Spain stands as a coveted travel destination for Indian travelers because of its abundant historical legacy and lively cultural scene and breathtaking natural scenery. However, what is the actual cost of visiting Spain? Let us analyze the expenses involved in visiting Spain while discovering ways to enjoy the country affordably.
✈️ Flights from India to Spain
The cost of round-trip flights from Delhi, Mumbai, or Bengaluru to Madrid or Barcelona in Spain usually falls between ₹40,000 and ₹70,000 because of seasonal variations and advance booking opportunities. You can find better flight prices by booking early and supporting flexible travel dates.
🛂 Visa and Travel Insurance
Spanish entry for Indian citizens mandates a Schengen visa. The cost of the visa stands at ₹7,200 while travel insurance expenses range between ₹1,500 and ₹3,000 based on the selected coverage and travel period.
Accommodation Costs
Spain provides diverse types of accommodations that cater to different financial plans:
•Hostels: The price for dormitory beds varies between €20 and €40 each night.
•Budget Hotels: The nightly rate for budget hotels stands between €50 and €80.
•Mid-range Hotels: The cost for mid-range hotel accommodations varies between €90 and €150 for each night.
•Luxury Hotels: Exclusive hotel accommodations start at €200 for every night of stay.
Food and Dining
Spain holds a reputation for its exceptional food culture. The following dining options exist in the country:
•Budget Meals: Local eateries offer meals for €10 to €15.
•Mid-range Restaurants: A three-course meal may cost around €25 to €40.
•Tapas Bars: Small dishes priced between €3 to €5 each.
Restaurants provide a “menu del día” which serves as an affordable fixed-price lunch option that helps you save money.
Transportation
Spain's public transportation system provides efficient and low-cost options to its users:
•Metro/Bus: The price of single tickets ranges from €1.50 to €2.50.
•Train Travel: The Spain Rail Pass enables multiple trips with a starting price of €183 for four journeys.
•Car Rentals: Daily rental prices begin at €30 but do not include fuel costs and insurance.
Traveling within cities works best with the purchase of travel cards or passes which allow unlimited rides for designated periods.
Sightseeing and Activities
Spain has a wide range of attractions to explore:
• Museums: The cost of admission varies between €5 and €15.
• Historical Sites: The Alhambra and Sagrada Familia among other famous sites charge admission fees that fall between €15 and €30.
• Free Attractions: Cities provide complimentary walking tours along with specific days when museums do not charge admission.
Making advance plans to buy tickets enables visitors to bypass lengthy waiting times and occasionally receive reduced prices.
Daily Budget Estimates
Based on different travel styles:
•Budget Traveller: €50 to €70 per day.
•Mid-range Traveller: Around €100 to €150 per day.
•Luxury Traveller: €200 and above per day.
The provided estimates cover the costs of accommodation, meals, transportation, and sightseeing activities.
Money-Saving Tips
•Travel Off-Season: Spring and autumn seasons offer reduced prices along with decreased visitor numbers.
•Stay in Hostels or Budget Hotels: These establishments typically offer complimentary breakfast services along with kitchen amenities.
•Use Public Transport: Public transportation offers a more affordable option while offering authentic local experiences.
•Cook or Eat Local: Preparing meals at home and buying from local markets helps to reduce expenses.
•Free Attractions: Make use of complimentary museum admissions and city tour options available to the public.
India budget travellers will find these free or inexpensive activities and places to visit in Spain suitable for their needs.
1. Discover Spanish Plazas
•Every Spanish city and town feature a central plaza (square) including Plaza Mayor in Madrid and Plaça de Catalunya in Barcelona.
•Accessible without charge and perfect for observing people and street performers while experiencing local atmosphere.
2. Visit Free Museums & Monuments (On Certain Days)
• Many museums provide complimentary admission during particular days or times:
• Prado Museum (Madrid): Free entry 6–8 PM (Mon–Sat) and Sundays 5–7 PM.
• Museu Picasso (Barcelona): Free admission available on Thursdays starting from 4 PM and during the first Sunday of each month.
• Alhambra Gardens (Granada): Access to the outer gardens typically remains free or available at a minimal cost.
3. Take a Free Walking Tour
•Cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Granada provide free walking tours which accept tips as a form of appreciation.
•The local guides provide these tours which offer an excellent opportunity to discover historical facts and local legends and secret locations.
4. Visit Parks and Natural Spaces
• Retiro Park (Madrid) allows visitors to enter without charge while providing boat rides and displaying sculptures.
• Ciutadella Park (Barcelona) features a green landscape complete with fountains and walking paths and a lake.
