Spain Travel Guide - what you need to know before you go

Continent: Europe
Population: 48.7 Mio. inhabitants
Area: 505'983 km²
Capital City: Madrid
Currency: EUR
Language: Spanish
Time zone: UTC +0 until UTC +2
Calling code: +34

Spain, a country full of colors and contrasts, enchants visitors with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. From the magnificent palaces in Madrid and the architectural masterpieces of Barcelona to the sunny beaches of the Costa del Sol and the picturesque villages of Andalusia, Spain has something for every taste. The passion of Flamenco, the world-class cuisine with tapas and paella, and fascinating traditions like bullfighting and the famous La Tomatina festival all contribute to its unique atmosphere. With a mix of historical treasures, lively cities, and breathtaking nature, Spain is the perfect destination for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

 

Entry

You are obliged to be able to always identify yourself with your passport or identity card.

Safety

Spain is considered as a safe country. In all big cities you should beware of pickpockets.

Important phone numbers

112 - police

112 - ambulance

112 - fire department

Language

In Spain the people speak Spanish.

Currency and means of payment

In Spain you pay in Euro (EUR). You can pay everywhere with credit cards. It is accepted as a means of payment in all shops, Restaurant or Hotels.

Tip

In a restaurant in Spain, tipping is not usually expected. However, if the service was very good and you would like to leave a tip, it will be appreciated. You can simply round up your bill. The usual amount is around 5-10% of your bill.

Transport and infrastructure

The road network is well developed. Some of the motorways are toll roads (autopistas). Spain has a well-developed rail and bus network. The smaller towns and villages are also served by bus lines.

Risk due to nature

Especially in the summer months, there is a risk of forest fires in many places.

Opening hours

Most shops open between 9 and 10 am. Smaller shops close over lunch from around 2pm to 4pm. Large shops are usually open throughout the day. Closing time is between 8pm and 9 pm.

National holiday

12. October - the arrival of Christopher Columbus in America in 1492 and the common roots of the Spanish-speaking world are commemorated.