit down for lunch between 2 pm and 3 pm, and dinner from 10 pm onward. Take my advice: dinnertime is when you can get together and try more plates while doing a decent pre-drink for the night ahead.

Spanish Festivals

Attending a festival in Spain is an experience like no other. The country boasts numerous festivals that range from religious holidays, cultural events, all-night parties to internationally acclaimed music festivals. Here’s a little list of the best Spanish festivals:

Las Fallas de San José

This incredible cultural celebration takes place in Valencia. Although officially taking place from the 15th to 19th of March, for Valencians Las Fallas is a month-long event all about saying goodbye chilly weather and welcoming spring. Each neighborhood in Valencia builds fallas – huge sculptures of paper maché on wood – which are later burned in the streets to honour Saint José, the patron saint of carpentry.

The Haro Wine Festival

This festival takes place in the town of Haro in the La Rioja region of northern Spain. Batalla del Vino (in the local language) is one of the first summer fiestas in Spain when participants squirt, splash, dump and pour leftover wine on absolutely everybody. This leads to a celebration that takes place each year between the 27th and 30th of June. However, on June 29th, the day of the patron saint San Pedro, the celebration reaches its peak.

La Tomatina

Thousands of people flock to the village of Buñol near the city of Valencia to join the world’s biggest tomato fight that takes place every year on the last Wednesday of August. The town provides about 150,000 kilograms of overripe tomatoes for participants, and within seconds, tomato goo covers everyone and everything. The tomato throw takes exactly one hour, from 11 a.m. to noon, but the party goes on all day! La Tomatina is the best way to waste otherwise edible salad vegetables and fill your every orifice with tomato seeds for days to come.

Semana Santa

Holy Week is arguably the most important festival in Spain. Throughout many parts of Spain, extravagant parades and religious processions take to the streets every day throughout the week leading up to Easter as members of local parishes and people in pointed hooks carrying crosses, banners and statues of their church’s patron saint, surrounded by burning candles.

These processions have been taking place throughout Spain for centuries, and look much the same as they did hundreds of years ago. The intricate floats, traditional costumes, and somber and haunting music played by live bands make for an Easter celebration unlike any other.

You can catch Semana Santa processions in many cities throughout Spain, but Andalusian cities, as well as Salamanca, Valladolid, and Zamora are home to some of the most famous. Don’t underestimate the celebrations in Castilla y León, either—the cities of Valladolid and León also host incredible processions.

The Running Of The Bulls (San Fermin)

Pamplona’s San Fermin fiesta is so much more than the infamous, brave and crazy run. The Running of the Bulls is, in fact, the massive street party packed with live music performances and other entertainment. Folks from all over the world enjoy hundreds of years of tradition. The whole thing (called the encierro) takes less than five minutes during the Festival of San Fermín. At the same time, the party lasts for 24 hours, over eight days. San Fermin is by no means a party for madcaps only, it’s for partygoers, culture lovers, and sangria enthusiasts alike.

backpacking trip in spain

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The Backpacking Site

Backpacking Spain

Looking for important travel information while backpacking in Spain? Here you will find information on working in Spain, entry visas, Spain hostels , and much more.

Table of Contents

Facts About Spain

  • Top things to do
  • How to Travel Around
  • Hostels & Budget Accommodation 
  • Know before you go: Entry Visas, Health, and Safety
  • Volunteering and Backpacker Jobs in Spain

Spain is divided neatly into four regions, each with its own distinct personality and language. The Pamplona region is home to the San Fermin Festival and is the birthplace of the legendary Spanish Bullfights. The Northeast includes the sunny Balearic Islands and Catalunya, home to Picasso and Salvador Dali. The Northeastern region also includes Barcelona, one of Spain’s most celebrated cities. Galicia is the northwest corner of the country; from here Portugal is just a short drive away. Finally, Andalucia is the most historic part of the country and contains cities such as Granada and Sevilla.

  • Currency:  Euro 1 euro = 100 cents
  • Time Zone:  GMT + 1
  • Language:  Spanish (Castillan) although other regional dialects are also spoken
  • Telephone Services:  Country code +34, International access number 00
  • Emergency Numbers:  112 for all service

Climate in Spain and the best time to visit

When deciding the best time to visit Spain, the weather plays a huge role. The good news is that the weather in Spain is generally good, so the best time to visit will depend on your travel style and budget. 

Summer in Spain is the peak period, as it is in most of Europe. During this time, the weather in Spain ranges from temperate in the northern reaches of the country to hot and dry in the south. Some find the middle of the summer excessively hot, and if visiting at this time you may have to start taking a mid-day siesta like the locals! If you’re looking for an awesome beach getaway, summer is one of the best times to soak up the sun in Spain. 

On the other hand, Spain sees fewer travellers during winter so if you prefer to avoid the crowds or are on a small budget, this is a great time to visit. Plus Spain’s location means that it experiences milder winters than the rest of Europe. In winter, you’ll find that popular attractions are less crowded and it may be easier to find a good deal on accommodations. 

For backpackers, you can experience the best of Spain during the shoulder season during the spring and fall months. Accommodations during the shoulder season are often cheaper than the peak of summer and what’s more, the weather in Spain is ideal during this time! You’ll enjoy pleasantly warm weather with more than enough daylight hours to explore to your heart’s content. 

Things to do in Spain

Wondering what to do in Spain? Here are some of the best places and things to do!

Visit Madrid, the Heart of Spain

Gran vía - Madrid, Spain

Gran vía – Madrid, Spain

A visit to Spain’s capital city is a great introduction to the country’s rich history and culture. 

If you love art, Madrid’s world-famous museums are a must-visit. The Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, which are the three major museums in Madrid, all have extensive collections of art that draw thousands of visitors each year. 

Other attractions in Madrid include the beautiful Royal Palace of Madrid, Plaza Mayor, and Retiro Park. It’s also worth exploring Madrid’s neighborhoods such as La Latina, Chueca, and Malasaña to get a taste of local life.

Fall in Love with Barcelona

Park Güell, Barcelona, Spain

Park Güell, Barcelona, Spain

One of the best places to visit in Spain is Barcelona. This stunning city has it all: beautiful architecture, historic monuments, and beaches! 

Get a taste of the city’s history with a stroll through its Gothic Quarter, full of meandering cobblestoned streets, quaint plazas, and historic buildings. Then take some time to discover Barcelona’s gems: the works designed and built by Antoni Gaudí. Parc Guell and Sagrada Familia can’t be missed and there’s also Casa Batllo and Casa Mila to explore. 

For some sun and sea, be sure to head to Barcelona’s urban beaches where you can relax and unwind. 

Discover Seville’s Rich History

Plaza de España, Seville, Spain

Plaza de España, Seville, Spain

Head to the heart of Andalucia and make a stop at the region’s capital, Seville. This vibrant and historic city is brimming with Spanish passion! 

Seville is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites that you must visit: the beautiful Seville Cathedral (and La Giralda, its bell tower) and the impressive Real Alcazar. There’s also the magnificent Plaza de España which is arguably the most beautiful square in Spain.  There are many other things to do a visit to Seville such as the Metropol Parasol, Santa Cruz, and Triana. Seville is also one of the best places to watch flamenco!

Marvel at Granada Beauty

Alhambra de Granada, Spain

Alhambra de Granada, Spain

If you are into history, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Granada, another historic Andalucian city. 

The city is home to one of the most iconic sites in Spain, the Alhambra. This ancient Moorish palace is perched on the hillside overlooking Granada, and is surrounded by beautiful scenic mountains. Built in 1238, the Alhambra is the finest example of Moorish architecture and its unique beauty is unforgettable! 

The Albaicín neighborhood, which is the old Arab Quarter, is an intriguing neighborhood to explore with its winding streets, old houses, and views of the Alhambra. For a taste of Granada’s gypsy heritage, head to the hilly Sacromonte neighborhood which is known for its cave houses and passionate flamenco shows.

Explore the Basque Country

Another great place to visit is the Basque Country with its stunning scenery, top-quality museums, and world-class gastronomy. The three major Basque cities are Vitoria, Bilbao, and San Sebastian, each has its own unique charm where you can find a true sense of Basque life. 

Vitoria is the region’s capital city and it boasts a well-preserved medieval old town, known as Casco Viejo. It’s located close to the Gorbeia Natural Park which offers awesome hiking trails and views from the mountain peaks. 

Bilbao is well-known for its unique Guggenheim Museum, with its striking architecture and impressive collection of contemporary art. Foodies will love San Sebastian which has a lively food scene and numerous Michellin-starred restaurants. It’s also home to beautiful beaches and it’s a much-loved location for surfing. 

Enjoy the Beaches in Spain

Nerja Beach on the Costa del Sol

Nerja Beach on the Costa del Sol

If you’re looking for some sun, sand, sea, Spain is home to many beautiful beaches. The magnificent Spanish weather attracts millions to the sun-kissed beaches along the Costa del Sol, and to the lively party scenes on the Spanish Islands. Whatever your taste, Spain is a classic beach destination. 

The beaches in Spain are most busy during the summer months so be prepared for the crowds! If you prefer a more serene beach experience, the weather is still mild enough in winter to enjoy the beaches in southern Spain and the Canary Islands.

Sample Delicious Tapas in Spain

Food is a wonderful way to experience a country’s culture. For those who enjoy sampling new foods, wherever you are in Spain you should visit the local tapas bars. 

Tapas bars serve assorted dishes of local specialties which are normally eaten as a snack, perhaps whilst relaxing with a glass of chilled sangria, another Spanish specialty. Some classic tapas to try are croquettes (little fried potato balls with a filling), gazpacho (a cold tomato soup), rabo de toro (oxtail stew) and, of course, the classic Iberian ham.

Unique Activities in Spain

Since popular places in Spain can get crowded during tourist season, it is wise to reserve tickets and activities ahead of time. GetYourGuide sells entrance tickets to museums and landmarks at face value so you can avoid the lines and save that precious time for more exploring.

Viator is another popular travel website that helps you book things to do in Spain. They work directly with local tour operators in Spain, so you won’t have to scour the internet or roam around town trying to find the best deal.

If you know your schedule ahead of time, a great insider tip is to buy tickets for major tourist attractions ahead of time. Tiqets has entrance tickets and skip-the-line passes for major attractions in Spain which can be a worthwhile cost for mega attractions during peak tourist season.

How to Get Cheap Flights to Spain

In order to find the best flights to Spain we recommend using a few well-known flight comparison search engines. These websites offer powerful search options, like entering flexible dates and airports in order to find the cheapest flight to Spain.

Our go-to flight search engine is Skyscanner , which we love for its extremely flexible search options. Our favourite way to get travel inspiration is their “Everywhere” feature. Simply enter “Everywhere” as a destination, and it will then list all available flights from your departure city in order of price. This also works when entering the entire country of Spain as your destination. Skyscanner will search all possible airports in the country in order to find the cheapest option.

Kiwi is another new favourite flight search engine among savvy travelers. Kiwi works by combining flights from different carriers in order to get the best deal. Also, if there is a better ground or ferry option for the route you’re searching, Kiwi will include that in the search results. On average, we have found the cheapest flights to Spain with them compared to the other websites out there.

How to Travel Around Spain on a Budget

Train and long-distance buses are the standard modes of transport for how to get around Spain. 

Buses are generally the more economical option and they are well-equipped with the usual modern conveniences that you can expect when travelling in Western Europe. Train travel, on the other hand, is often the fastest way between two cities in Spain, and the train stations are conveniently located right in the center of town.

Certain routes are better suited to one mode of transport than the other. To compare your options for journeys from A to B, you can try Omio . They compare trains, buses (and even flights) so you can decide for yourself the tradeoff between cost and travel time.

For finding a carpool option between cities in Spain , you can use BlaBlaCar , which is a favorite mode of transport among budget-savvy locals. Just search for your destination, pick the date you want to travel and you’ll see different carpool options. Some rides allow you to book instantly, while others require the driver to approve manually. The BlaBlaCar site defaults to German but you can change the language at the bottom of the page.

Train travel in Spain

RENFE operates a large network including connections between Madrid and most major cities. The network is fairly radial in topography so you might find buses better for short distances. Return fares offer you a 20% reduction on the return leg so it is wise to use them where possible.

As well as the travel passes outlined in our transport section , if you’re under 25 and have an eligible Youth Card, you can get a discount of 5-20% on train tickets (discount varies depending on train type). 

Spain is a part of the Eurail network, which is a good choice if you plan to take multiple train journeys in a short period of time. If you plan on doing lots of train travel in a short amount of time, a Rail Pass from Eurail might be the right choice for you. Eurail also offers discounted Youth Passes for train travel in Spain if you’re age 27 and under.

Driving in Spain

You may also want the flexibility to stop in smaller towns between the major cities. If you decide you want to rent a car, you can use DiscoverCars to compare offers from the major car rental agencies in the region.

If you want the flexibility to have a car available on-demand, you can sign up for ShareNow , which is the car-sharing app in Europe. Using their app, you can unlock cars within Madrid whether you need to rent a car for 2 minutes or 2 weeks. To sign up you’ll need to download the app , and have a valid driver’s license, so it’s best to sign up before your trip.

Ferries in Spain

Ferries link several offshore islands like Ibiza, Mallorca, and more, with major coastal towns and ports. They run from four to eight times a day depending on the season. Ferry Scanner provides further information and the schedules for the local ferries.

Backpacking Tours in Spain

Though part of the fun of backpacking Spain is exploring on your own, there are situations, especially when venturing off the tourist trail, when it does make sense to go with a guide or a small group. 

The most popular option for a social travel experience is Contiki tours. Contiki trips offer more than just transportation, they are organized social group travel for travelers aged 18-35. Whether you’re traveling by yourself or going with a group of friends, Contiki tours are perfect for people looking to have a blast, meet new friends, and form lifelong memories. They offer tours that travel primarily in Spain or longer tours that cover other nearby places.

G Adventures is another great option for organized travel, but with a smaller group. It’s a great choice for anyone backpacking Spain alone who would like to meet up with like-minded travellers. It’s also a practical option for exploring places where you need an experienced guide, like a long hiking adventure or visiting a place well off the beaten path. You can choose from different styles of small group tours like active, wellness, hiking trips, 18-30somethings, and more.

Spain Hostels and Budget Accommodation

Budget travel and hostels in Spain including: Andalucia hostels, Aragon hostels, Balearic Islands hostels, Basque Country And Navarra hostels, Cantabria And Asturias hostels, Castilla La Mancha hostels, Castilla Y Leon hostels, Catalunya hostels, Comunidad Valenciana hostels, Extremadura hostels, Galicia hostels, and Madrid hostels.

Finding good but inexpensive accommodation is essential while backpacking Spain on a budget. Accommodation is easy to find; in any of the major tourist hot spots, there are the usual high-rise hotels and sprawling hotel compounds. However, these are almost always fairly expensive. A far better way to stay is in “pensiones” which are broadly the equivalent of a bed and breakfast and are generally run by a local family that lives on the premises.

We have had good experiences finding hostels in Spain on HostelWorld . They have the largest inventory of hostels worldwide, and with over 10 million reviews and ratings from other travellers, you know exactly what to expect.

Another good way to find accommodation in Spain is by checking booking.com . You’ll find hotels, homestays, hostels, and other unique accommodations. They have the most reviews and advanced filtering of any accommodation-booking site, so you’ll be sure to find a great place in your budget. Many of the places on booking.com also offer free cancellation, which takes the pressure off the planning phase of your trip to Spain.

If you are backpacking with another travel companion, we highly recommend booking a rental via VRBO . With a vacation rental in Spain, you’ll have more space, your own kitchen, and you’ll get a better feel for how the locals live. Plus, the cost of a vacation rental can be split among your group, oftentimes making it cheaper than doing individual hotel rooms. 

If you’re looking to save even more money while backpacking in Spain, there are plenty of creative ways to get free accommodation in exchange for work . For example, one of our favorite ways to stay in amazing locations for free is by signing up as a petsitter with Trusted Housesitters . The site connects responsible animal lovers with petsitting opportunities in Spain and all over the world. It’s a win-win for both sides – travellers can stay in amazing locations for free, and homeowners can rest easy knowing that someone is watching over their place.

And lastly, CouchSurfing is a great community that connects travellers with local hosts in Spain. You can stay for free with verified hosts, who will usually take some time to show you around the local spots.

Entry Visa Requirements for Spain

Spain is part of the Schengen Zone, 27 countries in mainland Europe that have abolished border controls at their mutual borders. For many nationalities, a visa is not required for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. So if you’re visiting Spain as part of a larger European backpacking trip, it’s important to note that your stay in Spain will count towards your overall stay within the Schengen Zone countries. 

Visa requirements for Spain can vary widely depending on your country of origin and can change over time. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, be sure to check the latest visa requirements while you’re still planning your trip.

Health and Safety in Spain

The standard of Spanish healthcare is generally quite good, especially in the major tourist hot spots. Carrying a valid EHIC card and taking out comprehensive travel insurance should guarantee you a good standard of treatment in local medical facilities. Tap water is considered drinkable and no special vaccinations are required when travelling to Spain.

As with travel to all other countries abroad, it is vital that you get travel insurance before you leave. Even for short trips, our go-to travel insurance provider is World Nomads , which is also recommended by Lonely Planet, HostelWorld , and other major travel companies.

Work Permits and Backpacker Jobs in Spain

As is the case with other European countries, EU citizens can enter Spain for up to three months without needing a visa or permit. If you intend to stay for longer than this you must apply for a residence card (tarjeta de residencia) in the first 30 days of arriving. The card can be obtained from a police headquarters (comisaria de Policia) or Foreigner’s Office. You will need proof of having found employment.

Au Pair programs in Spain

The main opportunities for au pair work can be found in cities, such as Madrid and Barcelona, where you can expect to earn approx. €70 per week. Most agencies require that you are aged between 18 and 30 years old, although sometimes the maximum age is even lower.

Au pairs are expected to work for about thirty hours each week, which consists of general childcare: taking the children to and from school and looking after them in the evening, as well as general domestic tasks. As with most au pairing jobs, you will be provided with food and accommodation, but not many families in Spain pay for the health insurance of their au pairs, so this is something that you would need to arrange individually.

A great number of international agencies communicate with those in Spain to provide vacancy listings for au pairing. Au-pairing-world or Europa Pages can help you find au pairing services.

Working at Beach Resorts in Spain

Tenerife, Lanzarote, the Costa del Sol, and the Costa Blanca are all good places to start looking for casual work. Opportunities range from bar staff, holiday reps, DJs, ticket sellers, and more. Most jobs can be found by personal contact, getting there early in the tourist season to find something that suits you.

Wages vary from place to place and from job to job, but you can expect to be kept busy with this type of work and to meet and deal with a variety of people. English language newspaper The SUR is published on Fridays and may contain vacancies for work in coastal resorts.

