Navigate
Spain confidently with these essential travel do’s and don’ts.
Learn Spanish etiquette, safety tips, and local customs to make the
most of your trip and experience authentic Spain like a savvy,
respectful traveller.
• Greet people with a friendly “Hola.” A warm greeting goes a long way in Spanish culture.
• Follow local meal timings. Lunch is late (2–4pm) and dinner often starts after 8:30pm.
• Try local tapas and regional dishes. Food is a major source of pride across all regions.
• Respect personal space. Expect closer conversation distances than in Northern Europe.
• Dress neatly in cities. Stylish but comfortable clothing is appreciated.
• Learn a few Spanish phrases. “Por favor,” “Gracias,” and “Buenos días” are always welcomed.
• Wait for the host to begin eating. This is polite when dining in a local home.
• Carry cash in smaller towns. Many independent shops prefer cash for small purchases.
• Stand on the right of escalators. Walk on the left, especially in Madrid.
• Embrace the slower pace. Relaxation, conversation, and unhurried living are valued.
• Expect shops to stay open all afternoon. Siesta hours are common in smaller towns.
• Speak overly loudly indoors. It is considered impolite.
• Assume everyone speaks English. Basic Spanish helps greatly.
• Compare regions casually. Regional identity is strong and sometimes sensitive.
• Enter churches in revealing clothing. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Eat while walking. It is uncommon outside large cities.
• Overtip. Rounding up or 5–10% is appreciated but not required.
• Expect strict punctuality for social events. Arriving slightly late is normal.
• Stand in bike lanes. They are common and heavily used in cities.
• Raise political topics casually. Issues like Catalonia or the monarchy can be sensitive.
• Siesta culture still exists. Afternoons can be quieter, especially rurally.
• Family life is central. Long meals and gatherings are important.
• Regional pride is strong. Customs vary widely across Spain.
• Conversation is expressive. Gestures and emotion are normal.
• Late nights are standard. Evening life often continues until early morning.
• Festivals are meaningful. Semana Santa, Fallas, and Flamenco hold deep significance.
• Dining is social. Sharing plates and lingering is expected.
• Direct communication is common. Spaniards often speak clearly and honestly.
• Public affection is normal. Hand-holding and hugs are common in cities.
• Art, food, and music matter. Showing interest builds instant rapport.
• Use public transport. Metro systems in major cities are reliable and efficient.
• Use official taxis or trusted apps. Free Now and Cabify offer clear pricing.
• Carry a reusable bottle. Tap water is safe across most regions.
• Book major attractions early. Popular sites sell out quickly.
• Wear comfortable shoes. Cobblestones and long walks are common.
• Check opening days. Many shops close on Sundays.
• Protect against sun exposure. UV levels can be strong year-round.
• Pack for regional climates. Spain has multiple climate zones.
• Watch for pickpockets. Crowded tourist areas require vigilance.
• Buy a local SIM. Affordable with excellent 4G and 5G coverage.
• Eat where locals eat. Busy tapas bars are usually the best.
• Visit food markets. Places like Boqueria or San Miguel are ideal for sampling.
• Step away from tourist streets. Better food is found a few streets back.
• Explore quieter beaches. Small coves offer calmer experiences.
• Enjoy sunset culture. West-facing coasts and islands are spectacular.
• Relax in city parks. Retiro and Ciutadella are local favourites.
• Use regional trains. Renfe makes day trips affordable and easy.
• Dine early for quieter restaurants. 8pm is calm before peak hours.
• Try local wine and vermouth. Excellent quality and good value.
• Explore neighbourhoods. Malasaña, El Born, and Triana feel authentically local.
• Emergency number is 112. Covers police, fire, and ambulance services.
• Be alert for pickpocketing. Hotspots include Las Ramblas and major stations.
• Carry ID or a passport copy. Police may request identification.
• Avoid common tourist scams. Bracelets, fake petitions, and unsolicited help.
• Follow beach flag warnings. Red flags mean no swimming.
• Avoid illegal drugs. Possession is prohibited.
• Observe alcohol laws. Street drinking is banned in most cities.
• Use licensed taxis only. Avoid unmarked vehicles.
• Respect smoke-free zones. Especially near playgrounds and terraces.
• Follow driving laws strictly. Speeding and drink-driving fines are heavy.
• Greetings are warm. Handshakes or cheek kisses are common socially.
• Use polite phrases often. Courtesy is appreciated.
• English levels vary. Younger people speak more, especially in cities.
• Expressive tone is normal. Loudness does not equal anger.
• Avoid interrupting. Let conversations flow naturally.
• WhatsApp is widely used. Main tool for communication and bookings.
• Relax formality. Genuine interaction is valued over stiffness.
• Maintain eye contact. It signals trust and engagement.
• Ask before taking photos. Especially of vendors or performers.
• Show appreciation for culture. Spaniards take pride in their heritage.