Travel Spain on a budget: top day trips for under €30 this summer!

Are you ready for an amazing travel experience in Spain this summer? Don’t let a tight budget hold you back!

Spain is filled with breathtaking destinations that you can explore without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we’ll uncover the top day trips you can take from major cities, all for under €30 – round trip! So grab your travel buddies, hop on a bus or train, and get ready for an incredible journey through Spain!

Barcelona to Lloret de Mar: Sun, Sand, and Fun!

Ticket Price: from €15

Bus Trip Duration: 1 hour

Bus Companies: Sarbus Sarfa

Just an hour away from the vibrant city of Barcelona lies Lloret de Mar, a coastal paradise waiting to be explored. With its pristine beaches, exciting water sports, and vibrant nightlife, Lloret de Mar has something for everyone. Here are a few free things you can do in Lloret de Mar:

1. Spend a day sunbathing on the beautiful beaches like Fenals Beach or Santa Cristina Beach.
2. Explore the charming Old Town and discover its narrow streets and historic buildings.
3. Take a leisurely walk along the coastal path, Camino de Ronda, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

Hop on a comfortable Sarbus Sarfa bus and let the sea breeze sweep you away. Enjoy a day of sun, sand, and unforgettable memories!

 

Barcelona to Tarragona: A Journey through History and Culture

Barcelona to Tarragona by Bus  

Bus Ticket Price: from €11 – 1h35 duration with ALSA or Plana

Barcelona to Tarragona by Train

Train trip: Price: from €9, 34-minute trip with Renfe

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of Tarragona. This ancient Roman city is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders, including the impressive Roman amphitheater and the iconic Tarragona Cathedral. Explore the charming narrow streets, indulge in local delicacies, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere, and make sure to check out these free activities in Tarragona:

1. Walk the Camí de Ronda, a route that combines natural and historic beauties
2. Take a walk along the Balcony of the Mediterranean for panoramic views of the coastline.
3. Visit La Rambla Nova and the Casco Antiguo de Tarragona to get a glimpse of how the locals live.

Whether you choose to travel by bus or train, both options offer a convenient and affordable way to reach this cultural gem.

Read also: The complete guide to high-speed train travel in Spain

Bilbao to San Sebastian: Where Gastronomy Meets Natural Beauty

Bus Ticket Price: from €8

Trip Duration: 1h10

Bus Company: ALSA

For food enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, a day trip from Bilbao to San Sebastian is a must! The city is famous for its pintxos, the famous Basque tapas, and for the picturesque charm of its Old Town. Marvel at the breathtaking views from Mount Urgull or relax on the stunning beaches. Here are free things you can’t miss while in Sebastian:

1. Relax on beautiful beaches like La Concha or Zurriola Beach.
2. Explore the picturesque Old Town and indulge in pintxos (Basque tapas) at the local bars.
3. Hike up Mount Urgull for stunning views of the city and the sea.
4. Visit the iconic San Sebastian Cathedral and enjoy its peaceful surroundings.

With ALSA buses providing a budget-friendly and comfortable ride, you can savor every moment of this culinary and coastal adventure.

Pamplona to San Sebastian: From Bull Runs to Coastal Delights

Bus Ticket Price: from €9

Trip Duration: 1h5

Bus Company: Conda

Traveling between the cheerful city of Pamplona and the thrilling San Sebastian is easy and fast. The two cities are a delightful mix of culture and natural beauty. Thanks to Conda buses, you can hop on board and make the most of your day trip without breaking the bank.

While in Pamplona, make sure to:

1. Wander through the historic streets of the Old Town and admire the medieval architecture.
2. Visit the Plaza del Castillo, the main square, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
3. Explore the city’s fortified walls and enjoy panoramic views of Pamplona.

Read also: 10 tips and tricks to explore Spainby bus

Madrid to Valencia: Sun-Kissed Beaches and Vibrant Culture

Train Ticket Price: from €10

Trip Duration: 1h49

Train Companies: Renfe, Iryo or OUIGO

If you book your train tickets early, you can find train tickets for as little as €10 for to travel from Madird’s bustling city vibe to the Mediterranean shores of Valencia. The day trip from Madrid to Valencia is a perfect summer escape. While in Valencia, stay on budget by taking part in these free activities.

