SPAIN

From the breathtaking Alhambra in Granada to the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain offers a multitude of world-famous attractions. It offers a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether sampling tapas in a busy market, dancing flamenco in Seville, or simply strolling through one of the many picturesque villages, choosing Spain as your next travel destination is an easy decision. Beyond its stunning beauty, affordability, and consistently pleasant weather, Spain is a diverse country ready that caters to a wide range of traveler preferences. For those in the midst of planning a journey to Spain, here are some things to consider:

Weather

With its Mediterranean climate, Spain is the ultimate haven for those seeking lots of sunshine and nice weather. Here’s what to expect:

Spring (March-May): Spring is a beautiful time to visit, with mild to warm temperatures and flowers in bloom. It’s an ideal season for exploring cities and countryside alike.

Summer (June-August): Summers can be very hot, especially inland. Coastal areas enjoy cooling sea breezes, making them popular destinations. It’s the perfect time for beach vacations. Pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

Fall (September-November): Fall offers cooler, more comfortable temperatures and is another great time for travel. The changing foliage adds beauty to rural landscapes.

Winter (December-February): Coastal areas enjoy mild weather. Pack a jacket and layers for cooler evenings. Inland and northern regions can get very cold.

Find more city specific climate information in the ‘Destinations’ below.

Destinations

Spain is steeped in history and culture. It’s home to iconic landmarks like the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, the Great Mosque in Cordoba, and historic cities like Seville and Toledo. The country’s Moorish, Roman, and medieval influences have left an indelible mark on its architecture, art, and traditions. Here is an overview of the ten most popular travel destinations in Spain:

1. Barcelona: Known for its Gothic architecture, Barcelona is home to the iconic Sagrada Família, Güell Park, and the vibrant La Rambla street. The city offers beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and a flourishing dining scene.

Barcelona

2. Cordoba: Cordoba is a city full of history and charm. The Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos, a former royal palace, is a great spot to explore, with its impressive gardens and towers. The city’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring narrow, winding streets and beautiful flower-filled patios that add a splash of color and local character.

3. Granada: The city is known for its Albaicin neighborhood, where you can stroll through narrow, winding streets and take in fantastic views of the Alhambra. This iconic palace and fortress complex is a masterpiece that features intricate tilework, beautiful gardens, and impressive courtyards that showcase Granada’s history.

4. Madrid: The capital city of Spain, Madrid is famous for its world-class art museums, including the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía, and Sorolla. The city also boasts elegant boulevards, beautiful parks, and the largest Royal Palace in Europe.

Madrid

5. Sevilla: The charming city of Seville, the birthplace of flamenco dancing, is renowned for its stunning Alcázar palace, the Gothic Seville Cathedral, and the lively Triana neighborhood.

Sevilla

6. Valencia: Valencia, situated on Spain’s southeastern coast, has stunning beaches and historic charm. Its old town boasts bustling streets, Gothic architecture, medieval churches, and the Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda), a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is home to Europe’s largest aquarium, L’Oceanogràfic, and is the birthplace of paella.

A highlight is Valencia’s annual Las Fallas festival held each March, featuring elaborate papier-mâché sculptures (fallas) displayed all over the city. The festival is a lively celebration complete with fireworks, parades, music, and traditional costumes.

For mild and pleasant weather, the best times to visit Valencia are April-May and September-October, as summer can be busy and hot. Valencia is a fantastic city that offers travelers a perfect blend of history, innovation, and leisure along Spain’s captivating coastline.

Where to Stay in Valencia: Hotel Melia Valencia

7. San Sebastián: San Sebastián, nestled along Spain’s northern coast in the Basque Country, is a gem of a city celebrated for its blend of natural beauty, culinary excellence, and rich cultural heritage. At the heart of San Sebastián’s appeal are its stunning beaches, most notably La Concha Beach, with its pristine sands framed by the scenic Mount Urgull and Mount Igeldo, offers a picturesque setting for sunbathers.

