Budget-Friendly Barcelona and Valencia Itinerary: Gaudí, Aquarium, Beach & Shopping

Day 1: Arrival & Gaudí Introduction

Barcelona, Spain on July 9, 2025

10:00am

Arrival & Check-in

Arrive in Barcelona and check into your budget accommodation, preferably near the city center for ease of access.
EUR0, 1h

11:30am

Parc Güell

Visit Parc Güell to see Gaudí’s vibrant mosaics and unique architectural designs. The Monumental Zone requires a ticket, which is budget-friendly if booked in advance.
EUR10, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at La Boqueria Market

Enjoy affordable and fresh Spanish tapas or a picnic lunch from La Boqueria Market, a famous food market on La Rambla.
EUR10, 1h

3:00pm

Passeig de Gràcia Shopping

Spend some time window shopping and exploring budget-friendly shops along Passeig de Gràcia, close to Gaudí sites.
EUR0, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Cervecería Catalana

Enjoy economical and tasty tapas at Cervecería Catalana, a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 2: Sagrada Família & More Gaudí

Barcelona, Spain on July 10, 2025

9:00am

Sagrada Família Visit

Explore Gaudí’s masterpiece Sagrada Família. Book tickets online in advance for better prices and timed entry.
EUR26, 2h

11:30am

Brunch at Federal Café

Stop at Federal Café for a budget-friendly yet delicious brunch with healthy options.
EUR12, 1h

1:00pm

Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera) Facade View

Admire the exteriors of two famous Gaudí buildings. Consider buying tickets for Casa Milà if budget allows.
EUR25 optional, 1.5h

3:00pm

Beach Time at Barceloneta Beach

Relax and enjoy the sun and sand at Barceloneta Beach; it’s free to access and a perfect afternoon cooldown.
EUR0, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at El Xampanyet

Try budget-friendly Catalan dishes and tapas at this lively, affordable restaurant near the Born district.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 3: Valencia Aquarium Day

Valencia, Spain on July 11, 2025

6:30am

Train to Valencia

Take an early train from Barcelona to Valencia to maximize your aquarium visit time. Book tickets in advance for best prices.
EUR30 return, 3h

10:00am

Oceanogràfic Aquarium

Visit Europe’s largest aquarium, located within the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Enjoy marine life exhibits from around the world.
EUR31, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch Nearby

Grab a casual lunch at a café near the aquarium offering budget sandwiches and salads.
EUR10, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Valencia Old Town

Take a short stroll through Valencia’s historic center, visiting landmarks like Valencia Cathedral and Plaza de la Virgen.
EUR0, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Barcelona

Take the evening train back to Barcelona and rest at your accommodation.
Included in train fare, 3h

9:30pm

Light Dinner at Hostel or Local Tapas Bar

Enjoy a light dinner with tapas near your accommodation or prepare something simple if staying in.
EUR10, 1h
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Day 4: Beach & Shopping

Barcelona, Spain on July 12, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Granja M. Viader

Enjoy traditional Catalan pastries and coffee at this historic café in Barcelona.
EUR8, 1h

10:30am

Barceloneta Beach

Spend a relaxing morning on the beach, soaking up sun and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea.
EUR0, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Picnic Restaurant

Eat fresh and affordable sandwiches and salads in a casual setting near the beach.
EUR12, 1h

3:30pm

Shopping in El Born District

Explore small boutiques and artisan shops in the bohemian El Born district, ideal for unique souvenirs and local crafts on a budget.
EUR0, 2.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Tasca i Vins

Savor budget-friendly tapas and local wine at this tiny yet popular spot.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 5: Montjuïc & Free Walking Tour

Barcelona, Spain on July 13, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Flax & Kale

Enjoy a nutritious, budget-friendly breakfast focusing on healthy food options.
EUR10, 1h

10:30am

Montjuïc Hill Visit

Spend the morning exploring Montjuïc Hill, nearby gardens, and viewpoints; many areas are free to access, offering great panoramic city views.
EUR0, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Poble Sec Tapas Bars

Try affordable and authentic tapas in the lively Poble Sec neighborhood.
EUR12, 1.5h

4:00pm

Free Walking Tour of Gothic Quarter

Join a free walking tour (tips-based) to explore the history and culture of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter.
EUR0, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at La Plaça

Finish the day with a budget-friendly dinner at La Plaça, offering local Catalan cuisine.
EUR15, 1.5h
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Day 6: Final Day & Souvenirs

Barcelona, Spain on July 14, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Nearby Café

Enjoy a casual breakfast at a local café close to your accommodation, focusing on pastries and coffee.
EUR7, 1h

10:00am

Last-minute Shopping in La Rambla

Spend your final shopping time along La Rambla for affordable souvenirs and gifts.
EUR0, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at El Rey de la Gamba

Enjoy a final taste of Catalan seafood tapas at reasonable prices near the waterfront.
EUR15, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Parc de la Ciutadella

Spend a relaxing afternoon at Parc de la Ciutadella, watching fountains and enjoying greenery before departure preparations.
EUR0, 2h

5:30pm

Dinner at Local Tapas Bar

Have your final dinner enjoying local flavors at a budget-friendly tapas bar near your accommodation.
EUR15, 1.5h
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