Campsites and adventure holidays in Spain

British and European camping agencies in Spain offer jobs during the peak tourist times in the summer. Eurocamp is a major seasonal employer in Spain, and held arrange work for couriers on Spanish campsites. It is preferred that you can speak another European language well because the job involves welcoming and interacting with a range of visiting nationalities. Employees must be over 18, and can anticipate earning approximately €95 per week.

PGL organises adventure holidays for children between February and November; centres can be found across Europe. Working for PGL as a helper or courier can earn you between €50 and €60 per week in Spain. Board and bed is provided, so you won’t have to worry about finding, paying for, and travelling to and from suitable accommodation during your employment.

Touting in Spain

Spanish restaurants and bars pay workers to attract tourists to their businesses, particularly in competitive tourist areas such as coastal resorts and towns. Wages can vary but you could expect to earn between €15 and €25 per night, depending on the work and your success rate.

This type of work involves handing out leaflets, putting up posters, or even chatting to passers-by. Again, it is seasonal work so there wouldn’t be many opportunities for touting in the winter. Furthermore, touting is a late-night job, and although it does pay, don’t rely on this employment as your only source of money.

Farm Jobs in Spain

Spain’s agricultural produce includes oranges, olives, grapes, and strawberries. Andalucia is a large region with opportunities for fruit picking. As with most jobs of this kind, you are most likely to find vacancies by going from place to place and enquiring to farmers and landowners.

Fruit picking can be difficult work, and there is no guarantee that you will earn a decent wage from it. Some farmers may pay you depending on how much fruit you can collect, how much it is worth at market, or how long it takes you. Expect to earn anything from €10 to €50 per day.

If this type of work appeals to you, WWOOF is a voluntary organisation that provides work on organic farms and includes board and accommodation for a membership of €10 per year, check their website for more information.

Volunteering in Spain

If volunteer work in Spain sounds like something you want to do, it’s best to do it via a reputable agency. An agency will help screen volunteer programs and hosts in Spain to make sure you have support every step of the way.

There are a whole variety of voluntary organisations and programmes available throughout Spain. EIL is one such organisation that places volunteers in projects, including environmental management and conservation, and working with people with disabilities.

Volunteer work in Spain can be also organized through the WorldPackers agency, and you can use promo code BACKPACKING10 to save $10 on your membership. WorldPackers can connect you with volunteering opportunities in Spain with NGOs, hostels and homestays, agricultural or wildlife experiences, and more. 

Volunteer travel is a great way to explore Spain on a budget while also giving back. Typically, you’ll work on the project a set number of hours per week in exchange for free accommodation, and sometimes other perks such as free food, free bike rentals, and more.

Useful Links for Backpacking in Spain

  • RENFE operates the major rail network in Spain.
  • Eurail – Rail Passes for travellers who plan on doing lots of train travel in a short period of time. Single-Country passes for Spain as well as Multi-Country passes available
  • Omio – Train, bus, and flight search for Spain and all of Europe. Offers online booking and mobile tickets
  • DiscoverCars – The world’s leading rental car search engines to rent a car in Spain 
  • Kiwi and Skyscanner – Flight comparison search engines to find the cheapest flights to Spain and within the country
  • GetYourGuide and Viator – a collection of local tours and activities in Spain . Also offers Skip the Line tickets for crowded attractions
  • Tiqets – Website selling entrance tickets and skip the line tickets for major tourist attractions in Spain
  • GAdventures – guided small group tours in Spain , great for solo travellers or for those interested in a more adventurous trip which would require a guide
  • HostelWorld – #1 hostel search website to find accommodation while backpacking Spain. Thousands of hostels and millions of reviews from fellow travellers
  • Booking.com – commonly used booking site for accommodation in Spain . Find hostels, hotels, and other unique accommodation in Spain with advanced filtering and millions of reviews
  • World Nomads Travel Insurance – Comprehensive travel insurance for long and short trips when backpacking Spain

There you have it, the ultimate Spain backpacking guide. We hope you have found all the information you need for  backpacking around Spain .

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A guide for backpacking around Spain. Get important travelers information when it comes to Spain including visa requirements, employment opportunities, common Spanish phrases and translation, as well as Spain hostels.

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Spellbound Travels

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Spain Backpacking Guide (2-3 Week Itinerary)

spellbound travels spain backpacking guide

Backpacking in Europe is definitely a much different experience than in other parts of the world. With great public transportation linking many countries together, it’s easier than you may think to get around and country hop. Spain was probably my favourite country I’ve been to in Europe so far and a really interesting place. Read on for my 2-3 week Spain backpacking guide and discover all that Spain has to offer! 

*NOTE: Before I jump into it, this itinerary was fairly fast paced so if you’re after a more relaxed trip, I’d cut out 2-3 places (I’d probably go without Malaga and Cadiz personally). I also travelled with friends down to Portugal after, so this route is great if you’re thinking about extending your trip to other countries!

BARCELONA: 3-4 Days 

spellbound travels barcelona arc de triomf

There’s no doubt that Barcelona is beautiful. From it’s warm and balmy weather most of the year to beaches and a lively city, what more could you really want? 

The touristy spots you shouldn’t miss:

  • La Sagrada familia – This is Gaudi’s most famous work of architecture with construction dating back to 1882 and is still in the works today! Get your tickets here . You can also see other works of Gaudi throughout Barcelona. I didn’t feel the need to go inside them all but you do do!
  • Beach hopping – Sitting along the coast, Barcelona is a beach haven! There’s plenty of beaches to choose from. Just ask a local and you’ll have no trouble finding one that suits you.
  • Roam the streets – Just spend a day walking around Barcelona and there will be lots to see. From the Magic Fountain, to the touristy street La Rambla and parks within the city, you won’t be bored that’s for sure.

IBIZA: 3 Days 

Would a trip to Spain be complete without stopping in Ibiza? Probably not. The real question is: is Ibiza truly worth the hype? Honestly … I would say no. This well-known party island can definitely be a tad overpriced and it really wasn’t as crazy as I thought it would be.

With that being said, I still had a fun time! I’m not sure if I’d recommend making Ibiza a solo trip just because many people come with groups of friends and as a single woman it can be a bit risky in a party setting to be alone. 

Places to party

spellbound travels ushuaia ibiza

  • Pacha 

Pacha is the iconic Ibiza nightclub. All of the biggest DJ’s play there and it’s what you’d expect from a crazy nightclub. Check the dates to see if anyone you know/like is playing when you plan on going. Keep in mind that drinks are crazzyyyy expensive at Ibiza clubs ($20-25 CAD on average) so I’d suggest having a few drinks beforehand with friends elsewhere. 

  • Ushuaia 

This is the place to be when it comes to day drinking. If you feel like ballin’ out, it’s a hotel as well (although I’d be too scared to check the prices). Ushuaia is yet another location where world class DJ’s perform and you can’t beat the atmosphere! There’s something about being outside for a musical event/festival that changes everything. 

  • Amnesia 

I found Amnesia to be a pretty fun club, with multiple rooms where different DJ’s were playing. If you’re not really feeling the music in one room you can simply hop over to the other! I went to Amnesia after the day at Ushuaia, killing two birds with one stone.

Things to watch out for: 

  • Theft – This is definitely something you need to be aware of anytime you’re travelling but it’s especially easy for thieves to get to you at festivals or in crowds! My friend happened to wander off with a guy she had met at Ushuaia and while she was talking to him on the beach (her bag behind her), someone snatched her phone without her noticing. Luckily they didn’t take her passport in the same go! 
  • Drugs – Unless you’re looking to intentionally take a pill in Ibiza, keep an eye on your drinks and don’t take drinks from strangers. If someone offers you water, think twice because it could very well be mixed with some MDMA you didn’t sign up for!

Highlight: 

spellbound travels ibiza sunrise

  • The sunrise – Let’s face it – if you’re in Ibiza, you’re bound to stay out till sunrise at least once! Head down to the water for an unmatched sunrise.

MADRID: 3 Days 

spellbound travels madrid terraza cibeles

Ah Madrid, the capital of Spain. Stopping at Madrid is a must! It’s definitely up there for my favourite Spanish city and here’s why …

Day activities:

To get the most of your time in Madrid, I’d suggest taking part in a free walking tour. If you’ve done any of these before you’ll know they can sometimes feel quite repetitive but you’ll see a lot of these sights below, as well as get the history and information behind them summed up quite nicely!

spellbound travels terraza cibeles madrid spain

  • Plaza Mayor – The historic centre of old Madrid is where you can expect to start a free walking tour if that’s up your alley. Otherwise, you can venture through on your own!
  • Terraza Cibeles – A stunning rooftop with views of all of Madrid. While it’s a scenic spot at night, I recommend going during the day when it’s not busy and you can get some pretty amazing pictures with the white background.
  • El Retiro Park – Spend hours walking around one of Madrid’s largest parks with rose gardens, fountains and ponds. The Retiro Park Lake, better known as Estanque Grande del Retiro is a large artificial lake where you can row boat or just simply take in the sights. There’s also quite a lot of greenery if you’re after a decent spot for a nap in the great outdoors!
  • Restaurante Botin – Not only is it the oldest restaurant in the world , but it was also a popular hangout for iconic writer Ernest Hemingway! All my fellow English nerds will be happy to know that it’s steps away from the Plaza Mayor.
  • Calle de Ponzano – I’ll fill you in on a little secret … if you’re after some tasty tapas, this famous street is known for it’s tapas bars and not many tourist know about it! If you luck out you may be able to find a spot with 1 euro tapas.

Night activities: 

A Spain backpacking guide wouldn’t be complete without some lively activities to keep you going all night long! Unlike most other countries I’ve been to, the Spanish folk like to start the night quite late … and by late I mean 2AM!

  • Kapital – If you’re after a big night out in Madrid, Kapital is a no brainer. With SEVEN floors, including a karaoke floor, the biggest problem you’re going to have is keeping your group together! The music is great and the atmosphere is unlike any club I’ve been to before.

SEVILLE: 2 Days 

Getting from Madrid to Seville is a breeze! Just hop on a train and you’ll be there in no time. Seville is a hot and dry city with quite a lot to offer.

spellbound travels plaza de espana seville

Day Activities:

  • Real Alcázar de Sevilla – If you’re into architecture, the Real Alcázar de Sevilla won’t disappoint. You shouldn’t have a problem buying tickets the day of or a few days in advance.
  • Cathedral of Seville – Hop on a free walking tour and you can learn about the history and see inside this beautiful cathedral.
  • Plaza de España – Hands down my favourite spot in Seville. La Plaza de España is right near the University and around the corner from the city centre. With a large fountain, an artificial river running below a bridge and colourful and intricately designed buildings, it’s a great spot to kick back and relax for an hour or two.
  • Metropol Parasol – Go for a walk along the largest wooden structure in the world and enjoy panoramic views of the city! Metropol Parasol is best known as Las Setas (the mushrooms) due to the way the spirals form.

Night Activities:

  • Flamenco – If you’re not sure what I’m talking about, one thing will clear things right up … 💃 Now do you get it? This art form of song and dance is argued to have originated from Spain’s Andalusia territory (Almeria, Cadiz, Cordoba, Granada, Huelva, Jaen, Malaga and Seville). If you aren’t able to fit these spots into your itinerary, you can get an authentic experience in any Spanish city (I saw a show in Madrid)!
  • Hookah bar – You’ll find heaps of bars among Seville like you would any city but I’d suggest hitting up a hookah bar for something a little different.

GRANADA: 2-3 Days 

backpacking trip in spain

Granada was probably up there for my fave city in Spain, probably because I found it to be underrated and surprisingly beautiful! I didn’t know much about Granada other than the famous palace La Alhambra that I had planned on seeing.

  • La Alhambra 

spellbound travels alhambra granada

After seeing Alcázar in Seville, I expected similar from La Alhambra. While the look of the architecture was alike in style, it was absolutely breathtaking and a must see! I’d allow for a full day at La Alhambra so that you can take your time and make the most of it.

TIP: Book your tickets in advance to secure a spot as they book up months ahead of time!

It also offers a pretty spectacular spot for pictures with many beautiful gardens, lookouts and viewpoints throughout!

  • Arab Baths/Hammams – While you can find these baths in other cities such as Seville, I happened to check them out in Granada. It’s a unique place to have yourself a spa day with friends or indulge in some alone time.
  • Local markets

spellbound travels market in granada spain

Walking the quaint streets of Granada is enough to keep you busy all day. You’ll stumble upon markets where you can pick up some fresh Saffron – a rare spice used in Spanish paella – to bring home for friends and family!

  • Tapas & sunset views

There are so many spots to enjoy tapas in Granada, as well as sunset views! My personal fave was Plaza de San Nicolás because it had a lot of vegetarian options and the sunset view was stunning. You could see La Alhambra and all of Granada from above!

MALAGA: 2 Days 

Malaga is known as a beach town in Spain. You can walk along the boardwalk where the ships come and go, have a beach day and explore the city. I found Malaga to be a tad boring so you can definitely skip it if you’d rather spend more time elsewhere.

  • Playa Malagueta – This beach is the closest you’ll find to the city and a beautiful one at that! There’s also a nice array of bars and restaurants nearby.
  • Museo Picasso Malaga – If contemporary art is something that tickles your fancy, head to Malaga’s Picasso museum! Pablo Picasso was actually born in Malaga so it’s a pretty cool place to check out his work. There are many other contemporary art museums you can see in Malaga as well.

CADIZ: 1 Day 

Cadíz is Spain’s oldest city and quite beautiful to say the least! Walk through the city and you’ll find beautiful white buildings, cathedrals and tasty bakeries. You can also walk along the water for a coastal view.

spellbound travels cadiz cathedral

  • Catedral de Cadíz – This famous cathedral is one I wouldn’t skip out on! Head up the narrow and spiral stairs to the top where you have the best panoramic view of the city.

Final Thoughts & Bonus Tips

Spain is one of those countries you can visit a thousand times and never get bored! If you have the time, I’d highly suggest checking out some of the less touristy cities I explored such as Granada and Seville. While Barcelona and Madrid are stunning, there are so many other spots in Spain you can travel through on your own or with friends with great ease.

Before I conclude my Spain backpacking guide, let me leave you with a few last tips so that you have the best experience possible!

  • If you’re travelling alone read my female solo travel safety tips so you can hopefully avoid any trouble!
  • Make sure you get enough sleep – If you have a fairly aggressive itinerary like I did, make sure you give yourself enough sleep each night and hydrate or you’ll regret it.
  • Don’t stress about visiting every famous cathedral –  unless you’re into that type of thing of course! But in my mind, once you’ve seen 10 Spanish cathedral’s, you’ve seen them all.

Did I miss something? Feel free to slide into my DM’s or head to my contact page to get in touch!

Heading abroad soon? Don’t forget to travel without Safety Wing’s Travel Medical Insurance ! I never leave home without it in case of an unforeseen incident.

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Home » Europe » Spain » Madrid

Backpacking Madrid Travel Guide 2024

Grand tree-lined boulevards with flowers exploding with color from every branch. Green parks scattered with elaborate fountains and botanical wonders, booksellers, and tiny coffee shops. Museums packed with famous masterpieces. Bustling outdoor markets and an infinity of attractive bars and cafes to take an ice cold beer in the shade. You must be traveling in Madrid.

Madrid, the sunny capital of Spain is a mandatory stop off whether you are backpacking in Spain or visiting a wider swath of Europe. Being as that Madrid is the largest city in Spain figuring out the best things to do and where to stay can eat into your precious time.

On top of that sorting out how to travel to Madrid on a budget requires some more doing still.

Let’s face the facts: Traveling in Madrid or any other European capital is not as cheap as us budget backpackers would like. This Madrid travel guide gives you a detailed run-down of how to enjoy the city like a local without your wallet feeling like a  matador  that has just been gored by the bull.

traveling in Madrid

Get insights on backpacker accommodation in Madrid, suggested itineraries, your Madrid daily budget, awesome things to do in the city , cheap eats in Madrid, nightlife, and much much more.

Madrid is a fascinating city. In my opinion, traveling to Madrid is one of the best experiences backpackers can have in a European city. For travelers looking for a fine balance of culture, history, architectural beauty, culinary delights, and a pumping nightlife scene, look no further than the Spanish capital of Madrid!

How much does Backpacking Madrid cost?

Where to stay while traveling in madrid, top things to do in madrid, backpacking madrid 3 day itinerary, backpacking madrid travel tips and city guide.

First things first, in order to come to terms with what your time traveling in Madrid will look like, you need an accurate and clear picture of the costs involved. I found that backpacking Madrid on the cheap was slightly easier than other capitals in Europe. Don’t get me wrong, shit adds up quick if you’re not careful.

Certainly, it is possible to visit Madrid on as little as $20-30 bucks a day. For costs so low you would need to have some help. For example, Couchsurfing or staying with a local by some other means would be completely necessary in order for you to get by with so little cash.

I’ll be honest with you, Couchsurfing in any European capital has become so damned popular that you need to be blessed by a divine stroke of luck to land a host, especially in the summer. Always worth trying though!

backpacking madrid

A realistic daily budget for Madrid is more like $45-75 a day. 

With that budget, you can eat very well, visit museums, stay in a hostel, and grab a beer or two from one of the zillion bars in Madrid. If you go to a nice restaurant, get a private room somewhere, and go out for a big night, of course, you should expect to deal with the related expense.

On the contrary, if you Couchsurf and cook a bit for yourself, I have no doubt you could spend less than $20 . This is including taking the metro and buying a bottle of tasty Spanish wine.

Madrid Average Costs and Daily Budget:

Dorm bed in a hostel:  $25-40

Small basic room for two:  $75-110+

Airbnb in Madrid  room in a shared/entire apartment : $25-65

10 Metro rides pass:  $22

Bus travel card for 10 rides : $14.50

Average museum entrance fee:  $12-18

Set lunch from a cafe: $10-15

Dinner in a restaurant: $20-30+

Hot chocolate and a massive churro: $6.50

Wine bottle from the supermarket:  $4-6

Tapas plate : $2-7 per Tapa

Beer at the bar:  $3-5

backpacking in Spain

Madrid Budget Travel Tips

traveling to Madrid

Whenever traveling in the pricier regions of the world it helps to have a few awesome travel hacks, tips, and tricks in your pocket. Backpacking Madrid on the cheap is no different. Whilst travel costs to Madrid can add up quickly, traveling here need not be overly expensive.

Budgeting in major European cities is as much as an art form as it is common sense. In the end, how you choose to spend your money falls squarely on your shoulders. Here are a few tips to keep in mind for your Madrid adventure…

  • Discover the free attractions : Walking around The Buen Retiro is free. People watching and exploring beautiful outdoor markets are free. A visit to The Madrid Royal Palace is free. Point being, there is lots of cool stuff to get into in Madrid that won’t cost you a dime.
  • Visit the amazing museums when they are free : It is possible to visit both the Museo de Reina Sofia and the Prado for free. Free times for Reina Sofia: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Sundays 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The museum is closed on Tuesdays. Free times for the Prado: Monday to Saturday 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays and holidays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Walk!: Madrid is a very accessible city to walk around in. You should only have to take the metro on occasion. The rest of the time you can hoof it!
  • Drink wine in public spaces rather than bars : When the sun goes down and the city cools it is magic. Head to the Plaza Mayor or the Buen Retiro with a 3 Euro bottle of wine and some Spanish cheese for a budget happy hour with a view.

