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Spain Travel Guide and Tips
By Heather Cottrell MONEY RESEARCH COLLECTIVE
Spain is a vibrant country that offers unique experiences for travelers. Located in southwestern Europe, it’s bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, Andorra, France and Portugal. Its diverse landscape ranges from the soaring mountains of the Pyrenees to the sun-soaked beaches of Costa del Sol.
To help you plan your trip, this travel guide to Spain highlights the best places, attractions, activities and foods to experience.
Table of contents
- A guide to exploring Spain
- The best time of year to visit Spain
- The best places to visit in Spain
- Traditional Spanish dishes to try
- Insider tips for visiting Spain
- What is Spain most known for?
- How much does a trip to Spain cost?
- Is it safe to travel to Spain?
Get a Free QuoteA guide to exploring Spain
Spain is one of the world’s top destinations, welcoming millions of visitors annually. The country has much to offer, including cultural tours, beach vacations and outdoor adventures.
Culture and traditions
Spain’s rich and varied cultural heritage was influenced by the Celts, Romans, Moors and other civilizations that left their mark on the country’s art, architecture and traditions. Festivals and sports are a key part of Spanish culture, drawing crowds from around the world.
Weather
Spain enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. However, the weather can vary significantly depending on the area. In the south, areas such as Andalusia and the Costa del Sol have a Mediterranean climate, while the interior regions have hot summers and cold winters. Northern coastal towns are cooler, while the Canary Islands have warm temperatures year-round.
Local cuisine
Food and drink are essential to the Spanish way of life, from fresh seafood to hearty stews. Wine is also a significant part of the culture, with regions such as Ribera del Duero and Jerez de la Frontera producing some of the world’s finest wines.
Public transportation
Spain’s public transportation system that makes it easy and affordable to get around. High-speed trains offer a fast and efficient way to move between major cities, while regional trains connect smaller towns and villages. Buses are another option, and larger Spanish cities have metro systems and trams. Renting a car is also a viable option for tourists.
Natural landscapes
Spain is a country with breathtaking natural landscapes and a wide range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The Pyrenees mountain range is great for skiing, hiking and rock climbing. The Picos de Europa National Park is home to rugged mountains, lush forests and glacial lakes, making it another attractive spot for adventure.
Spain’s coastline is beautiful, with Costa Brava and Costa Blanca offering miles of white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Inland, the country’s vast plains, such as the La Mancha region, with its rolling hills, olive groves and vineyards, provide a picturesque backdrop for hiking, cycling and horseback riding.
Spain entry requirements and travel restrictions
Spain travel requirements vary depending on one’s country of origin. European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area residents are allowed to enter without Spain travel restrictions.
U.S. citizens need a current passport valid for at least three months beyond their travel period to Spain. For stays under 90 days, a visa is not needed. Travel vaccines are not required for U.S. citizens.
Starting in 2024, visitors from visa-exempt countries will need to complete an ETIAS application and pay a $7.25 fee to enter Schengen countries. An ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Persons under the age of 18 and over 70 are exempt.
The best time of year to visit Spain
Generally, the best seasons for traveling to Spain are the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant. Spain can get hot in the summer, although it’s also when many festivals and events occur. The winter months are typically mild and rainy, with the exception of the mountain ski resorts.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Spain depends on your pick of activities and festivals and your tolerance for crowds. Keep in mind that the cheapest options for accommodations can generally be found from January through April.
The best places to visit in Spain
Spain is a country with a rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes and a variety of destinations. Some of the best areas to visit include:
- Barcelona: Famed for its art and architecture, Barcelona is home to the magnificent Sagrada Familia and the colorful Park Güell. The Gothic Quarter is a charming neighborhood of cobblestone streets with quaint shops and restaurants. Parc de la Ciutadella is an oasis with lovely gardens, a boating lake, a zoo and the grand Arc de Triomf.
- Madrid: The dynamic capital of Spain, Madrid offers fine museums, historic landmarks and lively nightlife. The Royal Palace is an opulent landmark with incredible art and lush gardens. Also, don’t miss the Prado Museum or the Plaza Mayor.
- San Sebastian: A picturesque coastal town in the Basque Country, San Sebastian is a must-visit for its sandy beaches and world-class cuisine. It’s a foodie paradise — be sure to bring your appetite.
- Seville: The capital of Andalusia attracts visitors with Moorish architecture and flamenco dancing. Seville’s Plaza de España boasts gorgeous bridges and colorful tiles depicting Spain’s provinces.
- Valencia: Valencia is a coastal city celebrated for its architecture, beaches and delicious food. The city is home to the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex with a planetarium, an opera house and an aquarium.
Must-see attractions in Spain
Spain is a country with a variety of must-see attractions. Some of the top spots include:
- La Sagrada Familia: An iconic landmark in Barcelona, this basilica is a masterpiece of design and architecture. Designed by Antoni Gaudí, La Sagrada Familia is a feast for the senses, with its stunning stained glass windows, intricate carvings and soaring towers.
- The Alhambra: This medieval palace and fortress in Granada is a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site and one of Spain’s top tourist attractions.
