After helping hundreds of travelers, we've compiled the best practical tips so you can make the most of your experience in Spain. From common mistakes to avoid to cultural tips that make a difference.
Common mistakes to avoid
These are the most frequent mistakes that can ruin an experience in Spain. Avoid them and your trip will be much better.
Trying to see everything in very little time
Spain is large and diverse. Don't try to see Madrid, Barcelona, Seville and Granada in 5 days. It's better to choose 2-3 places and enjoy them well.
Ignoring distances
Madrid-Barcelona are 600km. They're not 'nearby cities'. Plan transport well and don't underestimate travel times.
Not booking trains in summer
AVE trains sell out weeks in advance during high season. Book in advance, especially in July and August.
Underestimating summer heat
Summer in southern and central Spain can be extremely hot (35-40°C). Plan activities early or late, avoid midday.
Not adapting to Spanish schedules
Spaniards eat late (14:00-15:00) and dine late (21:00-22:00). Many restaurants close between meals. Adapt your schedule.
Important cultural tips
- Breakfast: 8-10am
- Lunch: 2-3pm (main meal of the day)
- Siesta: 2-5pm (many businesses close)
- Dinner: 9-10pm
- Nightlife: Starts late (11pm+)
- Spanish (Castilian) is the main language
- In some regions: Catalan, Basque, Galician
- Learn basic phrases: 'Hello', 'Thank you', 'Please'
- Don't assume everyone speaks English
- Spaniards appreciate the effort to speak Spanish
Tips for eating
Food is an essential part of Spanish culture. These tips will help you enjoy local gastronomy without common mistakes.
- Avoid obvious tourist areas: Look where locals eat
- Menu of the day: Best value for money (€10-15 complete meal)
- Markets: Excellent option for authentic and economical food
- Tapas: Try different tapas in several bars
- Reservations: In popular restaurants, book in advance
- Buying bottled water in tourist restaurants (ask for tap water, it's potable)
- Leaving excessive tips (10% is enough, not mandatory)
- Eating in restaurants with photos of food on the menu
- Ordering paella at night (it's eaten at midday)
- Assuming spicy food is common (generally it's not)
Useful apps for traveling in Spain
These apps will make your life easier during your trip around Spain.
- Renfe: Trains in Spain
- Alsa: Buses
- Google Maps: Navigation and public transport
- Citymapper: Urban transport (Madrid, Barcelona)
- Uber/Cabify: Taxis and VTC
- TheFork: Restaurant reservations with discounts
- Google Maps: Reviews and locations
- TripAdvisor: Reviews and recommendations
- Google Maps: Offline maps available
- Museums: Official apps of major museums
- España.info: Official tourist information
- WhatsApp: Very popular in Spain
- Google Translate: Instant translation
- Duolingo: Learn basic Spanish
Safety and precautions
Spain is a very safe country, but as anywhere, it's important to take basic precautions.
Safety tips:
- Pickpockets: Be careful in very touristy areas and public transport
- Documents: Carry passport copies, not the original everywhere
- Money: Don't carry large amounts of cash
- Valuables: Don't leave them visible in the car
- Emergencies: 112 is the emergency number throughout Spain
- Beaches: Respect flags and currents
Tips to save money
- Menu of the day: Best value for money for eating
- Free museums: Many have free days/hours
- Discount cards: City cards in some cities
- Public transport: Multi-day passes are usually more economical
- Tap water: It's potable, you don't need to buy water
- Avoid high season: Spring and autumn are cheaper
- Book in advance: Better prices on accommodation and transport
What to pack in your suitcase
Essentials:
- Documentation: Passport/ID, visa if necessary, travel insurance
- Clothing: Adapted to season and region
- Comfortable shoes: You walk a lot in Spain
- Sunscreen: Especially in summer
- Plug adapter: Type F (two round pins)
- Medications: If you take something regularly
- Credit/debit card: And some cash
Etiquette and behavior
- Greetings: Two kisses on the cheek is common (among acquaintances)
- Punctuality: More flexible than in other countries, but be reasonable
- Noise: Spaniards are louder, it's normal
- Street life: Spaniards live a lot on the street, it's part of the culture
- Respect: Respect local traditions and customs
- Photographs: Ask permission before photographing people
Need more information?
These tips will help you avoid common mistakes and make the most of your experience in Spain. Remember that each region has its particularities, so adapt these tips according to where you go.