Madrid Travel Hacks

  • Cook occasionally: Part of the charm of any city is getting to taste the food. I get that and I’m all about that too. However, if you plan to spend days exploring Madrid, you are going to have to cook a little if you want to save some money. Most hostels have excellent, well-equipped kitchens.
  • Pack a travel water bottle:   save money every day! It has always both amazed and disturbed me just how frequently people buy bottles of water while traveling. STOP! Plastic is killing the planet and costing you on average $5 extra a day at least. Pack a water bottle and refill it! If you don’t like the taste of city water, packing a water filter isn’t a bad idea either.
  • Get Free Lunch:  Well nothing in this life is totally free when were talking about eating out in a major city. That said, if you go to a bar and order a few drinks, usually they will keep serving you tapas, if not just ask for refills.

Why You Should Travel to Madrid with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

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Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Sometimes there is no better feeling than coming back to a clean, cool room and a bed with your name on it. Luckily, there are many comfortable budget hostels in Madrid . There are so many in fact that in order to give readers the very best options the Broke Backpacker team has chosen three favorites.

Madrid is a magnet for international travelers. A large percentage of them are just like you: on the hunt for both the best and cheapest hostel in Madrid. I don’t always recommend booking hostels in advance but in the case of traveling in Madrid, it is definitely a good idea.

If you are traveling as a couple or group, Airbnb is a great option in Madrid, and all over Spain! Otherwise, make sure to check out our neighborhood guide for where to stay in Madrid  and our guide to Madrid’s best hostels !

The best hostels book out fast, especially during the summer and on the weekends. For those reasons, you should do yourself a favor: book in advance and stay at the hostel of your choice instead of getting left with the dregs.

These Madrid hostels were selected based on reviews, hostel facilities, location, and personal experiences. Let’s take a look at them:

Best Party Hostel in Madrid –  Cat’s Party Hostel

Living Cat's Hostel best hostels in Madrid

  • Laundry Facilities

For those looking for a fun-loving, low-cost spot to get down with other backpackers, Cat’s Party Hostel is for you. Few hostels have the stamina to offer pub crawls every night of the week. In the realm of activities not based on drinking there are many. Dance lessons, tapas tours, paella parties: these and much more on all on offer.

The onsite bar is a good place to get the night started and socialize. You can even score a pretty cheap breakfast from the hostel if you can be bothered to go out. Definitely a great choice for you party animals looking for both good value and a good time.

Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Madrid –  Sungate One

Sungate One best hostels in Madrid

  • Luggage Storage

The Sungate One is a comfortable Madrid backpackers located in an excellent location. Since your hostel is your primary base, it is important to choose a spot that’s close to everything you want to see. Sungate is that hostel. Many Madrid highlights are within walking distance.

The large kitchen is great for preparing your own meals. In addition to free coffee and tea, you’ll find fast free WiFi. There are plenty of activities on offer here too. The common room space offers up just the right amount of social atmosphere for solo travelers without feeling like you’re in a bar.

Best Airbnb in Madrid:  Centrally located with 3 beds

Centrally located with 3 beds, Madrid

This spectacular apartment located on the fifth floor of a historical building, has an amazing patio view that opens up to Plaza Mayor. The apartment can accommodate up to six guests and comes with amenities like wifi, a fully equipped kitchen, and air conditioning.

Overall Best Hostel in Madrid – Way Hostel

Way Hostel best hostels in Madrid

  • Book Exchange

The Way Hostel claimed the best hostel in Madrid prize for several reasons. First off The Way is located in a cool central neighborhood. If you need to get anywhere in the city center, the journey is quick and easy. If free walking tours interest you, the staff at The Way will help you get to know the highlights of Madrid in no time.

They also have plenty of fun activities on offer. Flamenco shows, pub crawls, and interesting day-trips can all be arranged through the hostel. To top it off you can rent a bike, enjoy fast-WiFi, a book exchange, and the onsite cafe. Hopefully, you won’t love the hostel so much that you forget to spend time exploring the city!

Way Hostel is one of our favourites in Madrid but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

mockup of a person holding a smartphone in white background with Holafly logo

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

1. Picnic in The Buen Retiro

Load up with lunch supplies and head to one of Madrid’s most beautiful green spaces, the Buen Retiro park.

traveling in Madrid

2. Visit The Prado Museum

Take in the masterpieces of some of the best Spanish and international art collections to be found anywhere on earth.

things to do in madrid

3. Drink a beer in a Matador bar

There was a time in Spain where being a Matador was akin to being Elvis Presley. Taberna Antonio Sanchez is a good place to get the vibes of what the golden era of bullfighting was like.

4. Attend a football match

The Spanish peoples’ former love of bullfighting has been overwhelmingly replaced by their love of football. If the Barcelona team is in town visiting, expect locals to be out in full force.

things to do in madrid

5. Check out the Royal Palace

Okay so this Royal Palace is the symbol of a Spanish monarchy that is super obnoxious and even offensive to the average Spanish person. This is due primarily to a torrent of corruption and lavish personal spending allegations brought against the royal family. What a surprise! That said, the palace was beautifully constructed and worth a look in my opinion.

If you want to get the most out of the palace visit, you can book a guided tour right here. This tour is probably one of the best in Madrid since you’ll get early access to the palace, a guided tour through markets, the streets of the city and even some tapas tasting afterwards!

6. Explore the Jardin Botanico

The Jardin Botanico has been impressing visitors since its creation in 1755. Stop by and absorb a little natural beauty in the center of the big city.

traveling in madrid

7. Check out the Las Letras neighborhood

Over the centuries, Las Letras has been home to writers such as Miguel de Cervantes , Quevedo , Góngora, and Lope de Vega. Now its charming cobbled streets are alive with a plethora of hip bars, cafes, and oddity shops. Even if history isn’t your favorite subject at least head there for an excellent gelato.

backpacking Madrid

8. Take a coffee in the Plaza Mayor

The Plaza Mayor is quite the sight to behold. It is a touristy spot, yes, though you won’t be spending all day there. Formerly the municipal market place, the Plaza Mayor now is a massive plaza dotted with cafes and fountains lying in the shadow of impressive buildings centuries old.

9. Eat churros and drink hot chocolate at San Gines

The last time I was in Madrid, I had the pleasure of being taken here by my good amigo who is from Madrid. Holy hell! I think I’m still coming down from the major sugar rush that I experienced there. Truly not to be missed if you have a sweet tooth. The hot chocolate by the way is more like thick rich soup than a drink! Amazing.

traveling in madrid

10. Hunt for treasures at The El Rastro Flea Market.

Haggle at the famous Flea Market El Rastro: Okay for most new things there is a set price, but for other used items the prices are up for debate. If you’re traveling in Madrid and want to score a good deal, this is the place to do it.

Now that you have become acquainted with the top things to do in Madrid, let’s check out a Madrid 3 day itinerary to get your traveling inspiration charged up even more.

Madrid Itinerary 3 days

Day 1 in Madrid: Madrid Highlights

Once you have landed and feel rested, it is time to hit the town. If you are arriving in the summer, bring lots of water as the day-time temperatures can be searing. To get to grips with the city, I recommend heading down the Gran Via towards The Royal Palace . Head there early as crowds start to swarm by mid morning.

Then head to San Gines Chocolateria to have your mind blown by tasty churros and chocolate. Eat slowly and enjoy the flavors of a place that has perfected its recipe by serving the same damn thing every day for over a century.

Next, you have several options. You can head to either the Reina Sofia or the Prado . Alternatively, you can save a museum for the early evening when they are free. For me spending two hours there is not quite enough time. However, you can still take it heaps in that amount of time.

After the museum you can head to a cafe (walk a bit away from the museum area) and get into some tasty tapas or a fixed lunch menu. There are more bars per capita in Madrid than anywhere else in Europe! This keeps the prices competitive as well. It shouldn’t be too hard to find a reasonably priced place to grab a late lunch.

As the late afternoon sets in, I recommend heading back to your hostel for rest. It is going to be a long night, should you choose.

Whether you are the pub crawl sort or just want to hit the town in search of some dancing and/or revelry, Madrid is open all night for that. Enjoy your time out but seriously don’t drink too much. For the sake of your budget and your next day adventures, take it easy.

backpacking madrid

Day 2 in Madrid: Parks, Museums, Neighborhood Exploration

Good morning sunshine! Glad to see you’re still with me. Right, for breakfast you can head to the Las Letras neighborhood. You can easily spend one to three hours here just wandering around, popping into shops, drinking coffee, and eating baked goods.

The streets are super charming and there is a lot of interesting history to take in. Before you head off to the next activity, I recommend finding a little bodega and a bakery. Load yourself up with picnic supplies. It is better to do this now as 1.) you’re not hungry so you won’t buy too much, and 2.) there really aren’t too many shops around the Reina Sofia or Prado.

I recommend checking out whichever of the former museums you didn’t see the day before. Honestly, they are both so worth visiting. I am not especially into art and I loved going to these museums. Take in the epic works of Goya, Van Gogh, Picasso and hundreds more equally impressive artists.

After the museum head to the Buen Retiro Park. Depending on the time of day, there are kiosks selling books, benches in the shade, and even a small lake. The park is massive and there are ample places to post up for a picnic lunch. Also the Buen Retiro is an excellent place to take in a short siesta in the shade. I highly recommend it!

Late afternoon time in Spain can be pretty dead. The locals sure as hell aren’t up to too much. This is the resting part of the day especially during the dog days of summer heat. I oblige you to take notice.

With evening on the horizon, the city awakens and the possibilities of what to do are endless. Take a Salsa or Flamenco class. Attend a Spanish concert. Catch a show at the teatro. There are at least 20 theaters in Madrid!

Having a drink or two before calling it a night is also a fine option too.

FlamencoSevilla

Day 3 in Madrid: Flea Markets, Cathedrals, and Whatever Y ou  Like

After after two days in Madrid , you’re doing great. For day three I recommend a slow breakfast somewhere you haven’t been before. Then get ready for plenty of visual stimulation at the  El Rastro Flea Market . Stalls upon stalls of everything from unique t-shirts to handbags and trinkets of every shade. Note that the Flea Market is only happening on Sunday mornings.

Whatever you are looking for (even if it’s nothing) you’ll probably see multiple versions of it. Weave amongst the interesting stalls under the shade of old trees lining the avenue. Don’t rush, though keep in mind that later in the day the tourist masses seem to descend all at once.

Take a stroll through the San Miguel Market . Here you can score all of the delicious ingredients you need to prepare an epic lunch on the cheap. If you have a few mates with you, all the better to cook together. Head back to the hostel and make yourself a good Spanish lunch. Deposit whatever sensational treasures you found at the flea market into your backpack.

Depending on what you want to do next depends on your interests.

Head out for a afternoon round of Sangria and music. Wander through the LGTB quarter Barrio Chueca . Explore the Grand Via . Check out the Botanical Gardens . Take in a Flamenco show if you haven’t seen one already. Visit the Santa Maria de Real Cathedral (or the dozens of other epic churches).

things to do in Madrid

Attending a Bullfight in Madrid

After much debate, there is one activity in Madrid I feel like I have to mention: Bullfighting . Whilst I might not agree with Bullfighting entirely (or at all), I recognize that for better or for worse it is an important cultural institution in Spain. Almost every Spaniard (especially of the younger generation) I’ve talked to is against it. Like strongly against it.

I have not attended a bullfight in Madrid, personally. I must admit I am quite curious, though a big part of me thinks I would not enjoy the event in the slightest.

bullfighting in madrid

I’ve been told by locals that a large majority of the people whom attend bullfights these days are foreigners on holiday. Nothing like a little Death in the Afternoon to cap off a fine Spanish vacation eh?

Attend a Bullfight if you want to. Animals die in brutal ways. Sometimes so do the men “fighting” them which I put down as poetic justice. Whatever your ethics are, a Bullfight in the Plaza del Toros is something you won’t soon forget.

Traveling in Madrid is your oyster: all you have to do is crack it open.

bullfights in madrid

Madrid Off The Beaten Track

For all of its must-see attraction, Madrid is full of off the beaten path activities as well. If you want to experience Madrid like a local, you’ll certainly have to step off the well-trod path.

  • Mercado de San Fernando , in the immigrant-dominated neighborhood of Lavapiés, is the locals-only version of the Mercado San Miguel, which is oft-frequented by foreigners.
  • Explore Parque del Capricho : The Buen Retiro is awesome, but it is also the most famous park in Madrid. For far fewer humans and an equal amount of shady spots for a siesta, check out this park.
  • El Riojano Hot Chocolate : The hot chocolate and churros from San Gines are world famous and damn good. El Riojano is where locals go to get their chocolate fix. Riojano doesn’t have the same fame, but apparently, they serve up a fine cup of chocolatey goodness.
  • Score unique bird-eye views of the city : Head to Circulo de Bellas Art Museum. Three euros gets you roof-top access and some stunning view of the Madrid downtown.
  • Day-trip from Madrid : It’s true that most of the picturesque towns outside of Madrid are not super off the beaten path. Avila , Toledo and Sagovia are all well-trafficked and rewarding day trips. Think about heading to   Alcalá de Henares for a quieter time. If you really want to “get away” from the crowds, consider paragliding above the towns instead!
  • Visit the Matedero Madrid : Once the large slaughterhouse serving the entire city, in 2018 things are different. The entire old building has been converted into an awesome art space.
  • Snag a loaf of Sourdough from Panic : There are a million and one bakeries in Madrid. None of which offer up sourdough this good or this authentic. Pick up a little charcuterie and cheese and your picnic is sorted.
  • Rock climb near Torrelodones : There are some excellent abseiling, bouldering, and crack climbing opportunities right outside of Madrid! Most of the pitches are not too high or complex either, which makes this a great place for beginner climbers.

backpacking madrid

Best Walks in Madrid

There are no hikes in Madrid , but it is an excellent walking city. There are many great parks and green space to enjoy. However, some of the famous parks and walkways can feel damn crowded.

Madrid Río , the city’s very ambitious urban planning initiative, has solved the space conundrum by laying nearly 20 miles of green space and bike-friendly paths along the Manzanares River. You could easily spend an entire afternoon strolling along the banks of the river.

things to do in Madrid

Below I have written some essential travel tips for Madrid, such as how to travel around Madrid, more budget tips, the best bars and restaurants in Madrid, and information on the nightlife and other activities!

Best time of year to visit Madrid

Like many European cities Madrid is inundated with foreign visitors from May until August. Even many locals skip town and head to the beach. The reason? The infernal sun shines down on Madrid with a force to be reckoned with.

I’ve been in Madrid in June with the thermometer at the bus stop read 44 degrees C (111.2 F). Traveling in Madrid when it is hotter than the devils pitchfork is not so pleasant.

Madrid can be beautiful any time of year. However, I don’t recommend visiting in the middle of the summer if you can avoid it. Spring and fall are best both due to the mild temperatures and the fact that less people visit then.

Winter is also a good time to visit. Temperatures can get surprisingly chilly, so pack accordingly. It can even snow in Madrid, though it is a pretty rare event.

Need help deciding between Barcelona or Madrid ? Check out our helpful guide.

If you are heading to Barcelona next after visiting Madrid, be sure to check out my other backpacker guide to Barcelona.

best time to visit madrid

Getting in and out of Madrid

There are 4 transportation options from Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) to Madrid city center: bus, taxi, metro, and train. The cheapest option is to take the train. Tickets for the train cost €2.60 one way, and the journey is approximately 27 minutes.

Another well priced option is the metro. Tickets are 3€ one-way, and the journey only takes 22 minutes. Then there is the good ol’ bus. This takes a little longer than the other options, but it is still only €5 per ticket. If this was France that ticket would cost you €20 I’m sure of it.

The most convenient option is taking a Madrid airport taxi at a cost of €30 but who the hell takes taxis when there is a €3 metro?!

how to get to the airport in madrid

If you have a very early morning flight, the metro and train are not an option as they begin service at six am.

Good news: the bright yellow Airport Express buses going to Madrid-Barajas Airport run 24 hours a day 365 days a year. I took the bus to the airport at four am and it was easy and straight forward.

The bus runs every 15 minutes during the day and every 35 minutes at night. There are only three stops – the corner of O’Donnell and Doctor Esquerdo, Plaza de Cibeles (where you can catch an EMT night bus somewhere else) and Atocha Station (only between 06:00 and 23:30). Catch the bus from terminals T1, T2 and T4. Again, tickets cost five euros and can be purchased on the bus.

bus icon

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How to get around in Madrid

Honestly, after spending days exploring Madrid, I only needed to use the metro at the end of the day when I was heading out of the city center to stay at my friend’s apartment. Within the city center, traveling in Madrid on foot is the way to go.

You’ll find that you might end up walking close to 10 kilometers on any given day, but hell, you have to compensate for all of those chocolate and churro sessions somehow.

One final reminder: bring a water bottle. You will need to stay hydrated for all of the urban hiking you will be doing. Don’t buy plastic bottles!!

If there is a landmark you really want to get to, then the metro or city bus system should have you covered. If you know you’d rather get a ride then walk in the city center likewise just take the metro. Buying your metro tickets in bulk will save you money.

madrid transportation

Long Distance Trains from Madrid

In addition to getting most anywhere in Spain by train (or bus), you can cover long distances via rail as well.

Madrid’s main train station is Madrid Atocha Station (Avenida de Barcelona Madrid). For example, you can get from Madrid to Paris in about 10 hours and 20 minutes. From Paris, you can easily get to Amsterdam, London, or Berlin and beyond.

Train travel in Europe is at once easy as it is complicated. If you plan on traveling around Europe extensively I recommend looking into buying a Eurorail pass .

Check out this detailed guide on train travel in Europe.

Safety in Madrid

For such a big city, Madrid feels very safe generally. Of course it is not without it perils and annoyances. Pick-pockets and thieves are of the most professional order in Madrid. They work in teams and often target busy plazas, train-stations, markets, and other crowded public spaces.

Be alert when traveling on the metro, especially during rush hour. I found that even at 3:30 am whilst walking around the city center, there are many people still out in the streets partying and hanging out. I felt comfortable when walking several kilometers to catch a bus in the middle of the night.

It is always best to go out with friends of course. Being out late, drunk, lost, and alone is just inviting trouble. I’m not saying you shouldn’t get drunk. Just be smart about how you do it and make a plan for how you can safely get back to the hostel.

