Spain

Spain is packed with iconic landmarks, but each region offers something truly unique. In Barcelona, visitors are captivated by the surreal architecture of Antoni Gaudí, especially the still-unfinished Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and the whimsical façades of Casa Batlló and Casa Milà. In the capital, Madrid, culture lovers flock to the Golden Triangle of Art: the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, which collectively house masterpieces from Velázquez to Picasso. Down south in Andalusia, the Alhambra Palace in Granada, with its intricate Islamic designs and tranquil gardens, is one of the most stunning examples of Moorish architecture in the world. Nearby, Seville’s Real Alcázar, its gothic Cathedral, and the Giralda Tower immerse travelers in a blend of Islamic and Christian influences. In Córdoba, the Mezquita, a mosque-turned-cathedral, is a mesmerizing symbol of layered history. In the north, Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum is a marvel of modern design, while San Sebastián enchants with its coastal beauty and culinary fame. Toledo and Segovia provide medieval charm just a short train ride from Madrid. For nature seekers, the Picos de Europa, Camino de Santiago, Sierra Nevada, and the volcanic landscapes of Tenerife offer some of Spain’s most breathtaking terrain.

Spanish cuisine is as diverse as its regions, defined by fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a culture that values social dining. In Andalusia, gazpacho and salmorejo are refreshing tomato-based cold soups perfect for the summer heat, while jamón ibérico, thinly sliced cured ham, is savored across the country. In Valencia, the birthplace of paella, the original version includes rabbit, chicken, and beans, though seafood varieties are common along the coast. Tapas, small shared plates, are not just a culinary staple but a social ritual — think patatas bravas (crispy potatoes with spicy sauce), croquetas (fried béchamel bites), tortilla española (a thick potato omelet), and pimientos de padrón (blistered green peppers). In the Basque Country, pintxos (toothpick-topped tapas) are served in buzzing taverns where food doubles as art. Seafood is king in Galicia, where dishes like pulpo a la gallega (octopus with paprika, olive oil, and sea salt) and empanadas are regional favorites. For something heartier, cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig) is a specialty of Segovia, while fabada asturiana (bean and sausage stew) warms the soul in Asturias. Finish your meal with churros con chocolate, or try tarta de Santiago, a simple almond cake from Galicia, best enjoyed with a glass of sherry, Rioja, or Cava.

Spain boasts an excellent and extensive transportation system that makes exploring the country easy and efficient. The Renfe high-speed train network (AVE) connects major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Málaga, and Valencia in just a few hours, offering comfort, speed, and scenic views. For budget travelers, slower regional trains and ALSA or Avanza long-distance buses provide a more economical way to get around. Public transportation in cities is reliable, with metro systems in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Bilbao. Buses and trams serve most urban areas, and local transport cards or multi-day passes are available for convenience. Taxis are plentiful and metered, but ridesharing apps like Cabify and Uber are also active in several cities. In rural areas and small villages, rental cars provide the flexibility needed to reach remote castles, vineyards, or hiking routes. Spain drives on the right, and highways (called autovías) are well-maintained, although toll roads (autopistas) can add to costs. Domestic flights can be useful for reaching the Canary Islands or Balearic Islands, but for mainland travel, trains remain the top choice.

Spain is highly accessible for budget travelers, especially with careful planning. Eating out can be affordable thanks to menú del día, a fixed-price lunch menu offered by many restaurants that includes several courses and a drink, often for under €12. Tapas bars also allow you to dine lightly and share plates. In cities like Granada, free tapas are still offered with each drink, making dining both affordable and delightful. Accommodation ranges from budget hostels and pensions to albergues (pilgrim hostels) along the Camino de Santiago. Booking in advance, especially in summer, helps secure the best rates. Free walking tours are widely available in major cities, and most museums have discounted or free admission days, particularly on Sundays or weekday evenings. Use regional transit passes for savings, and walk as much as possible — Spanish cities are highly pedestrian-friendly. Travel in the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for lower prices on accommodations and flights, along with pleasant weather and thinner crowds.

Spain is one of Europe’s safest countries for travelers, with low rates of violent crime. The main concern for visitors is petty theft, especially pickpocketing in tourist-heavy areas such as Las Ramblas in Barcelona, crowded metros, and major train stations. Travelers should carry bags across the front of their bodies and be cautious with valuables. Emergency services are accessible by dialing 112, and healthcare is excellent. Pharmacies are abundant and marked with green crosses. In larger cities, it’s wise to avoid overly intoxicated crowds at night and be cautious in nightlife zones. Natural hazards are minimal, though summer wildfires can occur in forested or rural areas. Tap water is safe to drink nationwide. While demonstrations or protests are typically peaceful, it’s best to steer clear of political gatherings and monitor local news during your visit.