1. Explore the City of Arts and Sciences and admire the futuristic architecture (entrance to certain buildings requires a ticket).
2. Visit the Turia Gardens, a beautiful park that used to be a riverbed.
3. Take a walk through the charming Barrio del Carmen and discover its narrow streets and vibrant street art.
4. Relax on the sandy beaches of Malvarrosa or El Cabanyal.

With several train options available, including Renfe, Iryo, and OUIGO, you can enjoy a seamless journey at an affordable price – as long as you plan ahead!

Sevilla to Cordoba: A Glimpse into Andalusia’s Majestic Past

Ticket Price: from €15

Trip Duration: 1h45

Bus Company: ALSA

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Cordoba, a city steeped in history and architectural wonders. Soak up the enchanting Andalusian ambiance with these free activities:

1. Wander through the streets of the Jewish Quarter and discover its enchanting beauty.
2. Visit the Roman Bridge and enjoy picturesque views of the Guadalquivir River.
3. Explore the charming patios (courtyards) of Cordoba during the Patio Festival in May (entrance to some patios may require a small fee).

With ALSA buses offering a convenient connection between Sevilla and Cordoba, you can explore this cultural gem without straining your budget.

Read also: The best bus routes in Spain for scenic views

Sevilla to Huelva: Beaches, Nature, and Coastal Bliss

Ticket Price: from €11

Trip Duration: 1h15

Bus Company: Damas

Escape the city heat and embrace the refreshing coastal charm of Huelva. With its golden beaches, stunning nature reserves, and fresh seafood, Huelva is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy these free things to do in Huelva:

1. Take a walk along the promenade and enjoy the sea breeze.
2. Explore the historic center of Huelva and admire the architecture of the Casa Colón.
3. Visit the Muelle del Tinto, a historic pier, and enjoy views of the Odiel River.
4. Take a relaxing stroll through the Parque Moret and immerse yourself in nature.

Board a Damas bus in Sevilla, sit back, and let the scenic landscapes guide you to a day of relaxation and bliss by the sea.

Granada to Malaga: Moorish Beauty and Coastal Delights

Ticket Price: from €14

Trip duration: 1h30

Bus Company: ALSA

Combine the allure of Moorish architecture with the stunning beaches of the Costa del Sol on a day trip from Granada to Malaga. Savor the vibrant atmosphere of Malaga’s without breaking the bank with these free activities:

1. Visit the Malaga Cathedral and admire its magnificent architecture. Access is free from 8h30 to 9am, Monday to Saturday.
2. Take a stroll along the Paseo del Parque, a beautiful park with lush greenery and fountains.
3. Explore the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress, and enjoy panoramic views of the city (entrance requires a ticket, but the exterior can be admired for free).
4. Relax on the beaches of Malagueta or Pedregalejo.

ALSA buses offer a budget-friendly option to reach this enchanting coastal destination. From Malaga, you can reach other beautiful beach cities in the Costa del Sol region, with some of the best shores in the country.

Read also: Slow traveling in Spain: see the best routes

Madrid to Toledo: A Historic Journey Back in Time

Madrid to Toledo bus

Bus ticket price: from €7 – 1 hour trips with ALSA

Madrid to Toledo train

Train ticket price: from €15 – 30 minute trip with Renfe

Take a step into Spain’s past with a day trip from Madrid to Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Opt for a budget-friendly bus ride with Alsa or a quick train journey with Renfe, both offering convenient options to experience the magic of this historic city. While in the city, don’t miss these free attractions:

1. Wander through the winding streets of the Old Town and soak up the medieval atmosphere.
2. Visit the Plaza de Zocodover, the main square, and watch the lively happenings.
3. Explore the city walls and enjoy panoramic views of Toledo.
4. Admire the stunning architecture of the Toledo Cathedral from the outside (entrance to the cathedral requires a ticket).

Book your bus or train tickets online with Busbud

In the realm of travel, convenience is key, and that’s where Busbud shines. When planning your day trips in Spain, Busbud is your ultimate ally.

With just a few clicks, you can effortlessly book your train or bus tickets, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey. Busbud’s user-friendly platform provides a comprehensive selection of routes, schedules, and prices, allowing you to find the best options that fit your budget and preferences.

In over 80 countries, Busbud is your go-to place for reliable and convenient ticket booking. So pack your bags, put on your explorer hat, and get ready to discover the beauty and diversity of Spain this summer!