With its exciting cities, varied scenery and intriguing culture, Spain is a genuine delight for backpackers to discover.

Like much of Western Europe, living expenses can be somewhat on the steep side but an abundance of hostels in Spain and the cheap, easy-to-use public transport network help make it accessible for budget travelers.

Madrid and Beyond

With a number of low-cost airlines serving Madrid’s international airport, the capital city can make a good starting point to explore this fascinating country.

Finding a cheap base for a few days’ sightseeing is no problem in Madrid, as the city is full of quality hostels and many are conveniently located around the central Puerta del Sol.

In addition to its attractive wide squares and bustling streets, the city has a fine collection of galleries and museums, including the world-famous Museo del Prado which houses masterpieces by El Greco, Velazquez and Goya.

Backpackers can also see a different side to Spanish traditions at the bullfights which take place here between March and October.

Nearby lies the city of Toledo which is easily reached by bus or train from Madrid and well worth a visit. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unified heritage from Christian, Jewish and Moorish influences, it’s been a hub of arts and culture in central Spain ever since.

Barcelona

The second largest city in Spain, Barcelona has long been a popular destination with backpackers thanks to its celebrated architecture and thriving nightlife – and there’s no shortage of great hostels in Barcelona, either.

The city center is almost a monument in itself, where Gaudi’s stunning modernist buildings nestle amongst old-fashioned streets and vibrant bars that often stay open all night.

To the north-west of Barcelona, Montserrat also attracts many travelers with its amazing scenery and the Benedictine monastery which rests high up in the mountains.

Andalucia

From picture-postcard white villages to dazzling cities, the southern region of Andalucia has a wealth of sights and culture to explore.

Less chaotic (and often cheaper) than Barcelona or Madrid, it nonetheless has an exciting buzz and is equally well-equipped for backpackers, with hostels scattered from its intriguing cities to its dramatic coastline.

But there’s so much to explore in Spain that even traveling from Barcelona to Cadiz barely scratches the surface of this fascinating country – which is why so many backpackers find themselves returning again and again.