Spain, located in southwestern Europe, is a country known for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. From the bustling streets of Madrid to the vibrant beaches of Barcelona and the historic monuments of Seville, Spain offers travelers a wide range of experiences to explore and enjoy.
Ultimate Spain Travel Guide
Destinations
Best time to go
The best time to visit Spain depends on your interests and preferences. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer (June to August) is popular for beach holidays and festivals, but it can be crowded and hot, especially in tourist hotspots. Winter (December to February) is quieter, with opportunities to explore cultural attractions and enjoy outdoor activities with milder temperatures in southern regions.
Average Temperature By Month
January: 8°C (46°F)
February: 9°C (48°F)
March: 12°C (54°F)
April: 13°C (55°F)
May: 17°C (63°F)
June: 22°C (72°F)
July: 25°C (77°F)
August: 25°C (77°F)
September: 21°C (70°F)
October: 15°C (59°F)
November: 11°C (52°F)
December: 8°C (46°F)
What To Expect
Time Zone:
Central European Time (CET), UTC+1.
Currency:
The official currency of Spain is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets, especially in rural areas.
Language:
Spanish is the official language of Spain, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Airport:
Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) in Madrid and Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN) in Barcelona are the two main international airports in Spain, serving as primary entry points for international travelers.
How To Get Around
Public Transport: Spain has an extensive and efficient public transportation network, including trains, buses, trams, and metros. Renfe operates trains connecting major cities and regions, while ALSA provides bus services to various destinations across the country.
Rental Cars: Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Spain’s countryside and remote areas, offering flexibility and freedom. Roads are generally well-maintained, but driving in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona can be challenging due to congestion and limited parking.
Taxis/Uber: Taxis are readily available in major cities and tourist areas, but they can be expensive, especially for longer journeys. Uber operates in cities like Madrid and Barcelona, providing an alternative for transportation.
Average Temperature By Month:
January: 8°C (46°F)
February: 9°C (48°F)
March: 12°C (54°F)
April: 13°C (55°F)
May: 17°C (63°F)
June: 22°C (72°F)
July: 25°C (77°F)
August: 25°C (77°F)
September: 21°C (70°F)
October: 15°C (59°F)
November: 11°C (52°F)
December: 8°C (46°F)
Plugs:
Spain uses Type C and Type F electrical plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz.
VPN:
Using a VPN is advisable for secure internet browsing, especially when accessing public Wi-Fi networks.
Safety:
Spain is generally safe for travelers, but it's essential to be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas. Be mindful of your belongings and avoid carrying valuables in crowded places.
Credit Cards and Banks
Credit Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted in Spain, especially in urban areas, tourist destinations, and larger establishments. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted cards, followed by American Express and Diners Club. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially when traveling to smaller establishments or more remote areas.
Debit Cards: Debit cards, known as “tarjeta de débito” in Spanish, are commonly used for purchases and ATM withdrawals in Spain. Most Spanish banks issue debit cards to their customers, which are equipped with chip-and-PIN technology for security. Informing your bank of your travel plans is advisable to prevent any issues with card usage abroad and to check for potential foreign transaction fees.
ATMs: ATMs, known as “cajeros automáticos” in Spanish, are readily available throughout Spain. They can be found in cities, towns, tourist areas, and even in some rural locations. Spanish banks may charge minimal fees for ATM withdrawals, but foreign banks may impose additional fees for international transactions. Using ATMs affiliated with major banks is recommended for security.
Currency Exchange: The official currency of Spain is the Euro (EUR). It’s advisable to exchange your currency to Euros upon arrival. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, currency exchange offices (casas de cambio), some hotels, and at airports. US dollars and British pounds are often accepted for exchange, especially in tourist areas.
Banks: Spain has several banks serving its residents and visitors. Some of the major banks in Spain include Banco Santander, BBVA, CaixaBank, and Banco Sabadell. These banks offer various financial services, including current accounts, savings accounts, loans, and investment products. Many banks also provide online banking services and have extensive branch networks.
Traveler’s Checks: Traveler’s checks are becoming less common worldwide, including in Spain. While some banks may still cash traveler’s checks, they are not as widely accepted as they once were. It’s recommended to carry cash or use alternative payment methods such as credit/debit cards or ATMs for transactions.
Tips for Banking in Spain:
- Notify your bank before traveling to Spain to inform them of your travel plans.
- Keep your PIN and card information secure, especially when using ATMs in crowded tourist areas.
- Familiarize yourself with the current exchange rate to ensure fair transactions when exchanging currency.
- Carry a mix of cash and cards for flexibility, but avoid carrying large amounts of cash for security reasons.
Understanding the banking system in Spain can help ensure a smooth and convenient financial experience during your travels in the country.
Locations
Spain
TRAVEL FACTS
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in Spain due to terrorism and civil unrest. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
For the latest passport and visa requirements for this country, please consult the U.S. State Department’s “Learn About Your Destination” search tool, available through the link below.
US Embassy/Consulate
[34] (91) 587-2200; US Embassy in Madrid, Calle de Serrano, 75, 28006 Madrid, Spain; askACS@state.gov; https://es.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Telephone Code
34
Local Emergency Phone
112
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Spain: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, and influenza.
Climate
Temperate; clear, hot summers in interior, more moderate and cloudy along coast; cloudy, cold winters in interior, partly cloudy and cool along coast
Currency (Code)
Euros (EUR)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, F
Major Languages
Castilian Spanish, Catalan, Galician, Basque
Major Religions
Roman Catholic 58.2%, atheist 16.2%, agnostic 10.8%, other 2.7%, non-believer 10.5%
Time Difference
UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time); daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October; note: Spain has 2 time zones, including the Canary Islands (UTC 0)
Potable Water
Yes
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Alhambra & Generalife Gardens; Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia & Gaudi Sites; Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba; Prado & Paseo del Artes; San Lorenzo de El Escorial; Guggenheim Museum Bilbao; Alcazar of Seville; Royal Palace in Madrid; Coa Valley & Siega Verde; Cave of Altamira; Routes of Santiago de Compostela; Valley of the Fallen
Major Sports
Soccer, basketball, tennis, cycling, golf, handball
Cultural Practices
Dinner is served later in Spain than in many other countries. It is common for the meal to be served around 9 p.m.
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is determined by the time and place you are dining. Leaving 1 euro per person is fine for a daytime meal, but leave 10% for an evening meal. Tip room service 1-2 euro and leave 2-3 euros for hotel housekeeping at the end of your stay.
Souvenirs
Espadrille shoes, Cava sparkling wine, liquor, leather goods, Caganer figurines, mortar and pestle sets, Gaudí-inspired decorated items
Traditional Cuisine
Paella — a one-pot dish consisting of saffron-flavored rice simmered in a broth of garlic, tomatoes, freshly cooked vegetables, and meat and/or seafood
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) – To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information – Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada – 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas – +1 202-501-4444
Central Intelligence Agency.
The World Factbook.
/the-world-factbook
(May 8, 2024)
