All Posts, Country Guides, Europe Guides · Spain Travel Guide Welcome to Spain: the land of the siesta, flamenco dancing, bullfighting, tapas, and some of the most unique architecture in the world. It’s a country that entices you with its culture and cuisine and then begs you to stay with its hidden gems and lively nightlife. Home to creative geniuses such as Pablo Picasso and Antoni Gaudi, Spain’s art scene rivals any country. You’ll also find medieval castles, Islamic architecture, and Roman aqueducts – all coexisting alongside Spain’s future architectural creations such as La Sagrada Familia. This diverse, passionate, and sophisticated country is just waiting to be explored, and this guide will help you do just that! Quick Info Capital: MadridPopulation: 49 millionCurrency: Euro (click here for current conversion rates)Visa: 90-day Schengen visa on arrival for most nationalities (click here for more info)Safety: Ranked #39 on the Global Peace Index (USA is ranked #128).Language: Spanish is the main official language, though different regions also speak Catalan, Galician, and BasqueTime zone: UTC +2 When to Visit High Season – June to August Summer is generally the high season in Spain and is the busiest time of year to visit. July and August are especially crowded.Sunshine is guaranteed almost everywhere, with temperatures averaging 91ºFDuring this time, be sure to book your accommodations well in advance as they can sell out quickly Shoulder Season – March to May; September and October Great time to visit as the tourist sites are less congested and the weather is mildBring an umbrella when visiting in March and April Low Season – November to February Winter is low season, with cold weather in central Spain and wet weather in the north and northwestThe best time to visit Spain’s ski resortsSpain celebrates Carnival before Lent (around February), with the second-largest celebration in the world behind Rio Top 5 Bucket List Experiences in Spain 1. Barcelona No visit to Spain is complete until you’ve seen Barcelona – the capital of the independent nation of Catalunya. With its world-class art museums, other-worldly architecture, and unbeatable climate, Barcelona really is the city that has it all. Don’t miss a tour to La Sagrada Famila, the flamboyant, fairytale-like church that has been under construction for over 120 years. 2. Madrid As the 3rd most populated city in Europe (behind London and Berlin), Madrid had blossomed into a busy metropolis. On one hand, Madrid is a refined, traditional city, with its European art, ritzy landmarks, and grand boulevards. On the other hand, Madrid knows how to party and is famous for its lively nightlife – usually not starting until midnight! Don’t miss the Museo del Prado, one of the largest and most impressive museums in the world. 3. Seville As my personal favorite city in Spain, Seville is a place where the architecture will wow you, the flamenco dancers will entertain you, and the boulevards lined with orange trees will make you feel like you’ve entered into a tropical paradise. As the capital of southern Spain’s Andalusia region, Seville is known for its unique blend of Muslim and European architecture, called mudéjar. Don’t miss the Real Alcazar and the Plaza de España to see Seville’s fairy-tale-like landmarks for yourself. 4. Granada Rising majestically from a plain at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains lies Spain’s most preserved medieval city – Granada. Once the most populated city in Europe, Granada is the perfect example of both North African and European cultures and ideas colliding into one unique city. This ancient village is known as the best surviving example of Moorish architecture in the world – Alhambra. Don’t miss walking around the palace and fortress complex dating back to the 13th century! 5. Spain’s Islands Located just off the shore of mainland Spain lie 4 main islands called the Balearic Islands. Don’t miss Mallorca – Spain’s largest island – which is known for its endless sandy beaches and scenic coastlines. You’ll also find breathtaking views atop Serra de Tramuntana and historic landmarks such as La Seu Cathedral. This Mediterranean escape is the perfect combination of gorgeous natural scenery alongside architectural wonders. Other Things to See and Do in Spain Valencia- The city of Valencia is more than just an Instagram filter. This port city is Spain’s 3rd largest and is known for its contemporary architecture and exciting nightlife. Don’t miss the City of Arts and Sciences – a sprawling futuristic complex of an interactive museum, cinemas, planetarium, and more.Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba: Located 1 hour from Seville, the Grand Mosque of Cordoba is arguably Spain’s most stunning and unique buildings. Originally built as a mosque in the 8th century, it was converted into a Catholic church when Córdoba returned to Christian rule in the year 1236. With its Moorish architecture design and history spanning over 8 centuries, nothing can quite prepare you for this special gem in Spain.The Pyrenees- Spain may be best known for its culture-filled cities, but The Pyrenees mountains are one of its best-kept secrets. This majestic mountain range between the Iberian Peninsula and France offers a hiking and skiing paradise – perfect for nature lovers. Dos and Don’ts DO Try tapas! These small portions of Spain’s traditional dishes are a great way to try multiple dishes during a single mealExpect shops and businesses to close every day from 2-4PM for a siesta. Join to culture and take your own siesta nap! DON’T Don’t expect dinner before 9PM. If you’re hungry, grab a snack in the afternoon and wait until 9PM for the local restaurants to openDon’t walk around city streets in just a swimsuit. It’s illegal in cities like Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca, so be sure to bring a coverupDon’t worry about being late. Spaniards aren’t strict about punctuality and are usually 15 to 30 minutes late Foods to Try Spain is known for its unique and delicious food. Here are some of the staple foods you must try when visiting: Churros: You many know churros from your local fair or amusement park, but churros in Spain put the ones at home to shame. These deep-fried batter sticks are sold from stands all around Spain, so be sure to grab some every chance you get. Also, don’t forget the Nutella!Paella: Originating in Valencia, paella is a rice dish with meat, fish, or shellfish. Hearty and colorful, this is a taste of Spain in one classic dish.Sangria: As one of the most popular drinks in Spanish cuisine, you’ll find a homemade Sangria – made up of red wine and chopped fruit – at pretty much every restaurant in Spain. In fact, Sangria is technically only Sangria when made in Spain or Portugal. So drink up! Tapas: While not actually a food, tapas refer to a small portion of any Spanish cuisine. Ordering several tapas at once are then combined to make a full meal. I love tapas because it allows you to try several things on the menu – and they’re also delicious, Cocido: Mostly served in the winter, this classic stew is made up of pork, vegetables, and garbanzo beans.Tortilla española: this nationwide staple is basically a Spanish omelet made with eggs, potatoes, and optional onions. Good To Know Airport- The largest international airports are Madrid (MAD) and Barcelona (BCN). There are also several low-cost European airlines servicing destinations around Spain. Getting Around- Fast AVE trains link to Madrid from major cities like Barcelona and Seville but book early for the best fares. Slower and cheaper trains connect more remote areas of Spain. Bus travel is the cheapest way to get around the country, but the journey can sometimes be complicated when traveling off the main tourist route. Money- Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Spain but do make sure that your card has no international feesFor cash, ATMs are common in all cities and towns across Spain but be aware of transaction fees Tipping- Restaurants: Tip is not expected, but you can leave some change for good service. If dining with a large ground at more elegant restaurants, tipping around 5% is expectedTaxis: Generally speaking, most taxi drivers don’t expect tips, but they are appreciated. If they help with your luggage, it’s nice to tip a few eurosServices: Tour guides will welcome any tips based on your discretion. Anywhere from 5€ to 20€ is acceptableHotels: Tipping hotel staff is common. Tip porters 1€ per bag, housekeeping 1€ per night, and room service a couple of euros Language- ENGLISHSPANISHPRONOUNCEHelloHolaOH-laThank youGracíasgra-SEE-ahsGoodbyeAdiósah-dee-OHSPleasePor favorpohr fah-VORHow are you?¿Cómo está usted?KOH-moh ehs-TA oos-TEHDHow much does it cost?¿Cuánto cuesta?kooAN-to KWEHS-t Ready for your dream trip to Spain? CONTACT US TODAY DID YOU LIKE THIS POST? PIN IT FOR LATER!
