SPAIN

Spain is a country located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. It is the fourth-largest country in Europe and the fifth-largest country in the European Union. It borders Portugal to the west and France, Italy and Algeria to the east and north. It is the world’s second-largest exporter of wine and fourth-largest exporter of fruit and vegetables.

Guide about Spain


Basic Info of Spain


Unlock the allure of Spain by delving into its vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes.

From the architectural marvels of Barcelona to the cultural heritage of Madrid, Spain is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered.

Crafting the Perfect Itinerary for Your Spanish Adventure involves exploring iconic destinations such as Seville, Valencia, and Granada.

When Should You Plan Your Spanish Getaway? Timing is key to ensuring you make the most of your journey, considering factors like peak tourist seasons and off-peak tranquility.

Capital
Madrid

Language
Spanish

Currency
EURO

Time Zone
UTC+1 and UTC

Population
6.5 M

Crime Rate
Moderate

Read More Is Spain Safe to Visit?

Photos of Spain

Best Beaches in Spain

  1. Cala Comte (Cala Conta): Situated in Ibiza, Cala Comte is famous for its breathtaking sunsets, crystal-clear waters, and fine, golden sand. Surrounded by a rocky coastline and islets, it offers a picturesque setting for swimming and sunbathing, with vibrant beach bars nearby.
  2. Playa de Ses Illetes: Located on the small island of Formentera, Playa de Ses Illetes is known for its incredibly clear turquoise waters and white sandy shores. Part of a Natural Park, it boasts a pristine environment perfect for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying unspoiled nature.
  3. Playa de Rodas: Found in the Cรญes Islands of Galicia, Playa de Rodas features a stunning crescent of white sand between two islands, creating a natural lagoon with calm, turquoise waters. Often likened to a Caribbean beach, it’s a tranquil spot for swimming and enjoying scenic walks.
  4. Cala Macarella: Tucked away on the island of Menorca, Cala Macarella and its smaller neighbor Cala Macarelleta are renowned for their secluded beauty, surrounded by pine-covered cliffs. These beaches offer fine white sand and clear azure waters, making them perfect for a peaceful day of sunbathing and swimming in a natural setting.

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Best Places to See in Spain

  1. Barcelona: Barcelona is a lively city famous for its art and architecture, including the iconic Sagrada Famรญlia church and modernist landmarks by Antoni Gaudรญ. The Gothic Quarter features historic narrow streets, and Las Ramblas is known for its vibrant atmosphere with street performers and markets.
  2. Granada: Home to the stunning Alhambra, Granada is a testament to medieval Moorish culture. The Alhambra is a sprawling hilltop fortress complex encompassing royal palaces, serene patios, and reflecting pools from the Nasrid dynasty, set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
  3. Madrid: Spain’s central capital is a city of elegant boulevards and expansive, manicured parks such as the Buen Retiro. It is renowned for its rich repositories of European art, including the Prado Museumโ€™s works by Goya, Velรกzquez, and other Spanish masters.
  4. Seville: Seville is famous for its historic architecture, flamenco dancing, and vibrant culture. The city is home to the Alcรกzar Castle complex, built during the Moorish Almohad dynasty, and the 18th-century Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza bullring. 

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Quick Tips for Spain

  1. Siesta Time: Embrace the Spanish tradition of a midday siesta when many shops and businesses close between 2 pm and 5 pm.
  2. Tapas Culture: Enjoy the culinary experience of tapas, small dishes meant for sharing, while exploring Spanish cuisine.
  3. Language: Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals and enhance your travel experience.
  4. Local Festivities: Experience the vibrant culture by participating in local festivals like La Tomatina or Semana Santa for a unique Spanish celebration.

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Best Time to Visit Spain

Spring (March to May)

Mild Weather: Perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing, with temperatures ranging from 15ยฐC to 25ยฐC.
Festivals: Experience vibrant cultural events like Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril in Seville.
Nature: Ideal time for hiking and enjoying the blooming landscapes, especially in regions like Andalusia and Catalonia.

Summer (June to August)

Beach Season: Optimal time for beach holidays, especially on the Mediterranean coast and the Balearic Islands.
Warm Weather: High temperatures, often exceeding 30ยฐC, making it perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
Nightlife: Lively nightlife and numerous music festivals across the country, appealing to younger travelers.

Autumn (September to November)

Pleasant Temperatures: Cooler than summer but still warm enough for comfortable travel, with averages between 20ยฐC to 28ยฐC.
Fewer Crowds: Less tourist congestion compared to summer, offering a more relaxed experience at major attractions.
Harvest Season: Ideal for food and wine enthusiasts, particularly with events like La Rioja’s grape harvest festivals.

Read More about the Best Time to Visit the French Riviera

Do you need a visa to visit the Spain?

Whether you need a visa for Spain depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. Citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland do not require a visa for any length of stay.

For short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, nationals from countries that are part of the visa-exemption agreement with the Schengen Area, including the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea, do not need a visa.

However, if you are from a country that does not have a visa exemption agreement with the Schengen Area, or if you plan to work, study, or stay longer than 90 days in Spain, you will need to apply for the appropriate Spanish visa.

It is always advisable to check the most current visa requirements with the Spanish consulate or embassy well in advance of your planned trip.

