Frequently asked questions about Spain

At the last count, Spain had a population of 46,785,134. This makes it the EU’s fifth-largest country behind Germany, France, the UK and Italy. It also means that Spain’s citizens account for approximately 0.6% of the world’s population.

Spain is a beautiful country with so much to explore. From the white sand beaches of the Costa del Sol to the vibrant culture of Madrid, there’s something for everyone in Spain. Here are some of the best places to visit in Spain:

1. Madrid – The capital city of Spain is an exciting and vibrant place full of energy and culture. Here you can find world-class museums, shopping, and a bustling nightlife

2. Barcelona – This cosmopolitan city on the Mediterranean coast is known for its stunning architecture and unique culture. Don’t miss the famous Sagrada Familia and La Rambla

3. Seville – Seville is a city full of charm with stunning old buildings, narrow winding streets, and delicious food. Don’t miss the magnificent Real Alcázar palace and the famous flamenco shows.

4. Granada – This ancient city is home to some of Spain’s most impressive Moorish architecture. Visit the grand Alhambra Palace, or take a trip to one of the nearby ski resorts in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

5. Valencia – This modern port city is a great place to experience Spain’s beaches and delicious seafood dishes. There’s plenty to explore from the old town to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences.

6. Santiago de Compostela – This small town in Galicia has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries. Stroll through its cobblestone streets, relax in its green parks, or wander its historic university campus 

7. Bilbao – Located in the north of Spain, this bustling industrial port city is known for its architecture, museums, and lively nightlife. Don’t miss Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, an iconic landmark of modern art.

8. Ibiza – Located off the east coast of Spain, Ibiza is renowned as a party island, but it also has a laid-back side with gorgeous beaches and stunning sunsets.

Another great way to get around Spain is by renting a car. If you plan to explore off the beaten path and don’t mind navigating the roads, this could be a great choice. Keep in mind that if you’re under 25, there may be additional costs associated with renting a car in Spain.

Bus travel is another option for getting around Spain. It tends to be less expensive than the train, but the journey can take longer. It’s also worth noting that the bus network in Spain isn’t as extensive as in other countries, so it might not be an option if you’re traveling between larger cities.

Finally, if you’re in a major city like Madrid or Barcelona, you can use their extensive metro systems to get around. This can be a great way to get around quickly and easily without needing to worry about navigating roads or parking.

Spain is renowned for its delicious cuisine, offering a wide range of flavors and dishes to tantalize your taste buds. From the famous tapas to paella, there are plenty of delicious Spanish specialties you should try. Start your exploration with classic tapas such as olives, Jamon, and patatas bravas. Other popular dishes include gazpacho (cold tomato soup), tortilla Espanola (Spanish omelet), and gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns). For something more substantial, try the famous paella—a dish made with rice, saffron, and various seafood and meat. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to sample some of the churros con chocolate (fried doughnut-like pastries served with hot chocolate) or some delicious crema catalana (a creamy custard topped with a crunchy sugar crust). With so many delicious dishes to choose from, you’ll never be bored when eating in Spain.

At the last count, Spain had a population of 46,785,134. This makes it the EU’s fifth-largest country behind Germany, France, the UK and Italy. It also means that Spain’s citizens account for approximately 0.6% of the world’s population.

Spain is a shopper’s paradise, and there are plenty of opportunities to find great deals on clothes, accessories, and souvenirs. Here are some tips for shopping in Spain:

Shop Around – The best way to get the best deal on your purchases is to shop around. There are many different stores in Spain and each one has its selection and prices. Take the time to visit different stores to compare prices and products.
Know Your Price Range – Before you go shopping, decide on a price range that fits your budget. That way you can easily identify items within your price range and won’t be tempted to purchase something you can’t afford.
Look Out for Sales – Many stores in Spain have regular sales so keep an eye out for them. Many stores will also offer special discounts if you buy certain items in bulk or if you buy certain items at certain times of the year.
Take Advantage of Local Markets – There are many outdoor markets throughout Spain where you can find unique, handcrafted items at low prices. It’s a great way to explore local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs.
Haggle – Haggling is common in Spain and it’s a great way to get the lowest price possible for your items. Don’t be afraid to negotiate with the vendor to get the best deal.

The currency in Spain is the Euro (€). It is the same throughout all of Europe and is used in 19 of the 28 countries that make up the European Union. In Spain, you can find ATMs, currency exchange services, and banks throughout the country. To save time, it is recommended to obtain Euros before your trip so that you have cash for any necessary transactions. You can also use credit cards in most establishments, though it is not as widely accepted as cash. It is important to be aware of the exchange rate when making any purchases with Euros, as this may affect how much money you are spending.

When packing for a trip to Spain, there are some important items to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the time of year you are traveling and the climate in which you will be visiting. You should bring comfortable clothes suitable for the weather you will be experiencing. For example, if it is summertime you may want to bring lighter clothes, while if it is winter you may want to bring a coat and heavier clothing. In addition to weather-appropriate clothes, it is recommended to bring items such as sunglasses, sun cream, and/or a hat to protect yourself from the strong Spanish sun. Another important item to consider is footwear. Good quality, comfortable shoes are essential for any Spanish adventure, as you will be doing a lot of walking around cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Additionally, if you are planning on heading to the beach or exploring the countryside, make sure to bring some good-quality sandals or trainers that can withstand any terrain.  Lastly, don’t forget your accessories! Bringing a small bag, such as a backpack or cross-body bag, is a great way to store all of your necessary items and keep them close. A day bag for excursions outside the city is also a great idea. As for smaller accessories, bringing a scarf or pashmina is an excellent way to stay warm in cooler weather and make a fashion statement.

Generally, Spain is a very safe country to visit and crime levels are relatively low. However, as with any foreign country, it is important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times. Pickpocketing is the most common form of crime in Spain, particularly in busy tourist areas, so always keep your valuables securely stored away. Avoid walking alone late at night in deserted or poorly lit streets and make sure you are familiar with your accommodation’s neighborhood before venturing out after dark. Be wary of scams, particularly those involving money exchange, credit cards, and offers of cheap merchandise. It is also important to be aware of potential terrorist activity and follow any advice issued by the Spanish government. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your trip to Spain will be both enjoyable and safe.

The summer months (June to September) tend to be hot and dry, with temperatures reaching highs of 35-40 degrees Celsius (95-104 Fahrenheit). This can be particularly uncomfortable in cities where the heat is magnified due to the urban environment. The coast provides some relief from the heat, as there is usually a breeze coming off the sea.

Winter temperatures in Spain range from 5-15 degrees Celsius (41-59 Fahrenheit), with snow occasionally falling in the higher mountain regions. Most rainfall occurs during the winter months, although there can also be downpours during the summer months, especially in the north and northeast of Spain.

Overall, Spain enjoys a great climate, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures throughout the year. With careful planning, visitors to Spain can enjoy beautiful weather no matter when they visit.

Here are some essential Spanish phrases to help you start:

Hola – “Hello”
Por favor – “Please”
¿Cómo estás? – “How are you?”
Gracias – “Thank you”
¿Dónde está el baño? – “Where is the bathroom?”
¿Cuánto cuesta? – “How much does it cost?”
Mucho gusto – “Nice to meet you”
No entiendo – “I don’t understand”
¿Habla inglés? – “Do you speak English?”
Buenas noches – “Good night”
Adiós – “Goodbye”
These simple phrases will help you communicate while in Spain, making your experience a whole lot easier. As you travel, it’s also recommended to learn more Spanish phrases as needed. Don’t be afraid to practice and ask locals for help. You’ll find that most Spaniards are friendly and happy to lend a hand!