COUNTRY GUIDE

Spain Travel Guide

Gaudí, flamenco, tapas and midnight dinners.

Madrid's museums, Barcelona's modernista architecture, and Seville's Andalusian soul. Spain is a way of life with art, cuisine, and late-night culture.

Last updated: 2026-09-05

CITIES

Cities in Spain

Hour-by-hour plans, daily budgets and practical info ready for each.

SpainMadridThe lively heart of Spain that never sleeps. SpainBarcelonaGaudí's dream, the rhythm of the Mediterranean. SpainMallorcaTurquoise coves, stone villages and Tramuntana roads
PRACTICAL INFO

Before you go

When to go

April–June and September–October; the south (Andalusia) in spring/autumn.

Visa

In the Schengen area.

Money

The currency is the Euro (EUR). Cards are common; small tapas bars prefer cash.

Transport

High-speed rail (AVE) links the cities; excellent city metros; cheap domestic flights.

FAQ

Spain: frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Spain?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are the best periods. Andalusia (Seville, Granada) exceeds 40°C in summer, making spring/autumn essential for the south. In August, locals go on vacation and some small businesses close.
Is Spain expensive?
It is on the affordable side of Western Europe. Mid-range daily budget per person is ~$80–120. 'Menú del día' (daily lunch menu) and tapas culture reduce dining costs.
Why is dinner so late?
Spain's rhythm is shifted: lunch is 14:00–16:00, and dinner doesn't start before 21:00. If you look for a restaurant at 19:00, most kitchens are closed; that time is for tapas and drinks.
Madrid or Barcelona?
Madrid for art and authentic Spanish spirit; Barcelona for architecture, beaches, and an international vibe. The two are ~2.5 hours apart by high-speed train; the ideal is to see both.
Is pickpocketing a problem in Spain?
Barcelona (La Rambla, metro line L3) and Madrid (Sol, Gran Vía) require caution regarding pickpocketing. Violent crime is low, but it's important not to leave phones and wallets in plain sight.
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