Under $100: Barcelona, Spain

The capital of Catalonia is bursting with endless chances to experience art, culture and some of the best food in the world. Even if you’re traveling on a tight budget, the city offers access to these incredible experiences for just a handful of euros a day.

Barcelona Beach Cafe © Vladyslav Danilin | Dreamstime

Start your day with a classic café con leche (ranging $1.50 to $2.50) and a croissant or the famous churros con chocolat. Some cafes will offer coffee and a breakfast pastry for less than $2.15.

Once you’re properly caffeinated, take to the streets and alleyways of the Gothic quarter and El Born, both of which are best explored on foot. Stunning Roman architecture and quaint hidden pathways transport you to the Barcelona that existed centuries ago.

Street Art in El Born © Nejron | Dreamstime

Barcelona residents like to do everything later in the day, so lunch can start around 2 in the afternoon and last for hours. Entrees like salads and bocadillos (sandwiches) cost anywhere from $3 to $8, depending on the size.

While Spaniards are taking their siestas, shops and restaurants may close, which makes post-lunch a perfect time to visit Barcelona’s beaches. La Barceloneta is the most popular and easiest to access, so it is also the most crowded, especially in the summer. Stroll along the boardwalk and people watch as the sun starts to set over the Catalonian hills.

Barcelonoeta Beach © Piotr Pawinski | Dreamstime

Following the custom of late meals, dinner starts around 9 or 10 p.m., so plan accordingly with a light snack of croquetas or patatas bravas ($3 to $5) in the late afternoon.

Dinnertime is your perfect chance to try to that famous Spanish dish, paella. Ranging from $9 and up depending on the restaurant, search for dinner deals that include a beverage, like cava or sangria. Olé!