Is Barcelona safe for tourists?

Barcelona is generally safe, but it has a significant problem with pickpocketing, especially on Las Ramblas and the metro. Be extremely vigilant with your belongings. Use a money belt, keep your bag in front of you, and don't leave your phone on the table.

Pick Your Passion: The Cities

Q: Do I need to tip in Spain?

Tipping is not expected for most services. In restaurants, it's common to round up the bill or leave a few coins for good service, but a 10-15% tip is not standard. You do not need to tip taxi drivers.

Q: What is 'siesta' and is everything really closed?

Siesta is a traditional afternoon break. In large cities and tourist areas, most major shops and attractions stay open. However, in smaller towns and traditional neighborhoods, expect many family-run shops and businesses to close from roughly 2 PM to 5 PM.

Q: How do I eat tapas like a local?

Tapas are small plates. The best way is to go on a 'tapeo' - hopping from one bar to another, having one tapa and a small drink (a 'caña' of beer or a glass of wine) at each. Don't order ten tapas in one place like it's a full meal.

From Madrid's royal grandeur to Barcelona's artistic soul and Andalusia's Moorish heart.

Choosing your Spanish base camp is a delicious dilemma. Do you dive into the non-stop energy of the capital, the unique Catalan culture of the coast, or the sun-baked history of the south? With Spain's excellent high-speed AVE train network, you don't have to choose just one. Whether you're hunting for a cheap hotel in Madrid's Malasaña district or a budget-friendly apartment near a Barcelona beach, we'll help you find your perfect spot.

Madrid

The regal heart of Spain. Explore world-class art at the Prado, get lost in the Royal Palace, and then dive into the legendary tapas and nightlife scene.

Barcelona

A city of art and architecture. Marvel at Gaudí's Sagrada Família, wander the Gothic Quarter, and relax on the city's vibrant beaches. A world of its own.

Seville

The capital of Andalusia. Feel the passion of a live Flamenco show, explore the stunning Alcázar palace, and embrace the heat of southern Spain.

Granada

Home to the breathtaking Alhambra palace, a masterpiece of Moorish art. Discover the city's unique free tapas culture and wander the historic Albaicín quarter.

Valencia

The birthplace of paella. Relax on wide sandy beaches, explore the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, and enjoy a more laid-back city vibe.

From Our Notebook: Spanish Secrets

Real, on-the-ground advice to help you eat better, travel smarter, and avoid the rookie mistakes everyone else makes.

This isn't just a collection of articles; it's a survival guide. Learn how to order tapas without looking like a confused tourist, discover the one thing you must do to get Alhambra tickets, and find out which "must-see" sights you can actually skip. These are the stories and tips that will transform your trip from a good one to an unforgettable one.

A crowded, authentic tapas bar in Madrid, with a guide on how to order like a local.

Foodie

How to Eat Tapas in Spain (and Not Look Like a Tourist)

The unwritten rules of the 'tapeo': from what to drink, how to order, and why you should never sit down for a full meal of them.

The Ultimate Guide to Getting Alhambra Tickets

They sell out months in advance. Here's exactly how, when, and where to buy them to avoid missing out.

A Road Trip Through Andalusia's White Villages

Our guide to the perfect route for exploring the stunning 'pueblos blancos' of southern Spain.

The 60-Second Spain Survival Guide

Knowing these simple facts will make your trip smoother and save you from common headaches. This is your essential cheat sheet. Click any item to reveal the details.

LanguageSpanish

Spanish (Castilian) is the official language. English is common in tourist areas, but less so in rural spots. Learning basic phrases is highly recommended and appreciated.

CurrencyEuro (€)

Spain uses the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available. While cards are common, it's always a good idea to have cash for small bars, markets, and cafes.

PaymentsCards & Cash

Major credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, some smaller establishments might be cash-only. American Express is less widely accepted.

Plugs & VoltageType F, 230V

Spain uses the standard European two-pin plug (Type F). The voltage is 230V / 50Hz. Remember your travel adapter if you're coming from the US, UK, or parts of Asia.

EmergencyDial 112

112 is the universal emergency number for police, ambulance, and fire services. It's free to call from any phone and works across the EU.

Tap WaterSafe to Drink

Is Spanish tap water safe? Yes, it's safe to drink throughout the country. In some coastal or island locations, the taste might be different, but it's still safe.

Best Time to VisitApr-Jun, Sep-Oct

The shoulder seasons are ideal with pleasant weather. The summer (July-August) can be intensely hot, especially in the south, and very crowded.

