Spain

The best time to visit Spain is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. Spring brings pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds, while autumn offers mild weather and beautiful fall colours, making it ideal for sightseeing. The summer months (July to August) are popular, especially for beach holidays, but can be crowded and hot, particularly in southern Spain. Winter (December to February) is perfect for visiting cities like Madrid and Barcelona or enjoying winter sports in the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada mountains.

The local currency in Spain is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, though it’s always a good idea to carry cash for smaller purchases or in more rural regions. ATMs are widely available, and mobile payments are becoming increasingly popular.

The official language is Spanish (Castilian), though regional languages such as Catalan, Basque, and Galician are spoken in specific regions. English is widely understood in major tourist destinations, but it’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases like “Gracias” (Thank you) and “Buenos días” (Good morning) to enhance your experience and connect with locals.

Spain has an excellent public transportation system, including an extensive high-speed train network (AVE), buses, and metros in major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. Renting a car is recommended if you want to explore the countryside or smaller towns, such as the charming villages of Andalusia or the wine regions of La Rioja. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are widely available in cities.

Tap water in Spain is generally safe to drink, especially in urban areas. Bottled water is readily available at supermarkets and restaurants, though if you're traveling in more rural areas, it’s best to check local recommendations for water quality.

SIM cards – Consider purchasing an E-SIM or a local SIM card from providers like Movistar, Vodafone, or Orange. Free Wi-Fi is commonly available in cafes, hotels, and public spaces, particularly in larger cities and tourist areas.

The emergency number in Spain is 112 for police, fire, and medical services.

Tipping in Spain is not mandatory, but it’s appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is common if the service charge is not included. For taxis, rounding up the fare is customary, and small tips for hotel staff and tour guides are appreciated.

Spain is increasingly focused on sustainable tourism. Visitors are encouraged to reduce waste, recycle, and embrace eco-friendly practices. Many accommodations and tour operators are promoting green tourism options, especially in natural parks like the Picos de Europa and the Canary Islands. Spain also offers great opportunities for eco-tourism, including hiking, cycling, and nature tours.

Spain is considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it’s always wise to stay alert in crowded places like tourist attractions, public transportation, and beaches, as petty theft and pickpocketing can occur. Avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night.

Food – Spanish cuisine is diverse and delicious, with regional specialties like paella in Valencia, tapas in Madrid and Seville, and Basque pintxos in San Sebastián. Don’t miss trying churros con chocolate or indulging in a glass of sangria. Spain is also famous for its wines, including those from La Rioja and the Ribera del Duero. Festivals – Spain is known for its vibrant festivals, such as the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona (July), La Tomatina in Buñol (August), and the Feria de Abril in Seville (April). Other notable festivals include the Fallas in Valencia (March) and the Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations throughout the country. Etiquette – Spaniards are warm and welcoming. When greeting, a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks is common, especially among friends and family. In formal settings, it's polite to use titles like Señor (Mr.) or Señora (Mrs.). When visiting churches, dress modestly, and keep noise to a minimum in religious spaces. It’s also considered polite to make reservations for dinner, as Spanish meals typically start late, with dinner often beginning around 9-10 PM.