Things to Know Before Visiting Spain (First-Time Guide)

Spain captivates visitors with its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and diverse landscapes. From the sun-drenched beaches of Costa del Sol to the snow-capped peaks of the Pyrenees, this Mediterranean gem offers something for every traveler. Before you embark on your Spanish adventure, there are several important things to know before visiting Spain that will help you navigate this beautiful country like a seasoned traveler rather than a confused tourist.

Visa & Entry Requirements

For most travelers, Spain requires a valid passport with at least three months of validity beyond your planned departure date. U.S., Canadian, U.K., and most E.U. citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days in a 180-day period under the Schengen Agreement.

Beginning in 2025, U.S. visitors to the Schengen Area will need to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before departure. This is not a visa but a travel authorization that will cost around €7 and remain valid for three years.

Always carry identification with you, as Spanish law requires it. Police may occasionally request to see your passport, especially in tourist areas. It's wise to keep a photocopy of your passport in your luggage as a backup.

Important: If you plan to stay longer than 90 days or work in Spain, you'll need to apply for the appropriate visa through the Spanish consulate in your home country before traveling.

Best Time to Visit Spain

Spain's climate varies significantly by region, making the best time to visit dependent on your destination and preferred activities.

Spring (March-May)

Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make spring ideal for exploring cities and countryside. Holy Week (Semana Santa) processions offer a glimpse into Spain's religious traditions. The weather is pleasant for sightseeing without summer's heat.

Summer (June-August)

Peak tourist season brings hot temperatures, especially inland. Coastal areas are cooler but crowded. Summer festivals like La Tomatina and San Fermín attract visitors. The Canary Islands offer year-round mild climate.

Fall (September-November)

Fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures make fall perfect for city exploration and wine country visits. The northern regions experience more rainfall, while the south remains warm and sunny well into October.

Winter (December-February)

Winter brings cooler temperatures and fewer tourists to most regions. Southern Spain remains mild, making Andalusia and the Canary Islands popular winter escapes. The Sierra Nevada offers skiing opportunities, while cities host beautiful Christmas markets and Three Kings celebrations in January.

Cultural Norms & Etiquette

Spanish Meal Times

One of the most important things to know before visiting Spain is that meal times differ significantly from other countries. Spaniards typically eat breakfast between 8-10 AM, lunch (the main meal) between 2-4 PM, and dinner rarely before 9 PM, often extending until midnight.

Siesta Culture

While the traditional afternoon nap is less common in big cities and among younger generations, many businesses still close between 2-5 PM, especially in smaller towns and during summer. Plan your shopping and errands accordingly, particularly outside tourist areas.

Greeting Customs

Spaniards typically greet with two kisses on the cheeks (starting with the left) between women or a woman and man. Men usually shake hands. When meeting someone for the first time, a simple "Hola" (hello) with a handshake is appropriate for tourists.

Tipping Practices

Tipping isn't as expected as in countries like the United States. For good service, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated but not mandatory. At upscale restaurants, a service charge may already be included.

Dress Code

Spaniards generally dress smartly, even for casual occasions. When visiting religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees. Beachwear should be confined to the beach or pool areas – walking around town in swimwear is considered inappropriate.

Cultural Tip: The concept of sobremesa – lingering at the table after a meal for conversation – is an important part of Spanish dining culture. Don't rush through meals; enjoy the social aspect of dining.

Language Tips

While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience and is appreciated by locals. Spain also has several regional languages, including Catalan, Basque, and Galician.

English	Spanish	Pronunciation
Hello	Hola	oh-lah
Please	Por favor	por fah-vor
Thank you	Gracias	grah-see-as
Yes/No	Sí/No	see/no
Excuse me	Perdón/Disculpe	per-don/dis-cool-pay
The bill, please	La cuenta, por favor	lah kwen-tah, por fah-vor
Where is the bathroom?	¿Dónde está el baño?	don-day es-tah el ban-yo

In Barcelona and parts of Catalonia, Catalan is the primary language, though Spanish is universally understood. Similarly, in the Basque Country and Galicia, you'll see signs in the regional languages alongside Spanish.

