types of tourism in spanish

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Types of tourism in Spain

When we think of tourism we do not consider that there are different types, since not everyone travels for the same reasons. In fact there are regions that have a specific type of tourism which they focus on in order to get the most out of their community. That is why we are going to see the types of tourism that we can find in Spain.

Spain is undoubtedly a country of tourism, which attracts thousands of people every year who want to enjoy different things, from gastronomy to natural spaces, beaches or its culture. Find out what type of tourism can be interesting to discover in Spain , since there are different ways to travel.

cultural tourism

Cultural tourism has always been one of the main ones. In this type of tourism we include the one that is oriented to the discovery of history, monuments, archaeological remains and museums. In Spain we can find many regions with their own history and their museums. The Guggenheim in Bilbao or the Prado Museum in Madrid they are great examples. The monuments are also significant since we find places such as the Giralda in Seville, the Alhambra in Granada, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, ​​the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela or that of León, the Alcázar of Toledo, that of Segovia or the Roman Theater of Merida

Beach tourism

We know that in Spain a large part of tourism is oriented towards its coast, since it also has very good weather. In the area of Mediterranean we find areas such as Valencia, the area of ​​Catalonia and of course the Balearic Islands with tourist centers such as Mallorca or Ibiza. On the other hand, there are many people who enjoy Andalusian beaches or who decide to go to the Canary Islands, which enjoy a great climate throughout the year.

Gastronomic tourism

There is no doubt that Spain is one of the places with the best gastronomy in Europe and therefore gastronomic tourism is another of its great attractions. In the north there are great fish and seafood dishes. In fact the Basque Country, Rioja or Galicia are one of the places favorites for gastronomic tourism for the high quality of its dishes and products. In Andalusia we find one of the favorite places for tapas. In addition, in these places it is common to find festivals dedicated to gastronomy, which also attracts many tourists each year, such as the Seafood Festival in O Grove, Galicia.

Wine tourism

Wine tourism is a type of tourism linked to wine, something that we can also see in many regions of Spain that are famous for their wines. Places like La Rioja, Catalonia, Galicia or Andalusia With their Jerez wine, they have denominations of origin that attract the attention of hundreds of tourists who want to approach the production areas to see the wineries and vineyards and to enjoy the wine experience in its entirety, in addition to tasting or courses.

Ecological tourism

This type of tourism is very recent, since a tourism oriented to an ecological point of view has emerged a few years ago. Mass tourism destroys areas and on many occasions causes natural spaces to be damaged. That is why a new ecological tourism designed to raise awareness and so that those people who enjoy an ecological lifestyle can travel while also taking care of the environment. The hotels are ecological and are usually enjoyed in natural places where you can enjoy learning from nature without damaging it.

Adventure tourism

Adventure tourism is oriented towards those people who are very active and who enjoy all kinds of sports. In places like the north coast of the Cantabrian Sea or the Andalusian coast, we find ideal beaches for sports such as surfing or kitesurfing, with schools that are used to get started in the sport. There are also many areas in Spain in which to do sports such as hiking in natural places, from Galicia to Asturias or Catalonia . Although today it is easy to find places with new hiking trails to go.

Tourism rural

Rural tourism is one that has grown in rural and quiet areas, in beautiful renovated country houses to enjoy this quiet lifestyle. Places like Galicia are experts in this type of tourism . Staying in beautiful rural houses, surrounded by nature is a luxury today to escape the bustle of the city.

Snow tourism

This is another type of tourism that we can find in Spain in the winter season. Places such as the Arán Valley in Lleida, the Puerto de Navacerrada in Madrid, Formigal in Huesca or Sierra Nevada in Granada are some of the places that offer ski resorts prepared with all kinds of areas, accommodation and fun for the whole family.

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Tourism in Spain

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Tourism in Spain is big business! But why is tourism here so important and why does it matter? Read on to find out…

Geography in Spain

Statistics on tourism in spain, popular tourist attractions in spain, popular types of tourism in spain, economic impacts of tourism in spain, social impacts of tourism in spain, environmental impacts of tourism in spain, faqs about tourism in spain, to conclude: tourism in spain.

