Great ideas for inexpensive holidays in Lloret de Mar
Fancy getting away, a holiday and sun without breaking the bank? Lloret de Mar is an affordable summer destination. You just need to know a few tips and prepare your stay well.
The journey, the accommodation, the food, the activities and the nights out: discover our ideas for an inexpensive stay on the Costa Brava!
Overpricing, rip-offs, haggling: putting an end to the clichés!
To begin with, we have to go back to 3 clichés which are hard to shake off concerning the prices in Lloret de Mar. You often hear and read that Lloret (and the Costa Brava in general) is expensive, especially for French tourists. They are the first victims of all types of rip-offs and tourist traps. These tourists are then encouraged to haggle over everything.
But how true is all this?
Tips for a fantastically priced stay in Lloret de Mar
Cliché no. 1: Everything’s expensive on the Costa Brava
No, EVERYTHING is not expensive on the Costa Brava. In Lloret de Mar, like anywhere else, prices have risen with the influx of tourists. The arrival of the Euro, inflation generally… that has led as a consequence to an increase in the cost of living. The locals are the first to suffer!
But in general, life is still cheaper than in France. Whether it’s food, museums, drinks or – the classic example – cigarettes, you will find produce at a good price. Fruit and vegetables in particular are generally less expensive than in large French cities.
Prices do vary sometimes depending on the season. This is true for rentals and hotel rooms. For those on a tight budget, going to Lloret de Mar in the low season is a good option!
Cliché no. 2: Tourists are always ripped off… Especially the French!
There isn’t a “rip-off culture” in Spain as is sometimes claimed! As we said before, tourism has led to an increase in prices, but the Spanish are also affected.
However, you may pay over the odds for mediocre service. Some traders take advantage of the popularity of Lloret and its strategic location by the beach to sell at a higher price. To avoid such “tourist traps”, try the small streets rather than the large squares, the coves rather than the crowded beaches.
Also remember always to take a look at the menu at the entrance to a restaurant, or to ask the price. Of course, speaking Spanish is always an advantage. But you can always start by learning a few basics with our emergency Anglo-Spanish glossary.
Cliché no. 3: Everything should be haggled over
No, not everything is haggled over in Lloret de Mar. Yes, some prices can be negotiated depending on the context and the shop. Souvenir sellers on the beach or the streets may agree to offer you a price. In a restaurant or a supermarket, this kind of attitude risks offending the person you’re talking to. Choose the right moment to try out your negotiating talents!
How to take advantage of your tight budget in Lloret de Mar?
The town welcomes many tourists each year. Students and families come to take advantage of the sun and the beach. It is absolutely possible to have a great stay in Lloret de Mar without burning a hole in your pocket. To know more, take a look at our different articles on the subject:
3 tips for an inexpensive trip to Lloret
Budget accommodation in Lloret
Activities for those on a budget in Lloret
Great ideas for nights out in Lloret
Book now a lovely rental at a great price!