• The main area of Parque Güell requires payment to enter yet visitors can access most of the park without charge.
5. Enjoy Spanish Beaches
• Public beaches in Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga, Ibiza and other locations provide beautiful coastal experiences.
• You can enjoy free activities such as relaxing, sunbathing, swimming and picnicking.
6. Attend Local Festivals
• Public access to many local festivals allows visitors to experience authentic cultural celebrations without charge:
• La Tomatina (Buñol) requires a small entry fee for participants.
• Semana Santa (Holy Week) features free public processions during the celebration.
• Feria de Abril (Seville) highlights music, dancing, and local cultural elements.
7. Visit Local Markets
La Boqueria in Barcelona and Mercado San Miguel in Madrid offer free entry with affordable local delicacies for tasting.
The experience offers a budget-friendly opportunity to learn about Spanish culture while enjoying snacks.
8. Climb Viewpoints and Hills
You can take a cable car to Montjuïc in Barcelona but walking up the hill remains free and offers beautiful views.
The Park of the Debod Temple in Madrid offers excellent sunset views without any admission charges.
1. City-Specific Budgets: Barcelona vs. Madrid
Barcelona (per day):
•Budget: ₹4,500–₹6,500 (€50–€70)
•Mid-range: ₹8,000–₹12,000 (€90–€130)
•Luxury: ₹15,000+ (€160+)
Madrid (per day):
•Budget: ₹4,000–₹6,000 (€45–€65)
•Mid-range: ₹7,000–₹11,000 (€85–€125)
•Luxury: ₹14,000+ (€150+)
Comparison Tip:
The cost of living in Madrid is lower than in Barcelona with respect to lodging and dining expenses.
2. Cultural Tips for Indian Travellers
• Mealtimes: In Spain, lunch starts at 2 PM and dinner begins after 9 PM. You will need to change your eating times.
• Greetings: In Spain, people typically greet with a handshake and two kisses on the cheek are exchanged between close friends.
• Tipping: You are not required to tip but it is customary to round up the bill or give a 5-10% tip.
• Modesty: While Spain keeps a liberal atmosphere, visitors should dress modestly when entering churches and religious sites.
• Sunday Closures: Most shops and restaurants use on limited hours during Sundays.
3. Best Time to Visit & Key Events
Best Seasons:
•Spring (March–May) and Autumn (Sept–Nov) – pleasant weather, fewer crowds.
•Avoid peak summer (June–August) if you’re on a budget — higher prices and hot weather.
Events:
•La Tomatina (August, Buñol)
•Semana Santa (Easter week, Seville and Malaga)
•Las Fallas (March, Valencia)
•Primavera Sound (May/June, Barcelona) – music festival
•Barcelona Beach Festival (July) – electronic music fest on the beach
4. Indian Food Availability in Spain
• Madrid:
• Tandoori Station, Swagat, Basmati
• Barcelona:
• Rangoli, Tandoor, Sindur
• Valencia & Seville: Major cities maintain a limited selection of Indian restaurants which typically include vegetarian options.
Tip: If you are traveling on a budget then carrying ready-to-eat Indian meals or masala packets is advisable.
5. 7-Day Sample Itinerary for Indian Travellers
Day 1: Arrive in Madrid
• Rest, stroll around Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol.
• Optional: Flamenco show.
Day 2: Explore Madrid
• Visit Prado Museum, Retiro Park, Royal Palace.
• Try churros with hot chocolate.
Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo
• UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Historic cathedrals and sword-making shops.
Day 4: Travel to Barcelona (train)
• Check in and evening at Las Ramblas.
Day 5: Barcelona Highlights
• Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Batlló.
• Tapas dinner near the Gothic Quarter.
Day 6: Barcelona Free Day / Beach Time
• Barceloneta beach, shopping or explore Montjuïc.
• Optional: Camp Nou tour for football fans.
Day 7: Return / Optional Day Trip
• Half-day to Montserrat Monastery or wine tasting in Penedès.
Final Thoughts
With careful planning India travellers can visit Spain as an economical travel destination. The Spanish charm becomes affordable when you travel during the right season choose budget-friendly places to stay and engage with local culture.
Trawel Mart provides tailored travel packages and trip planning assistance for solo travellers couples and families who want to create their ideal Spain itinerary. Trawel Mart designs personalised travel packages that combine flights with accommodations and sightseeing activities and dining options which match your budget and travel preferences. Trawel Mart manages every aspect of your trip from Madrid and Barcelona to Andalusia's cultural heritage so you can enjoy a worry-free travel experience while creating lasting memories in Spain.
