First Time in Spain? 20 Essential Travel Tips You Should Know

1. Master the Spanish Schedule

The Spanish daily schedule is perhaps the biggest adjustment for first-time visitors. Understanding and embracing it is key to enjoying Spain like a local.

🕐 Spanish Meal Times

The Daily Eating Schedule:

• Breakfast (Desayuno): 8-10 AM - Light affair with coffee and toast
• Mid-morning snack: 11 AM - Many Spaniards grab a second coffee
• Lunch (Comida): 2-4 PM - The main meal of the day
• Afternoon snack (Merienda): 5-6 PM - Especially for children
• Dinner (Cena): 9-11 PM - Later than anywhere else in Europe

Why This Matters:

• Restaurants closed: Many close between lunch and dinner (4-8 PM)
• Kitchen hours: Some stop serving at specific times
• Reservations: Book for Spanish times, not tourist times
• Best tables: Available when locals eat
• Authentic experience: Eat when Spaniards eat

2. Navigate Siesta Time Wisely

The famous Spanish siesta isn't just a stereotype - it's a real part of daily life that affects your travel plans.

😴 Siesta Hours Reality

What Closes During Siesta (2-5 PM):

• Small shops: Boutiques, local stores, pharmacies
• Banks: Usually close by 2 PM
• Government offices: Strict afternoon closures
• Some museums: Smaller ones may close
• Many restaurants: Between lunch and dinner service

What Stays Open:

• Large supermarkets: Carrefour, Mercadona
• Department stores: El Corte Inglés
• Tourist attractions: Major sites stay open
• Bars and cafés: Many remain open
• Restaurants in tourist areas: Cater to visitor schedules

Smart Siesta Strategies:

• Plan shopping: Morning or evening trips
• Embrace it: Rest during hot afternoons
• Indoor activities: Museums with AC
• Beach time: Popular siesta activity in coastal areas
• Hotel break: Recharge for evening activities

3. Learn Spanish Greeting Customs

Spanish greeting customs can catch newcomers off guard. Knowing what to expect helps you navigate social situations smoothly.

😘 The Famous Dos Besos (Two Kisses)

How Spanish Greetings Work:

• Two air kisses: Right cheek first, then left
• Not actual kisses: Cheek touches cheek
• Between women: Always expected
• Men and women: Standard greeting
• Between men: Usually handshake (kisses among close friends/family)

When to Kiss vs Handshake:

• Social settings: Kisses are standard
• Business meetings: Handshakes more common
• Store clerks: Simple "hola" suffices
• First introductions: Follow the Spanish person's lead
• Saying goodbye: Repeat the greeting ritual

4. Master Essential Spanish Phrases

While many Spaniards in tourist areas speak English, knowing basic Spanish phrases shows respect and often leads to warmer interactions.

🗣️ Must-Know Spanish Phrases

Basic Courtesy:

• Por favor: Please (use liberally)
• Gracias: Thank you
• De nada: You're welcome
• Perdón/Disculpe: Excuse me
• Lo siento: I'm sorry

Practical Phrases:

• ¿Cuánto cuesta?: How much does it cost?
• ¿Dónde está...?: Where is...?
• No hablo español: I don't speak Spanish
• ¿Habla inglés?: Do you speak English?
• La cuenta, por favor: The bill, please
• ¿Tiene...?: Do you have...?

Restaurant Essentials:

• Una mesa para dos: A table for two
• La carta/El menú: The menu
• Agua sin gas: Still water
• La cuenta: The check
• Está buenísimo: It's delicious

5. Understand Tapas Culture

Tapas aren't just small plates - they're a way of life in Spain. Understanding tapas culture enhances your culinary experience immensely.

🍤 How Tapas Really Work

Types of Tapas Establishments:

• Traditional tapas bars: Stand at the bar, point to what you want
• Modern tapas restaurants: Sit-down service, creative dishes
• Pinchos bars: Self-service, pay per toothpick (Basque Country)
• Free tapas regions: Granada, León, Almería include tapas with drinks

Tapas Etiquette:

• Share everything: Tapas are communal
• Order gradually: 2-3 dishes at a time
• Bar hopping: One or two tapas per bar is normal
• Standing room: Often cheaper than sitting
• Throw napkins: On the floor in traditional bars (shows it's good!)

6. Dress Like a Local

Spanish people generally dress well, and your clothing choices can mark you as a tourist or help you blend in.