Spain is a country located in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. It is bordered by Portugal to the west, France and Andorra to the northeast, and the Mediterranean Sea to the east and south. The country has a diverse geography that includes several mountain ranges, plateaus, rivers, and coasts.

The two dominant mountain ranges in Spain are the Pyrenees, which separate Spain from France, and the Sistema Central, which runs through the centre of the country. The highest peak in Spain is Mount Teide, located on the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands.

Spain’s two major rivers are the Tagus and the Ebro. The Tagus is the longest river on the Iberian Peninsula and flows through Portugal before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean at Lisbon. The Ebro flows through northeastern Spain and empties into the Mediterranean Sea.

Spain has several plateaus, including the Meseta Central, which covers a large part of the country’s interior, and the Basque-Cantabrian Mountains in the north. The country’s coasts are mostly rocky, with several sandy beaches along the Mediterranean coast and the Atlantic beaches in the north of the country.

Spain has a range of climates due to its varied geography. The northern coast and mountainous regions have a temperate climate with mild summers and cold winters, while the central plateau has hot, dry summers and cold winters. The Mediterranean coast has mild winters and hot, dry summers, while the Canary Islands have a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round.

Tourism is a significant industry in Spain and has been a major contributor to the country’s economic growth. Spain is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and receives millions of visitors every year, making it a top destination in Europe.

The tourism industry is a major employer in Spain, providing millions of jobs to workers in the sector. In 2019, tourism accounted for over 11% of Spain’s GDP and generated over 92 billion euros in revenue.

Spain has a diverse range of tourism offerings, including cultural tourism, gastronomic tourism, beach tourism, and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. Popular tourist destinations in Spain include Barcelona, Madrid, the Costa del Sol, the Balearic and Canary Islands, and Andalusia.

The country has a well-established infrastructure to support the tourism industry, including modern airports and high-speed train networks. Additionally, Spain has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to backpacker hostels.

Spain has also been working to promote sustainable tourism practices, such as eco-tourism, responsible tourism, and cultural tourism that respect the country’s cultural and natural heritage. In recent years, the Spanish government has made significant efforts to improve and modernise tourism infrastructure and increase investment in the tourism sector.

Now lets take a look at some statistics that emphasise the scale of tourism in Spain:

In 2019, Spain welcomed a total of 83.7 million international tourists, which was a record high and a 1.1% increase from the previous year.

The largest number of international visitors in Spain come from the United Kingdom, followed by Germany, France, and the Nordic countries.

The most popular tourist regions in Spain are Catalonia, the Balearic Islands, Andalusia, and the Canary Islands.

In terms of tourism revenue, Spain generated over 92 billion euros in 2019, which represented an increase of 2.8% from the previous year.

Tourism accounted for 11.7% of Spain’s GDP in 2019, making it a key contributor to the country’s economy.

Accommodation is a significant part of the tourism industry in Spain. In 2020, the country had over 17,000 registered hotels, with a total of almost 2 million rooms.

In 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of international tourists visiting Spain decreased significantly to 19 million, which represented a 77% decrease compared to the previous year.

The Spanish government has stated a goal of attracting 100 million international visitors to the country by the end of 2021, which would represent a return to pre-pandemic levels.

Spain has a wealth of tourist attractions, ranging from famous cultural landmarks to stunning natural landscapes. Here are some of the most popular tourism attractions in Spain:

La Sagrada Familia – This famous basilica in Barcelona is a masterpiece of architect Antoni Gaudí, with its unique and elaborate neo-Gothic design.

Park Güell – Another notable creation of Antoni Gaudí, the park features stunning mosaics and sculptures surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens.

The Alhambra – This palace and fortress in Granada is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its exquisite Moorish architecture and stunning gardens.

La Rambla – A lively promenade in the heart of Barcelona, La Rambla is lined with street performers, cafes, and shops, making it a prime tourist hotspot.

The Prado Museum – Madrid’s most famous art museum displaying works from renowned artists such as Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco.

The Guggenheim Museum – This iconic museum in Bilbao is instantly recognizable for its avant-garde, titanium-clad design and a remarkable collection of contemporary art.

The Camino de Santiago – A world-famous walking trail that spans across northern Spain, ending at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia.