Money & Costs

Spain uses the Euro (€) as its currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but it's always good to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns and rural areas.

Typical Costs

Budget (€30-60/day)

• Hostel dorm: €15-25
• Menu del día (set lunch): €10-15
• Public transportation: €1.50-2 per ride
• Museum entry: €5-15

Mid-range (€100-200/day)

• Mid-range hotel: €60-120
• Restaurant meal: €15-30 per person
• Taxi rides: €10-15
• Guided tours: €20-50

Money-Saving Tips

• Look for the "Menú del Día" (daily menu) for lunch – a fixed-price three-course meal with drink for €10-15
• Many museums offer free entry on certain days or hours
• Consider city tourist cards for major destinations like Madrid or Barcelona
• Tap water is safe to drink throughout Spain – ask for "agua del grifo"

ATM Tip: When using ATMs, always choose to be charged in the local currency (Euros) rather than your home currency to avoid unfavorable exchange rates.

Transportation in Spain

Spain boasts an excellent transportation network that makes getting around the country efficient and relatively affordable.

Trains

Spain's high-speed train network (AVE) connects major cities at speeds up to 310 km/h (193 mph). Madrid to Barcelona takes just 2.5 hours. Book tickets through Renfe, the national railway company. Regional trains connect smaller destinations at lower prices but take longer.

Buses

Intercity buses are often cheaper than trains and reach places without rail connections. Companies like ALSA offer comfortable coaches with amenities like WiFi. In cities, local buses are affordable and extensive.

Metro Systems

Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Bilbao, and Seville have excellent metro systems. Multi-day tourist passes offer good value if you plan to use public transport frequently.

Domestic Flights

For longer distances, especially to the islands, domestic flights can save time. Airlines like Iberia, Vueling, and Ryanair offer competitive fares when booked in advance.

Renting a Car

A car gives you freedom to explore rural areas and small towns, but it's unnecessary and often inconvenient in major cities. International driver's permits are required for non-EU visitors.

Food & Drink in Spain

Spanish cuisine varies dramatically by region, but a few things to know before visiting Spain will help you navigate the food scene like a local.

Dining Schedule

Adjust to Spanish meal times to enjoy the best dining experiences:

• Breakfast (Desayuno): 8-10 AM – Usually light, often just coffee and toast or pastry
• Mid-morning snack (Almuerzo): 11 AM-12 PM – Coffee with a small sandwich
• Lunch (Comida): 2-4 PM – The main meal of the day, often multiple courses
• Tapas/Merienda: 5-8 PM – Light snacks or tapas with drinks
• Dinner (Cena): 9-11 PM – Lighter than lunch but still substantial

Must-Try Spanish Dishes

Tapas & Starters

• Jamón ibérico (cured ham)
• Patatas bravas (spicy potatoes)
• Tortilla española (potato omelet)
• Croquetas (fried béchamel rolls)

Main Dishes

• Paella (saffron rice dish)
• Cochinillo (roast suckling pig)
• Pulpo a la gallega (Galician octopus)
• Fabada (bean and sausage stew)

Desserts & Drinks

• Churros con chocolate
• Crema catalana (similar to crème brûlée)
• Sangria (wine punch)
• Vermut (vermouth)

Regional Specialties

Each region has its culinary highlights:

• Catalonia: Seafood, pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato and olive oil)
• Basque Country: Pintxos (tapas on bread), seafood, cider
• Andalusia: Gazpacho, fried fish, sherry wines
• Valencia: Authentic paella, horchata (tiger nut milk)
• Galicia: Seafood, Albariño wine, empanadas

"In Spain, the act of eating is never just about food—it's a social ritual, a celebration of life, and a way to connect with others."

— Spanish culinary saying

Safety & Health

Spain is generally a very safe country for travelers, but as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Safety Tips

• Be vigilant against pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas like Barcelona's Las Ramblas or Madrid's Puerta del Sol
• Keep valuables secure and consider using a money belt in crowded areas
• Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics
• Use official taxis or licensed ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of common scams like fake petitions or "friendly" strangers offering help

Health Information

Spain has excellent healthcare facilities, and no special vaccinations are required for visitors from most countries.

