How to Find Cheap Accommodation in Spain: 13 Budget-Friendly Tips (2026)

Spain can be cheap on so many levels.

Food, culture, beaches, nightlife.

But accommodation costs can creep up quickly.

Between flights, meals, entry fees, and souvenirs, your budget disappears faster than you'd think.

The upside? You don't need to spend big to sleep well. Spain is full of affordable places that still feel like a treat.

This is especially true if you pick one of the more budget-friendly cities in Spain.

In cities, hostels and guesthouses often have private rooms at great rates. Along the coast, pensiones and seaside apartments offer value without the premium price.

In the countryside, rural B&Bs and farm stays give you space to breathe and room to save.

No matter where you're headed, there's a comfortable option that won't empty your wallet.

Cheapest Places to Stay in Spain: Beyond Hotels

Sure, hotels are convenient, but they're often the priciest option in Spain. If you're looking for cheap accommodation in Spain, these alternatives offer better value without sacrificing comfort.

Here are some alternatives:

• Hostels: These aren't just for gap-year backpackers anymore. Many hostels in Spain offer private rooms that rival hotel comfort but at a fraction of the price. Plus, you get the chance to meet fellow travellers, and some even throw in a free breakfast. Not a bad deal.

• Guesthouses & Pensions: Spain is dotted with family-run guesthouses that give you a homey vibe at a lower cost. Some are basic, but others feel almost boutique, minus the hefty price tag.

• Short-Term Rentals: Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo can be treasure troves and fantastic options for budget stays, especially if you're travelling with friends or planning a longer visit. Having a kitchen is a bonus, as you can save by cooking a few meals yourself.

• Student Housing: Here's a trick not many people think of: University residences. Outside of summer, many universities rent out student housing to travellers. It's basic but clean, safe, and super affordable. Just search for "residencia universitaria" in the city you're visiting.

• Camping or Glamping Site: If you're up for something a little different, camping in Spain can be an affordable and fun option. Many campsites along the coast or in the countryside offer basic to more luxurious amenities. Glamping (glamorous camping) has become quite popular in recent years. You get the charm of the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Many glamping sites are in stunning locations, often close to nature reserves or beaches.

Check Out Local Booking Sites

The big-name booking platforms are handy, but they don't always have the best prices.

Spanish-specific sites like Ruralka, Stay Unique, Spotahome, and Only-Apartments often feature lower rates on apartments, rural homes, and long-term stays.

Plus, booking directly through a hotel's website can sometimes snag you a better deal.

Stay Just Outside the City

If waking up in the heart of Madrid or Barcelona isn't a must, look at nearby towns or suburbs.

Spain's public transport system is top-notch, and a short train ride can save you a lot on accommodation.

Check out places like Getafe near Madrid, Badalona close to Barcelona, or Dos Hermanasoutside Seville. You'll still be near the action, just without the sky-high prices.

House Sitting and Work Exchanges

If you're open to watering a few plants or feeding a cat, house-sitting is a fantastic way to stay for free.

Platforms like TrustedHousesitters connect travellers with locals looking for someone to watch their home.

Another option? Work exchanges. Websites like Workaway and HelpX let you swap a few hours of work for room and board, from teaching English to helping out on a vineyard.

Travel Off-Season

This one's a game-changer. Prices in Spain can double (or triple) during peak season, especially along the coast.

Cheapest months: January and November offer the lowest hotel prices (averaging around €112/night).

Best value months: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-October) give you great weather, fewer crowds, and prices 30-50% lower than summer.

Avoid: August is the most expensive month, especially in coastal cities and islands. Prices can triple compared to winter rates.

If you can swing it, visit in spring or fall. You'll get better deals, fewer crowds, and weather that's still perfect for exploring. See our guide on the best time to visit Spain for more details.

Pick Up the Phone and Haggle

Not everything needs to be booked online.

Smaller guesthouses and family-run hotels sometimes offer discounts if you call or email them directly.

A little Spanish helps, but even a “¿Hay algún descuento por reservar directamente?” (Is there a discount for booking directly?) could save you some cash.

Consider Rural Tourism

If you're craving peace and quiet, rural tourism in Spain is a great budget-friendly choice.

Many rural towns or small villages offer charming stays in old farmhouses or cottages, often for a fraction of the price of city hotels. These places are perfect for relaxing or exploring the Spanish countryside.

Check out Local Host Families

In some regions of Spain, you can stay with local host families for a more authentic experience. Platforms like Homestay offer travellers the chance to live with locals, enjoy home-cooked meals, and get a glimpse of life in Spain. It's not only affordable but also a way to immerse yourself in the culture.

Book Last-Minute Deals

If your travel dates are flexible, you can find great deals by waiting until the last minute.

Apps likeHotelTonight or Lastminute.com offer discounted rates on unsold rooms, sometimes up to 70% off. Just keep an eye on the dates and be ready to act fast when a deal pops up.

Look for Volunteer Stays

If you don't mind lending a hand, some farms, hostels, and even local organisations in Spain offer free accommodation in exchange for a few hours of work.

It could be anything from helping on a farm to assisting with a local event.

Websites like WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) can connect you with opportunities across Spain.

Explore the Lesser-Known Islands

While the Balearic Islands (like Mallorca and Ibiza) are known for being pricey, there are smaller, less touristy islands that offer cheaper accommodation options.

Consider places like Menorca or Formentera, where you can still enjoy beautiful beaches and charming towns without the heavy price tag of more famous spots.

Stay in a Converted Boat

Especially in coastal cities like Barcelona, Valencia, or Cádiz, you can find a quirky and affordable stay in a converted boat or floating house.

These can offer the same comfort as an apartment but with a unique twist, and often at a lower cost than waterfront hotels.

It's a great way to be close to the sea without the premium price.

Cheapest Cities in Spain for Accommodation

Based on average hotel prices, here are the most budget-friendly cities:

Most affordable:

• Granada: The cheapest city for accommodation in Spain
• Alicante: Beach city with great budget options
• Zaragoza: Underrated and affordable
• Córdoba: Historic city with low prices

Good value:

• Valencia: Affordable compared to Barcelona/Madrid
• Seville: Reasonable prices with off-season deals
• Málaga: Budget-friendly beach city (see where to stay in Malaga)

More expensive (but still manageable):

• Barcelona: Priciest city, but deals exist in suburbs
• Madrid: Expensive but excellent transport makes suburbs viable
• San Sebastián: Premium prices, especially in summer

How Much Does Accommodation Cost in Spain?

Budget breakdown (per night, 2026 prices):

• Hostels: €15-40 (dorm beds: €15-25, private rooms: €30-40)
• 2-star hotels: From $33 (€30)
• 3-star hotels: From $37 (€34)
• 4-star hotels: From $72 (€66)
• Guesthouses/Pensiones: €25-50
• Airbnb/Apartments: €40-80 (better value for groups)
• Rural B&Bs: €35-60

Booking tip: Book 86+ days in advance to find rooms as low as €15/night.

Final Thoughts

Finding cheap accommodation in Spain isn't about luck.

It's about knowing where to look and being flexible. Whether staying just outside the city, opting for a hostel with private rooms, or embracing the off-season, there are plenty of ways to save.

The money you save on accommodation? That's more to spend on tapas and wine. And isn't that the point of visiting Spain, anyway?

For more money-saving tips, check out our guide on planning the perfect Spanish itinerary. And make sure you don't skip travel insurance for Spain before you go.