Spain is known for its sunny climate, beaches, culture, and cities. From tapas and flamenco to historic architecture and island life, it’s a country full of diversity and energy year-round. Here’re some other facts about Spain:
Capital: Madrid 
Currency: EURO 
Language: Spanish 
Time zone: Central European Time (CET, UTC +1) 
Power plugs: Type C & F, 230V / 50Hz 
Driving side: Right Useful local phrases:
Hello: Hola
Thank you: Gracias
I’m Sorry: Lo siento
The food/drink is great: Está delicioso
Best time to visit Spain
Wondering about the best time to visit Spain? Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore some cities, or hike in nature, below you can see an overview of the different seasons in Spain:
Summer
June – August
25–35°C
Hot and dry
Autumn
September – November
15-28°C
Pleasant temperatures
and occasional rain
Winter
December – February
5–15°C
Mild in the south
Cooler inland
Spring
March – May
15–25°C
Warm and sunny
So what’s the best time for visiting Spain?
- Summer: best for beach holidays, island hopping, and festivals
- Autumn: best for city trips, wine regions, and fewer crowds
- Winter: best for southern Spain, cultural sightseeing, and mild weather
- Spring: best for nature, sightseeing, and comfortable temperatures
How to get there and getting around?
Airport: Spain has several international airports, including Madrid-Barajas Airport and Barcelona-El Prat Airport. Both are well connected to the city centers by train, metro, or bus. You can compare flights and find the cheapest deals via Skyscanner. If you don’t know yet when you are going to leave the country, buy an onward ticket and fake your return. This works fine.
Train / Bus options: Spain has an extensive and efficient public transport system. High-speed trains (AVE) connect major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia. Regional trains and buses reach smaller towns. Tickets are often digital, and booking in advance can save money.
Car rental / driving: Renting a car is a great option if you want to explore rural areas, coastal regions, or national parks. Roads in Spain are well maintained, and driving is straightforward. Parking in big cities can be difficult and expensive, so consider parking outside the center or choosing accommodations with parking included. This can save you a lot of money. Use DiscoverCars to compare car rental prices.
Boat travel: With its long coastline and beautiful islands, traveling by boat is a fantastic way to explore Spain. Ferries connect the mainland with the Balearic Islands (like Mallorca and Ibiza) and the Canary Islands. You can also take smaller boats or catamaran tours along the coast, which is perfect for discovering (hidden) beaches and coves.
Cycling or walking: Spain is perfect for slow travel. Walking through cities, enjoying long meals, and adapting to the local rhythm (including siestas) is all part of the experience. Many cities are also becoming more bike-friendly. Cities like Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville have dedicated cycling lanes and bike rental systems, making it easy and fun to explore on two wheels. Consider booking a free bicycle or walking tour via Freetour or GuruWalk.
Destinations
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Latest travel guides
FAQ about Spain
Is Spain safe for (female) solo travelers?
Yes, Spain is very safe for (female) solo travelers. I actually lived in Spain (Tenerife) for a while and have traveled through the country multiple times. I always felt safe, even when traveling alone. Cities are lively and well-lit, and public transport is reliable. As always, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in busy tourist areas.
Why is Spain worth visiting?
For me, Spain offers a perfect mix of culture, food, beaches, history, and city life.
Is Spain cheap to visit?
Spain can be affordable compared to other Western European countries, especially outside major cities and peak season. Accommodation and dining vary by region. Avoid ATM transaction fees and pay the local currency with a Wise Visa Card or Revolut Maestro Card. I have been using these cards for several years and have saved a lot of money as a result. I recommend bringing both bank cards with you when you travel.
Is tipping expected in Spain?
Tipping is not mandatory. It’s common to round up the bill or leave a small tip (5–10%) in restaurants if the service is good.
Do I need a visa for visiting Spain?
If you’re from the EU, US, Canada, Australia, or most Western countries, you usually don’t need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days). Always check official government websites before traveling. The official website to check visa regulations for Spain is the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs Consular Services portal: https://www.exteriores.gob.es/. It provides accurate and up-to-date information on visa types, requirements, and application procedures for foreign nationals.
Do I need travel insurance for visiting Spain?
Yes, I always recommend travel insurance. Heymondo or Safetywing are among the cheapest travel insurances for travelers and cover medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more. As a reader of Girlswanderlust, you’ll receive a 5% discount on your next Heymondo travel insurance.
Will my mobile phone work in Spain?
Yes! Mobile coverage is excellent across the country. The main mobile providers in Spain are Movistar Spain, Vodafone Spain, and Orange Spain, which operate the primary networks. Smaller MVNOs like Pepephone also offer cheaper plans using these networks. eSIMs like Holafly, Airalo, or Saily are great options if you don’t want to swap physical SIM cards. I’ve been using eSIMs on my trips and find them convenient and cost-effective.
Can I drink tap water in Spain?
Tap water is generally safe to drink, but the taste can vary by region. In some areas, locals prefer bottled water.
Do I need to speak the local language in Spain?
Not necessarily, especially in tourist areas where English is widely spoken. However, learning a few basic Spanish phrases is always appreciated.
