Prepare yourself for Spain with these 16 essential insights before your journey begins

Spain has been my home for the last 16 years, ever since I relocated to its capital, Madrid, in my early thirties.

From the very first day, I was enchanted by this warm and welcoming country. It checks all the boxes for an ideal European getaway—delicious food and wine, breathtaking landscapes, stunning architecture, lush green spaces, and a vibrant art culture.

Navigating the country is also a breeze, thanks to Spain's efficient and dependable multi-modal public transport system. Plus, the Spanish people are among the friendliest you’ll meet; they’ll gladly help you find your way if you're ever lost.

Of course, there were cultural quirks I had to adapt to—most notably, dining times in Spain are significantly later than in many other countries. I still recall my early days in Madrid, feeling famished as I waited for my “early” dinner reservations at 9 PM. And don't expect a quick goodbye at social events; in Spain, saying farewell can take an additional hour!

Cultural quirks aside, your journey to this amazing country can be truly unforgettable if you prepare in advance and heed these valuable travel tips.

1. Bring warm clothing. Seriously.

There’s a witty Spanish saying: “Hasta cuarenta de mayo, no te quites el sayo”, which means “Until the 40th of May, keep your coat on”—wise advice for keeping a jacket handy until mid-June. While Spain is renowned for its sunny skies and beachy weather, it actually experiences more chilly seasons than warm ones during early spring (March to May), autumn (September to November), and winter (December to February). Northern regions like the Basque Country, Asturias, and Galicia tend to be cooler than the rest of the country.

2. Going cashless is quite normal

In Spain, cards reign supreme. Major tourist areas like Madrid, Barcelona, San Sebastián, and Ibiza are typically very credit card-friendly. You could easily spend days without cash, settling your meals, drinks, taxi fares, and bus tickets with just your card.

If you decide to carry cash, ensure you have some small change. Many places, including bus and taxi drivers—especially in the mornings—often lack change for larger bills. It’s wise to have plenty of smaller notes (€5 and €10) and coins if you prefer to pay in cash.

3. Pick your time to visit Madrid carefully

Think twice about traveling to Madrid in August. Many businesses in the capital close, as locals often flee to the beaches to escape the sweltering August heat.

4. Be ready for late dining hours

Get set for late dining in Spain. First-time visitors often find themselves hungry while waiting for restaurants to open. Most places serve lunch from 1pm to 4pm and dinner from 8pm to 1am. Many restaurants also close on Mondays. To curb your hunger before mealtimes, enjoy some tapas—small savory dishes that are often complimentary with a drink in many Spanish cities. In San Sebastián or Bilbao in the Basque Country, you can relish pintxos, which are bite-sized portions typically served on bread and skewered with a toothpick.

5. Choosing certain drinks can instantly reveal you as a tourist

Sangría is a favorite among tourists and is typically served in large pitchers for sharing rather than by the glass. Instead, consider trying the local delight known as tinto de verano, a refreshing mix of red wine and lemon soda.

Order a caña like a local instead of a cerveza. A caña is a small draft beer, usually about 250ml.

6. Tipping is not customary

In general, European countries don’t emphasize tipping culture. However, it is certainly appreciated, especially when you receive excellent service.

7. Avoid eating while on the go

Eating is a timeless pleasure meant to be enjoyed slowly, so it’s rare to see Spaniards snacking on sandwiches or fries while strolling or using public transport.

8. Seek out fixed-price lunches

For a weekday lunch, order the menú del día (daily menu). Follow the locals’ lead and opt for the fixed-price menu (between €8 and €17) that typically includes a three-course meal with dessert, drinks, bread, and coffee.

9. Dine late, linger longer

Embrace sobremesa – the tradition of staying at the table for conversation after a meal. This social practice is central to Spanish culture, encouraging extended discussions over drinks long after the meal has ended.

10. Stay aware of your belongings

Be cautious of pickpockets and keep your valuables secured. These thieves often target busy tourist spots. If you’re dining outdoors, be alert for vendors who get too close, as they may distract you with items like flowers or lottery tickets while stealthily lifting your wallet or phone from the table—something I've seen happen more than once!

11. Tap water is safe to drink in Spain

Feel free to drink tap water. Known as 'agua de grifo,' it's safe across the country, although the taste may differ by region.

12. There's a single number for emergencies

Dial 112 for any emergency. This number can be reached for all types of emergencies in Spain, even if you don't have a Spanish SIM card. You'll be connected to the appropriate emergency service through operators who speak multiple languages. For the Spanish National Police, call 091.

13. Dress suitably outside the beach

Choose smart casual clothing and steer clear of overly casual items like workout gear, swimwear, or overly revealing outfits in urban settings. When visiting religious sites such as churches, cathedrals, or mosques, make sure to cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.

14. Refresh your basic Spanish skills

Knowing some essential local phrases can significantly enhance your experience. While English is often understood in larger tourist cities, it becomes more challenging in smaller, off-the-beaten-path towns.

Avoid saying “no problemo,” as it is incorrect. The proper expressions are “no hay problema” or the more casual “no pasa nada”.

15. Understand what is considered polite

It's customary to greet others, including strangers, in elevators, shops, and corridors. To express gratitude for good service, say “muy amable”, meaning “very kind.” This phrase is often used to acknowledge someone who has gone out of their way to help you, whether by giving directions, holding a door, or offering their seat. It can also be a way to appreciate exceptional customer service.

16. Always bid farewell before leaving a gathering

It's considered impolite to exit an event without informing your host. Be ready for an extended goodbye, as Spaniards enjoy socializing and often engage in lengthy conversations that can involve multiple farewells.