• Tap water is safe to drink throughout Spain
• Pharmacies (farmacias) are easily identified by a green cross and can provide basic medical advice
• EU citizens should bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
• Non-EU visitors should have comprehensive travel insurance
• The emergency number for all services is 112

Sun Safety: Spain's sun can be intense, especially in summer. Wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and avoid extended sun exposure during peak hours (12-4 PM).

Connectivity & Communication

Staying connected in Spain is relatively easy, with good mobile coverage and widespread WiFi availability.

Mobile Options

• Local SIM cards from providers like Movistar, Orange, and Vodafone offer affordable data packages
• EU visitors can use their home plans without roaming charges (check with your provider)
• International eSIMs are convenient but typically more expensive
• Prepaid tourist SIMs are available at airports and major electronics stores

WiFi Availability

Free WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and many public spaces. Most accommodations offer reliable connections, though speeds may vary in rural areas.

Power Adapters

Spain uses Type F electrical outlets (round prongs) with 230V voltage. Travelers from the US and UK will need adapters, and some may require voltage converters for certain devices.

Packing Essentials

What you pack for Spain depends on the season and regions you'll visit, but here are some essentials regardless of when you travel:

Clothing

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light, breathable clothing
• One smart outfit for nice restaurants
• Modest clothing for visiting churches
• Light jacket or sweater (even in summer)

Accessories

• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Scarf/shawl (for women visiting churches)
• Daypack for sightseeing
• Secure money belt or pouch

Other Essentials

• Sunscreen
• Power adapter
• Refillable water bottle
• Basic Spanish phrasebook
• Comfortable day bag

Seasonal Additions

• Summer: Swimwear, beach towel, extra sunscreen, hat, light clothing
• Winter: Warm coat, layers, scarf, gloves (especially for northern Spain)
• Spring/Fall: Light jacket, umbrella, layers for changing temperatures

Packing Tip: Spaniards tend to dress smartly even for casual occasions. Avoid looking like a tourist by leaving athletic wear, shorts, and flip-flops for the beach.

Regional Highlights

Spain's diverse regions each offer unique experiences. Here's a quick overview of what to expect in different parts of the country:

Catalonia

Home to Barcelona with Gaudí's architecture, Costa Brava's beaches, and the Pyrenees mountains. Known for distinct culture, language, and cuisine featuring seafood and pa amb tomàquet.

Andalusia

Southern region with Moorish influences in Seville, Granada (Alhambra), and Córdoba. Famous for flamenco, sherry wines, white villages, and Mediterranean beaches.

Madrid Region

The capital city offers world-class museums, grand plazas, and vibrant nightlife. Day trips to Toledo, Segovia, and El Escorial showcase Spain's historical richness.

Basque Country

Northern region with distinctive culture and language. San Sebastián and Bilbao offer incredible cuisine (pintxos), beautiful beaches, and the Guggenheim Museum.

Valencia

Home to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, authentic paella, and the famous Las Fallas festival. Beautiful Mediterranean beaches line the Costa Blanca.

Balearic & Canary Islands

The Balearics (Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca) offer Mediterranean beauty, while the Canary Islands provide year-round warm weather and dramatic volcanic landscapes.

Final Tips Before Your Spanish Adventure

As you prepare for your Spanish adventure, remember that one of the most important things to know before visiting Spain is to embrace the local pace of life. Spain isn't a country to rush through – it's a place to savor experiences, from lingering over meals to wandering through historic streets.

The Spanish phrase "No pasa nada" (it's no problem/don't worry) embodies the relaxed attitude that makes Spain so charming. Adopt this mindset during your visit, and you'll find yourself connecting more deeply with the culture and people.

Whether you're drawn to Spain for its art and architecture, food and wine, beaches or mountains, or simply its vibrant culture, this diverse country offers endless possibilities for memorable experiences. With these essential tips in mind, you're well-prepared to enjoy all that Spain has to offer.

¡Buen viaje! (Have a good trip!)