Backpacking Barcelona (The Definite Budget Guide)

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Find your Perfect Hostel in Barcelona

Barcelona is a fantastic destination for backpackers – it offers a bit of everything: sunny Mediterranean beaches, world-famous architecture, vibrant nightlife, and a lively hostel scene. The city’s mix of Gaudí’s surreal buildings, historic Gothic alleys, and bustling tapas bars draws all kinds of travelers.

In fact, Barcelona is often a must-stop on the backpacker trail – “from art lovers to partying budget backpackers, everyone seems to end up in Barcelona.”

Its popularity means it can get crowded in peak season, but it also means you’ll find plenty of fellow travelers and affordable options geared toward budget explorers.

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Budget & Estimated Daily Costs

Cost-wise, Barcelona is moderately priced – not the cheapest in Europe, but not as expensive as London or Paris.

It “isn’t cheap, but it isn’t terribly expensive either.”

As a backpacker, you should plan on spending somewhere in the range of €50-80 per day on a tight budget, which covers dorm bed accommodation, local food, and basic sightseeing.

Many travel guides estimate about €70-95/day for a comfortable budget traveler, but frugal travelers can manage around €50 or less by sticking to free activities, cheap eats, and dorm rooms.

In extreme cases (couchsurfing, cooking all meals, etc.), some have gotten by on as little as $30 a day (around €27). Overall, Barcelona rewards smart budgeting – a little planning will let you enjoy the city’s highlights without breaking the bank.

Typical Daily Expenses

Accommodation (Hostel Dorm Bed): Approximately €20–€35 per night. Many hostels include free breakfast.

Food: Approximately €15–€30 per day.

Breakfast: €0–€5 (often free at hostels or a coffee & croissant for a few euros).

Lunch: €5–€10 (look for a menú del día lunch special or a bakery sandwich).

Dinner: €7–€15 (takeaway, casual tapas, or cooking your own meal).

Bonus snacks such as gelato, empanadas, or a beer from the supermarket for €1–€3.

Local Transportation: €0–€5. Public transit is affordable with a single ride costing around €2.40, or multi-ride cards reducing the per-ride cost to around €1.13.

Attractions: €0–€15 per day. Many sights are free or inexpensive, with budget options for museums and Gaudí sites.

Entertainment & Extras: €5–€15, which might include a couple of drinks, an ice-cream, nightlife entry fees, or small souvenirs.

Overall, around €50-60/day is a realistic shoestring budget, whereas spending €70+ a day allows for a few more comforts.

Money-Saving Tips

Travel off-peak: Visit during shoulder seasons or winter to snag better deals on accommodation and attractions.

Stay in hostels or consider Couchsurfing: These options are budget-friendly and offer opportunities to meet fellow travelers.

Short and crisp: The Best Hostels in Barcelona

1. Pension Mari-Luz - best for Family-Friendly Hostel, Quiet Rest, Solo Traveller
2. Kabul Party Hostel - best for Party Hostel, Solo Traveller
3. Itaca Hostel - best for Family-Friendly Hostel, Quiet Rest
4. Feetup Garden House Hostel - best for Family-Friendly Hostel, Solo Traveller
5. Be Ramblas Hotel

Pension Mari-Luz

8.8

"…Great location - Everything was fine, the room was a bit small, but actually you don't need bigger more

Kabul Party Hostel

8.8

Gothic Quarter

"…There was a fabulous tour of the Gothic quarter given by this funny and cute girl named Jo. One of more

from

$20.53

Itaca Hostel

9.1

Gothic Quarter

"…There are only a few rooms and they are spacious, with bunkbeds and medium size lockers. The more

from

$18.41

Feetup Garden House Hostel

8.4

"…the building is very unique and cool, the staff is really nice, and i love how theres a place to more

Be Ramblas Hotel

8.7

"…Very good security. Location a winner - Stayed in a private 2 bed room with aircon -- good value more

from

$39.60

Cook and picnic when possible: Take advantage of hostel kitchens or local markets to save on meals.

Big lunch, small dinner: Enjoy the fixed-price lunch menus (menú del día) for great value, then opt for lighter dinners.

Take advantage of free activities and free museum days: Plan your schedule to hit free entry times.

Walk or use transit passes: Explore on foot when possible and purchase multi-ride cards to save on transport.

Refill your water bottle: Barcelona’s tap water is safe, so use a refillable bottle to avoid buying bottled water.

Watch your nightlife spending: Set a budget and seek out happy hours or hostel events to keep costs low.

Where to Stay

Barcelona’s diverse neighborhoods offer something for every type of backpacker. Consider these areas:

Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic): The heart of the Old City, full of medieval streets, historic plazas, and nightlife. Be mindful of noise and pickpockets in crowded areas.

El Raval: A bohemian area with edgy street art, hip bars, and a vibrant cultural scene. It’s central and popular, though some parts remain gritty at night.

El Born (La Ribera): Artsy and historic, offering a mix of local life and tourist highlights with trendy cafés and boutiques.

Gràcia: A hip, local neighborhood with a village-like atmosphere, cozy squares, and slightly cheaper accommodation. It’s ideal for those seeking an authentic experience away from the main hustle.

