Popular Sports to Play in Spain

Published on October 2, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Spain, a country of passion and sunshine, is also a welcoming land for sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re an expatriate looking to maintain your fitness routine or a traveler eager to discover new activities, Spain offers a multitude of options to satisfy your thirst for exercise and competition. In this article, we’ll explore the most popular sports in Spain, how to practice them, and what budget to plan for pursuing your athletic passion in this Mediterranean country.

Spanish Sports Essentials: A Range of Activities for Every Taste

Spain is a country where sports play a prominent role in the culture and daily life of its inhabitants. Several disciplines stand out for their popularity and accessibility, offering residents and visitors numerous opportunities to stay fit and have fun.

Soccer, the undisputed king of sports in Spain, captures the attention of 82% of the population. This national sport transcends generations and social classes, uniting Spaniards in a common passion. Clubs like Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid are true institutions that showcase Spanish soccer internationally.

Running leads as the most practiced sport, with 23% of Spaniards regularly engaging in this activity. Spanish cities, with their urban parks and coastal promenades, offer ideal settings for runners of all levels.

Swimming ranks third among the most popular sports, practiced by 18% of the population. The numerous beaches along the Spanish coast and well-equipped municipal pools allow swimming enthusiasts to pursue their passion year-round.

Tennis, on the rise, attracts the interest of 45% of Spaniards. The international success of players like Rafael Nadal has helped popularize this sport, encouraging many young people to try it.

Basketball ranks third among the most followed sports, with interest shown by 36% of the population. The presence of Spanish players in the NBA and the national team’s performances have strengthened the appeal of this dynamic sport.

Other disciplines like cycling, gymnastics, or water sports are also experiencing growing enthusiasm, benefiting from quality infrastructure and Spain’s favorable climate.

Practicing Your Favorite Sport in Spain: Quality Infrastructure for All Levels

Spain has modern and varied sports infrastructure, allowing for the practice of numerous sports under optimal conditions. Whether you’re an experienced athlete or an enthusiastic beginner, you’ll easily find a place suited to your level and goals.

Gyms and fitness clubs are omnipresent in Spanish cities. From international chains to small neighborhood studios, the offerings are varied and suited to all budgets. These establishments typically feature modern equipment, group classes, and professional guidance. In Barcelona, for example, a monthly gym membership averages €44, which is 37% more than in France.

Municipal stadiums and sports complexes offer quality facilities for team sports like soccer, basketball, or handball. These infrastructures are often available at advantageous rates and offer various time slots to accommodate everyone’s schedules. The Estadio Municipal Juegos del Mediterráneo in Almería, for example, can host up to 20,000 spectators and features extensive green spaces and social areas.

Municipal pools and aquatic centers are numerous and well-equipped. They allow for swimming practice throughout the year, with affordable rates and extended hours. Some complexes also offer aquatic activities like water aerobics or water polo.

Tennis courts and clubs are widespread throughout Spain. Many municipalities have public courts available at moderate rates. Private clubs, on the other hand, offer more upscale facilities and additional services like private lessons or friendly tournaments. In Madrid, renting a tennis court for one hour averages €12.9, which is 20% less than in France.

Running paths and green spaces are developed in most Spanish cities. From urban parks to coastal promenades, runners will easily find routes suited to their level and preferences. Many municipalities also organize community races throughout the year.

Water sports centers are present along the entire Spanish coastline. They offer varied activities like sailing, surfing, paddleboarding, or scuba diving. These centers typically provide lessons for all levels and equipment rental.

Sports Budget for Expatriates in Spain: Investing in Your Health Without Breaking the Bank

For expatriates wanting to maintain regular sports activities in Spain, it’s important to plan an appropriate budget. Although the cost of living is generally lower than in France, some sports-related expenses can vary depending on the city and types of activities chosen.

Gym membership: The average cost of a monthly fitness club membership in Spain ranges between €28 and €65. In Barcelona, for example, expect to pay around €44 per month, which is 37% more than in France. However, many gyms offer promotional deals for new members or preferential rates for long-term subscriptions.

Team sports: Practicing team sports in amateur clubs or local leagues is often less expensive. Annual registration fees can range between €100 and €300 depending on the sport and competition level. Some clubs also offer discounted rates for families or students.

Swimming: Access to municipal pools is generally affordable, with single-entry fees around €5 to €10. Monthly or annual passes are often available, significantly reducing the cost per session. Expect to pay between €30 and €60 per month for unlimited access.

Tennis: Renting a tennis court costs an average of €17.6 per hour in Barcelona, which is 10% more than in France. In Madrid, this rate drops to €12.9, which is 20% less than in France. Private clubs often offer more advantageous subscription packages for regular players.

Running: This activity remains one of the least expensive, primarily requiring an investment in good running shoes (between €80 and €150) and appropriate clothing. Registration for community races can cost between €10 and €50 depending on the distance and prestige of the event.

Water sports: Rates for water activities vary considerably depending on the type of sport and region. A surfing session can cost between €30 and €60, while a sailing lesson can range from €50 to €100 per session. Weekly or monthly packages are often available for regular practitioners.

Sports equipment: Prices for sports equipment in Spain are generally comparable to those in France. It’s possible to find quality gear at competitive prices in major sports store chains or during sale periods.

For an expatriate wanting to maintain regular and varied sports activities in Spain, it’s reasonable to plan a monthly budget between €100 and €200. This amount can cover a gym membership, some complementary activity sessions (swimming, tennis, etc.), and the amortization of necessary equipment.

Conclusion: Spain, an Ideal Playground for Athletes

Spain proves to be a top destination for sports enthusiasts, whether permanent residents or temporary expatriates. The diversity of available activities, quality infrastructure, and favorable climate create an environment conducive to regular sports practice.

The popularity of sports like soccer, running, swimming, or tennis demonstrates the importance given to physical activity in Spanish culture. This passion for sports translates into quality facilities, accessible to all practice levels and generally at affordable rates.

For expatriates, integration through sports can be an excellent way to adapt to their new life in Spain. Joining a sports club or participating in local events not only helps maintain good physical condition but also creates social connections and facilitates immersion in the local culture.

The budget to plan for sports practice in Spain remains reasonable, with variations depending on cities and types of activities chosen. With judicious planning, it’s entirely possible to maintain a varied and enriching sports routine without straining your overall budget.

Ultimately, Spain offers an ideal setting for athletes from all backgrounds. Whether you’re passionate about soccer, a running enthusiast, a water sports lover, or simply wanting to maintain good physical shape, you’ll find in Spain the perfect conditions to satisfy your sports passion and perhaps even discover new ones.