👔 Spanish Dress Code

What Locals Wear:

• Smart casual: Default Spanish style
• Proper shoes: Sneakers are becoming acceptable but avoid athletic wear
• Neat appearance: Wrinkled clothes stand out
• Muted colors: Black, navy, grey, beige dominate
• Seasonal appropriate: Locals dress for the season

Tourist Giveaways to Avoid:

• Athletic wear: Save for the gym
• Flip-flops in cities: Beach only
• Shorts in churches: Disrespectful
• Baseball caps: Dead giveaway
• Fanny packs: Use a proper bag
• White socks with sandals: Just don't

Church Dress Code:

• Cover shoulders: Bring a scarf
• No shorts: Men and women
• No tank tops: Sleeves required
• Remove hats: Upon entering

7. Handle Money Wisely

Understanding Spanish money customs helps you avoid awkward situations and potential issues.

💶 Cash vs Card Culture

When You Need Cash:

• Small purchases: Under €10-20
• Traditional markets: Usually cash only
• Small bars/cafés: May not accept cards
• Taxis: Some still prefer cash
• Tips: Always in cash
• Public toilets: Sometimes charge €0.50-1

Smart Money Tips:

• ATM usage: Use bank ATMs, not street ones
• Dynamic currency conversion: Always choose euros
• Small bills: €50 notes often refused
• Contactless common: Widely accepted in cities
• Keep change: For tips and small purchases

8. Navigate Tipping Culture

Spanish tipping culture is more relaxed than in many countries, but knowing when and how much to tip is still important.

💰 Spanish Tipping Guidelines

Where and How Much to Tip:

• Restaurants: 5-10% for good service (not obligatory)
• Bars/Cafés: Round up or leave small change
• Taxis: Round up to nearest euro
• Hotels: €1-2 per bag, €1-2 daily for housekeeping
• Tour guides: €5-10 for half-day tours
• Hairdressers: 5-10% appreciated

Tipping Don'ts:

• Don't overtip: Makes locals uncomfortable
• Don't tip for tapas: Unless table service
• Don't leave coins on bar: Hand to server or leave on plate
• Don't tip if service is included: Check for "servicio incluido"

9. Plan for Sunday Closures

Sundays in Spain can catch tourists off guard with widespread closures. Plan accordingly to avoid disappointment.

🚫 What's Closed on Sundays

Typically Closed:

• Most shops: Except in major tourist areas
• Supermarkets: Many close or have reduced hours
• Banks: Always closed weekends
• Many restaurants: Especially Sunday evenings
• Small museums: Check individual schedules

Sunday Survival Strategies:

• Stock up Saturday: Buy necessities in advance
• Tourist areas: More likely to find open businesses
• Make reservations: For Sunday lunch
• Enjoy the culture: Sunday is family day in Spain
• Markets: Some Sunday markets are highlights

10. Embrace "Spanish Time"

Punctuality in Spain has a different meaning than in many cultures. Understanding this prevents frustration.

⏰ Time Flexibility in Spain

When Punctuality Matters:

• Trains and flights: Always on time
• Tours: Start promptly
• Restaurant reservations: Honored within 15 minutes
• Business meetings: Increasingly punctual
• Medical appointments: Arrive on time

When Time is Flexible:

• Social gatherings: 15-30 minutes late is normal
• Meeting friends: "Ahora" (now) means "soon"
• House parties: Never arrive on time
• Cultural events: May start late

11. Master Public Transportation

Spanish cities have excellent public transportation, but knowing the tricks makes it even better.

🚇 Public Transport Tips

Money-Saving Strategies:

• Multi-trip tickets: Always cheaper than singles
• Tourist passes: Calculate if worthwhile
• Validate tickets: Fines for not stamping
• Keep tickets: Until exiting system
• Apps: Download city transport apps

Safety and Etiquette:

• Pickpocket awareness: Especially Barcelona Metro
• Priority seating: Give up for elderly/pregnant
• Escalator rules: Stand right, walk left
• Quiet conversations: Spanish metros are relatively quiet
• Door etiquette: Let people exit first

12. Understand Spanish Drinking Culture

Drinking in Spain is social and moderate. Understanding the culture helps you fit in and stay safe.

🍷 Alcohol Customs

Spanish Drinking Habits:

• Always with food: Drinking without eating is unusual
• Pace yourself: Spanish nights are long
• Wine with meals: Standard practice
• Beer sizes: Caña (small) is common
• Public drinking: Illegal in many cities (botellón)

Bar Etiquette:

• Wait to be served: Don't wave or shout
• Tab system: Pay when leaving
• One drink per bar: Bar hopping is normal
• Don't get drunk: Very poorly viewed
• Toasting: "Salud" and maintain eye contact

13. Make Reservations

Spain has embraced reservation culture, especially for popular restaurants and attractions.