Eixample: Known for its modern grid layout and proximity to Gaudí attractions, it offers a balance between charm and convenience.

Poble Sec/Sants: More residential areas that provide a local feel and budget-friendly options, with Poble Sec known for its excellent tapas scene.

When choosing a hostel, consider the price, reviews, location near public transport, available facilities, and the social atmosphere. Look for features such as free breakfast, communal kitchens, secure storage, and 24-hour reception for a comfortable stay.

Getting Around Barcelona on a Budget

Barcelona is a large city, but it’s well-connected and very walkable in the central areas. Here are your options:

Walking

Many of the city’s highlights are clustered in or around the center. Walk through the Gothic Quarter, along La Rambla, or enjoy the beachfront. This is not only free but also a great way to discover hidden gems.

Public Transportation

Barcelona’s metro and bus network is affordable and efficient. Key options include:

• Single tickets: Approximately €2.40 per ride.
• Multi-ride cards: For example, a 10-ride card that reduces the per-ride cost significantly.
• Unlimited passes: Such as the Hola BCN Pass for unlimited travel over consecutive days.
• Airport transport: Options include the train, bus, or Aerobús shuttle, depending on your budget and convenience.

Biking

Biking is a fun and affordable way to see the city. Daily bike rentals are available for around €10-15, and many hostels offer deals. Barcelona also has dedicated bike lanes and a bike-friendly layout.

Best Free & Budget-Friendly Attractions

Barcelona offers many attractions that won’t break your budget:

Iconic Free Attractions

Las Ramblas & Gothic Quarter: Enjoy the historic streets, plazas, and free sights like the exterior of the Barcelona Cathedral.

Barceloneta Beach: A beautiful, free-access beach perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching.

Parc Güell (Free Areas): Wander the free areas of Gaudí’s park for panoramic views of the city.

Montjuïc Hill: Explore gardens, viewpoints, and cultural sites. Some areas, like the outer walls of Montjuïc Castle, are free.

Ciutadella Park: Relax in this vibrant city park, a perfect spot for picnics and street performances.

Free Walking Tours: Join tip-based walking tours to get an insider’s view of the city’s history and culture.

Museum Free Hours: Many museums offer free entry during specific hours or on certain days (check schedules in advance).

Historic Churches & Markets: Admire the stunning architecture and vibrant local markets at no cost.

Bunkers del Carmel: Enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the city from these former Civil War bunkers.

Low-Cost Must-Visit Attractions

Sagrada Família: Admire Gaudí’s masterpiece from the outside for free or opt for an interior tour (tickets around €26-33).

Park Güell’s Monumental Zone: A ticket (~€10) is required for the famous mosaic terrace, though free areas are available.

Casa Batlló / Casa Milà (La Pedrera): Appreciate these architectural wonders from the outside or visit alternative Gaudí sites with lower fees.

Museu Picasso: Entry is around €12, with free hours available on certain days.

Barcelona Cathedral: Entry fees apply during peak hours, but the exterior and cloister are free to admire.

Cable Car Rides: Optional aerial views of the city (around €14-20 round-trip) if you wish to splurge a little.

FC Barcelona Camp Nou Tour: For football fans, tours cost around €26, or simply admire the stadium from outside.

Palau de la Música Catalana: Guided tours or performance tickets offer a glimpse into this stunning Modernist hall.

Day Trips: Consider trips to Montserrat, Sitges, Girona, or Figueres with train/bus fares in the €10-20 range.

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This is the overall best rated hostel in Onefam Paralelo. The overall rating is 9.7. You cannot go wrong here.

It is your safest bet in case you are not sure which hostel to pick.

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Food & Drink on a Budget

Eating Cheaply

Markets and Supermarkets: Stock up on fresh produce, pastries, or ready-to-eat items at chains like Mercadona, Carrefour, Lidl, or Dia.

Bakeries: Enjoy croissants, ensaimadas, or bocadillos at very affordable prices.

Menú del Día: Take advantage of fixed-price lunch menus available at many local eateries for a filling meal.

Tapas on a Budget: Sample pintxos and small bites for around €1-2 each, especially in areas known for budget tapas.

Ethnic Eateries & Street Food: Explore diverse culinary options from kebabs and shawarma to Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Cooking at Your Hostel: Save money by preparing meals in shared kitchens.

Drinks & Nightlife

Backpacker Bars & Happy Hours: Look for bars offering discounted drinks during early evening hours.

Pre-gaming (Botellón): Save by having drinks at your accommodation or public areas before heading out.

Pub Crawls: Join organized pub crawls for a fixed fee to enjoy multiple venues with discounts.

Club Guestlists and Early Entry: Sign up for free or reduced entry options by arriving early or using guestlists.

Local Drinks: Choose local beer, vermouth, or cava to keep costs down.

Free or Low-cost Entertainment: Enjoy free concerts, festivals, or street performances that happen throughout the city.

Experiences for Backpackers

Beyond sightseeing, Barcelona offers a range of experiences to help you truly immerse yourself in the local culture:

Free Walking Tours: Join tours that offer historical insights and local legends on a tip-based system.