The Costa del Sol – The sunny coast of southern Spain is dotted with resorts and golden sandy beaches that attract millions of tourists every year.

The Canary Islands – This Spanish territory, located off the coast of Africa, is known for its warm year-round climate, scenic landscapes, and black sand beaches.

La Tomatina – A unique annual festival held in Valencia, where locals and visitors engage in a massive tomato fight on the streets.

These are just a few examples of the many attractions that Spain has to offer tourists, as there are countless other sites across the country that showcase the amazing cultural, historic, and environmental treasures of Spain.

Now lets take a look at the most popular types of tourism in Spain:

• Cultural tourism – Spain is known for its rich cultural heritage, with historical landmarks such as the Alhambra palace, the Sagrada Familia church, and the ancient Roman ruins throughout the country.
• Beach tourism – Spain boasts 8,000 km of coastline, making it a paradise for beach lovers. The most popular beach destinations in Spain are the Costa del Sol, the Costa Brava, and the Canary Islands.
• Gastronomic tourism – Spain is a country that offers a high level of culinary expertise, with gastronomic delights such as tapas, paella, and Rioja wines. Some of the most popular destinations for foodies include San Sebastian, Madrid and Barcelona.
• Adventure tourism – Spain offers activities for adrenaline-seekers, including rock climbing, canyoning, caving, and skiing in the Pyrenees mountain range.

• Wine tourism – Spain has many regions that produce excellent wines, such as Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Priorat. Wine enthusiasts can visit vineyards, taste wines and learn about the wine-making process.
• Nature tourism – Spain is home to several picturesque natural areas, such as the Picos de Europa National Park, the Canary Island nature reserves, and the Camino de Santiago walking trail.
• Festivals and events tourism – Spain hosts several unique events throughout the year, such as the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona or La Tomatina in Valencia.

These are just some of the popular types of tourism in Spain that attract visitors from near and far, and Spain continues to offer a wide range of activities and experiences for tourists.

Tourism is a significant industry in Spain, contributing significantly to the country’s overall economic growth. Here are some of the major economic impacts of tourism in Spain:

Job Creation – The tourism industry is a major employer in Spain. In 2019, the sector generated 2.7 million jobs, accounting for 14% of total employment in the country.

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) – Tourism is a significant contributor to the Spanish economy, accounting for 11% of GDP in 2019. The industry generated over 92 billion euros in revenue in the same year.

Trade – Tourism helps to boost Spain’s trade and export industry. In 2019, international tourism brought in more than 67 billion euros in export revenue.

Investment – The tourism industry attracts significant foreign investment to Spain. In 2019, the country received 6.9 billion euros in foreign direct investment related to tourism.

Regional Development – Tourism plays a significant role in the development of many regions and cities in Spain. The industry provides economic incentives to improve infrastructure, promote local businesses and support the sustainability of natural and cultural heritage.

Spain is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with around 83 million visitors each year. While tourism brings significant economic benefits to the country, it also has social impacts.

Here are some of the social impacts of tourism in Spain:

• Overcrowding: One of the biggest social impacts of tourism in Spain is overcrowding. During the high tourist season, beaches, streets, and tourist attractions can become overcrowded, which can cause inconvenience and frustration for both locals and tourists.
• Cultural changes: The influx of tourists can lead to cultural changes in Spain. For example, the increasing presence of tourists can lead to the commodification of local culture, and the adoption of more globalised tourism practices can lead to the loss of local traditions and customs.
• Strains on infrastructure: High levels of tourism can put a strain on infrastructure, such as roads, public transport, and water supply systems. This can not only inconvenience locals, but also negatively impact the environment.
• Employment and wage inequality: While tourism can create job opportunities, there can be issues with wage inequality and precarious work. Many jobs in the tourism industry are low-paid and seasonal, which can lead to social and economic disparities.
• Social conflict: The presence of tourists can sometimes lead to social conflict, as locals may feel that their neighbourhoods or culture are being overrun. In some cases, this can lead to resentment and tension between locals and visitors.

Overall, while tourism brings significant economic benefits to Spain, it is important to consider and mitigate the social impacts it may have on local communities.

