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Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Spain

Spain is one of those destinations that have everything a traveler could wish for – beautiful landscapes, fascinating history, mouthwatering cuisine, and a lively culture that can get you dancing in the streets! From the vibrant Barcelona’s streets to the sun-kissed shores of Ibiza, Spain has something for all sorts of interests.

Need help in planning your trip to Spain? We’ve got you covered! Below, we will share everything you need to know about visiting Spain-from the travel essentials to must-try dining spots and more!

Spain

Travel Essentials for Visiting Spain

Valid Passport and Visa

 

You won’t be allowed entry into Spain without a valid passport. Therefore, ensure you have a passport and that it remains valid for at least six months beyond your planned visit. Double-check your passport’s expiration date before booking your flight to avoid any last-minute hassles.

 

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Spain. If you are from any of the EU countries, a visa is no longer required. In addition, those who come from the United States and Canada can enter visa-free and stay for up to 90 days. For other nationalities, however, a Schengen Visa is required to enter Spain. 

 

Travel Insurance

 
Another thing to think about for your trip to Spain is the travel insurance. This is necessary, for it keeps you protected in case of accidents that require emergency treatment. The insurance can also cover trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other things, depending on the policy. 
 
Healthcare in Spain can be pretty expensive, especially for non-EU visitors. In case something goes wrong and you need treatment, without insurance, you may end up shelling out huge sums of cash! Therefore, if you want to have peace of mind and enjoy your trip to Spain even more, be sure you have travel insurance for Spain. 
 

Mobile Connectivity

 
If you want to stay connected while traveling around Spain, you need mobile connectivity. With a mobile connection, you can get in contact with loved ones back home. You can also use it for navigation apps to get around Spain. Having a mobile connection also allows you to book rides easily. 
 
The best option is to purchase a local SIM card as soon as you arrive in Spain. You should be able to get one in any of the major airports around the country. Another option is to use an international roaming plan from your home service provider. 
 

Credit Cards and Cash

 
For traveling around in Spain, credit cards and cash are widely accepted. Cards can be accepted almost anywhere in the country- hotels, stores, restaurants, etc. Be sure to inform your bank about your trip so nothing really goes wrong when using your card in Spain.
 
Cash will also be needed on your trip to Spain, especially if you are planning to visit the local markets and eat at small cafes. Cash can be withdrawn from an ATM or you can exchange your local currency to Euros at one of the money exchange centers.

Iconic Places to Visit in Spain

La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

 
La Sagrada Familia is one of the most famous landmarks in Spain. This impressive basilica in Barcelona is designed by the world-famous architect Antoni Gaudí. It is unlike any church on earth, with towering spires, intricate facade, and colorful stained-glass windows- a true masterpiece of modern architecture!
 
What makes La Sagrada Familia special is that it’s still under construction after over 140 years! Gaudi’s vision was very complex and ahead of its time that the building continues to evolve to this day. Find out more about its interesting history during your visit.
 

Alhambra, Granada

 
Alhambra is one of Spain’s most iconic attractions, recognized for its rich history and breathtaking beauty. It was originally a palace and fortress built by the Moors during the 13th century. Nowadays, you can still see the intricate Islamic architecture of the palace. 
 
Stroll through the stunning courtyards and majestic gardens of the palace and admire the detailed carvings along its walls. There are also colorful tiles and intricate arches featuring Spain’s blend of cultures. Moreover, the structure is perched on a hill and boasts panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains
 

Park Güell, Barcelona

 
Park Güell is another masterpiece of Antoni Gaudí. The iconic attraction is recognized for its colorful design of vibrant mosaics, playful shapes, and impressive structures. A stroll through this park will make you feel like you are in a fairyland! It is for this reason that this park has become one of the most family-friendly attractions in Spain. 
 
You can also enjoy the stunning views of Barcelona from Park Güell. Stroll through its winding paths, admire the gorgeous gardens, and stop by for a photo-op at the famous lizard sculpture! If you want to relax after sightseeing around the busy streets of Barcelona – come to Park Güell!
 