Armed robbery (mostly involving a knife) does occur, though very rarely. I hope it goes without saying that in the very rare event that a robbery situation plays out with you involved, give them what they want and for the love of Christ don’t get stabbed over your Iphone.

Pick yourself up a  backpacker security belt  to keep your cash safe on the road, and check out  Backpacker Safety 101 for tips and tricks to stay safe whilst traveling in Madrid.

Get Insured Before Backpacking Madrid

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

backpacking trip in spain

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Madrid Accommodation Travel Hacks

As much as us Broke Backpackers love to camp and rough it, whilst traveling to an urban environment we must face the inevitable: we need to book hostels sometimes. Hostels are great for meeting fellow backpackers and just having space where you can do your thing at your own pace.

Backpacker accommodation in Madrid is not the cheapest I have ever seen, not by a long shot. I will just say the prices are a bit unnerving once you learn what they are. So, stay at a hostel for a night or two and consider your other options:

Couchsurf! : If you manage to land a Couchsurfing spot in Madrid, you will have successfully eliminated your biggest cost: accommodation. I’ll be honest with you. Couchsurfing is more popular than ever before.

Couchsurfing hosts can receive dozens of requests per day. Point being, whilst I would not explicitly count on Couchsurfing in Madrid, I would sure give it an honest try. Make sure you send a  very  convincing message short of selling your body and your soul.

Tap into your backpacker network : If you have done any sort of backpacking before, odds are you know someone who knows someone from or connected to Madrid. The Spanish love to go backpacking! Before you begin your Madrid backpacking trip, I suggest you put your feelers out there and ask your network of friends if they know of someone whom you can crash with for a night or two.

This might sound farfetched, but honestly, this has helped me out multiple times in cities across the world. A blind message has born the fruit of meeting new people and having a free place to crash.

Ultimately, if you can find a balance between a hostel night and a free night, you will have more cash for calamari sandwiches, tapas, and churros.

traveling in madrid.

Cheap Restaurants in Madrid

Onto one of my favorite Spanish activities: eating! Every little via or calle you turn down in Madrid you will come across an attractive looking cafe, bar, or bakery trying to hook you in. Options range from once-in-a-lifetime Michelin-Star restaurants to greasy kebab and sandwich joints.

Because there are so many different eating options many of the restaurants are quite reasonable priced in Europe terms. If you’re looking for a sit down lunch multi-course lunch, you could score a tasty meal for as little as €10.

Remember that if you order a beer, you should typically get a free tapa. They might be simple olives or potato chips, or something more elaborate.

Here are some of the best reasonably prices places to grab some excellent Spanish cuisine:

El Tigre : As long as you’re drinking beer or cider, the free tapas keep flowing. Patatas bravas, jamón Serrano, Spanish omelette… it’s all free. Who ever said you can’t get a free lunch was clearly mistaken.

El Brillante : Classic Madrid eatery. Stuff your face with amazing fried calamari sandwiches, a quintessential Madridian food. I met a dude there who had been working behind the bar for 40+ years. Oh the amount of sandwiches he’s seen come and go…

Taberna los Madriles:  The specialty of this class bar is the ‘pincho Los Madriles’, with red pepper and anchovies. Also worth diving into are the tuna and prawn pinchos.

Casa Camacho: A favorite spot among locals and hipsters alike. Plenty of taste things on offer here.

Bar Omaira: Delicious empanadas and Spanish food with a Venezuela twist.

eating in madrid

Best Bars in Madrid

I said it before: Madrid has more bars per capita than anywhere else in Europe. Cocktails, beer, wine, cider, Champagne, vermouth, sangria, bloodies… you’ll find it all here.

Experiencing the nightlife in Madrid or in Spain generally is an important part of traveling here. Just don’t go overboard and blow your whole budget over the course of a long big night out.

As you wade through the sea of bars to check out, remember the places I mentioned in the food section above as they all pour good drinks. In addition to those places, here is a few great places in Madrid to wet your whistle:

La Venencia: Hemingway drank here. Enough said.

1862 Dry Bar: A spot where you can find dozens of interesting, overly thought out cocktail concoctions.

La Casa Del Abuelo: A Madrid institution for over 100 years.

Cafe Del Principe: Classy as hell, a bit pricey, but the bar is truly beautiful.

Azotea Del Circulo:  One of the best and cheapest places in Madrid to get a drink and take in magnificent views of the city.

traveling in madrid

For Madrid cooking classes,  check out this site  for awesome deals.

Nightlife in Madrid

You know by now that Madrid doesn’t fuck around when it comes to engaging in the world of nightlife. In fact, I would argue that a large percentage of the population spend the majority of their waking hours between midnight and six am during the weekends.

Between all the activities offered up at the hostels I mentioned before: the bars, the clubs, the dance shows, you have more than enough to keep you busy all night long should you desire.

There are even many places still serving food at four or five in the morning. Late night munchies in Madrid never tasted so good.

Another option is to consider one of the many Spanish festivals available in Madrid. Whilst the tickets aren’t always the cheapest, they are a guaranteed good time.

madrid nightlife

Book to Read whilst Traveling in Madrid

Don Quixote:  I have to admit this is a long, sometimes dry, story with sentences longer than a page. However, Don Quixote is the foundation works of literature in Spain. It’s a series of tragic-comic episodes of a slightly deranged knight names Don Quixote.

For Whom the Bell Tolls:  Ernest Hemingway covered the Spanish Civil War as a journalist, and turned his account into a fiction story. One of my favorite books of all time!

Homage to Catalonia:  Another classic from the Spanish Civil War period. In 1936 Orwell went to Spain to report on the Civil War and instead joined the fight against the Fascists. This famous account describes the war and Orwell’s experiences.

A Moveable Feast : Fancy having a look into what life was like for expats living in France and Spain in the 1920s? If you yearn for the Golden age of the Lost Generation like I do, this Ernest Hemingway classic is a must read. OK, so I’m showing my Hemingway bias here, but hey it is a great read too!

Death in the Afternoon:  One of the best books on bullfighting ever written by a non- Spaniard. Learn the complete history and culture of the most infamous Spanish sport.

Lonely Planet Madrid:  Comprehensive travel guide book for traveling in Madrid

Volunteering in Madrid

Long term travel is awesome. Giving back is awesome too. For backpackers looking to travel long-term on a budget in  Madrid  whilst making a real impact on local communities, look no further than  World Packers . World Packers is an excellent platform  connecting travelers with meaningful volunteer positions throughout the world.

In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your room and board are covered.

Backpackers can spend long periods of time volunteering in an awesome place without spending any money. Meaningful life and travel experiences are rooted in stepping out of your comfort zone and into the world of a purposeful project.

Worldpackers opens the doors for work opportunities in hostels, homestays, NGOs, and eco-projects around the world. We’ve tried and approved them ourselves – check out our Worldpackers in-depth review here.

If you’re ready to create a life-changing travel experience and give back to the community, join the Worldpacker community now. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

backpacking trip in spain

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

Make Money Online Whilst Backpacking Madrid

Traveling in Madrid long-term? Keen to make some cash when you are not exploring the city?

Are you a native English speaker looking to earn cash whilst on the road? Teaching English online is a great way to earn a consistent income—from anywhere in the world with a good internet connection. Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills! It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to start teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online, TEFL courses open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad .

Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with MyTEFL (simply enter the code PACK50), to find out more, please read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad.

Whether you are keen to teach English online or looking to take your teaching game a step further by finding a job teaching English in a foreign country, getting your TEFL certificate is absolutely a step in the right direction.

Being a Responsible Backpacker in Madrid

Reduce your plastic footprint:  Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in landfill or in the ocean. Instead, pack a  tough travel water bottle .

Go and watch A Plastic Ocean on Netflix – it’ll change how you view the plastic problem in the world; you need to understand what we are up against. If you think it doesn’t matter, get off my fucking site.

Don’t pick up single use plastic bags, you’re a backpacker – take your daypack if you need to go to the shop or run errands.

Bear in mind, that many animal products in countries you travel through will not be ethically farmed and won’t be of the highest quality. I’m a carnivore but when I’m on the road, I only eat chicken. Mass-farming of cows etc leads to the rainforest being cut down – which is obviously a huge problem.

Need more guidance? – Check out our post on  how to be a responsible backpacker.

Backpacking in Madrid will bring you ample opportunities to participate in debauchery, and it is very important to have fun, let loose, and get a bit wild at times. Most backpacking trips I have been on across the world have included at least a few mornings where I wake up knowing I went too far.

There are some things that will put you in the category of a straight up jackass if you do them. Being super loud and obnoxious in a tiny hostel at 3 AM is a classic rookie backpacker mistake. Everyone in the hostel will hate you when you wake them up. Show your fellow travelers respect whilst backpacking in the Madrid, and anywhere else for that matter!

Climbing on ancient castle walls, monuments, or other historical artifacts should be avoided. Learn to appreciate the cultural treasures of Spain and don’t be that dickhead who adds to their demise.

backpacking trip in spain

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Max Pankow

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She's Abroad Again

Backpacking Andalucia On A Budget (2024)

Are you wondering about backpacking Andalucia? That’s a fantastic idea!

Spain is one of my favorite countries to travel! The region of Andalucia is the most vibrant region of Spain, filled with picturesque towns, unique culture, and monuments.

I’m backpacking Europe on a budget, and Spain is one of the more affordable European countries, making it a perfect destination for backpackers!

Depending on how much time you have for backpacking in Spain, you’ll need at least a week in Andalucia.

So, let’s find out how to discover Andalucia on a budget!

backpacking trip in spain

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!

Top Reasons To Backpack Andalucia

Andalucia is a great backpacking destination and you can easily discover Andalucia without a car.

  • There are many vibrant towns and cultural attractions to see in Andalucia,
  • You can explore Andalucia on a budget and without a car!
  • Andalucia is a backpacker-friendly destination, with many backpacker hostels!

Best Time For Backpacking Andalucia

Andalucia has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, which become more extreme as you move inland from the coast.

Some of the Andalucian towns break national temperature records every summer! 

Backpacking Andalucia in the Summer

As it is a Mediterranean destination, Andalucia is the busiest in the summer .

With children and students out of school and most workers having their annual leave, the region is full of life.

Events and parties are organized almost every day, it is easy to meet other people because hostels are also full.

Generally, you get this backpacking, vacation, and summer vibe in the region.

I know most of you will want to visit in the summer and I can’t blame you, there is a reason why it is a high season .

However, if you want to backpack Europe in summer , you need to remember it is also the hottest time of the year.

It is not uncommon for temperatures to go over 35 in July and August! That leads to you being unable to do much during the day because it is simply too hot.

Most of the Andalucian biggest attractions are located inland, so not at the coast. Therefore, you will not even be able to get some relief swimming in the sea to fight the heat.

Finally, we have to talk about the prices. Yes, it is more expensive to travel in the summer and you will have to budget more if you are traveling in the summer months.

backpacking alhambra granada

Backpacking Andalucia In Low Season

I backpacked Andalucia in June and I would recommend everyone plan their trip to avoid July and August if possible.

It was already scorching in June to the point where I would go back to my hostel from 2 pm to 5 pm because it would be too hot to do anything.

The best time to visit would be May and June, as well as, September and October.

Winter temperatures in Andalucia are comfortable, so it is a great destination for backpacking in winter as well!

The accommodation will be cheaper and there will be no crowds.

If you are visiting to discover the culture and history of the region, visiting in the shoulder and off-season is the best time to do it.

If you are brave enough, you can even go to the beach starting in April!

How To Get To Andalucia, Spain?

Most bigger cities in the region have international airports, making it relatively easy to reach Andalucia from all over Europe.

Malaga has the biggest airport in the region, so it makes it a perfect flying-in or flying-out destination.

There are also international airports in Sevilla and Cordoba .

Another option would be flying into Madrid and taking a regional flight, a train, or a bus to Andalucia – for example, to Sevilla.

I use this website to find the best routes to fly! You can add multiple destinations to figure out which one works best for you.

Once you’re in Spain, the country is very well connected by public transportation.

For most routes, you can choose between taking a train or a bus.

I like to book my bus and train tickets with Omio , as I can compare the prices between different operators.

backpacking andalusia granada

Best Places To Visit In Andalucia

You will not be bored in Andalucia, there is so much to see! However, once you are there you will probably want to relax and enjoy the Southern laid-back way of life.

Do not feel like you need to get everything done, the beauty of backpacking Andalucia is that you also get to relax.

I would always suggest focusing on a couple of destinations that you can properly discover instead of just jumping around from destination to destination forgetting where you’ve been!

The top three places to visit in Andalucia are Sevilla, Granada, and Cordoba .

Backpacking Sevilla 

Sevilla is a quintessential Andalucian city. When you think of the south of Spain, tapas, flamenco, and sangria, you are thinking of Sevilla. It is a city where you can get the feel of the laid-back Andalucian culture.

Wander cobblestone streets, get lost in the old narrow pathways, and admire the gorgeous Plaza de Espagna. Enjoy the sun on one of the many terraces in the city, sip on sangria, and snack on some tapas. 

Backpacking Granada

Probably the most famous Andalucian landmark is the Alhambra of Granada. Majestically overlooking the city of Granada, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a truly must-see sight.

Even if you do not want to pay to get in, which I recommend you do, looking at it from the Mirador de San Nicolas shows all the glory of the Islamic culture that once ruled over Andalucia.

Granada is also a great starting point for a lot of hikes in the region! If you want to explore the great outdoors, I suggest spending a couple of more days in Granada.

Backpacking Cordoba

Cordoba is smaller than Sevilla and Granada but, in the 10th century, it was the capital of the Moorish al-Andalus caliphate.

Today, it is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Mezquita, also known as the Great Mosque of Córdoba. The history of that place is truly amazing.

Since it is a smaller town I found that spending one night there was enough, but it is not to be missed. 

Backpacking Malaga

Malaga will probably be on your list since it is a convenient place to start or end your adventure. It is a good base for day trips as well.

Malaga is a big city, and I did not find that it had the same charm as the ones above-mentioned.

Still, there is a lot of history to discover and lots of parties to have there as well.

You get to visit the old town of Malaga, the old Alcazaba, and the Castillo de Gibralfaro.

I was not impressed by Malaga beaches, so for that, you will probably need a little day trip out of the city.

Other Towns To Visit In Andalucia 

Now that you have your base, you can add more places to your itinerary.

Some of the places that can be a day trip from your base would be:

  • Caminito del Rey

You can even spend some time learning to surf in Tarifa the possibilities are endless.

I only had 7 days in Andalucia, so I did not have time for these. I will try to visit next time I am in the region!

street sign alcazar

How Many Days Do You Need In Andalucia?

There is so much to see in Andalucia, but how much time should you spend at each destination?

While you probably want to visit everything now, once you are there you will probably want to relax and enjoy the southern laid-back way of life.

Generally, I would recommend spending at least two nights in each of the big cities.

Ideally, you would want to spend three days in both Sevilla and Malaga. They are a great base for day trips around the region and even just by themselves!

Remember that traveling is not a race and that you have to factor in the time it takes you from one destination to another.

If you only have one week in Andalucia I would stick to the three big cities and enjoy them.

If I had two weeks in Andalucia, I would add some smaller towns to the itinerary or even a couple of days surfing in Tarifa, if that is something you would be interested in!

backpacking granada view from alhambra

Getting Around Andalucia Without A Car

The region is well connected by an extensive line of buses and trains .

It is possible to reach virtually every notable tourist destination by reliable public transport which is perfect if you’re backpacking Andalucia on a budget.

Andalucia By Train

Trains are usually the most comfortable and convenient option for traveling in the region. The RENFE rail network connects most of the towns in the region and the rest of the country.

The train will usually leave you in the city centre and all you have to do is board the train and enjoy the ride. However, it also tends to be a more expensive form of transportation.

Make sure that you book your train tickets in advance because they are cheaper the earlier you book them, so they do not make for a spontaneous budget option.

I took a train from Madrid to Sevilla and it was a very pleasant journey!

Andalucia By Bus

Busses will almost always be cheaper than trains and sometimes even quicker! Also, they go to places where trains do not, so it is easier as they are a direct form of transportation.

You can book the tickets online or at the bus station.

If you travel in summer, I highly suggest you book your bus tickets well in advance – firstly, because they tend to be cheaper and secondly, you don’t want them to sell out!

The main bus operator in Spain is ALSA, but there is also Flixbus and some regional operators as well!

I always use an app like Omio to make sure I’m getting the best deal as they analyze all the prices – and let me tell you, bus and train ticket prices are sometimes dramatically different!

Renting A Car in Andalucia

A lot of people choose to rent a car for a road trip in Andalucia. It is a great way to visit the smaller attractions in the region.

Renting a car can be cheaper if you are in a group and everybody chips in to pay the rental price.

I always use this website for renting a car! They browse different rental companies so I can choose the ones that offer the best rental conditions.

Another thing to consider is car-sharing. The concept is popular in Spain, so you might even consider using the Blabla car app that lets you share a car journey around Spain. 

streets andalusia

Where To Stay When Backpacking Andalucia?

There is no shortage of budget-friendly accommodation in the region. As it is a very touristic area, there is an option suited for every traveler.

For backpacking Andalucia, hostels are a common choice, but private accommodation is pretty affordable as well!

I will always recommend staying in the city center – that is usually where most of the attractions are.

You will be close to everything and my personal favorite, you will not have to wonder how to get home at night. Most of the hostels are usually located in the city center anyway.

Best Hostels In Andalucia

Hostels will be your first choice for backpacking in Andalucia. There are a lot of options in major cities like Sevilla, Granada, and Malaga so you will be spoilt for choice.

  • Oasis Backpackers’ Palace Sevilla – in Sevilla
  • Backpackers Al-Katre – in Cordoba
  • ECO Hostel – in Granada
  • The Lights Hostel – in Malaga

These hostels do not offer just a place to sleep but also organize events, walking tours, and nights out, which is a great way to make friends in hostels !

Some offer free breakfast and coffee/tea which is always good to start your day.

To save money when backpacking in Europe, I always look out for hostels that have a communal kitchen with a fridge.

Preparing your food will save you a ton of money in Spain because the supermarkets are pretty affordable.

If the idea of sharing a room with a dozen people does not appeal to you, most of the hostels have private rooms available as well. While they will be slightly pricier, you get the advantage of staying in a social place.

Check out my in-depth hostel guide for first-time and solo female travelers .

Staying in private accommodation

Here I am talking about hostals or pensions which are very popular in Spain.

They are not hostels but not quite hotels either. Usually, they are smaller, with up to 10 rooms, and managed by families.

If you are traveling in a pair, they might even be cheaper per person than a hostel.

In Cordoba, It was cheaper to stay in a pension than if my friend and I got each a bed in a hostel. So, do not rule them out, especially if you meet people on your backpacking trip!

salmorejo cordoba vegan

Vegan Andalucia Guide

Southern Spanish cuisine is largely meat-based, but that does not mean that there are not some amazing, accidentally vegan, traditional meals.