- The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba: This mosque-cathedral symbolizes the country’s complex history and cultural diversity. The interior of the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba is adorned with intricate mosaics, double arches and towering columns. Also known as the Great Mosque of Córdoba, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Guggenheim Bilbao: With its shimmering titanium exterior, the Guggenheim Bilbao is a modern marvel. You’ll find a vast modern and contemporary art collection from notable artists, including Jeff Koons, Andy Warhol and Yoko Ono.
- The Montserrat Monastery: A Benedictine abbey located atop a spectacular mountain range, the Montserrat Monastery boasts awe-inspiring views, a world-renowned choir and a fascinating history spanning over a thousand years.
Popular activities to do in Spain
Spain offers many activities, whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation. Here are some of the most popular things to do:
- Go hiking: Spain offers some of the best hiking trails in Europe, with options ranging from the rugged peaks of the Pyrenees to the natural scenery of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. Other hiking destinations include the Sierra de Guadarrama and the Montserrat mountain range.
- Attend festivals: Spain is famous for its lively festivals, including the colorful Carnival celebrations in February, the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona in July and the La Tomatina festival in Valencia in August. Attending a festival is a great way to immerse yourself in Spain’s culture and traditions.
- Go to the beach: Spain has a long coastline of soft sandy beaches where you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Costa del Sol offers crystal-clear waters and activities such as surfing and paddleboarding. Other beautiful beaches include Playa de la Concha in San Sebastian and Playa de Bolonia in Tarifa.
- Experience the nightlife: Known for its active nightlife scene, you can enjoy everything from flamenco shows to nightclubs and bars while in Spain.
- Taste the wine: One of the best regions for wine tastings is La Rioja in the north, acclaimed for producing full-bodied red wines. Other areas worth exploring include the Penedès and the Priorat region in Catalonia. While there, wander through a medieval town like Besalú or Montblanc.
Traditional Spanish dishes to try
One way to experience the food culture in Spain is on a tapas tour, sampling small plates of different dishes. Some traditional dishes to try include:
- Paella: This savory rice dish is a must in Valencia, where it originated. It usually includes saffron, chicken, seafood and vegetables.
- Tortilla de patatas: A classic Spanish omelet made with potatoes and onions, this popular dish can be eaten any time of day.
- Gazpacho: Perfect for hot summer days, this cold soup is made with tomatoes, cucumber, peppers and bread.
- Churros con chocolate: Great for breakfast or a snack, churros are deep-fried dough strips dipped in thick, hot chocolate.
- Jamón ibérico: A type of cured ham enjoyed throughout Spain, Jamón ibérico is usually served as a tapa and is made from free-range black Iberian pigs.
Insider tips for visiting Spain
These insider tips will help you have an enjoyable and authentic experience while you explore Spain.
- Learn some Spanish: While many Spaniards speak English, learning some Spanish phrases is helpful.
- Be aware of siesta time: Many shops and businesses close for a few hours in the afternoon for siesta time — a midday break — so plan your schedule accordingly.
- Use public transportation: Spain has a network of trains and buses, which are affordable and convenient for moving between cities.
- Respect local customs: Respect local customs, such as dress codes for religious sites.
- Try regional favorites: While paella and tapas are popular Spanish dishes, each region has its own unique cuisine. Ask the locals for recommendations.
What is Spain most known for?
In addition to its modern offerings, Spain is known for its rich history and heritage, which is reflected in its many historical landmarks. The country is also acclaimed for its lively festivals, which attract tourists from around the world.
Spanish culture has produced famous artists, such as Pablo Picasso, and is also renowned for its delicious cuisine. The country’s love of football (soccer) is evident in its many world-famous teams, and its attractive beaches host millions of people each year.
How much does a trip to Spain cost?
The cost of a trip to Spain varies depending on several factors, including the time of year, the duration of your stay, your accommodation choices and the activities you plan to do. Generally, Spain can be affordable, particularly if you avoid peak tourist season.
Your accommodations will likely be your biggest expense — choose from hostels, guesthouses, beach resorts, luxury villas and hotels. A mid-range hotel room in Spain costs around $90 to $200 per night. Food and drink can be affordable, especially if you stick to local restaurants, where meals can be between around $10 to $25 per person.
Admission prices to museums and attractions range from $5 to $17 per person. Many attractions offer online tickets to reserve your spot and sometimes save money.
To do Spain on a budget, travel hacking can help you reduce costs by strategically using credit cards and reward programs for airlines and hotels. Also, check travel booking sites to shop around for the best prices.
Is it safe to travel to Spain?
Spain is generally considered a safe destination. Currently, the U.S. Department of State recommends avoiding demonstrations and exercising caution in crowds.
There are no major health risks for tourists in Spain. Read up on travel insurance and how it can help in case of unexpected illness or injury. Check out our recommendations for the best travel insurance, too.
Enjoy all that Spain has to offer
With its diverse range of attractions, Spain offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in art, culture, history or simply enjoying the country’s vibrant lifestyle. With proper planning, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.