Tourism can have a significant impact on the environment in Spain due to the large number of visitors and the demand for resources that tourism creates. Here are some of the environmental impacts of tourism in Spain:

• Overuse of resources: The high demand for resources such as water, energy, and food can strain local ecosystems and lead to overuse of resources. This can also lead to environmental problems such as pollution and deforestation.
• Waste production: Tourist activity generates a large amount of waste, which can affect the quality of soil, water, and air. The waste generated by hotels, restaurants, and other tourist facilities must be properly managed to prevent environmental damage.
• Carbon emissions: The transport, accommodation, and activities associated with tourism are significant sources of carbon emissions, contributing to climate change. The high volume of air travel in particular is a major contributor to carbon emissions.
• Damage to natural habitats: Tourists often visit natural areas such as national parks, beaches, and mountains. Increased tourism activity can lead to environmental damage and the destruction of natural habitats, especially where there is uncontrolled development.
• Water scarcity: In areas where water resources are already limited, tourism can exacerbate water scarcity problems. Tourist activities such as swimming pools, golf courses, and irrigation systems can place additional strain on already limited water resources.

It is important for tourism stakeholders in Spain to prioritise sustainability practices and environmental management to ensure the long-term preservation of ecosystems and natural resources.

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Spain, lets answer some of the most common questions on this topic:

1 – Is it safe to travel to Spain?

Yes, Spain is generally considered a safe country to travel to. However, visitors should always exercise caution and take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and other petty crimes, particularly in tourist areas.

2 – What is the best time of year to visit Spain?

The best time to visit Spain depends on the region and the activities planned. Generally, the spring and fall months are ideal as the weather is still warm and the crowds are smaller.

3 – What is the currency in Spain?

The currency used in Spain is the euro (EUR).

4 – Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?

Visa requirements depend on your country of origin. Citizens of certain countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, can travel to Spain without a visa for up to 90 days.

5 – What are the most popular tourist destinations in Spain?

The most popular tourist destinations in Spain include Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, the Costa del Sol, and the Balearic Islands.

6 – What is the official language of Spain?

The official language of Spain is Spanish (Castilian), but other regional languages such as Basque, Catalan, and Galician are also spoken.

7 – What are some traditional Spanish dishes?

Traditional Spanish dishes include paella, tortilla de patatas (potato omelette), gazpacho (cold tomato soup), and churros (sweet fried dough).

8 – What is the nightlife like in Spain?

Spain is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants staying open late into the night.

9 – How can I get around in Spain?

Spain has an extensive network of public transportation, including buses, trains, and subways. Taxis, rental cars, and ride-sharing apps are also available.

10 – Is tipping expected in Spain?

Tipping is not expected in Spain, as a service charge is typically included in restaurant bills. However, rounding up to the nearest euro is a common practice.

As you can see, tourism Spain is big business! However, it is vital that tourism here is managed effectively to ensure that sustainable tourism principles are adopted.

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International tourism in Spain: from quantity to quality?

The recent boom in Spain’s international tourism is having a very positive impact on the growth of the economy and of employment. However, it also has repercussions for the resident population that are not always positive, such as greater congestion due to the larger influx of tourists in certain parts of Spain. This has rekindled the debate on the need to move towards higher quality tourism.

Quality tourism is often associated with tourist expenditure. However, the definition of quality is undoubtedly much broader and includes environmental sustainability which depends, among other factors, on the degree of geographical spread or concentration, and the capacity to create good quality jobs carried out by better trained workers on more permanent contracts, a factor which is influenced, for instance, by the degree of seasonality 1 . Below we examine the trends in Spain’s international tourism for each of these factors.

• 1. Tourism can also have an impact on the price of some services, such as housing. For more information, see the article «Rent is on the rise in Spain» in the Real Estate Sector Report, 2nd Semester 2019

Quality tourism is not mass tourism; it is more geographically spread and less seasonal, capable of creating good quality jobs that are more permanent and carried out by better trained workers

Tourism concentration

Spain is one of the countries that receive the most tourists in proportion to the resident population; in cities such as Madrid or Barcelona there are four times more tourists than inhabitants

Worldwide, Spain is second in terms of inbound tourism, only behind France which received 86.9 million tourists in 2017. However, these absolute figures are not a good indication of how concentrated the country’s tourism might be, something which becomes clearer when we relate this figure to the number of inhabitants in each country. As a result, we can see that Spain’s tourist concentration is very high, to the point that the number of international tourists coming into the country almost doubles its resident population.