The vegan scene in Andalucia is growing, slowly but surely. However, it cannot yet be measured with Madrid and Barcelona, which were both vegan heaven. 

I recommend using the Happy Cow app to see the vegan options in the city you are visiting. That is always the first thing I do when I come to a new city. 

I had the best vegan cake of my life in Granada, Wild food . It is a fully vegan restaurant, I only tried the cake but I will be coming for more!

There are a lot of vegan options in the supermarkets as well. You do not need to look for specialized stores to get your vegan staples. Different types of plant-based milk are readily available.

There are even some Spanish brands of vegan meat substitutes, for example, the brand Huera is very popular.

Vegan food won’t always be marked as vegan, so look through the ingredients for accidentally vegan cookies and snacks.

Traditional Vegan Spanish food

You will not find fully vegan restaurants in smaller towns, so it is good to know that there are traditional Spanish foods that are vegan.

Famous Spanish cold soups are usually accidentally vegan. The soups might be topped with ham or egg, but you can ask them to leave it off.

Some of the tasty soups I had were gazpacho and salmorejo , but crema de verduras and ajo blanco also tend to be vegan!

You can always go for salads and patatas bravas (as long as they serve it without mayo).

You might have to make a meal out of multiple side dishes, but it is not weird here! It is common, even for locals, to have a lot of small meals intended for sharing.

That is the beauty of tapas culture and good for your backpacking Andalucia budget. 

Did you know that churros are accidentally vegan? Now you know!

They are a popular snack in the region, so you will be able to find them easily. Unfortunately, you’ll have to pass on the chocolate sauce they usually serve it with.

Due to its Mediterranean climate, fruits and vegetables are plentiful in Spain. You can enjoy very affordable and tasty produce at local markets. 

Can You Drink Tap Water In Andalucia?

Yes! Tap water is safe to drink in Andalucia , so pack your reusable water bottle.

Even better, there are water fountains with fresh, cool water everywhere, so you can easily refill your bottle and stay hydrated.

vino de naranja sevilla

Backpacking Andalucia Budget

So, how much does it cost to backpack Andalucia?

Andalucia is a pretty affordable region in Spain, but it is not Eastern Europe.

Also, your budget will largely depend on when you decide to visit since the prices tend to fluctuate seasonally. 

Assuming you want to stay in decent accommodation and not spend a lot of money on food and activities, I would budget something like this:

  • Accommodation : 20€-35€
  • Food : 15-30€
  • Transportation and activities : 15-25€

For accommodation prices, you are looking at between 20-30€ per night in a decent hostel. Cheaper hostels exist, I stayed in an 8€ hostel in Madrid, but generally, prices are around 20€.

If you decide to stay in a private room, they start at around 35€ per night.

Assuming you are going to eat out only once a day you could be spending around 15€ a day on food. I suggest that the meal is lunch because their menu de dia is a great value for money.

If you plan to have both of your big meals out, then it will cost you closer to 25-30€.

The drinks are 2,5-5€. I suggest trying Tinto de verano which is usually around 2,5€ and Sangria is usually around 3€.

Other “local” traditional drinks Vino de Naranja and Vermouth are usually around 2-3€ as well.

The best part? Free tapas that you will get with your drink can count as dinner!

For the activities, I would budget tips for free walking tours I love those. When I was backpacking Andalucia there was a lot of different tours to choose from.

Mesquita, Alhambra, and other attractions were around 13€, so it depends on how many you want to visit.

Buses and trains between cities are 10-20€, so you have to count that in for the traveling days. 

All in all, I would budget on average 40€ to 70€ per day , depending on the type of backpacker you are!

backpacking andalusia guide pinterest

Final Thoughts: Backpacking Andalucia

That wraps up this backpacking Andalucia on a budget travel guide. Andalucia is truly one of the most vibrant European regions that should be on your radar!

Now that you know everything about travel in Andalucia, it is time to start planning your trip. Read my guide on how to plan your first solo female trip next!

Have you visited Andalucia before? Let me know if you have some questions or additional tips that I missed!

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Natali is the founder of She's Abroad Again. She is a solo female travel and backpacking expert who traveled to more than 30 country over 3 continents, mostly solo and on a budget! She is a lawyer turned travel blogger as she traded long office hours in Croatia for a digital nomad life and currenly calls France her home.

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27 Best Hostels in Spain – Backpacking Spain and staying at the Coolest Hostels

Matt Kiefer - Hostel Expert on Hostelgeeks.com

I love backpacking through Spain . It is always different and there are so many things to do and explore. Luckily, this country has an awesome hostel culture that helps you stay on a budget and get those unique backpacker tours we all love. Hola and welcome to the best hostels in Spain. This list will help you backpacking Spain like a boss. I have found many fantastic hostels from Madrid to Barcelona, from Valencia to the Canary Islands. There are even some smaller destinations with cool places to stay that you need to know (I am looking at you, Cádiz!)

Are these the best Hostels in Spain? Claro que sí!

The quality of hostels in Spain varies a lot. You can find really worn-out, old hostels up to absolutely incredible places like Urban Jungle Hostel in Málaga and Casa Gracia Hostel in Barcelona. In this list we included only the top hostels in Spain; from 5 Star Hostels to Backpacker places, beach hostels in Spain and (of course) Party Hostels.

Any questions about hostels in Spain?

Join our Facebook Group !

Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥

UPDATE : A guide to the best hostels in Europe

Just choose the right hostel for your own travel style. At the end of this guide we also included a big map with all hostels in Spain in it.

Here we also give you an idea for a great itinerary when backpacking Spain. It is easy to travel around the country. You can either do it by train, bus or renting a car. If you want to rent a car, we recommend to check Discover Cars . It will compare for you all the companies and it makes it easy to score the cheapest deal. Sometimes you can rent a car from 3€ per day….WOW!!!

On top, we share our tips on how to book hostels, and how to get around Spain.

Planning on visiting Spain for a yoga retreat or surf camp? We have a detailed guides on the coolest surf hostels in Spain

List of cities with the Best Hostels in Spain

Enough of that. Let’s jump right into the cool hostels. The most visited places in Spain are Barcelona and Madrid, because they have a big airport. We recommend you to include at least 2 more destinations if you want to experience the diversified culture.

Every region in Spain is different from each other. Therefore, choose your places depending on your time/ interests or weather.

All the destinations we cover in this guide:

  • Costa Brava
  • Mallorca – Island
  • Canary Islands : Gran Canaria
  • San Sebastian

This map will help you plan your trip better.

Money-saving tip : Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com . They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.

More topics we cover:

  • Spain backpacking itinerary and how to get around

Make sure you check our map here or above with the recommended itinerary for backpacking Spain. We also share tips for traveling in Spain alone and a handful of hostels in Spain near the beach.

Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type

Shortcut to Best Hostels in Spain

In case you do not want to scroll all the way through this giant guide, here’s the shortcut for you.

Either way, I recommend to keep scrolling. You will be amazed by these budget accommodations we reviewed for you.

  • Best hostel in Barcelona: The Central House Barcelona Gracia
  • Best hostel in Costa Brava – Mana Mana Hostel
  • Best hostel in Mallorca: Hostel BOC Palma
  • Best hostel in Valencia: Cantagua Hostel
  • Best hostel in Alicante: Hostel Olé
  • Best hostel in Cartagena: LoopInn Hostel
  • Best hostel in Granada: ECO Hostel
  • Best hostel in Málaga: Urban Jungle Boutique Hostel
  • Best hostel in Córdoba: Osio Backpackers
  • Best hostel in Sevilla: The Nomad Hostel
  • Best hostels in Tarifa: La Cocotera
  • Best hostel in Cádiz: Casa Caracol Hostel
  • Best hostel in Canary Islands: Ventana Azul Hostel
  • Best hostel in Salamanca: Erasmus Home
  • Best hostel in Pontevedra: Slow City Hostel
  • Best hostel in Bilbao: Poshtel Bilbao
  • Best hostel in San Sebastian: Koba Hostel
  • Best hostel in Zaragoza: The Botanic Hostel
  • Best hostel in Madrid: The Hat

Best Hostels in Barcelona

The #1 destination in Spain is Barcelona. The Mediterranean pearl has it all:

  • architecture,
  • epic hostels.

If you only make it to one city in Spain, make it Barcelona. Here are the 3 best hostels in Barcelona:

  • The Central House Barcelona Gracia – best for couples and families
  • Casa Gracia – best for solo-travelers and groups
  • YEAH Barcelona – best for backpackers

Find our detailed guide on best hostels in Barcelona here .

Alternatively, you might want to have a look at the 6 coolest party hostels in Barcelona .

Read : our guide to fun things to do in Barcelona and best bike tours Barcelona has on offer

1. The Central House Barcelona Gracia

Our #1 choice and recommendation is The Central House Barcelona Gracia . The location is outstanding, since you will be staying on the top of famous Passeig de Gracia, just a short walk from bustling Gracia (perfect for bohemians and nightlife).

We love this place for being a cute boutique hostel with a big terrace, neat private rooms and dorms alike. Especially the privacy curtains and solid bunk beds made it a great hostel. If you have never ever stayed in a hostel, this is a perfect hostel to give it a try.

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Rodamon Hostels

2. Casa Gracia (Barcelona)

The most famous hostel in Barcelona . Casa Gracia is well known for its gorgeous rooms, the spacious common areas, bars and events. It is much bigger than The Central House Hostel.

If you are into bigger hostels with a perfectly charming environment, this is your spot. As for the location, it is also at the end of Passeig de Gracia, making it perfect to visit Gracia neighborhood.

You have a metro station right in front. You will be at Las Ramblas in 10 minutes! Check out our full review to more reasons to stay at this hostel. Link below.

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Full Review

backpacking trip in spain

3. YEAH Hostel Barcelona (Barcelona)

The rooms are less luxury than Casa Gracia and The Central House Barcelona Hostel, yet, they are cool and comfy.

YEAH Hostel is the best option out there for the young solo-traveler looking for backpacker vibes, in our opinion.

It is easy to socialize and the clients here are usually younger. A youth hostel, if you will. So if this is what you are looking for, go for it.

This is more the backpacker-kind of cool hostel.

The location is again great. You can have a good sleep at night, and discover the busy city by day. The Sagrada Familia is just a few blocks away, in 5-10 minutes walking distance.

backpacking trip in spain

Best Hostels at Costa Brava: Mana Mana Hostel

Between France and Barcelona you find the one and only Costa Brava.

A long stretch of cliffs and natural virgin beaches.

We love to come here to unwind, soak in the the sun, enjoy the beaches obviously and even visit the famous Dali Museum around the corner in Figuerres.

Read: full guide to the absolute best hostels in Costa Brava – which is your favourite hostel in Costa Brava?

There is a wonderful hostel for you to check out if interested in the Costa Brava. It is so good that it is part of our list of “best beach hostels worldwide” .

Mana Mana Hostel in Tossa de Mar (Costa Brava)

Tossa de Mar is tiny, picturesque village on the coast of the sea.

Especially in summer season the beach is packed and the city a vibrant destination to visit.

Tossa de Mar is your perfect place to conquer Costa Brava.

I stayed at Mana Mana Hostel , right in the heart of Tossa de Mar, just 2 minutes from the beach. Our first beach hostel in Spain on this list.

Make sure you check out their roof top terrace. It is the soul of the accommodation. Sometimes, the hostel organizes BBQs here and live music.

You can get to Tossa de Mar by public bus from Barcelona. Please bare in mind, Mana Mana only opens in summer.

Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Mana Mana Hostel in Tossa de Mar (Costa Brava)

Best Hostels in Mallorca Island

Mallorca is one of the most stunning Spanish islands in the Mediterranean sea.

With incredible blue crystal water and white sand beaches, I do recommend you to explore also the “ Serra de Tramuntana ” and go a bit off the beaten path.

Secret Tip: Go to Deià and have lunch directly at the beach at Ca’n Lluc. It is not the cheapest restaurant on the island, but totally worth it.

  • Best hostel in Palma de Mallorca for couples – Boc Palma Hostel
  • Best hostel in Palma de Mallorca for solo travelers – We Hostel
  • Best Hostel in Sóller – Hostel Soller
  • Best hostel in Palma de Mallorca for female solo travelers – Y Hostel
  • Best hostel in Palma de Mallorca for backpackers –  El Josemari Youth Hostel

Here is a detailed guide to the best hostels in Mallorca . We also have one of the best hostels in Palma de Mallorca .

We also wrote a big guide on best hostels in Ibiza and also a guide to the best party hostels in Ibiza . Remember, Ibiza can be a hard-core party island.

Planning on having yoga in Mallorca? We have a detailed guide on the best yoga retreats in Mallorca . 

Best Hostels in Palma de Mallorca (City):

  • The Boc Palma Hostel – Youth Hostel

1. The Boc Palma Hostel – Youth Hostel

Tiles, high ceilings and beautiful decoration are not the only good things about staying at this hostel.

The Boc Palma Hostel – Youth Hostel is close to the main station and well connected by public transport to the city center.

Perfect if you are arriving from the airport and want to move around the island with public transportation.

Note: don’t miss their terrace. It is a great spot for chilling after a long beachy day.

Hostel Fleming Mallorca

2. We Hostel Palma

With a cozy and beautiful rooftop terrace, it will be hard to leave this hostel: We Hostel .

Go explore Palma and make sure you go the amazing beaches near the capital. I marked my 2 favorite and most stunning beaches on the map below.

We hostel palma - best hostel for backpackers in Palma de Mallorca

Best Hostel in Sóller: Hostel Soller

Located in one of the most beautiful and sunny cities in the north part of the island, Sóller, this comfortable and stylish hostel will blow up your mind.

The design is just 100% Mallorquí (from Mallorca), like a traditional house.

Hostel Sóller is tasteful decorated and clean. Furthermore, they have a big equipped kitchen where the staff likes to host family dinners.

The best way to go to Soller from the airport is by car, but it is also possible to go by local bus.

Best hostel in Sóller : Hostel Soller

Best Hostels in Valencia

After Madrid and Barcelona, we cover the 3rd biggest city in Spain: Valencia.

The smaller version of Valencia is home to the world-famous Paella. When you plan to taste this yummy rice dish, do it here in Valencia.

The best hostels in Valencia are:

  • Cantagua Hostel – best hostel for female solo-travelers
  • Home Youth Hostel – best hostel for backpackers
  • Valencia Lounge Hostel – the best option for couples
  • Red Nest Hostel – best party hostel in Valencia

Read: Valencia Budget Travel Guide

Update : Here’s our guide to 61 FUN Things to do in Valencia .

We also have a dedicated guide to the best hostels in Valencia .

1. Cantagua Hostel – best for female solo-travelers

Cantagua Hostel comes with a beautiful interior design, super cool dorms, and a chill-out vibe you will enjoy.

The staff is on top of the game, and the location is in Eixample, directly at Russafa. If you have read our introduction, we have mentioned Russafa and City Center are the best neighborhoods to stay in Valencia.

Cantagua Hostel is fantastic for its vibes, its cleanliness, location, and design.

Cantagua Hostel - best for female solo-travelers

2. Home Youth Hostel (best hostel for backpackers)

Are you a backpacker? Then you will enjoy Home Youth Hostel .

Home Youth Hostel is the typical backpacker hostel we all love. It has this warm home-feeling, super friendly staff, it’s clean, and fun.

The hostel organize a free dinner every night so that the guests can meet and get to know each other. Seriously, there is no better way to start a night, right?

Free Dinner night at Youth Hostels Valencia

3. Valencia Lounge Hostel (best for couples)

Neo-classical, geometrical design with a new understanding of reception.

The team reinvented the understanding of a receptionist‘s work and included smart technology to achieve a deeper hostel experience.

Valencia Lounge only offers private rooms, no dorms here. It is a small, intimate boutique hostel.

With only 11 rooms, the hostel caters for the millennial traveler looking for a unique, tranquil experience.

Location? It is right in the centre of Valencia’s old town.

Valencia Lounge Hostel - game-changing Reception & Contemporary Design

4. Party Hostel in Valencia: Red Nest Hostel

More the party type of traveler? then you will enjoy the Red Nest Hostel . It is more the party hostel in Valencia.

The quirky design of the room is as fun as the vibes here.

The hostel organizes its own family dinners. Keep an eye on the black board so you don’t miss it.

This is the perfect start for a fun night out in Valencia.

Oh, and of course the billiard pool is worth a mention.

Party Hostel in Valencia: Red Nest Hostel

Best Hostels in Alicante

Just a bit more than 150km south of Valencia you are in Alicante. Yet another fun city on the Mediterranean coast of Spain.

Here is the best hostels in Alicante for your stop:

  • Hola Hostel  
  • The Market Hostel 
  • Hostel Olé  
  • Vad Hostel Alicante  
  • Barrio Boutik Hostal  

We also have a bigger guide with more details: best hostels in Alicante.

Hola Hostel Alicante

Listed as a hostel, Hola Hostel is more a stylish bread and breakfast.

The newest kid in town comes in a super stylish design. The hostel is located inside a big flat, so it really feels like living like a local.

You won’t find any dorms here, only single rooms and double rooms. It is a great hostel for couples visiting Alicante.

However, please note some rooms do not have a window. I personally do not like this.

Compare prices at: Booking.com

Hola Hostel in Alicante; A Stylish Apartment place

The Market Hostel (Alicante)

Opened in late 2018, The Market Hostel is a brand new place to enjoy a quiet and yet stylish, fun place.

The pods in the dorms are though-and-through: A comfy mattress, power socket and light.

And every bed in a dorm has its own privacy curtain. That is a big plus!

The Market Hostel is a top choice for anyone looking for a stylish, friendly place.

The Market Hostel in Alicante

Hostel Olé Backpackers (Alicante)

Hostel Ole Backpackers Alicante will do everything in their power to provide that home-away-from-home feeling.

But that isn’t to say new experience and excitement is lost. At Hostel Ole in Alicante you can join tours or explore at your leisure; the staff are eager to help either way.

If the party animal in you enjoys a good pub crawl, then join Hostel Ole in their very own crawl offered twice weekly. The nightlife of Alicante is there for the taking; alternatively, enjoy a quiet drink back at the hostel.

You may have also heard of the ever-popular Free Tours in Europe?

Well, Hostel Olé offers a short presentation of the city delivered by a prepared guide.

Hostel Ole in Alicante - A home to Immerse in the Spanish Way of Life

Best Hostels in Cartagena, Spain: LoopInn Hostel

After visiting Cartagena I can confidently say, it is one of the best places to soak in the Spanish culture.

LoopInn Hostel Cartagena is the place to stay during your trip.

This new hostel is just 15 minutes walk to the city center, perfect to go party but also be able to sleep. Enjoy their rooftop terrace, or slide from the cafeteria to the common area.

