So you managed to find yourself in Spain, land of sun, olives and oranges. There really could be worse places in the world to be. What does a lonely traveler do in Spain, especially a lonely traveler with a backpacker’s budget?
1. Hike the Camino
If you hiked into Spain there is a good chance that you probably followed one of the many trails that link up with the Camino do Santiago. This trail is over 1000 years old and is traced back to St. James’ bones being found and interred at the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. People would hike this trail to receive forgiveness for their sins. Hiking the trail is free, but expect to pay a minimal fee for lodging and food along the way. This hike is not for the frivolous adventurer, but is worth it if you have the time.
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2. Sunbathe nude on the Costa Del Sol
Should you find yourself down on the southern coast of Spain, you really ought to consider losing the tan lines. This place offers ample sun and the opportunity to strip it all off. For those of you who are shy, don’t worry as many places have privacy blinds in place (for a small fee). Remember, don’t forget the sunscreen!
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3. Get some culture with free museum entry
Most museums in Spain offer free admission on different days of the week,and others on different holidays throughout the year. Here are a few we recommend:
4. Semana Santa in Sevilla
If you happen to be in Sevilla around Easter, you’ll get to enjoy Holy week, Sevilla style. Around this time of year the locals pull out all the lifelike wooden sculptures representing individual scenes of the events of the Passion or images of Mary. What makes these sculptures unique is that they are old artistic masterpieces. The activities in Sevilla are not just limited to the sculptures, but also plenty of food and respectful reveling is to be had. If you are deeply religious, this place will move you. If you’re not, the atmosphere is entrancing. Best of all, it’s free.
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5. Learn Spanish by chatting up the locals
If you are like many tourists in Spain, you won’t have much ability to speak Spanish outside of the Gracias, Si, No, and Buenos Dias. What better way to brush up on language lessons than to find some local bilingual guy or gal and strike up a conversation. Believe it or not, most locals are more than willing to practice Spanish with you as they appreciate you are taking an interest in their country. This same principle applies world-wide.
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6. Hiking the Sierra Nevada National Park
If you trekked the Camino and want to do some back country hiking in a beautiful area, check out the Sierra Nevada National Park. This park features a bountiful variety of different features. It has the highest mountains in the country and a wide array of flora and fauna. Enjoy beautiful views and an excuse to relax while enjoying nature.
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7. Sabatini gardens in Madrid
The Sabatini gardens are part of the royal palace in Madrid and are available for us to explore due to King Juan Carlos I opening them to the public in 1978. Although the palace requires a small entrance fee, the gardens are open to explore. They are well worth the time as they feature perfectly manicured hedges and trees arranged in wild geometric patterns and a massive pool with fountains. The gardens also provide a history lesson of Spain with statues of the Spanish kings displayed throughout.
8. Ramblas, Boqueria market and Plaça Reial in Barcelona
Being one of the most famous streets in Barcelona, Placa Reial features enough free activities to keep even the most ADD person entertained for hours. This street is loaded with performers, shops, bars, and cafes. If nothing else being the most popular, it also offers a great opportunity for people watching if that’s your thing.
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9. Free wine and olive oil tastings
If there is anything that Spain is good at, it’s growing grapes and olives to make wine or olive oil. The countryside is littered with vineyards and olive plantations. Should you ever want to try some free wine or olive oil, stop by and ask for a taste. They would be more than happy to let you sample their product while giving you some history to the process and farm. We know this is a free guide but if you can spare it, we suggest supporting the local economy and buying something even something small. If you can’t afford anything, we suggest waiting until an open house is offered and attending. The mass of people will hide your scarf and run activities 🙂
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10. The Spanish Mint:Madrid, Spain
Should you ever end up in Madrid with no dough you can at least stop by the mint and look at some. Free to the public all the time, it features all things currency from the history, to production, and eventual distribution. You can only hope a display is left unlocked.
We hope you enjoyed our top ten list of free things that don’t suck in Spain. Do keep in mind however that this list is just the tip of the iceberg. We suggest keeping your eyes open and ears to the ground. Free things are everywhere. Most restaurants offer free samples and as the Flying Lizards said in their song Money: The Best Things in Life are Free.
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