Beyond its sunny shores, San Sebastián has a world-renowned gastronomic scene, especially its pintxos, which come in a range of flavors. The Old Town and Gros neighborhoods are great for bar hopping and sampling pintxos and other tapas.

San Sebastián’s thermal spas provide opportunities to relax in the city’s serene surroundings. Nature lovers can enjoy the panoramic views from Mount Urgull, while water babies can book a boat trip and spend the day on the water.

San Sebastián International Film Festival, one of the most prestigious film festivals worldwide, is an annual event that attracts attracting filmmakers and celebrities from around the world.

June offers ideal warm weather in San Sebastián, with July and August also being warm but experiencing higher tourist numbers due to peak season crowds. For those seeking milder, warm weather, April-May and September-October are recommended. San Sebastián is a stunning city, and a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Spain’s northern coast.

Where to Stay in San Sebastián: Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra

8. Bilboa: Situated in the Basque Country, Bilbao is known for the striking Guggenheim Museum, located on the scenic riverside walkways of the Nervión River. Visitors will enjoy the historic Old Town (Casco Viejo), where narrow streets are lined with traditional taverns serving local wine. The Santiago Cathedral and the energetic Plaza Nueva are must-see landmarks in this lively quarter. For panoramic views of the city, ride the funicular to Mount Artxanda and enjoy the breathtaking views of Bilbao and its surroundings.

The best time to visit Bilbao for pleasant weather is April-June and September-October, when you’ll find temperatures ranging from 60-78°F, making it ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions comfortably. July and August temperatures reach up to 85°F, and is the peak tourist season, so expect crowds.

Where to Stay in Bilboa: Tayko Hotel

9. Ibiza: Part of the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, Ibiza is famous for its lively nightlife, making it a hotspot for party enthusiasts, especially in hotspots Ibiza Town and San Antonio. Beyond the energetic nightlife, Ibiza has stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming old towns like Dalt Vila, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The island ideal for exploring hidden coves, sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

In addition to its natural beauty, visitors can shop along Ibiza town’s narrow cobbled streets, explore ancient fortifications, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding sea.

The best time to visit Ibiza for ideal weather is during the summer months from June to September. During this period, temperatures are warm and perfect for beach activities, with highs typically ranging from 78-85°F. April-May and October offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making them good times to explore Ibiza without the summer heat or bustling party atmosphere.

Where to Stay in Ibiza: 7Pines Resort Ibiza

10. Toledo: A historic city set on a hill overlooking the Tagus River, Toledo is known for its rich history, blending Christian, Jewish, and Muslim cultures. The city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a labyrinth of winding streets lined with centuries-old buildings. Standing tall in the skyline is the Toledo Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece renowned for its intricate craftsmanship and stunning stained-glass windows.

Surrounded by ancient city walls, Toledo is crowned by the Alcázar fortress, which offers panoramic views of the city. Visitors can visit Toledo’s artisan workshops, where traditional crafts like metalwork and handmade swords continue to thrive, showcasing the city’s enduring ancient heritage.

The best time to visit Toledo for good weather is April-June and September-October, where temperatures are mild and range from 60-77°F, making it ideal for exploring Toledo’s outdoor attractions comfortably. Springtime’s blooming flowers enhance the city’s scenic beauty, while Fall offers crisp air and colorful foliage. July and August can be pretty hot, with temperatures often above 87°F. December-February is cooler and quieter, providing an opportunity to explore Toledo’s historic sites and museums without the crowds.

Where to Stay in Toledo: Eurostars Palacio Buenavista

Cuisine

Spanish cuisine is renowned worldwide and offers an array of dishes and regional specialties. Here are ten iconic specialties to try while visiting:

Paella
Tapas
Tortilla Española
Pintxos
Cava
Crema Catalana
Churros
Pulpo a la Gallega
Gazpacho
Tortilla Española

One thing to note if you prefer your beef more well-done is to be cautious when ordering beef dishes in Spain. Spanish steaks and beef meals are often served very rare.