Why to visit Cartagena? Cheap tapas, nice beaches around, sun almost all year round, happy and welcoming people and one of the best places to experience nightlife with locals.

No matter what age you are, Cartagena has a nightlife you can fit in.

You will see many young people around the city, as it is a university city, as well as grown-ups enjoying music and wine at the different bars.

The nightlife is concentrated in the city center, so it is great for all visitors.

It is fairly easy that your dinner extends to some drinks and then… well, you might end up watching the sunrise if you join the crowd.

As Cartagena is not really a touristy place, they are quite new on the hostel game, but there is one hostel which is playing it right!

Note: there are not lot of options to eat around the hostel. If you don’t plan to cook you could go to the city center to have dinner or download the free app just-eat and order take away.

Loop Inn, best hostel in Cartagena Spain

Best Hostels in Granada, Spain

Granada is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain .

Well known for the incredible palace “The Alhambra” and the FREE tapas culture, it is easy to get hooked to its artsy vibes.

We found many great places to sleep in Granada:

  • Eco Hostel – best hostel for solo travelers
  • The Lemon Rock (permanently closed)
  • Hostel Makuto (permanently closed)

Note: if you want to visit The Alhambra, make sure you buy your tickets in advance. At least purchase them 2 months before your arrival.

Looking for more? Check out our UPDATED full guide to the best hostels in Granada .

1. Eco Hostel (Granada)

This design hostel with an Eco mind set is a great option if you are traveling solo around Spain.

With many activities to join, Eco Hostel has also nice areas to calm and chill. They do have a café on site, with special deals and fresh products.

Eco hostel Granada

2. The Lemon Rock (Granada)

Update : Lemon Rock is no longer a hostel, but a cool bar & restaurant instead.

If you want cool vibes, stay at The Lemon Rock.

The old saying “ music brings us together ” couldn’t be more true than at the Lemon Rock Hostel.

You’ll notice how critical music is to the soul of the Lemon hostel as soon as you step foot inside the front door.

There are records lining the walls to the right of the front desk and Lemon Rock Granada guitar picks available for purchase to the left.

Lemon Rock Hostel is one of the best hostels in Granada, Spain

3. Makuto Backpackers House (Granada)

Update : This hostel has permantly closed. Check out our guide to the 3 best hostels in Granada for more options.

One of the first hostels in Granada. Makuto Backpackers is the place to chill out, know other backpackers and join the groove.

It is nothing glamorous or luxurious in the design, but the vibes are really authentic.

Makuto hostel, backpacker hostel vibes in Granada, Spain

Best Hostels in Málaga

Málaga is full of hostels and we have to admit, there is more than one stunning hostel in the lively, fun city!

That is why, we include here best hostels in Malaga depending on the type of traveler.

  • Urban Jungle Boutique Hostel – best hostel for female solo travelers
  • Lights Hostel – best hostels for solo travelers
  • Alcazaba Premium Hotel – best for couples

Read our complete guide to best hostels in Malaga, Spain

1. Urban Jungle Boutique Hostel in Malaga (5 Star Hostel)

Let’s kick off the best hostels in Malaga with seriously the TOP one: Urban Jungle Hostel !

This hostel will redefine everything you think you know about hostels:

Super stylish, friendly, social, hipster.

If you are looking for us, we most likely hanging out in the sun at the roof top terrace.

To us, Urban Jungle is the best hostel in Malaga for all types:

  • Solo-Travellers (male and female)

Say Hi from Hostelgeeks when you stay here =)

Compare prices and read reviews at : Booking.com | Hostelworld | Full Review

Urban Jungle Boutique Hostel in Malaga

2. The Lights Hostel, Malaga

Located in an historical building, offering a clean- lined design.

The Lights Hostel has bright rooms furnished with large comfy beds, private curtains and reading lights. Join free sangria nights, home-made dinners and lots of other fun activities upon the roof top terrace.

It is located in the sunny city center of Malaga, next to the main market, just a 15 min walk to the beach, bus and train stations.

This hostel is a top choice for solo-travelers.

  • Dorm beds start from 12€/ night
  • Private rooms start from 25€/ night

Compare prices at : Booking.com | Hostelworld

Hostel in Málaga Lights Hostel

3. Alcazaba Premium Hostel, Malaga

Update : This is now knows as Alcazaba Premium Hotel and only offers private rooms. It’s a good option for couples.

A young and modern accommodation in the centre of Málaga, at premium level. Alcazaba Premium Hostel combines high-end standard with quality rooms, design, and facilities, all on a budget.

The hostel is home to the well-known Baltik restaurant and the “Terraza de la Alcazaba“ rooftop terrace, with amazing views. Both are very popular with locals.

Located in the very heart of Málaga, within walking distance of every point of interest in the city.

Nearby you can find the famous Picasso Museum (really recommended!), Roman Theater, the entrance to the Alcazaba and the brand new Málaga Museum.

And of course, there are many recommended tapas places around.

We recommend Alcazaba Premium Hostel for couples and families.

  • Dorm beds start from 15€/ night
  • Private rooms start from 37,50€/ night

Compare prices at : Hostelz.com

Alcazaba Premium one of the best hostels in Málaga

Best Hostels in Cordoba, Spain

Cordoba, the cute city between Seville and Granada, has not only the best free tapas in Spain, but also a couple of lovely hostels.

Important : Do not get confused with the Cordoba in Argentina.

The best hostels in Córdoba are:

  • Hostal Osio by Arc House  
  • Mayflowers Hostel  
  • Líbere Córdoba Patio Santa Marta  
  • Backpackers Al-Katre  

Find here 5 local things to do in Cordoba .

We also have an in-depth guide on the best hostels in Cordoba .

UPDATE : The wonderful Bed And Be Hostel and OptionBe Hostel closed their doors in 2020.

Hostel Osio by Arc House

Also known as Osio Backpackers, Hostel Osio by Arc House is set in an 18th-century, family-run house which blends traditional and modern elements.

Awesome perks include free breakfast and a suntrap rooftop with plenty of lounge space. Free tea and coffee is always in flow, too!

Right in the middle of the quaint Old Town, the famous Mosque-Cathedral is less than 5-minutes away on foot. The airport is a handy 15-minute bus ride.

All of the rooms come with an ensuite (some have a bath!) and they have great character with bright colours and wooden ceilings.

It’s a top choice for female solo travelers.

Osio Backpackers, Cordoba is one of the best hostels in Spain

Mayflowers Hostel

Mayflowers Hostel is a beautiful traditional Andalusian house with all the expected charm.

It’s located in the historic center in San Basilio, just a 5-minute walk to Mezquita.

There are a wonderful range of rooms including:

  • Family rooms (5-6 people)
  • Deluxe queen room w/ hot tub
  • 8-bed mixed dorm
  • Economy quad room

Due to the design and location we’d say this is ideal for couples and older travellers.

Mayflowers Hostel, Cordoba is one of the best hostels in Spain

Best Hostels in Sevilla

In this fun, colorful Spanish city, home to the traditional dance “Sevillanas” and heart of one of the most popular partys in Spain “El Rocio”, we found 3 stunning hostels.

Good to know : in Spanish the cities name is Sevilla – with an A. In English it is with an E.

The best hostels in Sevilla are:

  • La Banda Rooftop Hostel – best hostel for solo travelers
  • TOC Hostel – best hostel for groups of friends
  • The Nomad Hostel – best hostel for couples

1. La Banda Rooftop Hostel

Designed for social travelers. La Banda design is influenced by trendy London bars and boutique music festivals.

The hostel reception is packed with original touches and homemade furniture that make it hard to get out and see the city!

The hostel tried to design the hostel in a way that brings people together. To top it off you can expect a soundtrack of great tunes playing day and night, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the vibes – on the roof top terrace of course.

La Banda Rooftop is right in the heart of the city. Seville’s city center is quite small, and you can walk around easily or get a bike. Here you are in good hands and get a top location.

  • Dorm beds start from 19€/ night
  • Private rooms not available

Best hostel in Seville for solo-travelers, La Banda

2. TOC Sevilla

TOC Seville is a small, boutique-style hostel. It
 is well-known for its beautiful interior as well as exterior, and it’s the perfect accommodation for the romantic couple on a budget.

Come here, enjoy the city during the day, and slow down at TOC Sevilla. It is certainly a cosy, chill hostel with a deep design touch.

Located in the city center, near the main touristic attractions including the cathedral, and Real Alcazar de Seville. TOC Seville is really DOWNTOWN! You will love the location as you are in walking distance to the major spots of Sevilla.

Make sure you book early, cause the hostel fills up quickly.

  • Dorm beds start from 22€/ night
  • Private rooms start from 33,50€/ night

TOC Sevilla, one of the best hostels in Seville

3. The Nomad Hostel

The Nomad Hostel in Seville is truly a great hostel, recommended for solo-travelers, couples and families alike.

Opened in August 2014, the Nomad Hostel captured the hearts of travelers and backpackers right away. The accommodation offers a warm social environment to slow down, have a rest, and connect with other travelers. If you’d like, you can get some drinks at the hostel bar, and join the hostel events or the free tour around the Andalusian capital.

And speaking of being social, the hostel also organizes different events at their roof top terrace. This charming and homely place is a great choice to actively support the “Slow Travel Movement”, and their staff love to pay attention to creating an eco-friendly environment.

What about the location? The Nomad is in a quiet street in new town, just 5 min from the river and cathedral. We loved the restaurant on the right corner of The Nomad, it is super delicious, highly recommended for lunch!

Also, ask the staff if they have a discount for them. Once in a while guests receive a discount or free drink. Thanks, Nomads!

  • Dorm beds start from 16€/ night
  • Private rooms start from 36€/ night

Compare prices at : Booking.com | Hostelworld | Full Review

The Nomad hostel, one of the best hostels in Seville

Best Hostels in Tarifa

Tarifa is a wind paradise and it is a popular destination for kite-surfers. It has always been a popular destination in Spain due to the great beaches and the possibility to practice lots of water sports.

Hostels are upcoming and we have to admit, there is more than one stunning hostel in the city!

I would recommend to stay in the old town. That way, you will have everything nearby. Even the beach is in walking distance.

The best hostels in Tarifa are:

  • Ohana Hostel – best hostels for solo traveler
  • Wild House Tarifa  – best for party-goers
  • Tarifa Kite Hostel  – best for digital nomads
  • La Cocotera – best hostel for digital nomads and long term travelers

Read: We also have a detailed guide on the best hostels in Tarifa . 

1. Ohana Tarifa Hostel

Ohana Tarifa has an onsite bar and restaurant for guests that would rather stay in and kick back with fellow travelers.

Ohana Tarifa Hostel also offers free Wi-Fi, a common room with a TV, air conditioning for the dorms, and a shared kitchen for guests to make meals.

Check prices at:   Hostelworld  |  Booking.com  |  Hostelz.com

backpacking trip in spain

2. Wild House Tarifa

Wild House Tarifa is perfect for nature lovers, water sports lovers and backpackers who seek a chilled vibe and breathtaking views of the Gibraltar Strait.

Wild House Tarifa has five dormitories with bunk beds. Three of these are in the main house, while the other two are next to the patio. There are also three large bathrooms at the facility for guests to use.

Wild House Tarifa Patio

3. Tarifa Kite Hostel

Tarifa Kite Hostel is super-friendly. How friendly, you ask. Guests are welcomed to the hostel with a drink.

The estate is located one minute from the city center and is only a 5-minute walk from Virgin Beach, where you can play with the waves, take a beach walk or watch the sunset.

This is one of the best hostels in Tarifa for digital nomads and solo traveller.

Kite Surfing at Ohana Tarifa Hostel

4. La Cocotera

This small cozy hostel is a real hidden gem in Tarifa. Marina (co-founders) and all the whole team are really kind, (even the cleaning lady who does not speak English but will welcome you with a real warm smile).

The team will help you to make your time in Tarifa even more magical.

Ask them for their favorite beaches and places.

Marina recommended to us Bologna beach and the ruins. I can say it is a magical place.

Can’t wait to come back!

Compare prices at : Booking.com

La cocotera hostel in Tarifa

Best hostels in Cadiz: Casa Caracol

Heart, soul and history.

It is a one off creation that draws you in and makes you feel special, at home. Casa Caracol Hostel has evolved from the crazy party days of its beginnings down a once forgotten back street in the centre of the maize of the old town.

The laid back vibe is still there and the years have served only to make the place more beautiful.

The events are highly recommended: Roof top BBQs, nightly meals, activities and day trips to remote beaches provide a unique way of getting to know your fellow travelers and the fantastic staff.

Located in a quiet side street in the bustling centre of new bars and restaurants and a 5 minute walk from the bus, train and maritime stations. It is a short walk to the surf beach – ready?

  • Dorm beds start from 13,50€/ night
  • Private rooms start from 15€/ night

Best hostel in Cádiz, Casa Caracol

Best Hostels on Canary Islands

Okay, enough from the main part of Spain, let us hop over to the incredible Canary Islands. Check out our guide to the best hostels in Gran Canaria .

Obviously, there is some cool beach hostels in Spain too. Have a look which type of hostel fits your travel style. As for the Canary Islands, we recommend renting a car. It will be much easier to get around and actually enjoy the islands like Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura.

We always use Discover Car to compare car rentals . You can get your insurance directly with them, which is much cheaper.

Let us have a look:

Best Hostels in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Ventana Azul Surf Hostel

Located on the coastal line of Gran Canaria (Canary Islands) you will find this cute hostel with a cool name: Ventana Azul Surf Hostel .

Important: Former name is Avocado Hostel.

This hostel is also on our list of 37 EPIC Beach Hostels in every corner of the World .

The rooms are well-equipped and your bed comes with a curtain to offer you more privacy. It has a fully equipped kitchen and many other facilities. Even a place to store your board or hang a wet-suit to dry!

Indulge in the blue sky and the nearby ocean – on the top floor terrace! It might be the most pleasant space in the hostel.

You will need to rent a car to enjoy the full beauty of Gran Canaria.

  • Private rooms start from 35€/ night

Best hostels in Canarias: Avocado Surf Hostel

Hi Tide in Gran Canaria

Great surfer hostel!

Enjoy the city and sea views from the terrace, join sport activities or just enjoy the beautiful urban beach next door. HiTide Hostel has bright and open spaces that will make you feel at home.

What about the location? With the first step outside the hostel, you are already at the beach! Surrounded by bars, restaurants, clubs and surf schools.

HiTide surf hostl on Canary Islands

Tenerife Island

Tenerife is a whole different story, really. When backpacking Spain and considering the Canary Islands as a whole, it feels like a different trip you need to plan.

Therefore, we have written a handmade guide covering best hostels in Tenerife . And we also have our #3 La Tortuga Hostel in our Yoga Hostels in the World guide too.

These top hostels in Tenerife include:

  • The Tree House Tenerife
  • Los Amigos Hostel Tenerife .
  • La Tortuga Hostel
  • Tenerife Experience Hostel

15 Best Hostels in Tenerife - Yoga, Kite Surfing, and Paddle Boarding

Best Hostels in Salamanca: Erasmus Home

Salamanca is a popular place for Erasmus students.

It is not the typical travelers destinations here in Spain, but this is where the magic is. You can explore a real Spanish city with not many tourists. I personally love this!

Erasmus Home is the name of the best hostel in Salamanca.

You cannot stay more central than here, you are directly in the historical center of Salamanca.

From the interior it is a simple, clean and neat hostel with a big heart.

Depending on the season, you will meet more travelers here. If no one is really in the hostel, don’t worry.

Just go downstairs to the Erasmus bar. It is a popular bar for locals, students and, you guessed it, Erasmus students.

A quiet hostel with the charm of its own city.

Stay here, you will enjoy it!

Best Hostels in Salamanca: Erasmus Home

Best Hostels in Pontevedra: Slow City Hostel

Located in an attractive 100 year old family house with a restored interior design in the 20’s original spirit.

Slow City Hostel is bright and spacious, equipped with light design furniture and nice decór.

There is bike storage available, so greatly recommended for biker and pilgrims alike.

Where do you find Slow City Hostel? Downtown, right at the historical Portuguese way to Saint James tomb in Santiago de Compostela.

  • Dorm beds start from 17,50€/ night
  • Private rooms start from 20€/ night

Compare prices at: Hostelworld

Best hostel Pon tevedra - Slow City hostel

Best Hostels in Bilbao: Poshtel and Quartier Bilbao

Basque Country, up in the North. Oh get ready for a unique culture and lots of yummy Pintxos.

Lucky enough, there are two fantastic hostels here.

The best hostels in Bilbao are:

  • Poshtel Bilbao – Premium Hostel
  • Quartier Bilbao Hostel

Read : a complete guide to the best hostels in Bilbao .

1. Poshtel Bilbao – Premium Hostel

For me, this is the best hostel in Bilbao. An absolute Poshtel with an on-site restaurant and bar, simple but cosy dorms and a great ambiance. The bar is popular among both locals and travelers.

Oh and while you are here, please have a pintxo on me; they are soooo tasty.

(if you do enjoy a Pintxo here, drop us an instagram photo and tag us with @hostelgeeks)

You will be staying in the very heart of the city center, just a 3 minutes walk away from the famous sight Guggenheim Museum.

Only downside : the beds in the dorms do not have privacy curtains.

Poshtel Bilbao - Premium Hostel

2. Quartier Bilbao Hostel

Quartier Bilbao is famous for its cosy vibes and its breakfast. The location is not to beat, you are directly in the old quarter where you find literally everything.

Do not tell your mom, but there is a really good tattoo artists nearby…

Only downside again : the beds in the dorms do not have privacy curtains, same as Poshtel.

Quartier Bilbao Hostel

Best Hostels in San Sebastian

Next to Bilbao you will find the famous San Sebastian. If you are not into Pintxos and Surfing until now, you will be! There are 3 amazing hostels in San Sebastian I want to share with you.

  • Koba Hostel – best hostel for solo travelers
  • Koisi Hostel – best hostel for families
  • Surfing Etxea – best hostel for surf lovers

Check our our full guide to the best hostels in San Sebastian here.

Read: Best Beach Hostels in Europe

1. Koba Hostel San Sebastian

For me, Koba Hostel is the coolest hostel in San Sebastian.

Sparkling clean, cool dorms and a chill out area to hang out, watch movies on the projector or sports events. There is also the occasional live music which makes it even more fun.

WiFi is only available in the common area; on purpose.

The hostel wants to encourage everybody to come out to the common area and socialize.

I actually appreciate that. Yet I can understand when some travelers might be annoyed by this.

If the dorms would come with privacy curtains for each bed, it would be perfect. Oh I know, I am a negative Nancy sometimes…

Best Hostels in San Sebastian: Koba Hostel

2. Koisi Hostel San Sebastian

Moving on to Koisi Hostel in the district of El Antiguo, near Ondarreta Beach and Mount Igeldo.

