With inflation recently hitting an all-time high, many people want to save money on everything from food shopping to gas and travel.
With the dollar still slightly stronger than the euro, visiting an affordable European spot is a budget-friendly solution to rising travel costs.
One of Europe's more affordable capitals is Madrid, a place with plenty to do, see, drink and eat that won't break the bank.
On a budget, this is how to see Madrid.
It is easy to find cheap airfare between the U.S. and Madrid, and you can also use low-cost carriers such as Easyjet and Iberia from other major cities around Europe. Add-ons such as baggage, seat selection and other extras should be taken into account.
Airfare deals to Spain from the U.S. are very popular. Check out the daily deal alert from TPG.
Points and miles are the cheapest ways to travel to Spain.
New luxury properties, budget hostels, and everything in between are available in Madrid. Some of the best for travelers hoping to stay within their means.
The Westin Palace Madrid is one of the favorites when it comes to redemption points. Here are some of the best places to stay in the Spanish capital.
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Don't have a lot of points. Don't fret. Excellent service and unbeatable value can be found at these hotels.
Backpackers aren't the only people who live in a hostel. Private rooms and bathroom are available in many hostels in Madrid. A hostel is a great place to stay if you want to make new friends or just want something a little different.
The Generator Madrid is a design-driven hostel that has a rooftop deck. Private rooms start at $60 per night, while shared bunk rooms cost as little as $25 per night.
The Hat Madrid is a hostel that is a short walk from Madrid's Plaza Mayor. Bunks in a shared room can be reserved for under $20, while private doubles start at $70.
Staying at a budget hotel might make you happy.
You can find studio lofts and four-bedroom apartments in Madrid. The average price for a private apartment rental is between $60 and $200 per night. If you're looking for a vacation rental in Madrid, you should go toAirbnb.
Winter is the best time of the year to find the lowest rates on hotels and activities. It gets cold and rainy in Madrid during this time of the year.
In August, when most locals flee the city for the seaside or mountains, you can find great deals on vacation rentals. It's a good idea to spend a bit more on lodging with air conditioning.
If you want the best weather, visit Madrid in May and October, where temperatures are pleasant under sunny skies, and prices are not as high as they may be. There are many exciting festivals in Madrid in May, such as the San Isidro celebrations.
The metro and bus are both affordable, and it is easy to get around Madrid on foot. The metro and bus ticket is about 12 euro. The government may extend the promotion through the end of December.
Metro passes are valid for unlimited travel between one and seven days of purchase. Metro trips to the airport are included in this pass, even though it isn't currently discounted.
It is easy and cheap to get between the city center and the airport. Avenida merica is included in metro tourist tickets. The airport bus that runs between the airport and O'Donnell, Cibeles and Atocha costs 5 euro per way.
The tourists in Madrid make the same mistakes.
You can either take the RENFE trains from the airport to the city center or you can take a taxi from the airport. The cost of rideshare services is usually lower.
The Retiro Park is one of the green spaces in Madrid. There is no entrance fee to these parks. If you want to rent a paddle boat in Retiro, you will have to pay more.
You can see many of Madrid's attractions for free if you take a self- walking tour around the city center. Depending on your energy levels and length of your holiday, this walk can be completed in a day or two.
It is said that the geographical center of Spain is located in the Puerta Del Sol. The plaza mayor has hundreds of balconies that face the center of the square.
The Royal Palace and the Almudena Cathedral can be enjoyed for free from the outside. The newly constructed walkway leads to the Plaza Espaa square.
Gran Va is a busy street with many shops and restaurants. When you get to the end, turn left on Calle lcala and walk up through Cibeles Square to catch a glimpse of the palace and fountain.
There are many museums in Madrid. You don't have to pay to enter when it's just a few hours a week. You might have to queue up if you get there early.
The flea market is held on Sundays. If you want to purchase something, you will have to pay. Go early because the market can get very busy. It is a good idea to leave valuables and cash at home as pickpockets work the crowds here.
On weekdays, many restaurants offer a set lunch menu with a choice of starter, main course, dessert or coffee and a drink for a fixed price. There is a great value in these.
Student, teacher or senior discounts can be found at museums and other attractions. You need to double-check what type of identification is required.
You can get a free tapa when you order a drink at a local bar. The higher the distance from the main historic city center, the more likely you will get a complimentary plate of food with your drink order.
It is possible to save money while traveling and maximize the value you get from your holidays. If you know where to look, Madrid is a great place to go on a budget.