Social Nights: Take part in hostel events, pub crawls, and other social gatherings to meet fellow travelers.

Bike Tours or City Rides: Rent a bike for a guided tour or explore on your own to cover more ground.

Beach Hangs & Sports: Join a game of volleyball, yoga sessions, or simply relax by the sea.

Cultural Experiences: Attend flamenco shows, witness castellers (human towers), or even join a cooking class.

Free Music and Festivals: Look for open-air concerts and street festivals during the summer months.

Unique Tours: Explore street art or alternative city tours that delve into Barcelona’s underground culture.

Day Trips with Friends: Organize group outings to nearby attractions such as Montserrat or the Costa Brava.

Volunteer or Meetup: Engage in language exchanges or volunteer opportunities to experience local life.

Suggested Itinerary for 3-5 Days

This flexible itinerary covers Barcelona’s highlights while keeping budget concerns in mind. Feel free to adapt it to your interests and pace.

Day 1: Old City Exploration & Icons

1. Morning: Start with a free walking tour of the Gothic Quarter and El Born to discover major historical spots and local stories.
2. Lunch: Grab a menú del día or quick bites from a local market.
3. Afternoon: Stroll down La Rambla to the waterfront, relax at Barceloneta Beach, and visit Sagrada Família (from the outside or with a pre-booked interior tour).
4. Evening: Walk to Passeig de Gràcia to admire Casa Batlló and Casa Milà as they light up at night. Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner before joining a relaxed evening at a local plaza or hostel pub crawl.

Day 2: Gaudí and City Views

1. Morning: Visit Park Güell early to enjoy both the free areas and the Monumental Zone if you wish.
2. Late Morning: Explore the Gràcia neighborhood, perhaps with a stop for coffee or brunch.
3. Lunch: Enjoy a menú del día or local market fare.
4. Afternoon: Head to the Bunkers del Carmel for panoramic city views and a relaxed picnic.
5. Evening: Enjoy sunset at the Bunkers, followed by tapas hopping in Poble Sec and, if desired, a visit to the Magic Fountain show.

Day 3: Montjuïc, Museums & Beach Chill

1. Morning: Explore Montjuïc Hill using the funicular or bus, and wander through its gardens and cultural sites.
2. Midday: Visit the MNAC for its impressive exterior and rooftop views (or take advantage of free entry times).
3. Lunch: Enjoy a meal in nearby neighborhoods such as Poble Sec or the Sant Antoni area.
4. Afternoon: Relax at a less crowded beach or explore El Born’s museums and boutiques.
5. Evening: Conclude with a sunset stroll in the Gothic Quarter and a farewell tapas dinner or hostel event.

Days 4-5 (Optional Extensions)

• Day Trip to Montserrat: Visit the monastery and hike the surrounding trails.
• Day Trip to Girona or Figueres: Explore medieval architecture and art museums.
• Beach Day in Sitges: Enjoy the charm of a seaside town a short train ride away.
• More Museums/Neighborhoods: Discover areas like Poblenou or Sarrià and revisit your favorite spots.

7 Hidden Gemz in Barcelona (by Hostelgeeks)

How it works

Additional Tips & Final Thoughts

Best Time to Visit: Consider shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October) for fewer crowds and lower prices. Winter can also be an option for budget travelers, except during major holidays.

Booking in Advance: Reserve your hostel and major attraction tickets ahead of time to secure discounts and avoid queues.

Avoid Tourist Traps: Steer clear of overpriced restaurants and aggressive vendors by venturing a few blocks away from major sites.

Safety First: Remain vigilant against pickpockets, especially in crowded areas. Keep your valuables secure and be cautious with unofficial taxi offers.

Cultural Respect: Learn a few basic Catalan phrases and dress modestly when visiting churches.

Stay Hydrated & Rested: Carry a refillable water bottle and take breaks to enjoy the local atmosphere.

Enjoy the Experience: Balance busy sightseeing days with relaxed moments to truly absorb the city’s vibrant culture.

Barcelona is a city that leaves an impression. From the first time you hear street musicians in the Gothic Quarter to the magic of a sunset over the Mediterranean, every moment is memorable. Pack your backpack, learn a few local phrases, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in the Catalan capital.

Bon viatge!

Backpacking Barcelona? Here’s What You Need to Know

These are the guides I wish I had before visiting. I’ve been there, had fun, did some minor mistakes, and now I’m passing the best tips on to you. Safe travels!

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About the author: Anna Kiefer

My travels have taken me from the vibrant streets of Vietnam to the tranquil beauty of Spain, each destination adding a new chapter to my journey. For me, travel isn’t about counting countries or ticking off lists; it’s about the freedom it brings and the stories that unfold with each new adventure. At Hostelgeeks, my goal is to infuse our brand with this sense of freedom and discovery.

Whether it’s finding the perfect 5 Star Hostel or sharing a hidden gem in a bustling city, I’m here to ensure that our travelers get more than just a journey – they get an experience that resonates with the joy of exploration and the freedom of the open road.