Exploring Spain on Budget

Exploring Spain on a budget is entirely feasible and can be a remarkably enriching experience. With its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Spain offers plenty of opportunities for travelers looking to enjoy its offerings without breaking the bank. From affordable accommodation options to free attractions and cheap eats, a well-planned trip to Spain can be both economical and unforgettable. Embracing local habits, taking advantage of passes, and knowing where to find value can make your journey as rewarding as it is cost-effective.

Budget Accommodation Options

Explore affordable accommodation options such as hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels in Spain. Consider booking in advance and staying slightly inland or in smaller towns to find more budget-friendly rates.


Free Attractions and Activities

Many of Spainโ€™s museums offer free entry on certain days or hours. Research in advance to plan your visits accordingly.

 Look for free or “pay-what-you-wish” walking tours in major cities to learn about their history and culture.

An aerial view of a city on a cliff overlooking the ocean.
Is Spain Expensive to Visit?

Economical Dining

Experience Spain’s culinary culture affordably by enjoying tapas (small plates) or the ‘Menรบ del Dรญa’, a fixed-price lunch menu offered by many restaurants.


Transportation on a Budget

Invest in daily or weekly public transport passes for unlimited rides within cities.

For intercity travel, buses are often cheaper than trains. Look for discount cards and early booking offers.

Is the Spain Expensive to Visit?

Spain can be a moderately priced destination to visit, with a variety of options to suit different budgets. Accommodation, dining, transportation, and attraction costs can vary, but with careful planning and smart choices, it is possible to explore Spain without overspending. Whether you prefer budget-friendly options or seek more luxurious experiences, Spain offers something for every traveler’s financial comfort.

Hidden Gems along the coast

There are some more hidden gems in the coastal region of Spain that you can visit during your trip.

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What to see and do?

Spain is a treasure trove of diverse experiences, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. From exploring iconic landmarks like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona to savoring tapas in Madrid’s bustling markets, Spain has something for every traveler. You can immerse yourself in flamenco performances, relax on pristine beaches, hike in picturesque national parks, or delve into the country’s vibrant art scene with works by Gaudรญ, Velรกzquez, and Dalรญ. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant cities, charming villages, or stunning landscapes, Spain promises an unforgettable journey filled with passion and authenticity.
Quick Itinerary

Spain Itinerary

I have got you covered in case you are searching for a French Riviera Itinerary.

Flight to Spain

Normally you tend to start your visit from Barcelona and then head over to different places in Spain but in case you are finding this difficult.

I recommend you to check the Skyscanner app and look for other places in Spain which could be a bit cheaper.

Renting a Car in Spain

I recommend opting for train travel during your trip to the French Riviera as it is usually cheaper and offers excellent connectivity. However, if you prefer renting a car for added flexibility, you can book in advance to make your journey easier. Enjoy the beauty of the region by exploring the charming towns and stunning landscapes of the French Riviera!

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We are there to help you

FAQ about the Spain

Covering all the doubts about French Riviera

Spain boasts several must-visit cities, including Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Valencia, and Granada. Each city offers a unique blend of architecture, culture, and history that is worth exploring.

The best time to visit Spain depends on your preferences. Spring and fall are generally ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is great for beach lovers, while winter offers a chance to experience Spanish traditions like Christmas markets.

When in Spain, don’t miss trying traditional dishes like paella (Valencian rice dish), tapas (small plates for sharing), gazpacho (cold tomato soup), churros con chocolate (fried dough pastry), and jamรณn ibรฉrico (Iberian ham).

Spain is known for its vibrant festivals. Some famous ones include La Tomatina in Buรฑol, San Fermรญn in Pamplona, Las Fallas in Valencia, Feria de Abril in Seville, and Running of the Bulls in Pamplona.

Learning a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your travel experience. Useful phrases include “Hola” (Hello), “Gracias” (Thank you), “ยฟDรณnde estรก…?” (Where is…?), “Por favor” (Please), and “La cuenta, por favor” (The bill, please).

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Booking for Spain on Discount

How to book Flights for Spain?

How to Book Hotels in Spain?

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How to Book Attractions for Spain?

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How to book Train Tickets in Spain?

How to Book Bus in Spain?

If you want more options around Booking in Germany then you should check our Resources Page which has even more options for you to plan your trip to Spain.

Spain

In lovely Spain, the feeling of vacation is always present! Sip on luscious sangria in the sunshine, unwind with a siesta in the late afternoon, and fill up on endless plates of delectable tapas at night. The outdoors is the country’s soul if eating is its heart. When you combine the two, you’ll have a gastronomic haven where meals stretch for hours and Spaniards converse and laugh in the balmy evening air. Get ready to see the beach transform into the living room and the street into the kitchen as daily life takes place outside. A straightforward but lovely way of living that explains Spain’s optimistic outlook.

Spain, although being a contemporary nation, is unique in other respects as well. It is a remarkable time capsule to the past. Discover wonderfully maintained structures, quaint cobbled alleyways, stunning churches, and picturesque mountain communities. But delve a bit deeper, and you’ll find a lively, enjoyable side to Spain. Cities come to life thanks to the vibrant, artistic, and colorful murals created by street art. Architects and artists are pushing the envelope with their incredible creations, from Valencia’s future “City of Arts and Sciences” to Barcelona’s bizarre and fantastic Gaudi architecture.

The fiesta, however, is the real representation of Spanish culture. The entire family may dance, laugh, and have a nice time together in the streets for any purpose. A very vibrant and thrilling style of living is created when loud music and singing are combined!