Plaza Mayor, Madrid

 
The Plaza Mayor in Madrid is another fascinating place to visit in Spain. This is a major square in the city, dating back to the 17th century. With a very rich history behind it, the place has witnessed some of Spain’s most significant events, including gruesome bullfights and royal ceremonies!
 
With many beautiful historical buildings in its surroundings, Plaza Mayor looks even more stunning! It is one of the liveliest areas in Spain these days, with plenty of food stalls selling yummy tapas and shops displaying fun souvenirs! It is an excellent place to get a feel of the local culture or to just unwind while you people-watch.
 
Ibiza, Balearic Islands
 
Ibiza is part of the Balearic Islands of Spain and one of the world’s most famous beach destinations, best loved for vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches. Ibiza is known as a party paradise and boasts world-class beach clubs that attract visitors from all over the world!
 
Ibiza is also very scenic, with the finest beaches in Spain featuring crystal-clear waters. Aside from partying and relaxing at the beaches, you can take a stroll through the tranquil countryside, past seaside villages. The island is also home to impressive historic sites, such as the Dalt Vila, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
 

Must-Try Dining Spots Across Spain

Spain

 

San Sebastián

 
San Sebastián is often on top of the list of destinations for foodies visiting Spain. This lovely coastal city has a vibrant culinary scene, renowned for its pintxos—small dishes typically served in bars! A unique way to experience the city’s local gastronomy is to hop from one bar to another to savor these local delicacies. In addition, San Sebastián is known for being home to numerous Michelin-starred restaurants specializing in Basque cuisine.
 
The coastal charm of San Sebastián enhances the overall dining experience. Savor delectable meals with the stunning ocean views in the backdrop. After a delicious meal, explore the bustling old town and discover some historic sights. The city also hosts some of Spain’s renowned food festivals, such as the San Sebastián Gastronomika, which showcases the city’s culinary excellence.
 

Barcelona

 
Barcelona is home to exceptional dining spots, where you can sample authentic Catalan dishes. There are also some eateries that specialize in modern Spanish cuisine and rustic tapas bars that have become a popular hangout spot for locals after work. Some famous dishes to indulge in Barcelona are escalivada, botifarra, and paella. The city is also home to the world renowned La Boqueria, a bustling market full of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and pretty much every Spanish dish you can think of!
 
There are many ways to enjoy a good meal at Barcelona. You can dine at the bustling Gothic Quarter, or perhaps, in one of the beachside restaurants and cafes. If you’re feeling fancy and want to experience creative and unique dining experiences, check out Disfrutar, an upscale dining place with a tasting menu focused on Mediterranean flavors.
 

Madrid

 
 Madrid’s rich culinary traditions make it one of the must-visit dining spots in Spain. The city is renowned for its traditional Spanish dishes like cocido madrileño, jamón ibérico, and tortilla de patatas. All across the city, you’ll find numerous tapas bars and classic eateries to sample the most authentic flavors of Spain. Madrid is also home to Sobrino de Botín, believed to be the oldest restaurant in the world – established in 1725!
 
Madrid’s diverse food scene means there’s something for every foodie to enjoy here. Trendy food markets like Mercado de San Miguel are the best places for trying out delectable street foods like pincho de tortilla and churros. Of course, there are also Michelin-starred restaurants for diners looking to splurge. 
 

Seville

 
Seville specializes in various traditional Spanish cuisine, so it makes for an excellent destination for foodies visiting Spain. The city is famously known for having a rich tapas culture. These small plates burst with flavor and are perfect to be shared with friends! You’ll find plenty of tapas bars in the city, but few are as famous as Bodega Santa Cruz Las Columnas.
 