Visa & SchengenSchengen Area

Spain is in the Schengen Area, allowing visa-free travel for up to 90 days for many nationalities (US, UK, Canada, etc.). Always check official sources for your specific visa rules.

Wi-Fi & SIMGet Connected

Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafes. For data on the go, buying a prepaid SIM card from providers like Orange, Vodafone, or Movistar is easy and affordable.

Your Digital Toolkit: Essential Spanish Links

Book directly with these official sites to get the right price, the real tickets, and none of the stress.

We've collected the official, no-nonsense links for booking trains, buying museum tickets, and getting reliable travel advice. Using these direct sources helps you avoid inflated prices, fake tickets, and the headaches of third-party sellers. Bookmark this section and plan your trip with confidence.

Attractions & Info

Spain.infoOfficial Tourism Site
The official tourism portal for Spain, full of guides and inspiration.
Alhambra TicketsBook Tickets
The ONLY official site. Tickets sell out months in advance. Book here or nowhere.
Sagrada Família TicketsBook Tickets
The official ticket seller for Gaudí's masterpiece. Booking online is essential.

Official Services

Foreign MinistryVisit Site
Official government source for foreign policy and services for visitors.
US Embassy in SpainVisit Site
Consular services and alerts for U.S. citizens traveling in Spain.
UK Gov AdviceRead Advice
Official travel advice and entry requirements for British nationals.

Food & Culture

Prado MuseumVisit Site
Home to masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco. A must-visit in Madrid.
La LigaSee Schedule
Check the schedule for Spain's top football league if you want to catch a game.
Taste Atlas: SpainExplore Dishes
A great guide to the regional foods you must try, from paella to pulpo a la gallega.

Stay Sharp: Safety and Common Scams

A smart traveler is a happy traveler. Here’s how to sidestep the common issues that can trip you up in Spain.

Spain is a very safe country, but its bustling cities are prime territory for petty crime targeting tourists. This guide isn't meant to scare you; it's designed to make you aware. Knowing how to spot a pickpocket on Las Ramblas or what the 'rosemary gift' scam is will give you the confidence to relax and enjoy your trip.

What to Watch For

Pickpocketing
Extremely common in Barcelona (Las Ramblas, Metro) and Madrid (Puerta del Sol, Metro). Be hyper-aware.
"Gift" Scams
Someone may try to give you a "free" sprig of rosemary or a bracelet. It's not free. Firmly say "No, gracias" and walk away.
Bag Snatching
Never leave your bag on the back of a chair or your phone on a cafe table. Keep your belongings secure and in sight.

How to Prepare

Get Travel Insurance
This is your essential safety net for theft, medical issues, or cancellations. Do not travel without it.
Carry Your ID
You are legally required to have a valid photo ID on you. A passport or national ID card is fine. Keep a digital copy as a backup.
Respect the Sun
The sun in Spain, especially in summer, is incredibly strong. Use high-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated.

Your Pre-Flight Briefing: Spain FAQs

"Do I have to eat dinner at 10 PM?" "What's the difference between tapas and pinchos?" "Will I offend someone by not taking a siesta?" We've got the answers.

These are the real-world questions every first-time visitor has. We've provided clear, no-nonsense answers to help you navigate Spanish culture like a pro and avoid common misunderstandings. Read this, and you'll be ready for anything.

Do I need to tip in Spain?

Tipping is not expected. In restaurants, it's common to round up the bill or leave a few coins for good service, but a 10-15% tip is not standard. You do not need to tip taxi drivers.

What is 'siesta' and is everything really closed?

In large cities, most major shops and attractions stay open. However, in smaller towns and traditional neighborhoods, expect many family-run shops to close from roughly 2 PM to 5 PM.

How do I eat tapas like a local?

The best way is to go on a 'tapeo' - hopping from one bar to another, having one tapa and a small drink at each. Don't order ten tapas in one place like it's a full meal.

Why is dinner so late in Spain?

Spaniards typically eat dinner between 9 PM and 11 PM. Most restaurant kitchens won't even open for dinner service until 8 PM. Plan on having a late lunch and some afternoon tapas.

What's the difference between tapas, raciones, and pinchos?

A 'tapa' is a small plate. A 'ración' is a larger, dinner-sized portion of the same dish, meant for sharing. A 'pincho' (common in the Basque Country) is typically a small snack served on a piece of bread, often held together with a toothpick.

Do I need to book Alhambra tickets in advance?

Yes, absolutely. This is critical. Tickets to the Alhambra, especially the Nasrid Palaces, sell out weeks or even months in advance. You MUST book online from the official website as soon as you know your travel dates.