Solo Female Travel in Spain!

Spain is a dream destination for budget travelers, with its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and affordable travel options. For solo women over 60, backpacking through Spain offers an exciting blend of adventure, relaxation, and personal growth. With a little planning, you can explore this beautiful country safely, comfortably, and affordably.

This guide covers the best destinations, budget accommodations, safety tips, and lightweight packing strategies to make your Spanish adventure unforgettable.

Why Spain is Ideal for Solo Women Over 60

Spain is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious solo travelers, especially women over 60, for several reasons:

• Affordable Travel – Spain has excellent public transportation, including budget-friendly buses and trains. Food and accommodations are also relatively inexpensive.
• Warm, Friendly Locals – Spaniards are known for their hospitality and willingness to help travelers, especially in smaller towns and villages.
• Diverse Destinations – Whether you prefer beaches, mountains, historical cities, or quiet countryside escapes, Spain offers a variety of experiences.
• Safety – Spain is generally safe for solo female travelers, with low crime rates and many well-lit, pedestrian-friendly areas.

Best Budget-Friendly Destinations in Spain

While Spain has countless incredible places to visit, these destinations are particularly great for solo women backpacking on a budget:

1. Granada – History and Free Tapas

Granada is one of Spain’s most budget-friendly cities, thanks to its free tapas culture—order a drink, and you’ll get a free small plate of food! It’s also home to the breathtaking Alhambra Palace, one of Spain’s most famous landmarks.

Budget Tip: Stay in the historic Albaicín neighborhood, where you’ll find charming, affordable hostels and guesthouses with stunning views of the Alhambra.

2. Seville – Flamenco and Hidden Courtyards

Seville, the heart of Andalusia, is a lively city known for its flamenco music, colorful architecture, and beautiful gardens. It’s a walkable city with plenty of free or low-cost activities, including visiting the stunning Plaza de España and exploring the old Jewish Quarter, Santa Cruz.

Budget Tip: Many museums and attractions offer free entry on certain days—check ahead to save money.

3. Valencia – Beaches and Budget Bites

Valencia, on Spain’s east coast, is famous for its golden beaches, futuristic architecture, and the birthplace of paella. It’s less crowded than Barcelona but just as charming. You can spend your days cycling along the Turia Gardens, relaxing by the Mediterranean, or exploring the old town.

Budget Tip: Visit Mercado Central, one of Europe’s biggest fresh markets, to grab inexpensive and delicious local food.

4. Santiago de Compostela – The Pilgrim’s Reward

This UNESCO-listed city is the final stop of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, making it a soulful and inspiring destination. You don’t have to walk the full pilgrimage route to enjoy the city’s peaceful atmosphere, ancient streets, and affordable hostels.

Budget Tip: Even if you’re not a pilgrim, you can stay in the albergues (pilgrim hostels) for very low prices—some even operate on a donation basis.

5. Madrid – Free Art and City Strolls

Spain’s capital is surprisingly budget-friendly if you know where to go. Many world-famous museums, including the Prado and Reina Sofia, offer free entry at certain hours. The city’s parks, like Retiro Park, are perfect for leisurely walks or picnics.

Budget Tip: Take advantage of Madrid’s extensive metro system with a 10-trip metro card, which is much cheaper than buying single rides.

6. Ronda – Breathtaking Views on a Budget

Perched on a dramatic gorge, Ronda is one of Spain’s most picturesque towns. It’s a great place to slow down, enjoy local wines, and take in the stunning views of the Puente Nuevo (New Bridge).

Budget Tip: Skip expensive tours and explore the town’s historic sites on foot for free.

Budget Accommodation: Inexpensive Hostels and Guesthouses

Spain has a wide range of budget-friendly accommodations. Here are some of the best options for solo women over 60:

1. Hostels with Private Rooms

Hostels in Spain often offer private rooms, making them a great budget option if you want privacy but still enjoy the social atmosphere. Some recommended hostels:

• Lemon Rock Hostel (Granada) – Beautiful courtyard, great location.
• La Banda Rooftop Hostel (Seville) – Small, cozy, and social without being loud.
• Cantagua Hostel (Valencia) – Clean, welcoming, and close to the beach.

2. Budget Hotels and Pensiones

Spain has many small pensiónes (family-run guesthouses) and hostales (budget hotels, different from hostels). These are great for solo travelers looking for comfort at a low price.

Recommended budget-friendly options:

• Hostal Madrid (Madrid) – Central location, simple but clean.
• Pensión El Hidalgo (Ronda) – Family-run and very welcoming.

3. Albergues (Pilgrim Hostels) on the Camino de Santiago

Even if you’re not walking the Camino, some pilgrim hostels (albergues) accept travelers for as little as €5-€15 per night. They often have shared kitchens, making it easy to cook your own meals.

Safety Tips for Solo Women Over 60 in Spain

While Spain is generally safe, here are some extra precautions:

• Stay in well-lit areas at night – Stick to busy streets and avoid isolated alleyways.
• Be mindful of pickpockets – Especially in tourist areas like Barcelona and Madrid. Use a crossbody bag with a zipper and keep an eye on your belongings.
• Trust your instincts – If a place or person makes you uncomfortable, leave immediately.
• Use public transport wisely – Metro and buses are safe, but avoid empty train cars at night.

Lightweight Packing Tips for Spain

Packing light is key to a smooth backpacking experience. Here’s what to bring:

Essentials:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing – Spain can be hot, especially in summer.
• A comfortable daypack – For daily excursions.
• Good walking shoes – Cobblestone streets can be rough on your feet.
• A lightweight scarf or shawl – Useful for visiting churches or covering up in the sun.
• Refillable water bottle – Tap water is safe to drink in most cities.
• A small lock – For securing valuables in hostels.
• Minimal toiletries – Spain has plenty of pharmacies where you can buy essentials.

Final Thoughts

Backpacking through Spain as a solo woman over 60 is not just possible—it’s an incredibly fulfilling experience. With affordable transport, budget-friendly accommodations, and a welcoming culture, Spain is perfect for slow, mindful travel.

Whether you’re admiring the Alhambra in Granada, savoring paella in Valencia, or walking the ancient streets of Santiago de Compostela, every moment in Spain will be an adventure worth cherishing.

Happy travels, and stay tuned for the next installment of Budget Backpacking in Europe for Solo Women Over 60: Portugal