Affordable 5-Day Trip Exploring Barcelona, Valencia, and Tarragona

Day 1: Barcelona Arrival

Barcelona, Spain on May 28, 2025

11:00am

Arrival and Check-in

Arrive in Barcelona and check into a budget-friendly hostel or guesthouse near the city center, like Hostel One Ramblas, offering good value and social atmosphere.
EUR20, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at La Boqueria Market

Explore the famous La Boqueria Market and enjoy affordable tapas or fresh fruit from various stalls for a tasty and budget-friendly lunch.
EUR8, 1h0m

1:30pm

Walk Along Las Ramblas and Visit Plaça Reial

Stroll down bustling Las Ramblas, a vibrant street full of street performers and shops, ending at the beautiful Plaça Reial square.
Free, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit the Gothic Quarter

Wander the historic streets of the Gothic Quarter, seeing landmarks like Barcelona Cathedral, enjoying the medieval architecture and atmosphere.
Free, 2h0m

5:30pm

Rest at Hostel

Return to your accommodation to relax and freshen up for dinner.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cervecería Catalana

Enjoy affordable, authentic Catalan tapas at Cervecería Catalana, a popular local spot with generous portions and good quality food.
EUR15, 1h30m
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Day 2: Barcelona Highlights

Barcelona, Spain on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Forn Baluard

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and coffee at Forn Baluard, a popular bakery known for delicious affordable options.
EUR5, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Park Güell

Explore the colorful mosaic art and panoramic city views at Park Güell, a renowned Gaudí park. Tickets are affordable if booked online in advance.
EUR10, 2h0m

11:30am

Explore El Born Neighborhood

Walk through the trendy El Born district, visiting the Santa Maria del Mar church and browsing small artisan shops and cafes.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at El Xampanyet

Have a casual lunch enjoying traditional pintxos and cava at El Xampanyet, a lively and affordable eatery in El Born.
EUR12, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

Relax and enjoy the gardens and views near Montjuïc. The famous Magic Fountain light show usually runs in the evening (verify timetable), but the area is great for a scenic walk.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Rest at Hostel

Freshen up and rest before heading out for dinner and nightlife.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Tasqueta de Blai

Enjoy affordable and tasty pintxos on Carrer de Blai, a street famous for budget-friendly dining options.
EUR10, 1h30m
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Day 3: Tarragona Day Trip

Tarragona, Spain on May 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hostel

Grab a quick breakfast at your hostel or a nearby cafe to prepare for the day trip.
EUR5, 0h30m

8:00am

Train from Barcelona to Tarragona

Take an early train from Barcelona Sants to Tarragona (approx. 1h). Affordable Renfe regional trains offer a budget travel option.
EUR8, 1h0m

9:00am

Explore Tarragona Roman Amphitheatre

Visit the well-preserved Roman Amphitheatre overlooking the sea, a charming and underrated historical site compared to bigger cities.
EUR5, 1h0m

10:30am

Walk the Old Town and Mediterranean Balcony

Wander through Tarragona’s old town streets, enjoying the Mediterranean Balcony for stunning sea views, and discover quaint local shops.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Barhaus

Have a budget-friendly meal with local specialties at Barhaus, known for great tapas in a relaxed atmosphere.
EUR12, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Tarragona Cathedral

Explore the Cathedral of Tarragona, a beautiful historic landmark with baroque and gothic elements, open most days from 10am to 6pm.
EUR3, 1h0m

2:30pm

Train back to Barcelona

Return via train back to Barcelona for overnight or continue south to Valencia depending on preference and timing.
EUR8, 1h0m

4:00pm

Travel Barcelona to Valencia by Bus

Catch an evening budget bus (Alsa or similar) from Barcelona to Valencia (approx. 4h). It is cheaper than train and convenient for budget travelers.
EUR20, 4h0m

8:00pm

Check-in and Dinner in Valencia

Check into a budget-friendly hostel or guesthouse in Valencia city center and have a simple dinner nearby, such as sandwiches or a quick paella dish.
EUR10, 1h0m
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Day 4: Valencia City Tour

Valencia, Spain on May 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Dulce de Leche Boutique

Enjoy a moderate budget breakfast with pastries and coffee at Dulce de Leche Boutique, centrally located with good reviews.
EUR6, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit City of Arts and Sciences

Explore the stunning futuristic architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences complex. Outdoor areas and gardens can be toured freely; some buildings need tickets if desired.
Free to explore outside, EUR10 for entrance, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Mercado Central

Grab affordable fresh food and tapas from various stalls inside Mercado Central, a vibrant market with local ingredients.
EUR10, 1h0m

1:30pm

Walk through Old Town and Plaza de la Virgen

Visit Plaza de la Virgen and explore Valencia’s Old Town with baroque churches and quaint streets for an authentic cultural experience.
Free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Relax at Turia Gardens

Stroll or rest at Turia Gardens, a large urban park built in a former riverbed offering trails, playgrounds, and green spaces.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Rest at Accommodation

Cool down and recharge before dinner.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Casa Montaña

Enjoy a reasonably priced dinner at Casa Montaña, an historic tavern known for its traditional Valencian tapas and cozy atmosphere.
EUR15, 1h30m
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Day 5: Valencia Departure

Valencia, Spain on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Horchatería Santa Catalina

Try the famous horchata drink paired with fartons (sweet pastries) for an authentic and affordable Valencian breakfast.
EUR5, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Valencia Beach

Relax or take a final stroll along Malvarrosa Beach before departure for a peaceful, budget-friendly experience.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Check-out and Departure

Prepare to check out and travel home or to your next destination.
Free, N/A
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