From
vibrant cities to sun-soaked coastlines, Spain blends rich culture,
world-class cuisine, and historic beauty. Explore essential travel
info, visa tips, and insider advice in this complete Spain travel
guide for UK visitors.
Country: Spain
Continent / Region: Europe / Southern Europe / Iberian Peninsula
Capital City: Madrid
Government Type: Parliamentary Constitutional Monarchy
Population: Approx. 48 million
Official Language(s): Spanish (Castilian); regional languages include Catalan, Basque, Galician
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~35% (higher in tourist regions)
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT+1 / GMT+2 (summer)
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type C/F – 230V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 112 (all services)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 2–2.5 hours (direct)
Best Time/Months to Travel: April–June and September–October
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Part of the Schengen Area
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required
- Visa Duration / Cost: Up to 90 days in a 180-day period
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines recommended
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Spain):
Average Daily Costs: £40 / £80 / £150+
Tipping Culture: Not mandatory; 5–10% appreciated
Public Transport Options: Metro, buses, trams, trains, taxis
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: €1.50–€2.40 (metro/bus)
Internet / SIM Availability: Excellent 4G/5G; Movistar, Vodafone, Orange
Main Climate Type: Mediterranean; semi-arid in the south; oceanic in the north
Average Temperature: Winter 8–15°C; Summer 25–35°C (higher inland)
Major Cities: Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Malaga, Bilbao
Natural Attractions: Pyrenees, Sierra Nevada, Costa del Sol beaches, national parks
Popular Destinations: Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Valencia, Malaga, Balearic Islands, Canary Islands
Main Religions: Predominantly Roman Catholic
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Paella, tapas, jamón ibérico, tortilla española, churros, gazpacho
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Sagrada Família, Alhambra, Park Güell, Plaza Mayor, Seville Cathedral, Prado Museum
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Common Scams: Pickpocketing in tourist zones, fake petitions, distraction scams
Health Risks: Heatwaves in summer; strong UV radiation
Recommended Clinics: Excellent medical facilities in all major cities
Insurance Recommendation: Recommended for travel and medical cover
Internet Speed: Excellent 4G/5G nationwide
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Sagrada Família, Alhambra, Park Güell, Royal Palace Madrid, Ibiza beaches, Teide National Park (Tenerife)
Unique Experiences: Flamenco shows, tapas tours, wine tasting in Rioja, Gaudí architecture trails, island-hopping in the Canaries/Balearics
Hidden Gems: Ronda, Girona, Córdoba patios, Menorca beaches, Picos de Europa, Cuenca
Popular Areas to Stay: Barcelona Gothic Quarter, Madrid Gran Vía, Seville Old Town, Valencia City Centre, Costa del Sol resorts
Average Hotel Prices: £40 / £80 / £160+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Barcelona El Born, Madrid Malasaña, Ibiza clubs, Valencia Ruzafa
Local Drinks: Sangria, Rioja wine, cava, vermouth
Entertainment: Beach clubs, flamenco bars, rooftop lounges, late-night cafés
Car Rental: Available; useful for rural/coastal areas
Domestic Flights: Frequent between mainland & islands
Trains: High-speed AVE network; excellent nationwide coverage
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: Uber, Cabify, local taxis widely available
Best Markets: Barcelona La Boqueria, Madrid San Miguel Market, Valencia Central Market
Popular Souvenirs: Olive oil, ceramics, flamenco accessories, wine, turrón
Local SIM Card Providers: Movistar, Vodafone, Orange
Typical Business Hours: 10 a.m.–2 p.m. / 5 p.m.–8 p.m. (many shops)
Tap Water Safety: Safe in most regions; bottled water preferred in some rural areas
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Spain has 48 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it one of the top countries in the world for cultural and historical treasures.