Top 10 affordable weekend breaks in Spain
If you are looking for the perfect short trip to Spain but are travelling on a budget, you will be glad to know that there are many affordable, lovely destinations in this country. Whether you prefer a countryside break to relax or a small city full of charm, the options are endless. Here are 10 destinations in Spain to enjoy a memorable journey without spending too much.
Cheapest weekend breaks in Spain
1. León: history, cuisine, and culture
León is the perfect city for a cultural journey. Its extraordinary Gothic cathedral is only one of its main incentives, which include its old town centre, the Barrio Húmedo, and its main square.
Besides, in León, tapas are always free and have the highest quality—a great example of one of the greatest cuisines in Spain. Besides, there are many things to see simply by walking around León’s capital, which is one of the most satisfying cheap destinations in Spain.
2. Cuenca: picturesque essence and natural charm
Although Cuenca is better known for its hanging houses, one of those symbols that characterise it, every corner in its town centre is filled with a unique flavour, where time seems to have stopped a long time ago.
Besides, Cuenca is as affordable as it is easy to access, and it sits near a natural environment that adds the perfect final touch to an unforgettable journey. A visit to the Ciudad Encantada or to the source of the Cuervo River is enough to spend a fulfilling weekend.
3. Plasencia, a journey back in time to the Middle Ages
A walk through the capital of High Extremadura brings the unique experience of a perfectly preserved mediaeval old town centre. Its cobblestone streets, its squares, and, obviously, the local cuisine, are as affordable as they are spectacular.
If you want to dive into this admirable area, Plasencia is a perfect starting point from where you can visit many other charming spots, such as the Ambroz Valley, the Jerte, or La Vera, just to name a few. You can relax in these rural regions for a very reasonable price.
4. Nature and beaches on the Costa Brava
Costa Brava is not just for the summer. The off-season is perfect for enjoying its coastal villages, such as Tossa de Mar and Cadaqués, and they are not as crowded or expensive as they are in the summer months.
Culture is also alive on the coast of Girona and its surroundings, and you should take your time to explore the Dalí triangle: a museum in Figueres, a house in Portlligat, and the castle of Púbol. There are many things to do on the Costa Brava beyond swimming in the sea.
5. Zaragoza: art and local lifestyle
The Aragonese capital has to be on this list of the best weekend trips in Spain. You can experience this city with little money, and it offers an incredibly outstanding artistic heritage. The famous and majestic Basilica of the Pillar is a must-see that takes every visitor’s breath away. Do not miss the Aljafería Palace and the Goya Museum.
And what about food? Walk around El Tubo, a layout of narrow streets in the old town centre, to dive into the main tapas area in the city. Its bars offer the tastiest local delicacies for very affordable prices.
6. Ronda: the Andalusian beauty of the mountains
Ronda is a must of the province of Málaga; it's one of those postcard-picture localities that you should see at least once. Its famous bridge over the Tajo de Ronda, its white houses, and the quiet atmosphere of its streets make this place the perfect destination to relax while on a budget.
We should highlight its bullfighting ring, as old as elegant, and the Casa Museo Don Bosco, an old mansion with beautiful gardens and views of its surroundings.
7. Gijón: culture and sea in Asturias
Gijón offers the perfect combination of cultural life and coastal charm. A walk around the Cimadevilla district is enough to fall in love with the Asturian city, a love that only grows stronger when you visit Chillida’s Elogio del Horizonte and that culminates in beaches like San Lorenzo.
On the other hand, the popular Asturian cuisine will not leave you indifferent: local cider houses offer the local gastronomical treasures for an affordable price. The hardest part? Staying here only for a weekend!
8. The majestic Salamanca
The ancient and majestic university town of Salamanca is one of those destinations you can’t take your eyes from. Its emblematic buildings shine every month of the year, including its Casa de las Conchas, its admirable urban palace (that dates back to the Catholic Monarch’s era), its two cathedrals, and its impressive main square.
But if that were not enough, Salamanca’s lively student life adds a very special touch to its streets. And let’s not forget about its cuisine, which comprises lots of delicious dishes: patatas revolconas or meneás, morucha beef, Guijuelo ham, hornazo...
9. The Alpujarras, peaceful corners in the Sierra Nevada
The Alpujarra of Granada sits on the southern area of the Sierra Nevada. It is an excellent option to enjoy a cheap break full of authentic rural flavour. Many villages, such as Pampaneira or Bubión, allow us to dive into the area's Moorish past and its breathtaking landscapes.
Accommodation isn’t too expensive, and the best thing to do in this area only requires a good pair of boots: exploring the mountains and their unforgettable views. The delicious plato alpujarreño will be the best final touch, a hearty comfort food.
10. Alicante, the sun of history
Alicante is considered a beach summer destination, but it is also perfect for spending one of those weekend trips that you will never forget. This place allows visitors to enjoy history and culture for little money, particularly in the old town centre and the Santa Bárbara Castle.
For the best final touch, you can try some of the local, cheap rice in any restaurant while enjoying one of the nicest climates in the country.
You can also read this article in Spanish here.