What I really enjoy about Koisi Hostel are:

  • the super spacious dorms
  • the neat and hip private rooms (perfect for groups!!)
  • the terrace to hang out

Again no privacy curtains. I can’t understand why a hostel skips these…but okay.

Best Hostels in San Sebastian, the Koisi Hostel is perfect for groups

3. Surfing Etxea Hostel, San Sebastian

This is the best hostel in San Sebastian for surfers.

The hostel is dedicated to a certain type of traveler, the active traveler with kind of the same mind set. It is easy to connect. Obviously the hostel offers surf lessons, and they even rent boards.

If you are wondering, how far you have to carry your surf board to the beach, it is not even 3 minutes. Take that!

You can do paddle surf as well as surfing.

At night you can enjoy a cold drink at the hostel bar. I mean you deserve it after a long day of surfing.

Best Surf Hostel in San Sebastian, Surfing Etxea Hostel

Best Hostels in Zaragoza:

  • The Botanic Hostel
  • Albergue Zaragoza Hostel

Zaragoza is a budget destination, as it is a student’s city. The student’s vibes are all around the city, as well as their pubs and nightclubs. Don’t miss the nightlife if you stop by!

Even though Zaragoza has no sea neither ocean, if you are traveling from Madrid to Barcelona or from Barcelona to Madrid by bus it is a very convenient stop.

Furthermore, every year on 12th October, they have a big city party, “ Fiestas del Pilar “.

A must do thing if you are in Zaragoza is to try their Squid sandwich. I know, it does not sound appealing…but give it a try. Many Spaniards go to Zaragoza just to try it.

The best hostel in Zaragoza is the new The Botanic Hostel .

The cheapest hostel in the city is Alberge La Posada del Comendador . It is a basic hostel, but it comes with a fair price. The main central station (Estación Delicias) is around 30 min. by foot.

Here you can find all hostels in Zaragoza and compare the prices, too.

The Botanic Hostel in Zaragoza, Spain

Best Hostels in Madrid

Over to Madrid. The capital of Spain is also an AMAZING place to visit, do not skip it. Great food, fun nightlife, world famous museums and wonderful hostels to enjoy. Here is the list of the best hostels in Madrid:

  • The Hat Hostel
  • MOLA Hostel
  • Sungate One

Read the full guide to best hostels in Madrid .

Here we cover as well the coolest things to do.

1. The Hat Madrid

One of the coolest hostels in Madrid, and our #1 recommendation with probably the coolest name: The Hat Madrid !

Enjoy a design-led hostel hip vibes and literally on top of all this: Their roof-top terrace.

This is the best place to mingle, have a cocktail, enjoy a concert once in a while. On a daily basis you can enjoy the sunsets from here.

It does not matter which room type you choose. Both dorms and private rooms absolutely rock. A splurge worth it either way!

backpacking trip in spain

2. MOLA Hostel (Madrid)

Mola Hostel is a new player in town and got high ratings right away.

There is good reason for that: it’s luxurious, cool, and comes with high quality facilities.

We especially like the design of the rooms. The dorms come with cool and solid bunk beds and the chosen colors for the different rooms and floors add a nice warmth. Any questions on what to do in Madrid? Then don’t be shy and ask for help at the reception from sunrise to sunset – 24 hours.

There is also free WiFi in every single corner.

backpacking trip in spain

3. Sungate One (Madrid)

The last option of this list of the 3 best hostels in Madrid is a more backpacker type place.

Sungate One is a smaller, more intimate hostel. It is super easy to connect, and you can feel the family, friendly, social vibes here.

If you prefer a small hostel in Madrid, then go with Sungate One. The team behind is what makes the difference here. It is the kind of backpacker-type hostel that made hostels so comfy and homey.

The team always create a family atmosphere, including everyone.

backpacking trip in spain

Need an eSIM Card for Spain?

Get your eSIM Card with Airalo.com instantly online. It is easy to set up and cheap! Read our review of Airalo here .

No more searching for mobile stores. Get your eSIM Card for now and enjoy it instantly after landing in your new destination.

Need an eSIM Card for Spain?

Our Favorite Hostels in Spain put on a map + sights

Okay, let us have a look on a map.

Personally, I love maps. It helps me plan everything really easily.

You will find ALL the BEST Hostels in Spain. We even included an itinerary for you.

This itinerary is perfect if you land in Barcelona and depart from Madrid (or vice versa).

Please zoom in to Spain and area to have a closer look.

Add as many stops as possible, Spain is awesome (and cheap).

Any questions about hostels in Spain? 🤔

Alright, you should have found your accommodation already. Below we list all the frequently asked questions. Have a look.

How to get around Spain?

When backpacking Spain, you will need transport.

The transport options are:

Rental Cars

  • Hitch Hiking

Spain is actually really well connected by bus. On my first backpacking Spain trip I only took buses from A to B.

The buses are really affordable, and it is really straight forward. You can check always the bus schedules online, and everything is super easy and reliable.

In summer, you can also count on Air Conditioning in the buses. Perfect.

Just pack a jacket for the bus when the AC is running. You can end up with a really bad cold; I was sick for 2 weeks after my bus ride from Sevilla to Madrid.

On Alsa.com and Omio.com you can find the schedules for buses around the country.

Personally, I love trains more. And trains in Spain are awesome, fast and reliable too. However, the disadvantage to buses is that they are more expensive. Yet, they are faster. It is really up to you, but it is worth it to compare.

Make sure you check the train stations carefully. Destinations like Barcelona and Valencia have more than one main train station. I almost missed my train in Valencia because I mixed up the train stations.

Renfe is the official train company in Spain. Check out their website for prices on Renfe.com .

Omio.com is another fantastic resource we use since 2018.

It is really convenient to buy tickets online. And as far as I know, there is no difference in online and offline prices. You can use your credit card for buying your ticket.

Again, everything is very straight forward and simple.

As always in Europe, make sure you watch your belongings on all train and bus stations around Spain. There are some pickpockets around, so do not be naive and leave your stuff laying around.

Renting a car is another option. For me, it is the most flexible and easiest way to get around.

In the big cities, having a car can be a pain due to reduced parking spots. And parking can be really expensive, on top of that. Actually, only in Barcelona and Madrid parking is annoying. Other cities like Granada and Valencia was fine for us.

If you would love to explore the coast line, a car is the epic option. You can only consider to park outside of the cities like Barcelona and Madrid.

I use Discover Cars to find deals.

When renting a car in Spain and Europe in general, make sure you read the terms and conditions. Pay extra attention to the fees. Also, keep in mind, it usually costs extra  if you cross borders, for instance going to Portugal, Andorra or France.

Hitch Hiking or Bla Bla Car

Hitch hiking is very safe and understood in Spain and Portugal too. It is mostly done by young people and foreigners, even-though it is forbidden by law.

I do not have a ton of experience with hitch hiking, so here is a guide to hitch hiking in Spain .

A very cheap and faster alternative to hitch hiking is Bla Bla Car. Bla Bla Car is a car-sharing platform.

How does BlaBla Car work in Spain ?

For instance, Maria is driving from Barcelona to Madrid. She puts her itinerary on BlaBlaCar and says she is leaving Monday morning 10am and she has space for 3 more people. The ride costs 35€.

You can create profile on BlaBlaCar and send a request to Maria. Let Maria know who you are, why you want to go to Madrid and so on. You now, some kind of normal, social stuff to show you are not a psychopath.

She then decides if she takes you with her to Madrid. I did this a ton of times, it is very common around Europe.

It is safe, cheap and can be interesting since you get in touch with many different types of people. Check out BlaBlaCar here.

How to book Hostels in Spain?

In every destination guide, hostel review and also in this guide to the coolest hostels in Spain we give you the options to book your hostel (Hostelgeeks does not offer a booking service).

We give you the most popular booking platforms, and ways to get better prices. The websites are:

  • Booking.com
  • Hostelworld.com

Read our guide on how to book hostels (with websites to use to score the cheapest prices)

If you are new to hostels, we highly recommend to read through quickly.

Hostel Guide

We know so many hostels in Europe, we actually stayed in so so many hostels across the world.

We have been traveling non-stop since 2007, discovering coolest places around. Therefore, we decided to put together this list of great Spanish Hostels.

And not just that.

We also created a big guide to Hostels in Europe .

We will show you how to book your hostel in a smart way, what to take into account and more smart tips. Here you find ALL our articles about hostels .

Staying up to date

This list of the best Spanish Hostels, the 5 Star Hostels, will always stay up to date.

We will keep adding all the greatest budget accommodations across the world. Whether it is a Design Hostel , Boutique Hostel , Eco or Green Hostel – we will have a close look on these backpacker accommodations.

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Backpacking in Spain

Backpacking in Spain

Spain is one of the leading tourist destinations in Europe. It receives thousands of visitors every year, and a myriad of activities like site-seeing, hiking, and backpacking the cities or mountain ranges. Backpacking is a popular activity for travelers in Spain. It is a fun activity for anyone that loves adventure and traveling. Spain makes a fantastic destination for backpacking because of its abundance of destinations for activity and thriving environment. Perhaps the best part about backpacking in Spain is that you get to experience the destination’s unique regions, its landscapes, and interact with its welcoming people.

Are you a fan of adventure and considering a backpacking trip through Spain? Are you feeling overwhelmed with the wide range of destinations and information? This article is for you. This article provides guidance, must-visit destinations, and other must-knows for your next backpacking escapade in Spain. Whether you are an experienced traveler or a first-timer, this article will come in handy in helping you have the best time during your Spanish adventure . Remember to always travel insured with our travel insurance . 

  • 1 How much money do you need to go backpacking in Spain?
  • 2 Money-saving tips for Spain
  • 3.1 Backpacking in Madrid
  • 3.2 Backpacking in Barcelona 
  • 3.3 Backpacking in Cordoba
  • 3.4 Backpacking in Seville 
  • 3.5 Backpacking in Malaga
  • 3.6 Backpacking in Granada
  • 3.7 Backpacking in Valencia
  • 3.8 Backpacking in Galicia
  • 3.9 Backpacking in San Sebastian
  • 3.10 Backpacking Spain’s Islands
  • 4 What is the best way to travel around Spain?
  • 5.1 Related Posts

How much money do you need to go backpacking in Spain?

Traveling in Spain is not as expensive as most people assume. With the right information and guidance, Spain can be a cheap destination , especially for activities like backpacking.

  • With a low budget of 50 EUR per day. You can stay in a dorm, prepare all your meals, and use public transportation. You can also limit your drinking and partake in free activities like relaxing at the beach and going on free walking tours. Backpacking in Spain is an ideal activity if you are traveling on a budget. 
  • With a mid-range budget of 130 EUR per day. You can afford to stay in a private hotel or an Airbnb. You can enjoy occasional cheap fast foods and prepare home-cooked meals, enjoy a few drinks, and occasionally take taxis or use buses to get around. Additionally, you can afford activities like museum visits and food tours, among other free activities.

Backpacking in Spain

Money-saving tips for Spain

Without the right planning and guidance, you can end up spending too much money. However, some creativity and the right information can help you have the best trip without breaking the bank . Here are some money-saving tips for Spain:

  • Get the menu of the day. Many Spanish restaurants have affordable “menu of the day” options, especially during lunch. These options go for around 10 to 15 EUR.
  • Eat free tapas. Some Spanish cities, like Granada, have bars that offer free tapas with every drink order. So, if you are looking for free meals, you can bounce around bars while enjoying a few drinks.
  • Get a local host. Instead of spending money on accommodation, you can opt for a local host. Staying with a local is also a great way to get more insight into the destinations and the best places to visit.
  • Take the bus. Public transportation can save you a lot of money when traveling to Spain. Taking the bus is much cheaper than using taxis or domestic flights, especially if your itinerary is packed. Besides the bus, you can also take the train, depending on your destination.
  • Get a city pass. A city pass, also known as a tourist ticket or transport pass, is a personal card that allows you to make an unlimited number of trips using regular public transport services. It can also get you privileges like skipping the line.
  • Use a BlaBlaCar. This is a long-distance carpooling and ridesharing app that connects traveling car owners and people looking for rides in the same direction. 
  • Bring a water bottle. Tap water in Spain is safe to drink. So, instead of spending money on water, you can bring a reusable bottle. This tip will also help you reduce plastic use and conserve the environment.

Mediteranean food Backpacking in Spain

List of places to visit in Spain 

Backpacking is a fantastic activity to do in Spain because of the many incredible things you will get to see. If you decide that it is time to visit Spain, below is a list of things you can see and big cities you can visit as a backpacker in Spain:

Backpacking in Madrid

Spain’s capital, Madrid, is without a doubt one of the best destinations to visit. The city has a thriving art scene, nightlife, restaurants, and museums, like Museo del Prado and El Centro de Arte Reina Sofia . While backpacking, you can visit Puerta Del Sol plaza in the city center. You can also visit time to visit Madrid’s famous markets during the weekend. 

There are also great restaurants, tapas bars, and cafes to visit and enjoy. While in Madrid, you should make a point to visit Retiro Park , an extraordinary site of outstanding universal value, culture, science, and nature. Additionally, Madrid is a fantastic destination because of its wide array of accommodation options . There are hotels, dorms, Airbnb, and other options. However, its popularity makes it an expensive traveling destination.

Backpacking in Barcelona 

This is a fantastic option if you are a city person. The city has a deep-rooted history and modern aesthetic . There are beautiful mountains, golden beaches, and the exquisite Mediterranean Sea. While in Barcelona, you can go dancing from bar to club, hang out at the beach, explore world-class architecture , watch classical concerts at the Palau de la Musica Catalana, take a tour of Camp Nou , or visit the beautiful park. While in Barcelona, do not miss out on visiting la Sagrada Familia , the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world and a UNESCO world heritage site . 

There are also numerous accommodation options, including affordable ones. Therefore, if you are backpacking on a budget, there are also options for you. Barcelona is a mainstream destination , therefore, you can expect several other backpackers in the city. So, if you plan on going backpacking in Barcelona, it would be wise to plan. While a trip to Barcelona would be expensive, with the right guide you can visit the city on a budget.

Barcelona, Spain Backpacking in Spain

Backpacking in Cordoba

This city is among the most visited destinations in Spain . It is especially highly attractive during its patio festival in April and May. Most of its buildings have a central patio, thanks to Cordoba’s warm climate. Locals adorn their patios with plants and water features to keep them cool. I ts weather makes it a fantastic destination for tourists . Besides this, travelers are attracted to its culture, architecture, and welcoming locals. 

One of the key attractions in Cordoba is the Le Mezquita Mosque from the Moorish period. The food in Cordoba is also exquisite. Also, the city is quite affordable.

Backpacking in Seville 

This City in Spain is one of the most beautiful and major cities in Spain and an economic center of the old Spanish empire. It is packed with spectacular and ornate buildings , like Alcazar, Giralda, and Plaza de Espana. Therefore, Seville is a perfect destination if you are an architecture buff. 

Besides the buildings, the culture in Seville is amazing. If you visit the city during occasions like Semana Santa, when there are cultural festivities all week, you will get to enjoy the Sevillian culture even more. Additionally, Seville used to be a Southern Spain trip hub , which makes it a great destination. Travelers also love that they can easily travel to other cities like Cordoba, Granada, and Malaga from Seville.

Backpacking in Malaga

This is a must-visit city in Spain for anyone looking for sun, sea, and sand . Malaga experiences sunshine all year round , making it a fantastic tourist destination. You can spend your entire trip lounging on the beautiful beaches and soaking up the sun. Besides this, there are lots of fun activities to do in the city. For instance, you can visit many historical sites like the Teatro Romano and Castillo de Gibralfaro. You can also visit Plaza de Costa del Sol , a wonderful pedestrianized square loved for its lots of pubs, bars, restaurants, and numerous shopping outlets. 

Travelers also enjoy the art scene in Malaga . As the birthplace of Picasso , Malaga has dedicated a museum to his life, which attracts a lot of tourists. Hiking is also a popular activity in Malaga because it gives you a chance to experience its incredible views. El Caminito del Rey is a must-visit location in Malaga and a great destination for hiking. The food, accommodation, and hospitality in Malaga are also welcoming.

Backpacking in Spain

Backpacking in Granada

This is the home to the most popular tourist attraction in Spain, La Alhambra , a fascinating building that used to be a Moorish palace before they were kicked out of Spain in the 15th century. This city in Spain is so popular, so you would do well to book a ticket in advance so you do not miss out. Bars in Granada offer free tapas for every drink order, which is an advantage if you are traveling on a budget . The nightlife and food in Granada are also worth a visit. So, you can sample the local cuisine while exploring the beauty of the city.

Backpacking in Valencia

This is one of the best places to visit in Spain, thanks to its vibrance and beauty. While backpacking in Valencia, you can relax at the beach, enjoy the intriguing architecture, explore the City of Arts and Science designed by Santiago Calatrava , a renowned architect, or sample the local cuisine. The city in Spain is known for its gigantic beaches and fantastic accommodations. Valencia is also popular because it is among the most affordable destinations in Spain . It is also quieter than other cities in Spain, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to escape the busy cities.

Backpacking in Galicia

This is among the most underrated destinations in Spain , compared to the likes of Madrid and Barcelona, because it is located away from key tourist hubs of the South and East . However, this is a benefit, especially if you are not into crowded locations. It is a beautiful destination with a lot to offer. From its interesting culture to its fascinating language (Gallego), you are bound to enjoy your trip to Galicia. You can also visit the beautiful beaches and explore its natural beauties . This destination is great for day trips or a walking tour trip to Spain.

Backpacking in Spain - Camino de Santiago

Backpacking in San Sebastian

This Basque country is quite beautiful thanks to its mix of stunning nature and exquisite buildings . The most popular places you can visit in San Sebastian are La Concha Bay and Monte Igeldo . It is also a fantastic destination because it is not crowded. This allows you to explore its beauty and mountain ranges without the hassle of crowds. Its cultural spots are also a must-visit. You can visit San Sebastian for day trips or spend a few days exploring its beauty. San Sebastian is a cheap destination.

Backpacking Spain’s Islands

There are over 170 Spanish islands , including Santa Clara, Ibiza, Isa de Izaro, Garraitz, and Isla de Aquech. They are the perfect destinations for beach holidays and backpacking activities in Spain. The Spanish islands are popular for their sustainability and natural beauty . The islands have a thriving nightlife, restaurants, and incredible accommodation options. They are also quite peaceful because they are secluded and their population is not like that of the cities. Depending on your budget and goal, you can visit more than one Spanish island during your backpacking trip in Spain.

Backpacking in Spain islands

What is the best way to travel around Spain?

Spain has a lot of incredible destinations to visit. It helps that there are various travel modes to choose from, depending on your budget and the destination.

The fastest way to travel around Spain is by plane. There are airstrips in different parts of the country and flights that cover all the major cities in Spain. Therefore, you can easily go from city to city by air. This allows you to make the most of your trip as it is quite fast. Also, it is the easiest way to get to its outlying islands. So, flying is a viable option for travelers with a packed itinerary and those that are not budget-conscious. Air travel is also safe, comfortable, and efficient.