If we compare this figure with that of other countries, we can see that Spain is one of the countries that receive the most tourists in terms of its number of inhabitants. While the annual number of hotel visitors does not exceed the national population in Italy, the United Kingdom or Turkey, it is the opposite situation in France and especially in Spain, as shown in the chart.

Spain receives a considerable number of tourists, especially when compared to its population, but another important factor to take into account is the geographical distribution of this tourism. The consequences are quite different when all these tourists are concentrated in one city rather than spread throughout a region.

In this respect, although tourism has grown throughout Spain there are some areas, especially large cities, that have experienced a large proportion of the tourism growth observed in recent years.

Concentración en los mayores focos turísticos

Specifically, in the past 12 years, tourist arrivals 2  in Madrid and Barcelona have gone from representing twice their population to quadrupling it. The ratio of tourist arrivals to the resident population in Barcelona is one of the highest among the world’s major cities, greater than cities such as Singapore and London and only behind Paris, Dubai and Hong Kong. Similarly, Rome and New York have fewer centres of concentrated tourism than Barcelona, measured in terms of tourist arrivals compared with the resident population.

Over the next few years, given that the large number of tourists visiting Spain should consolidate, the concentration of tourism in Spain’s major cities will probably remain at a similar level 3 . Consequently, efforts should continue to focus on designing strategies to optimise the geographical distribution of tourists in an attempt to reduce large concentrations at certain locations or cities.

• 2. Number of international tourists. Source: Euromonitor International.
• 3. See the article «Towards a higher quality, more sustainable tourism industry » in this Sector Report for more details on tourism forecasts.

Another important factor in the definition of quality tourism is related to its seasonality; i.e. the fluctuation in inbound tourism throughout the year.

Historically, tourism in Spain has focused mainly on sun, sea and sand as is therefore seasonal by definition. Even today, almost half the tourists visiting Spain do so in the summer months. This high seasonality has an impact on the labour market as it leads to a large number of temporary jobs, as discussed below. But, in addition, to satisfy the peaks in demand during the high season, infrastructures are also created whose potential is not exploited in the off season.

Although Spain’s tourism is very seasonal, and more so than in countries such as France, this has decreased slightly in recent years with the result that the country’s tourism is now less seasonal than Italy’s, as can be seen in the chart. However, in spite of this positive trend, seasonality is still a problem that needs to be tackled by the tourism industry, which is why it is vital to continue focusing on less seasonal segments such as business or gastronomy tourism, on diversifying tourism products and services and on boosting the loyalty of tourists coming to Spain.

Although seasonality has declined in recent years, it is still a problem that needs to be tackled by Spain’s tourism industry

Seasonality of hotel overnight stays

Quality tourism is also tourism that is capable of creating good quality jobs. In this respect, there are several factors that can affect the quality of employment, such as how overqualified the workers are, the type of employment contract and also wages.

As we have already seen, Spanish tourism is highly seasonal and this results in a large number of temporary jobs. Specifically, the temporary employment rate for the tourism sector is 34%. Moreover, while tourism has become less seasonal in the past five years, the temporary employment rate has remained more or less constant.

Quality tourism is capable of creating good quality jobs

Temporary employment rate in Spain

Another factor affecting the quality of employment is the share of part-time jobs compared with the total (the part-time rate). In the case of the tourism industry, this figure is close to 25%, well above that of the economy as a whole (15%) 4 . Apart from this part-time rate, it is also significant that half the sector’s part-time workers are involuntarily; i.e. they would like to work full time.

However, the share of involuntary part-time employment compared with all employment, now standing at 13%, has followed a downward trend in recent years. There is still a long way to go to reach levels close to those recorded before the economic crisis (5% in 2008) but this gradual descent in the involuntary temporary employment rate in recent years should be viewed positively.

