WELCOME TO SPAIN
SPAIN TRAVEL GUIDE
Presenting to you, your ultimate Spain Travel Guide.
Spain is one of those countries that has such a diverse culture. From the Nordic and Gaelic influences in the northern parts of Santiago de Compostela and A Coruña in Galicia to the Moorish influence in the southern region of Andalucía, you’ll find yourself splitting this country into three separate trips to immerse yourself properly.
(1) Northern Spain + Northern Portugal
(2) Andalucîa + Mid – Southern Portugal
(3) East Coast of Spain (Barcelona + Valencia) with the Balearic Islands.
FYI: One place you cannot miss is Seville. Once rated the best place to travel to in 2018 by Lonely Planet and is consistently given 10/10 reviews from travelers around the globe. It’s only a 2.5 hr train ride from Madrid, so be sure to add 3-4 days to spend here, and you might want to live here permanently after.
Check out your ultimate Spain Travel Guide and everything you need to know to plan a perfect trip.
best time to visit
Let’s just start with there is no bad time to visit. As your ultimate Spain Travel Guide, this is what to expect each season so you can plan a perfect trip!
Northern Spain + Northern Portugal
Avoid the hot summer months
Andalucîa + Mid-Southern Portugal
Feb/Mar Temp: (low 50s°F/high 70s°F)
Two major festivals happen in the Spring, Semana Santa or Holy Week, commemorating the week leading up to Easter & Feria in May, a week-long cultural festival in Seville, so plan accordingly.
East Coast of Spain (Barcelona + Valencia) with the Balearic Islands
Most popular times to visit are during the summer (June – August)
If you still want the beach weather without the price tag, September & October are highly underrated.
SPAIN TRAVEL GUIDE:
what to know before you go
Language: Spanish and Catalan in Barcelona, Catalan. English is common in tourist areas, but don’t assume; always ask.
Currency: Euro (EUR). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, and cash is preferred in small towns.
Plug Types: Type C & F. Voltage: 230V, 50Hz.
Spain Travel Guide (Safety):
- Safe overall; petty theft is common in big cities like Barcelona or Madrid.
- Avoid leaving valuables unattended on beaches.
- Tap water is safe to drink across most of the country, though bottled water is preferred in some rural areas.
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phrases you must know before you go!
“Hola,
¿QUÉ TáL?”
Hello, how are you?
“POR FAVOR”
Excuse me
“¿Cuánto
cuesta?”
How much does
it cost?
“LA CUENTA, POR FAVOR”
Can I get the check please?
“¿Dónde está el baño?”
Where is the bathroom?
“GRACIAS / MUCHAS GRACIAS”
Thank you / Thank you very much
National dishes
A Spain Travel Guide is incomplete without trying some of the country’s staple dishes. You can’t leave Spain without trying Tapas and Paella. Eating like a local is an amazing way to get not only yummy food but a more authentic experience when traveling.
TAPAS
Some staples include jamón ibérico or serrano (cured less time), papas bravas, croquetas, gambas al ajillo, pan con tomate and more!
PAELLA
Originating from Valencia, the dish features saffron-infused, golden rice with a mixture of meats, seafood, and/or vegetables. Usually restaurants only make plates for 2 people so choose your plus 1 wisely.
SPAIN TRAVEL GUIDE: Transportation
- Air Travel: Main hubs: Madrid–Barajas (MAD), Barcelona–El Prat (BCN), and Málaga–Costa del Sol (AGP). Low-cost carriers include Vueling, Ryanair & Iberia Express.
- Trains: Spain’s Renfe rail network is efficient. The AVE high-speed trains link Madrid–Barcelona in 2.5 hours and Madrid–Seville in 2 hours. Reserve early for the best prices.
- Buses: Long-distance buses (Alsa, Avanza) cover routes where trains don’t go. Comfortable, reliable, and often cheaper than rail.
- Taxis & Ride Apps: Taxis are plentiful, regulated, and metered. Uber, Cabify, and Bolt operate in large cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia.
- Driving: Manual transmission is standard for rentals; automatic cars cost extra. In city centers, parking is limited, so use underground garages or park-and-ride lots.
- Tip: Plan train and bus trips with Omio or Renfe.com. Enjoy Spain’s late rhythm, dinner often starts around 9 PM, and life unfolds at a relaxed pace.
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