Another fast way to travel long distances in Spain is by taking the AVE train. This train travels to many of the country’s key and popular cities. Therefore, you need not worry about having limited destinations if you choose this travel mode. Also, the AVE train is quite comfortable, efficient, and fast. Also, taking the AVE train is cheaper than taking a flight.

If you are traveling on a budget, the bus is the best way to get around Spain. However, it is not as fast. There are many bus services in Spain, Alsa is the most popular one. However, taking the bus can be limiting because you have to adhere to the bus schedules. Regardless, you can switch up your itinerary to match the schedules and occupy your time with great activities so you can make the most of your trip.

Another option for traveling around Spain is using car-sharing services. They are quite popular because they are affordable and environmentally friendly. You can use car-sharing services like BlaBlaCar to get around the cities and regional towns in Spain.

Spain public transport Backpacking Spain

Do not travel without travel insurance

Travel insurance is a key requirement when traveling internationally. Therefore, while planning your trip to Spain, it would help to also have travel insurance. Your health and safety should be a primary priority as you plan to enjoy the trip of your life. Therefore, we advise you to invest in our travel insurance coverage as your safeguard.

Our travel insurance can cover all medical costs and covers your belongings against loss or robbery. So, if you have our insurance coverage, you can easily contact us in a medical emergency. We have the Heymondo Assistance App , that operates 24/7 in case of emergencies.

Our comprehensive Heymondo travel insurance will allow you to relish your backpacking trip without stressing over unanticipated incidents like luggage losses and medical events. Accidents like medical events and theft or loss of luggage can occur unexpectedly. However, you need not worry about them ruining your trip. Our medical insurance coverage ensures that you do not spend thousands of dollars on accidents and emergencies. Our Heymondo travel insurance covers medical aid, care by medical teams and experts, hospitalization, tests, treatments, and medical supplies.

For the sake of your peace of mind and safety, you should not go backpacking in Spain without travel insurance.

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Hiking in Spain: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

( 91 reviews )

Enjoy spectacular scenery and take advantage of diverse locales in this sunny Mediterranean country!

From hut-to-hut treks through the Pyrenees to day hikes Guadarrama range or longer treks in the immaculate Picos de Europa, Spain has plenty of hiking available. Some of this hiking is perfectly apt for people looking to unplug and get away for awhile, wandering through nature and enjoying the sites. Other spots are more appropriate for avid hikers looking for a challenge. Whatever it is you are looking for, Spain has it! Compare and book a certified guide for your trip on Explore-Share.com: 1500+ guides, 70+ countries and more than 8000 different programs to choose from. Take a pick from our selection of Hiking trips in Spain. The mountains are calling!

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FAQs : Hiking in Spain

What should I know about Hiking Spain?

Outside of the three listed above, you could head to Spain’s Celt-influenced northwest and hike along the Galician seashore. The slightly wetter, but equally beautiful autonomous community is also home to la Catedral de Santiago, in Santiago de Compostela. This iconic landmark is the ending point of El Camino, a massive hike stretching from the French Pyrenees all the way to this northwestern city.  

Why should I choose Spain for my Hiking adventure?

Any hiking spot in Spain is bound to offer plenty of scenic views and panoramic vistas. In the Pyrenees enjoy the mixture of snow-capped peaks and evergreen forests. Around Asturias, get some views straight out into the Bay of Biscayne. Everywhere you go, there’s a view to be seen.

Receiving roughly 300 days of sunshine per year, Spain has the perfect hiking weather. While it can get a bit hot in the summer, especially near Madrid and Catalonia, enjoy sunny days and clear blue skies whenever and wherever you choose to hike.

Once you’ve unlaced your boots and are ready to call it a day, take some time to explore this culturally diverse country. Enjoy a stroll down la rabla and excellent seafood in Barcelona, take in some tapas and sites in Madrid or go see the hallowed streets of San Fermin.

What can I expect from the weather in Spain?

Spring and autumn have warmer temperatures (20ºC - 25ºC) and are generally sunny and dry. Summer can be quite hot, which might make climbing a bit tougher, but the days are almost all sunny, clear and beautiful.

How many days should I allocate for my Spain Hiking experience?

This largely depends on what you would like to do and how much time you have to do it in. Guides offer all types of trips, from single-day hikes to week-long treks, and everything in between.

Which language is predominantly spoken in Spain?

Spanish, Catalan, Basque

What’s the country code of Spain?

What currency is accepted in Spain?

What’s the high season for Hiking in Spain?

May to October

What people are saying about Hiking | Spain

Pere was amazing!! He was so kind and so much fun! We had the best hike with him through the Pyrenees. It was absolutely beautiful, and we loved being able to hike through the snow and getting to see the snow-capped mountains. It was INCREDIBLE.

Andres was the perfect guide, very accommodating and made the trip fun. Some of the trails were challenging but Andres motivated us and kept us safe throughout. We learnt a lot about Picos de Europa and stayed in some fantastic places. Would recommend to book with Andres.

There were a few organisational issues before we started, but for the most part they were resloved. The trip it’s self was absolutely amazing! And the guide was very good.

Pere was awesome! Made us feel very comfortable and provide knowledge of the mountain/Spain while having a positive/fun attitude.

I was a bit hesitate to book with explore-share as I have never heard of it and am a women traveling alone looking for a hike to do in another country. I am elated I booked with Pere on a full day hike in the Pyreneess. Pere was very nice, funny and professional- he had lots of info on history, culture and of course everything mountainside. He brought snacks and bought coffee which was unexpected but very appreciated- he provided transportation & had lots of extra gear too! He was very good at judging my skill level and pushed me just enough as far as pacing and trail difficulty. I am so lucky to have chosen Pere as a guide! Internally it was a physically and mentally challenging hike; I would not of made it to the top if I was alone. If anyone is hesitating on which guide to pick I would say to look no further and go with Pere. It was the highlight of my trip to Barcelona and will remember it for years to come when looking for extra motivation & momentum on my next hikes.

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Thru-Hiking Culture Shock: Navigating Trail Differences Between the US and Europe

In the summer of 2023, my hiking partner Flan and I set out to thru-hike the 510-mile-long GR11 trail through the Spanish Pyrenees. With 150,000 feet of elevation gain and an equal amount of descent, that baby is a doozy.

Our goal was to complete it in 30 days, which put us at around 5,000 feet of gain and loss daily. That's substantially steeper than the steepest U.S. trails I've completed, such as the Wonderland Trail and the Long Trail - which would have been enough to make our Pyrenees adventure a completely different experience from U.S. thru-hiking on its own.

But we would come to discover many other differences between European and American thru-hiking. To the point, we actually felt some level of culture shock between our different ways of life on the trail. The challenge of the GR11 was partially due to the rugged nature of the mountain range and partially due to very real cultural differences in outdoor recreation.

We learned a lot. Here are some highlights that could help prepare you for your own thru-hiking experience across the pond.

Thru-Hiking in the Spanish Pyrenees

In the United States, we are truly blessed to have vast expanses of public land and wilderness. It's not difficult on the PCT, for example, to nero (hike less than 10 miles) out of town and set up camp a mile or two down the trail.

Spain was a different story, which took some getting used to.

The majority of the land adjacent to the GR11 is privately owned or part of the national park system. That makes camping logistics more complicated. In Spain, wild camping is technically illegal. But there are a couple of loopholes.

For instance, one can bivouac above a certain elevation between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. You can also ask for permission from the landowner (or just be very discreet about your campsite).

We never had an issue with wild camping. But there was always the mild concern in the back of my mind when I was camping at lower elevations, and I didn’t see many other hikers doing the same.

Instead, many hikers would carry a daypack on the trail and stay in refugios each night. Refugios are common throughout European mountain ranges. They are essentially remote, high-altitude B&Bs. Staying in them every night can get expensive over days and weeks. It’s also sometimes a crap shoot whether or not they’ll have beds available. So try to make reservations ahead of time if you plan on taking this approach.

Refugio Hospitality for Pyrenees Hikers

The refugios of Europe typically provide essentials like a bed, shower, dinner, breakfast, and sometimes even a takeaway lunch. Some are rustic and budget-friendly while others seem to exist solely to profit off of hikers. They make thru-hiking accessible to hikers who are otherwise unable to carry a large overnight pack.

They also tend to attract large groups of inexperienced hikers - which can compromise the tranquility of nature.

Even the style of hospitality in the refugios was a bit of a culture shock coming from North America's long trails. Every individual amenity was held under lock and key. We were scoffed at when we mentioned we didn't bring bath towels but were occasionally offered to rent them for a fee.

As “Hiker Trash” (a term we affectionately use in the U.S.), we felt somewhat looked down upon. But hey, this is just my own opinion and personal experience. I still enjoyed a cafe con leche or cerveza every time I passed a refugio on the trail. 

This bit of culture shock really made me grateful for the welcoming and supportive community that surrounds our long trails in the United States. We refer to adjacent towns as "trail towns." We have terms like "trail magic" and "trail angels," aptly named for the compassionate souls who go out of their way to lend a helping hand and make your journey as positive as it can be. I didn’t sense as much of that in Europe.

Gear and Travel Tips: Thru-Hiking the Pyrenees

I generally felt satisfied with my gear on the GR11, but there are a few modifications I’d make if I were to tackle it again.

Sun and Rain

I hiked with a pretty typical Colorado ultralight backpacking kit , expecting the mountains to be pretty similar. The Pyrenees are akin to the Rockies in the high country in terms of exposure, but they get a lot more rain than I was expecting.

So, be sure to put an equal priority on sun protection and rain gear. See GearJunkie’s guide to the Best Sun Protection Shirts and the Best Rain Jackets .

My sun hoodie was nice on bluebird days on the ridges, but it was way too much in the muggy, humid Basque Country. Next time, I would opt for a button-down shirt with decent UV protection instead.

For rain, I was glad to have a pair of lightweight rainpants . While we did run into a few rainy patches on the trail, these were more crucial for the mornings when we were walking through high, wet grass. Even when it's not actively raining, the humidity and mist in the Pyrenees make it challenging to keep everything dry on a thru-hike.

Ticks and Insects

There are ticks on the GR11! I would highly recommend treating all of your gear and hiking clothes with a permethrin solution. I like Sawyer's Permethrin Insect Repellent for clothes.

Here is a useful guide to Choosing the Right Bug Repellant for a thru-hike like our Pyrenees adventure. Or check this guide on How to Prevent, Spot, and Remove Ticks .

Water Filtration

Bring two methods of water treatment. Farmers in Spain graze their livestock in the mountains. So, hikers regularly find themselves amid herds of cattle, filtering water from streams surrounded by cow pies. The trails are also heavily used by hikers who are using the bathroom along the way. 

Having a backup means of filtration is a must. That’s no different in the U.S.

Sawyer’s water filters are beloved among thru-hiking circles because they’re cost-effective, filter efficiently, and are lightweight. The brand also donates 90% of its profits to provide clean water in developing countries. Many thru-hikers also like LifeStraw filters because they’re adaptable and versatile.

If you want to shop around and compare options, here is our guide to the Best Backpacking Water Filters .

Maps and Navigation

Midway into our hike, Czech hikers tipped us off about the Mapy.cz app . It’s a fantastic tool covering every meter of that trail, and the huts, refugios, and water sources along the way. It also covered a lot of other trails throughout Europe.

My favorite feature is its ability to calculate distance, elevation gain, and estimated hiking time from point A to B. The app works incredibly well, and is completely free! Our Czech trail friends proudly described it as “the pride of the Czech Republic.”

If you’re hiking in Europe, this is a great resource. But there may be others as well. Ask fellow hikers what they’re using to navigate, and you may pick up a few local secrets like this one.

Transportation

Europe’s public transportation outshines that offered in the United States. Mountain travel can be tricky, though. 

BlaBlaCar is a fantastic carpooling platform that saved my tuchus on multiple occasions. It allows users to advertise their travel destinations and vacant space in their personal cars at their chosen price.

For the driver, it offsets the cost of fuel. For the rider, it offers an affordable way to travel around the country and the chance to meet fellow travelers. People use it for both long- and short-distance trips.

It is basically a paid hitchhiking app. I personally never felt unsafe and had nothing but positive experiences with the BlaBlaCar app. But obviously, you use services like these at your own risk.

Flixbus is another handy app to use in Europe. The app compares bus fares across the continent. It also allows users to follow a bus route in real time, updating the information on stops, delays, and arrival times so you can plan ahead more effectively.

Notes on Trail Food

Rural Spain is not as conscientious about food allergies or sensitivities as we are in some parts of the States. I witnessed the extreme side of this struggle while hiking with a partner who has a number of food allergies from nuts to legumes to shellfish (which meant no paella).

Food packaging was obviously all in Spanish (or even Basque or Catalonian if we were unlucky, as neither of us speaks those languages at all). I quickly learned to look out for the words " frutos secos " (nuts) and " mariscos " (shellfish). Knowing how to articulate your allergies or sensitivities and look for them on labels is a life-saving skill.

And if you suffer from pork or gluten intolerances, I wish you the best of luck in Northern Spain. Jamon and bread make up a large portion of the menu at most Spanish restaurants.

Finding decent, nonperishable trail food to pack out from town was also a challenge. Maybe I'm just spoiled from all the freeze-dried, dehydrated, and canned options in the U.S. Even good old peanut butter, a common staple for thru-hikers, was a rarity in the Pyrenees.

If you’ve got some favorite trail snacks, it might not hurt to pack them with you - if for nothing else, then to have a taste of home.

Another thing we weren't aware of (which led to two bouts of food poisoning) is the lax pasteurization laws in Spain. My first trail name on the Colorado Trail, "Cheese Sweat," came from adding some greasy, sweaty cheese that had been in my pack all day to some pasta. It’s not something I'm proud of, and not something that will fly with local Spanish cheese from a roadside dairy farmer. Just trust me on that one.

Thru-Hiking Culture Shock: Final Thoughts

Thru-hiking in the Pyrenees was an unforgettable experience and I'm grateful to have added the GR11 to my hiking resume.

Don't expect the hiking culture to be identical to the United States, though. So, take a few of these travel tips with you - not just to increase your chances of success, but also to ensure the smoothest sailing and best time along the way.

And do more research on thru-hiking - no matter where you’re headed. There are good tips from thru-hiking physical therapists for keeping your health and fitness tip-top while on the trail. Other guides will help hikers find the best budget gear and describe how to plan and prep gear and apparel for thru-hikes.

Obviously, thru-hiking in Spain will be different from thru-hiking in other European countries. But a lot of these differences span trail culture across Europe, and the tips and tricks we learned on our trip could be helpful elsewhere as well.

'Lost Sierra Route': NorCal's 600-Mile Hiking Trail of the Future

The Lost Sierra Route will connect the Lake Tahoe area with California's northern Sierra Nevada. The project's coordinators hope the trail will have a big impact on the region. Read more…

The post Thru-Hiking Culture Shock: Navigating Trail Differences Between the US and Europe appeared first on GearJunkie .

Thru-Hiking Culture Shock: Navigating Trail Differences Between the US and Europe

Tourist couple alleges gang rape in India, sparking outrage and the arrests of 3 men

A tourist has alleged she was gang-raped and her partner was attacked while camping in India , sparking outrage and the arrests of three male suspects.

The woman, who has Brazilian-Spanish dual nationality, shared her account of the incident on Instagram, where the couple has drawn a large following tracking their motorcycle tour of Asia.

Police in India's eastern state of Jharkhand, where the alleged incident took place, said that three men had been arrested and that they were hunting for four more.

The couple looked to have been beaten up when local police found them late Friday by a roadside, Pitamber Singh Kherwar, superintendent of police in the state's Dumka district, told reporters Sunday.

“Since the victims were speaking in Spanish and English, our police officers could not properly understand what they were saying, but it looked like they were injured,” he said. 

Kherwar said the couple, whose identities were not disclosed, were taken to a nearby hospital where doctors said the woman had been raped.

The three suspects were arrested Sunday, Kherwar said, adding that investigators had identified the four other men and they would be arrested “very soon.”

“Our priority is to get them maximum punishment so it is never repeated,” he added. Kherwar also said the couple will get compensation of up to $12,000. 

The Indian National Commission for Women asked the police to charge those accused with gang rape, which is punishable by at least 20 years in prison, it said in a post on X on Saturday.

'Something has happened to us'

“Something has happened to us that we would not wish on anyone,” the woman, who appeared with bruises on her face, said through tears in a video posted on her Instagram page, which has almost half a million followers.

“Seven men have raped me, they have beaten us and robbed us,” she said, according to an accompanying caption in English. The video is no longer available.

In a separate video posted Sunday on their joint Instagram page, which has over 250,000 followers, the couple said that “the police are doing everything possible to catch them. They already know who they are.”

They added: “We ask that justice be done, not only for us but also for all the other women and girls who have gone through this.”

In an interview with the Spanish TV channel Antena 3, the couple said the men raped the woman and hit her partner repeatedly. 

“They raped me, they took turns while some watched and they stayed like that for about two hours,” the woman said in the interview, adding that they had decided to camp in the town since they found no hotels to stay at overnight.

NBC News is not naming the couple due to laws in India that prevent disclosing the identities of sexual assault victims. NBC News has reached out to the couple for comment.

The woman was on a motorbike trip with her Spanish partner, the Brazilian Embassy in New Delhi told NBC News in a statement, saying it had registered its “strong repudiation of the barbaric crime against the couple.”

They are being “looked after by the Indian emergency services,” the statement added.

The Spanish foreign ministry told NBC News that its embassy in New Delhi had been in contact with the couple to provide any consular assistance. 

The couple had been documenting their trip to more than 200,000 followers on their joint Instagram account, with recent posts from neighboring Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

In their post on Sunday, they added that they had camped in 66 countries, many of which are considered “dangerous.”

“This can happen to any traveler, anyone,” they said.

Prominent Indian celebrities reacted to the incident, calling for the seven suspects to be swiftly apprehended. It was a “shameful act that we MUST show will not be tolerated,” Emmy winner and comedian Vir Das said in a post on X on Sunday.

Despite stringent laws, India has long struggled to tackle male violence against women.

An average of 86 rape cases were registered every day in the country in 2022, according to a report by the National Crime Records Bureau . However, many women still do not report cases of sexual violence to the authorities, especially in rural areas, where a stigma persists that such a disclosure may affect a family's social standing.

In 2013, a year after the  fatal gang rape  of a young woman in the capital, New Delhi, authorities doubled the prison term for rapists to 20 years, criminalized acts such as stalking and voyeurism and lowered the age at which a person can be tried as an adult from 18 to 16.

But under current Indian laws, marital rape is still not a crime as long as the woman is above the age of 18.

Mithil Aggarwal is a Hong Kong-based reporter/producer for NBC News.

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