New Ways to Use Points for Dream Trips to Spain in 2024
New Ways to Use Points for Dream Trips to Spain in 2024 - Barcelona on a Budget with Hotel Points
Barcelona is one of the most visited cities in Europe, and for good reason. This vibrant Catalan city offers stunning architecture, world-class cuisine, pedestrian-friendly streets, and a lively arts scene. While Barcelona luxury can come with a hefty price tag, savvy travelers can enjoy the city on a budget by strategic hotel point redemptions.
One excellent option is the Hilton Diagonal Mar Barcelona. Located right on the beach and only 10 minutes by bus or metro from central Barcelona, this Hilton property starts at just 50,000 Hilton Honors points per night. With a stylish outdoor pool overlooking the sea and quick access to Barceloneta Beach, it's a relaxing oasis after long days exploring Gaudi treasures like La Sagrada Familia.
For an art-filled stay in Barceloneta, the W Barcelona offers modern design and sweeping waterfront views from 57,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. You’ll enjoy amenities like an infinity pool and prime beach access. It's just a short walk to Las Ramblas, the Picasso Museum, and the city's famed food markets.
Finally, central Barcelona has excellent redemptions like the Renaissance Barcelona Fira Hotel. Located adjacent to the Fira Barcelona convention center, rooms start at just 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. You'll be steps from major metro lines, allowing quick access to main attractions. With an on-site spa, rooftop lounge and health club, it's a rejuvenating home base after busy days sightseeing.
What else is in this post?
- New Ways to Use Points for Dream Trips to Spain in 2024 - Barcelona on a Budget with Hotel Points
- New Ways to Use Points for Dream Trips to Spain in 2024 - Madrid Museums Accessible with Credit Card Rewards
- New Ways to Use Points for Dream Trips to Spain in 2024 - Cashing in Avios for Iberia Business Class to Spain
New Ways to Use Points for Dream Trips to Spain in 2024 - Madrid Museums Accessible with Credit Card Rewards
Madrid is home to some of the world's most renowned art museums, from the Prado's vast collection of European masterpieces to the cutting-edge exhibits at the Reina Sofía. For travelers looking to explore these cultural gems on a budget, redeeming credit card rewards can be a game-changer.
One standout option is the Museo del Prado, which houses an unparalleled array of works by Velázquez, Goya, and other Spanish golden age painters. Visitors can gain admission by redeeming just 2,000 Capital One miles or 1,600 Chase Ultimate Rewards points - a fraction of the regular ticket price. The Prado's audioguides, which provide invaluable context, are also bookable with points.
Art aficionados won't want to miss the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, home to Picasso's iconic "Guernica" painting. General admission tickets can be purchased for 4,000 Chase points or 5,000 Citi ThankYou points. Those with Amex Platinum cards can even gain complimentary access through the card's museum partnership program.
For a more holistic dive into Spanish culture, the Museo Nacional de Antropología offers fascinating exhibits on the country's history, archaeology, and ethnography. Admission is just 2,000 Capital One miles or 1,600 Chase points - making it an accessible option for points travelers.
Beyond the major national institutions, Madrid's municipal museums also offer excellent value when booked with rewards. The Museo de Historia de Madrid, which chronicles the city's evolution, can be accessed for 1,000 Chase or Citi points. Similarly, admission to the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo starts at 1,200 Capital One miles.
New Ways to Use Points for Dream Trips to Spain in 2024 - Cashing in Avios for Iberia Business Class to Spain
Redeeming Avios, the loyalty currency of British Airways and its Oneworld partner Iberia, can unlock exceptional value when flying to Spain in style. Iberia, the flag carrier of Spain, offers a fantastic business class product on its flights connecting North America and the Iberian Peninsula.
One particularly compelling redemption is Iberia's service between New York (JFK) and Madrid (MAD). For just 34,000 Avios one-way, you can enjoy Iberia's spacious business class seats, fully lie-flat beds, and impressive onboard dining. This is an outstanding use of your Avios, as the cash price for this ticket can easily exceed $3,000 during peak travel seasons.
The experience begins even before you board, with access to Iberia's excellent business class lounges in both New York and Madrid. You can comfortably work, dine, and refresh yourself prior to your flight. Once onboard, you'll be treated to Iberia's attentive service and a multicourse meal featuring regional Spanish specialties and fine wines.
For travelers looking to explore beyond just Madrid, Iberia offers seamless connections to a wide range of destinations across Spain and Europe using your Avios. Popular options include Barcelona, Seville, Bilbao, and the Balearic and Canary Islands. By strategically building an itinerary around Iberia's route network, you can craft an unforgettable Spanish adventure while maximizing the value of your Avios.
Beyond the flights themselves, Avios can also be redeemed for luxury hotel stays in Spain. Properties like the W Barcelona, Ritz-Carlton Abama in Tenerife, and Marriott's Costa del Sol resorts are all bookable using your Avios balance. This allows you to enjoy world-class accommodations at a fraction of the cash price.