• 4. 2018 data

Part-time employment in the tourism industry

% total employment

Labour productivity is also an important factor to ensure good quality employment. Spain’s hotel sector has a positive record, with its labour productivity almost 20% higher than the average for the European Union (EU). Much of this higher productivity is due to company size. Labour productivity figures show that large tourism companies tend to be 30% more productive than small enterprises. Since Spain has a greater proportion of large companies than the European average, the country’s labour productivity is also higher than the EU.

Matching workers’ qualifications to job requirements, tourism industry and total economy

% total employees

Nevertheless, the higher labour productivity of Spain’s tourism industry is not only due to company size, since small Spanish companies are also more productive than their European counterparts.

Finally, a good quality job is one in which, ideally, there should be a good match between the employee’s qualifications and the skills required by their job. In the tourism industry, a large proportion of workers have a higher level of education than that required by the job they do. As can be seen in the table, 13.8% of tourism jobs requiring basic knowledge are carried out by people with a higher level of education, denoting a high degree of overqualification, especially compared with the economy as a whole, namely 7.4%.

Last but not least, quality tourism must also be associated with greater profitability. In Spain, tourism revenue increases year after year, totalling 62,481 million euros in 2018. Much of this growth is due to the significant rise in the number of tourists in recent years. However, another not inconsiderable part can be explained by the higher expenditure of tourists visiting Spain.

Specifically, the increase in average daily expenditure per tourist lies behind one third of the increase in total tourist expenditure over the past three years. The average expenditure per person reached 145.3 euros per day in 2018, an increase of 12% over 2016.

Tourists visiting Spain are spending more and more: the average expenditure per person reached 145.3 euros per day in 2018, 5.4% more than the previous year

It is worth noting that Spain receives many different types of tourist with very different patterns of behaviour, so the overall figures are not enough to determine the type of tourism we receive. An analysis of payments made using foreign cards at CaixaBank payment terminals allows us to establish eight categories of tourist according to their type of expenditure, duration of trip, nationality and propensity for different expenses, as shown in the table below.

The category that stands out for its higher average expenditure per trip is «Hotel with card», which includes those tourists for whom most card payments are spent on their hotel and restaurants. The majority come from France and the United States and their average stay is usually one week. Similarly, the group of tourists classified as «I want to get to know Spain» also have a high average expenditure, especially on restaurants. This group includes those tourists who make longer trips, of approximately two weeks, since they come mainly from America and take the opportunity to visit several autonomous regions while in Spain.

At the other end of the scale is the «Expenditure at place of origin» group, which are those tourists with the lowest average expenditure per trip. This category includes tourists with an average stay of between 3 and 10 days who spend mostly on transport and restaurants and probably paid for their hotel in their own country.

The other notable group at this end of the scale is classified as «Short breaks and borders», with a low average expenditure per trip due mainly to the short duration. This group is mainly made up of French tourists who visit Spain often and tend to use their cards mostly to pay in establishments that sell food products.

Types of international tourist visiting Spain by their expenditure

With regard to the trend in the composition of tourists visiting Spain, the analysis carried out seems to indicate that there have been no substantial changes in the volume of tourists in each group in the past three years; i.e. in general terms, the composition of tourists shows no obvious signs of change.

In conclusion, Spain now faces the challenge of consolidating a sustainable tourism model and reinforcing its value proposition aimed at quality tourism, especially regarding the aspects of tourist concentration, seasonality and employment. To this end, the country must continue to focus its efforts on designing strategies to optimise the geographical distribution of tourism and reduce its seasonality, achieved by diversifying the supply of tourism products and services and improving the loyalty of those visiting Spain.

To read below

An exceptional year for the catering sector in Spain

The impact of climate change on tourism in Spain: analysis and outlook

What are the trends for international tourism in Spain in 2024? A sensitivity analysis based on macroeconomic factors

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71 Spanish Vacation Vocabulary to Aid Your Travels (Pronunciation Included)

So you’ve decided to travel to a Spanish-speaking country .

Your luggage is ready, your passport is up-to-date, your trip has been booked…

But what about your Spanish vocabulary ? Are you ready to have your first real-life conversation in Spanish ?

Whether you’re going to spend the next few weeks on the beach, in the mountains or even underground , you’ll find the words you need here.