During our cooking class in Madrid, our chef explained that Spain enjoys something they call “vermouth time.” It refers to the tradition of enjoying a glass of vermouth, typically in the early afternoon, as a prelude to lunch. Known as “La Hora del Vermut,” friends and family gather in bars or cafés to sip vermouth, often accompanied by small tapas such as olives, anchovies, or potato chips.

Vermouth is usually served over ice with a slice of orange or lemon and an olive, and it comes in two main varieties: red (sweet) and white (dry). This tradition is especially popular on weekends and is a way to relax before the meal. I’m thinking we should introduce vermouth time in the US. 😊😊😊

Language

The official language of Spain is Spanish, but you’ll find that in tourist areas, English is widely spoken, especially in popular destinations. Many people working in the tourism industry are proficient in English, making it easier for travelers to communicate. However, learning a few basic Spanish phrases is always appreciated by locals. Here are a few to remember:

Buenos días (Good morning)
Buenas tardes (Good afternoon/evening)
Buenas noches (Good night)
Sí/No (Yes/No)
Habla inglés? (Do you speak English?)
Baño (Bathroom)
Hola (Hello)
Por favor (Please)
Gracias (Thank you)
Cuánto cuesta? (How much does it cost?)

Currency and Payment Methods

Payment Methods:

Credit/Debit Cards: Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
Cash: Spain’s currency is the Euro and it’s a good idea to carry some for tipping and small purchases, or on the rare occasion a shop accepts only cash.
ATMs: Abundant throughout cities and accept international cards. Be cautious of ATM exchange fees and it’s advisable to use an ATM at a bank branch.
Mobile Payments: Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming more popular.

Tipping Standards:

Tipping in Spain is not as customary as in some other countries. However, it’s appreciated for good service. Here are some tipping guidelines:

Restaurants, Cafés and Bars: 5-10% of the bill for good service
Bellman: 1 euro per bag
Housekeeping: 2-3 euro per day
Concierge: 5 euro is standard (more for above and beyond services)
Taxis: 5% is common
Tour Guide: 15-20 euros for a full-day tour

Entry Requirements

Passport Requirements: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Spain. If it is not, you will be denied entry into the country.

Visa Requirements: While not technically a visa, US citizens will need an ETIAS Authorization to enter Spain starting in May 2025.

Stay Limitations: The maximum stay in Spain as a tourist is no more than 90 days within a 180-day period.

Getting Around

Spain has excellent public transportation options, including buses, metros, and trains. Traveling between major cities is best done using the high-speed trains. You can find the train lines map here, and you may be able to save money by purchasing a Renfe Spain Pass. This pass allows you to choose the number of train trips you intend to make and the type of seat you want, without having to specify pre-defined origins or destinations.

However, there are many places in Spain that are not connected by rail, so consider bus transport or car rental for these areas. If opting to self-drive, be aware that driving can be challenging at times due to roundabouts, narrow streets, and limited parking. You will need an international driver’s license, which can be obtained from AAA. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the meanings of various road signs, which will be in Spanish.

Useful Tips

Wear Comfortable Shoes! You’ll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets, so take care of the tootsies!

Make Note of the Number for Emergencies: There is no need to dial any international codes when calling emergency services. Just dial 112 form your USA-issued phone, and you will be connected to the local emergency services.

Use Translation and Map Apps: Google Translate and Google maps will be very useful for navigating and communicating while in Spain.

Download Free Tours: Rick Steves has free downloadable audio tours for Barcelona, Seville, and Madrid.

Siesta Time is Real: Many shops and businesses close in the early afternoon for a siesta, especially in smaller towns. Remind me why we don’t do this in the USA?!?!

Beware of Pickpockets: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. Do not keep a wallet in your back pocket, wear your handbag on your front side, and don’t wear expensive jewelry.

Can I Drink the Water: Tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available.

Mealtimes are Different: Spaniards eat later than in many other countries. Lunch is typically from 2-4pm, and dinner starts around 8:30pm.