Plaza España, Barcelona, Spain by Canaan

Travel & Accommodation

As with most trips, the lion’s share of your budget will probably go on flights, airport transfers and accommodation, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Whenever I am planning a trip, my first task is to check out what I have in terms of air miles and rewards cards. If I can get  flight for free, or at least for a discounted price, then that frees up money to spend once I reach my destination!

When it comes to hotel accommodation in Barcelona prices are based on style rather than location, so if you are happy to choose more basic accommodation then it is possible to find something fairly central for a reasonable price. One great tip is to select a hotel which usually caters to business travellers, if you stay here over the weekend or during a holiday than you will get a cheaper rate.

If you are looking for absolute rock bottom pricing then Barcelona also has its fair share of hostels if you are happy to sleep dormitory style and share a bathroom with several strangers.

Finding Low Cost Activities

One of the main things that people always connect with Barcelona is the arts, and culture in general. When we hear ‘culture’ we often think it is going to be expensive, but that is not always the case! One of the most famous sights in Barcelona is Las Ramblas. Perhaps the most famous street in all of Spain, this 1.2km long boulevard runs directly through the heart of the city.

Las Ramblas, Barcelona, Spain by Oh-Barcelona.com

Not only is Las Ramblas a bustling shopping area, but you will be able to see the famous ‘living statues’ and other forms of street entertainment. The living statues are often painted from head to toe in silver, gold, bronze or stone effects. You will be astounded at how still they are, with the best barely breathing or moving their eyes – until that is a tourist drops a coin in their hat or bucket, then they will come to life and offer performances ranging from mime and dance to music and singing. This is fantastic entertainment for just a few euros!

In addition to the lively entertainment offered on Las Ramblas, you will find that many of the museums and galleries are free to visit, or hold regular open days. Some of the places to check out include Museu Picasso which is free on the first Sunday of each month, Museu de la Xocolata (Chocolate Museum) which offers free admission on the first Monday of the month and the Centre de Cultura Contemprania de Barcelona which is free on the first Wednesday of the month. As you can see, it is certainly better to visit Barcelona early in the month!

Another famous tourist attraction is the Magic Fountain at Montjuic, which offers a breathtaking display of colour, lights, music and movement. The Magic Fountain has shows scheduled Thursday through Sunday all year round and is a must see when visiting Barcelona.

Magic Fountain at Montjuic, Barcelona, Spain by Iván Melenchón Serrano

In conclusion, I think that it is clear that a budget trip to Barcelona is certainly possible. Once you have secured flights and accommodation, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy. I have listed enough free activities to keep you busy for 5 days in this article alone, which will free up your cash for more expensive activities such as Barcelona Zoo or Camp Nou Stadium. Barcelona is beautiful and now you can enjoy it without breaking the bank.

Tim Baker is a writer who loves travelling around the world spending as little as possible by taking advantage of Avios shopping rewards and other programs.

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Barcelona is a must-do excursion if you are staying in Spain, not only for the architecture, but also for the vibrant culture. Barcelona is the capital of Catalunya and is close to the Costas, so is easy to reach on an organised excursion or by train. If you are a shopaholic, Las Ramblas is the place to head to, but make time for Gaudi’s famous cathedral and also sample some of the genuine tapas round the market area of Gracia. There is also a small beach at Barcelona, so if you are spending a day or so there, take a swimsuit.

Sagrada Familia from inside, Barcelona, Spain by SBA73

Granada

Granada is the capital of the province of Granada and is an essential excursion if you are staying in southern Spain or touring round. Granada is in eastern Andalusia and is home to the Alhambra and the magnificent cathedral. Granada is set among rocky landscapes and the narrow and twisting streets are fascinating to explore. The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fine example of Moorish architecture – it is a wonderful sight illuminated at night against the backdrop of Granada’s hills.

Alhambra, Granada, Andalusia, Spain by Antonio

Gibraltar

Gibraltar is easily reached by car, plane, or boat from Spain and is also across the bay from Africa. Gibraltar has been a British outpost for centuries and played a major role in the Battle of Trafalgar – there is a small cemetery at one end of the high street which is worth a wander round as it contains the graves of naval personnel killed at Trafalgar. The main attraction is duty free shopping – and the Rock of Gibraltar, which you can take a minibus up, although hikers may like to walk: it takes around an hour-and-a-half to reach the summit on foot if you are fit, but watch out for traffic. Along the way are the caves of St Paul and at the top are marvellous views, a Moorish castle, siege tunnels and tons of monkeys, who will cadge food, steal your hat and sunglasses and pose for photos. You can also take tea at the famous Rock hotel in town – much loved by Sir Winston Churchill and his contemporaries.

Gibraltar, Spain by Jacrews7

Toledo

Toledo is an historic fortress city set in a mountain about an hour-and-a-half’s drive from Madrid. It is reached by driving across a narrow entry road perched high above a deep ravine, which is an experience in itself. Toledo is where Spain’s ancient sword manufacturing industry was based, but it also boasts a magnificent cathedral – look up at the roof to see the headgear of the Cathedral’s clergy hanging from the roof as a tribute after they died. There is something quite eerie about Toledo, but its narrow, winding streets are fascinating and it is worthwhile half-day trip if you are within reach of the area.

Alcazar de Toledo, Spain by Janos Korom Dr.

Suffering illness in Spain is more common than you think, with thousands of holidaymakers descending to one place, illness can only spread like wild fire.

