Spain Travel Guide

Overview

Spain is a vibrant, sun-soaked destination packed with bucket-list experiences from Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia (pro tip: book tickets early!) to Madrid’s historic streets. The country’s rich culture, world-famous cuisine, and lively festivals (like La Tomatina and Running of the Bulls) make it a must-visit. Whether you’re chasing festivals like La Tomatina or relaxing on Costa del Sol’s beaches, this Spain travel guide has you covered.

Quick Facts About Spain

Flights Information for Spain:

Fly into Madrid (MAD) or Barcelona (BCN). Use Skyscanner for deals.

• Madrid (MAD) The busiest hub, with flights worldwide.
• Barcelona (BCN) Popular for European and transatlantic routes.
• Málaga (AGP) Key for southern Spain and beach destinations.
• Valencia (VLC), Seville (SVQ), and Palma de Mallorca (PMI) Smaller but well-connected.

Budget airlines like Ryanair and Vueling offer cheap flights within Europe. For long-haul, check Skyscanner or Kayak for deals.

Safety Information You Should Know Before Visiting Spain:

Spain is generally safe, but like any tourist hotspot, petty theft (pickpocketing, bag snatching) is common in crowded areas like Barcelona’s Las Ramblas or Madrid’s Puerta del Sol. Stay alert, especially in public transport.

• Avoid flashing expensive items in tourist-heavy zones.
• Scams: Beware of friendly street games (shell games, fake petitions).
• Is Spain safe for tourists? Yes, but watch for pickpockets.
• Emergency number: 112.

Spain is liberal and welcoming, but dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Climate

Spain’s climate varies by region:

• Coastal areas (Barcelona, Valencia, Costa del Sol): Hot summers (30°C+/86°F), mild winters (10-15°C/50-59°F). Best time: April-June & Sept-Oct.
• Inland (Madrid, Seville): Extreme summers (up to 40°C/104°F), cold winters (near freezing).
• North (Bilbao, San Sebastián): More rain, cooler temps year-round.

I visited Barcelona in May, and the weather was perfect—warm but not scorching.7

Budget

Spain is mid-range for Europe cheaper than France or Italy but pricier than Eastern Europe.

• Hostels: Approx €15-€30/night
• Budget hotels: Approx €50-€100/night
• Meals: Approx Tapas (€2-€5 per dish), sit-down meals Approx (€10-€20)
• Spain budget travel tip: Take ALSA buses (cheaper than trains).
• El menú del día Approx (€10-€15 fixed lunch).
• Transport: High-speed trains (Renfe) can be pricey; buses (ALSA) are cheaper.

Money-saving tip: Many bars offer free tapas with drinks in cities like Granada.
Other Must Know Tips:

• Siesta culture: Many shops close 2 PM – 5 PM in smaller towns.
• Dinner time: Spaniards eat late (9 PM-11 PM).
• Tipping: Not mandatory, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is polite.
• Public transport: Efficient in cities; Renfe trains connect major destinations.

Final Thoughts

Spain is a dream destination whether you’re into history, beaches, food, or nightlife. With this guide, you’re ready to explore like a pro!Need more details on a specific city or attraction?

🙋 Frequently Asked Questions