Spaniards are friendly, warm, and expressive, but there are some important cultural norms to observe. Greetings usually involve a handshake, or two kisses on the cheeks (left then right) between friends or acquaintances, though a handshake is fine for first meetings. It’s customary to say “buenos días” or “buenas tardes” when entering shops or cafes. Meal times are later than in many countries — lunch is served around 2–3 PM, and dinner rarely begins before 9 PM. It’s common to linger at the table in conversation, so don’t rush. Tipping is not obligatory, but leaving 5–10% at restaurants or rounding up in taxis is appreciated. Respect for local languages is important — in Catalonia, Galicia, and the Basque Country, showing awareness of regional identity and language can build goodwill. Loud behavior, especially in churches or during siesta hours (especially in small towns), may be frowned upon. Modest dress is expected in churches and sacred sites, and it's polite to wait for locals to initiate more informal behavior.

Spain is a top-tier destination for culture lovers, foodies, architecture buffs, wine enthusiasts, and sun-seekers alike. Whether you're strolling through ancient alleyways, hiking misty mountain trails, dancing at summer festivals, or savoring every bite of a ten-course Basque dinner, Spain caters to solo travelers, couples, families, and group tours with equal ease. With its diversity of experiences, Spain truly has something for every travel style — from beach vacations to cultural deep-dives to off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Budget travelers will find a wide selection of hostels, especially in major cities. Places like OK Hostel Madrid, Rodamón Hostel Barcelona, and Granada Inn Backpackers offer beds from €20–30 per night, often with social events and shared kitchens. In small towns, pensions and hostales offer budget private rooms at similar rates. Mid-range travelers can choose from boutique hotels like Room Mate Alicia (Madrid), Casa Bonay (Barcelona), or Hotel Amadeus (Seville) for stylish stays in great locations, usually around €70–150 per night. Paradores — historic state-run hotels often located in castles, monasteries, or palaces — offer unique mid-range to luxury experiences across the country. Luxury travelers have no shortage of options. Stay at the opulent Hotel Alfonso XIII in Seville, the beachfront W Barcelona, or the classic Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid. The Marqués de Riscal hotel in Rioja, designed by Frank Gehry, offers a five-star wine escape in a stunning architectural setting. Luxury accommodations typically start around €250 per night and include world-class dining and service.

One common mistake is underestimating the regional differences across Spain — assuming it’s a monolithic culture can lead to missed opportunities for deeper connection. Each region has its own traditions, holidays, and often its own language, so take time to learn what’s unique about the places you visit. Another pitfall is arriving at restaurants too early — many don’t open for dinner until after 8:30 PM, and trying to eat at 6 PM may lead to confusion or limited options. Travelers also sometimes neglect advanced ticket reservations for popular sites like the Alhambra, Sagrada Família, or Prado Museum, which often sell out. Be wary of pickpocketing, especially in Barcelona and Madrid, and avoid leaving valuables unattended in public. Finally, some visitors skip smaller towns or rural regions, missing out on authentic experiences in places like Ronda, Cadaqués, or La Rioja.

For navigation and public transit, Citymapper (for cities like Madrid and Barcelona) and Google Maps are very reliable. Use Renfe or Trainline for booking trains, and ALSA for intercity buses. Cabify and Free Now are popular ride-hailing apps. For dining, TheFork (ElTenedor) allows you to book restaurants and access discounts. Komoot or Wikiloc are useful for hiking routes, especially on the Camino de Santiago. Google Translate or SpanishDict can help with communication, especially in rural areas. Booking.com and Paradores.es are great for lodging, while Civitatis and GuruWalk offer guided and free walking tours. Offline maps, phrasebooks, and museum-specific apps (like for the Prado) can also enrich your experience.

A 10- to 14-day trip to Spain could begin in Madrid with 2–3 days of museum visits, tapas hopping, and day trips to Toledo or Segovia. Travel south to Andalusia for 5–6 days exploring Seville, Granada, and Córdoba, enjoying flamenco, Moorish architecture, and warm hospitality. Next, head to Barcelona for 3–4 days of art, beach relaxation, and exploring Gaudí’s legacy. If you have more time, consider visiting the Basque Country or Galicia in the north for a completely different cultural experience. Alternatively, fly to Mallorca or Tenerife to unwind by the sea. Spain is ideal for slow, immersive travel, with each region offering its own highlights.

Spain has 48 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it one of the top countries in the world for cultural and natural treasures. The country is also home to the world’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, Botín, in Madrid, founded in 1725. Spain invented the modern concept of tapas, not just for small bites, but as a way to slow down meals and foster connection. The Camino de Santiago is one of the world’s most famous pilgrimage routes, drawing hikers, cyclists, and spiritual seekers from around the globe. Despite stereotypes, flamenco is native only to Andalusia, and bullfighting, while controversial and declining, still holds symbolic cultural value in some regions. Spain is also the largest producer of olive oil in the world and boasts more than 4,000 wineries, making it a paradise for culinary tourism.