Copyright euroweeklynews
If you’ve moved to Spain, chances are you’ve already noticed that fuel prices can vary quite a bit, not just from region to region, but even depending on the day you decide to refuel. Unlike in some countries where fuel price changes are more gradual, Spain’s fuel market is extremely responsive to demand, holidays, tourism flow, and even local events. According to analysis from the Organización de Consumidores y Usuarios (OCU), there are certain days of the week when refuelling should be avoided if you want to keep costs under control and avoid paying a premium unnecessarily. The OCU points out that weekends, particularly Saturdays, Sundays, and especially the day before a public holiday, tend to be the most expensive time to fill up. Around these times, there is a predictable rise in demand as people head to the coast, travel between provinces, or return home after spending time away. Petrol stations take advantage of this, routinely raising prices in anticipation of increased traffic. This is something that is especially noticeable in regions that are popular with tourists or holiday-home owners, such as Andalucía, Valencia, Murcia, the Balearic Islands, and many northern coastal provinces. On the other hand, the cheapest day to refuel is typically Monday, with Tuesday often coming in a close second. This is when petrol stations reset prices following the weekend surge, and when competition between chains becomes most active. For expats who commute during the week or often plan weekend travel, simply shifting your refuelling to Monday morning can lead to a clear and noticeable reduction in monthly fuel spending. It may sound like a small change, but over time it can add up to a surprisingly meaningful saving. The Cheapest Petrol Station Chains in Spain Choosing Where to Fill Up Matters As well as the day of the week, the petrol station you choose can also have a major impact on how much you pay. The OCU has compared the average prices of different fuel station chains across Spain, and the results may surprise anyone used to relying on the big-name brands. Some of the most expensive chains include Repsol, BP, ENI, Petronor, and Moeve (previously Cepsa). These companies often justify higher prices by pointing to loyalty schemes, branded additives, and the presence of extra facilities such as on-site cafés or convenience shops. By contrast, the cheapest chains found in Spain are generally the independent or low-cost stations, many of which operate on a self-service model with fewer extras. The OCU highlights: BonÀrea, consistently the cheapest for both petrol and diesel, although mainly located in Cataluña and Aragón. Plenergy (formerly Plenoil) According to the OCU’s analysis, choosing one of these cheaper chains over a big-brand station can save around €0.15 to €0.18 per litre. For a typical 50-litre tank, that adds up to €7 to €9 saved per fill. For expats who commute daily, do regular airport runs, or travel between provinces, the difference becomes particularly clear, especially over several months. It’s worth noting that all fuel sold in Spain must meet the same EU standards, regardless of chain. In other words: cheaper does not mean lower quality, only fewer services and less branding. Once you adjust to self-service pumps, the savings are well worth it. Practical Tips for Expats in Spain Making the Most of Everyday Refuelling For many expats, driving is a central part of daily life in Spain, whether travelling between regions, exploring coastal towns, or simply commuting to work or school. With a few small adjustments, the monthly cost of fuelling your car can become far more manageable. Firstly, plan your refuelling day, ideally aiming for Monday. Even if your tank is half-full on Friday, waiting until after the weekend can be worthwhile. Secondly, use fuel price comparison apps, which are very popular in Spain. Many petrol stations update their prices daily, and these apps allow you to instantly spot the best deal nearby. Lastly, don’t be put off by self-service stations. They are incredibly common and are one of the simplest ways to reduce your cost per litre. Quick Reference Avoid refuelling on weekends and the day before public holidays, prices are typically higher. Monday is usually the cheapest day to fill your tank. Low-cost chains like BonÀrea, Plenergy, Petroprix and Ballenoil usually offer the best prices. You could save €7–€9 per refuel simply by choosing cheaper stations and refuelling strategically. Comparison apps and a little planning go a long way. A Small Change That Adds Up Adapting to the cost-of-living realities of a new country takes time, and fuel prices in Spain can feel unpredictable at first. However, once you understand the weekly price cycle and become familiar with the cheaper chains, it becomes much easier to save money without altering your routine. By combining refuelling on the cheapest days with choosing cost-effective stations, expats can adopt one of those subtle “local knowledge” habits that makes everyday life feel less overwhelming, and more affordable. Over the long term, these small adjustments can add up to hundreds of euros saved each year, leaving more room in the budget to enjoy what Spain has to offer, from tapas evenings to weekend coastal escapes.