📅 What Requires Reservations

Must-Book in Advance:

• Alhambra, Granada: Months ahead in summer
• Sagrada Família, Barcelona: At least days ahead
• Top restaurants: Especially weekends
• Flamenco shows: Popular ones fill up
• Guided tours: English tours particularly

Reservation Tips:

• Use El Tenedor: Restaurant booking app
• Hotel concierge: Can secure tough reservations
• Lunch easier than dinner: For popular spots
• Confirm day before: Some places require it
• Cancellation policies: Check before booking

14. Respect Regional Differences

Spain is incredibly diverse, with distinct regional identities, languages, and customs.

🗺️ Regional Awareness

Key Regional Differences:

• Catalonia: Catalan language prominent, independence sentiment
• Basque Country: Unique culture, Euskera language
• Galicia: Celtic influences, Galician language
• Andalusia: Flamenco heartland, stronger accents
• Madrid: Castilian Spanish, more formal

Sensitive Topics:

• Don't call Catalans Spanish: Say "from Catalonia"
• Avoid politics: Unless asked your opinion
• Regional pride: Each area thinks it's best
• Language attempts: Try local greetings
• Football loyalties: Serious business

15. Navigate Shopping Hours

Spanish shopping hours can be confusing but follow predictable patterns once you understand them.

🛍️ Retail Schedule

Typical Shop Hours:

• Morning: 10 AM - 2 PM
• Siesta closure: 2 PM - 5 PM
• Evening: 5 PM - 8:30 PM
• Saturdays: Morning only for many
• Department stores: Open all day

Shopping Strategies:

• Sales periods: January and July regulated sales
• VAT refunds: For non-EU residents
• Market days: Each town has specific days
• August closures: Many small shops vacation
• Christmas shopping: Extended December hours

16. Stay Safe and Aware

Spain is very safe, but tourist areas attract pickpockets. Basic awareness prevents most problems.

🔒 Safety Essentials

Pickpocket Prevention:

• Zip pockets: Use bags with zippers
• Front pockets: Keep valuables in sight
• Crowded areas: Extra vigilance on metros, markets
• Distractions: Be wary of sudden spills, maps thrust at you
• Beach theft: Never leave belongings unattended

Common Scams to Avoid:

• Petition signers: Often pickpocket teams
• Fake police: Real police won't ask for wallet
• Overcharging taxis: Use official cabs only
• Restaurant additions: Check bills carefully
• Friendship bracelets: Politely decline and walk away

17. Prepare for Weather Extremes

Spanish weather varies dramatically by region and season. Pack accordingly.

☀️ Weather Wisdom

Seasonal Considerations:

• Summer heat: Can exceed 40°C in southern Spain
• Winter cold: Madrid and interior can be freezing
• Coastal differences: Milder but humid
• Mountain weather: Changes quickly
• Rain in north: Galicia, Asturias very wet

Weather Survival Tips:

• Hydration: Carry water always in summer
• Sun protection: Spanish sun is intense
• Layer clothing: Temperature swings common
• Check forecasts: Regional variations huge
• Indoor alternatives: For extreme weather days

18. Know Pharmacy Systems

Spanish pharmacies are excellent resources for travelers, offering more services than many countries.

💊 Pharmacy Services

What Pharmacies Offer:

• Minor ailments advice: Pharmacists give health guidance
• Many medications: Available without prescription
• 24-hour pharmacies: Farmacias de guardia rotate
• Green cross sign: Universal pharmacy symbol
• English speakers: Common in tourist areas

Useful Pharmacy Items:

• Sunscreen: High quality, good prices
• Digestive aids: For food adjustment
• Insect repellent: Summer essential
• Rehydration salts: For hot weather
• Basic medications: Painkillers, antihistamines

19. Stay Connected

Spain has good connectivity, but knowing the options helps you stay online affordably.

📱 Internet Access

WiFi Availability:

• Hotels: Usually free, quality varies
• Cafés and bars: Ask for password
• Public WiFi: Many cities offer free zones
• Libraries: Free WiFi common
• Restaurants: Increasingly common

Mobile Options:

• EU roaming: Use home plan if from EU
• Prepaid SIM cards: Cheap and easy
• Tourist SIM cards: Available at airports
• eSIM options: For compatible phones
• Portable WiFi: For multiple devices

20. Slow Down and Enjoy

Perhaps the most important tip: Spain is meant to be savored, not rushed. Embrace the Spanish pace of life.

🌟 The Spanish Art of Living

Embrace Spanish Values:

• Sobremesa: Lingering after meals to talk
• Paseo: Evening stroll tradition
• Family time: Sacred in Spanish culture
• Enjoy meals: Eating isn't just fuel
• Present moment: Less rushing, more living

How to Truly Experience Spain:

• Sit in plazas: Watch life go by
• Join the locals: Evening walks, long lunches
• Quality over quantity: See less, experience more
• Be flexible: Best moments are unplanned
• Make connections: Spaniards are warm and welcoming