Peter Anderson – I love to blog about holidays in Spain Google+

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Tossa del Mar, Costa Brava / Jay Cross

Going Back in Time

The Costa Brava is an ancient region and nowhere is this more evident than in Tossa del Mar, where the Vila Vella is an amazing sight. The name means old town. It’s a well preserved walled city, part of which was constructed in the 12th century. Later additions included the fortifications, completed some time in the 14th century. There are other sights to see nearby (such as the Sant Vincenc Gothic Cathedral and a striking lighthouse) so it’s worth planning a day trip to this area.

Going even further back in time, you can also explore the area’s medieval history. Ulla is worth a look and you can also visit the medieval ramparts of the Torroella de Montgrí in La Bisbal. Summer offers a surreal experience as you listen to the sounds of a modern music festival in this ancient setting. And the time travel experience doesn’t end there. The early Iberians left traces of their passage on the Sant Andreu mound – find out more about these 7th century settlers in the archaeological museum in Ullastret.

La Bisbal d’Empordà (Costa Brava) / Jean Robert Thibault

Exploring Natural Beauty

While there’s plenty of natural beauty on show as you walk or drive along the Costa Brava region, there’s one more must-see for nature lovers – the Santa Clotilde Gardens. These exquisite gardens are done in an Italian Renaissance style with fountains and ornate sculptures set among the beautiful flora. The gardens’ location on a hillside give access to gorgeous views and if you look carefully, you might be able to spot Fenals beach, which makes a nice place to relax after your visit.

There’s lots more to see on the Costa Brava, but these attractions make a good starting point for a memorable and enjoyable visit.

Marian Jaime writes for Suntransfers. She recommends the company’s’ low cost airport transfers from Barcelona to get your holiday off to a wonderful start.

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Of all the continents, one of the most diverse and magical is Europe. But with approximately 50 countries, each with its own culture and personality, choosing a destination for adventure travel could take all your time. So outlined below are the top five Europe destinations with a few tips on how to make your trip extra memorable.

Paris

This exquisite city of love is the obvious first-choice tourist destination for Europe. The spectacular architecture, delectable food and wealth of cultural sites make Paris the ultimate European holiday destination.

There’s so much to do and see in Paris that it is impossible to exhaust the city in one trip. You can browse in a few couture shops on the Champs Elysees, share a meal in one of the city’s gourmet restaurants, gaze across the city from the top of the Eiffel Tower or simply watch a very chic world go by while enjoying a coffee in one of the many cafes.

Although the weather is at its best in Paris from June to August, this is also when the city is invaded by tourists and the price of holidays goes up.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by agaw.dilim

Barcelona

Second on our list is the historic city of Barcelona, which mixes its old-world authenticity with the wildly bizarre. This intriguingly eclectic city attracts all types of travellers – families, couples, lone explorers and culture vultures and those looking for adventure travel.

Barcelona has an overwhelming variety of things to do, although a lot of attention is given to Las Ramblas because of the quaint narrow streets and alleys crammed with busy restaurants and vibrant markets.

The food and wine in this city are extraordinary, consisting of large meaty dishes and lighter tapas and an abundance of wonderful seafood.

By far the best time to visit the city is May-June as the temperatures are a little too high for comfort in August and so the most of the city shuts down.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Volkanikz

Rome

The mythical city of Rome is a very close third in the list, with its historic architecture, spectacular food and sleek and stylish locals. The beautiful array of dazzling churches and inspiring museums and galleries mean there is plenty to see here, if of course you can drag yourself away from the numerous cafés and restaurants all offering mouth-watering treats. Be sure to try as many various flavours of the gelato as you possibly can! Although most tourists travel to Rome for the history, it is also a very fast-paced and modern city.

Photo by admin

London

One of the busiest modern cities in Europe, London beats with the lifeblood of countless generations. It was once said that no man could ever tire of London and this is true. By day, take your time strolling around Covent Garden or shopping on Oxford Street, visit the many galleries and museums and maybe have a picnic in Hyde Park or afternoon tea in the Dorchester. By night, head to Soho and sample the vibrant and slightly alternative nightlife!

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by edwin.11

Prague

Prague is a picturesque and magical city that has survived so many attacks upon it over the past 1100 years. Wander down the narrow streets and marvel at the churches, the statue-lined bridges and the daunting hilltop castle that make this a fairytale place. English isn’t always spoken language here, though, so keep a phrase book with you in case of emergencies.

Photo by admin

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by davidd

Las Ramblas gets its name from a stream that used to run in the same path before the area was developed in the 16th century. Numerous bars and cafes are lined along the boulevard, and the boulevard itself is lined with large, shady trees. Mercat de la Boqueria is a colourful market that’s reputed to be one of the best in the world. The Erotica Museum and the Wax Museum on Las Ramblas are both fascinating places to pass a bit of time.

Las Ramblas is a crowded, popular tourist attraction, so paying attention to personal safety is advised for those visiting the street. Pickpockets and scam artists are somewhat plentiful, and some areas are best avoided after dark. Experienced travellers realize, however, that these things are fairly common in many of the world’s best cities, and that a bit of caution can go a long way towards ensuring personal safety.

Bus services in Barcelona are excellent, and Las Ramblas can easily be accessed from any part of the city. It is advised not to obtain lodgings along Las Ramblas itself if the traveller desires a quiet place to sleep, but those who are looking for fun nightlife will find many suitable accommodations along the boulevard.

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