Another great reason to visit Seville is to experience its fantastic outdoor dining scene. Many of these dining venues are located close to famous landmarks like Plaza de España and Giralda Tower, so they actually serve as a perfect stop when sightseeing. Don’t miss the bustling markets that include Mercado de Triana wherein one can shop for fresh produce, gourmet cheeses, and meats.
 

Fun and Unique Activities to Experience

 

Outdoor Adventures

 
If you’re traveling to Spain for outdoor adventures, then you’re in the luck, for there are plenty of activities to enjoy here. Fond of hiking mountains? Then the Pyrenees is where you should go. Conquering its challenging trails will reward you with some of Spain’s most breathtaking views! If you have the energy to take long walks that could last for days, hike the famous pilgrimage route of Camino de Santiago.
 
Bird enthusiasts can explore Doñana National Park, which serves as a habitat for migratory birds. In Sierra de Guara, thrill-seekers can try canyoning. A more exciting activity is to go rock climbing in El Chorro. And if you happen to visit Spain in the winter season, head to Sierra Nevada for a day of skiing.
 

Sports

 
Sports fanatics will surely enjoy a visit to Spain. Football is a significant aspect of the Spanish culture. Locals are very supportive of their teams, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. If you can, consider seeing live football matches at famous stadiums like Santiago Bernabeu and Camp Nou. 
 
Witnessing the Madrid Open is a great experience for tennis fanatics. For adventure sports, go surfing on the beaches of San Sebastián, or perhaps, windsurfing in Tarifa. Those into cycling should try Vuelta a España, one of the world’s most renowned cycling venues. 
 

 

Cultural Experiences

 
Spain is rich in culture, and there are many ways you can immerse in the local culture here. For instance, you can attend flamenco dance classes in Seville or, perhaps, witness a live bullfight in Madrid. Another exciting way to experience the local culture is to attend the country’s many festivals, such as La Tomatina and Las Fallas. 
 
Spain is home to some of the world’s top museums, including The Prado Museum in Madrid. Featuring the works of world-renowned Spanish artists like Goya and Velázquez, these places are a must visit for a closer look into the Spanish culture. Spain’s ancient cities are a must-visit for history lovers, especially Toledo and Cordoba, where you can learn more about the country’s Moorish and medieval past.
 

Entertainment  Options

 
Spain presents diverse entertainment options to suit different visitors. If you are a dancing enthusiast, you should watch flamenco shows in Seville or Madrid. And for those who are passionate about music, plan your visit in summer to attend music festivals, such as the Primavera Sound in Barcelona.
 
A more laid-back form of entertainment involves watching movies under the stars at outdoor cinemas in Barcelona or attending concerts held at some historic venues like the Palacio de Vistalegre. Lastly, for opera and theater fans, seeing a performance at Madrid’s Teatro Real is a must.
 

FAQs for Traveling in Spain


 

 

What are the best times to visit Spain?

 

The best times to visit Spain are spring, March to May, and fall, September to November. During these seasons, the weather is nice, and crowds are smaller than in the peak summer season. Spring is also great, with vibrant flowers, fun festivals, and colorful autumn landscapes. It can get very hot during summer, especially in the south, so it makes a less comfortable time for sightseeing. Meanwhile, winter is mild but places in the north can be chilly.

 

What is the best way to get around Spain?

 

The best way to travel around Spain is through public transportation since they are efficient and reliable, connecting the major cities of Spain. The high-speed train, called AVE is considered the best option for quick and hassle-free trips within Spain. One can use buses and metros when traveling within a bigger city like Barcelona or Madrid. If you feel confident at the wheel, consider getting a rental car because it will be far more convenient to move about around the country, especially in rural and smaller-town areas.

 

Is it safe to travel to Spain?

 

Spain is considered to be generally safe for visitors. The crime rate of the country is relatively lower compared to several other countries. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can happen in crowded tourist destinations. Be constantly vigilant and on the lookout when going to these places. Do not ever leave valuable items unattended, and keep an eye on your belongings at all times. Emergency services are reliable, and the hospitals generally provide good care.