Spanish Vacation Nouns

• 1. el recuerdo  (the souvenir)
• 2. el regalo  (the present, the gift)

3. el billete de ida y vuelta (the round-trip ticket)

• 4. la maleta  (the suitcase, the bag)
• 5. el pasaporte  (the passport)

6. el DNI (ID card)

• 7. el turista  (the tourist, the vacationer)
• 8. el paisaje  (the landscape)
• 9. el avión  (the plane)
• 10. el coche  (the car)
• 11. la gasolina  (the gasoline, the fuel)
• 12. la gasolinera  (the gas station)
• 13. las vistas  (the view)
• 14. la playa  (the beach)
• 15. el museo de…  (the museum of…)
• 16. el cine  (the movie theater)
• 17. la piscina  (the swimming pool)
• 18. el mar  (the sea)
• 19. el concierto  (the concert)

20. las gafas de sol (the sunglasses)

• 21. la cámara de fotos  (the photo camera)

22. la videocámara (the video camera)

23. las sandalias / las chanclas (the flip-flops, the sandals).

• 24. la agencia de viajes  (the travel agency)
• 25. las llaves  (the keys)
• 26. el helado  (the ice cream)
• 27. la heladería  (the ice cream parlor)
• 28. la tumbona  (the lounger)
• 29. la terraza  (the terrace)
• 30. el flotador  (the float, the rubber ring)
• 31. la Oficina de Turismo  (the Tourist Information Office)
• 32. la farmacia  (the drugstore, the pharmacy)

33. la tarjeta de crédito / la tarjeta de débito (the credit/debit card)

• 34. el cajero automático  (the ATM machine)
• 35. la avería  (the breakdown)

36. el carné / el permiso de conducir (the driver’s license)

37. la queja / la reclamación (the complaint).

• 38. la sombrilla  (the shade, the umbrella)
• 39. la escala  (the stopover)
• 40. el auxiliar de vuelo  (the flight attendant)
• 41. la tripulación  (the crew)

42. la habitación individual / la habitación doble (the single/double/twin room)

• 43. el secador de pelo  (the hairdryer)
• 44. la atracción turística  (the tourist attraction)
• 45. la ciudad  (the city)

46. el casco antiguo (the old town, the historic center)

Spanish vacation verbs, 47. viajar , ir de viaje , hacer un viaje (to travel, to go on a trip).

• 48. ir de vacaciones  (to go on vacation)
• 49. pasar las vacaciones  (to vacation)
• 50. estar de vacaciones  (to be on vacation)

51. hacer fotos / tomar fotos / sacar fotos (to take pictures)

• 52. montar a caballo  (to go horseback riding, to ride a horse)

53. hacer una excursión , ir de excursión (to go for a ramble/a hike)

54. hacer una reserva , reservar (to make a reservation, to book).

• 55. confirmar una reserva  (to confirm a reservation/booking)
• 56. ir de camping  (to go camping)
• 57. hacer las maletas  (to pack, to pack your luggage)
• 58. visitar  (to visit, to tour, to see, to go, to pay a visit)
• 59. tomar un taxi  (to take a taxi)
• 60. quedarse  (to stay, like at a hotel)
• 61. descansar  (to rest, to relax)
• 62. alquilar  (to rent)
• 63. hacer un castillo de arena  (to build a sandcastle)
• 64. leer un libro  (to read a book)

65. divertirse , disfrutar , pasárselo bien (to have fun, to have a blast, to enjoy oneself)

• 66. ir de compras  (to go shopping)
• 67. hacer turismo  (to sightsee)
• 68. ver los lugares de interés  (to visit places of interest)
• 69. dar un paseo  (to go for a walk)
• 70. hacer una barbacoa  (to barbecue)
• 71. hacer un picnic  (to have a picnic)

And One More Thing…

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1. el recuerdo   (the souvenir)

Recuerdo comes from the verb recordar , which means to remember. That is why a memory is also called a recuerdo in Spanish!

2. el regalo   (the present, the gift)

They say “the present is a gift.” In Spanish, this can be said el presente es un regalo or even el presente es un presente .

You can buy the whole round-trip ticket, or un billete de ida (a one-way ticket) and un billete de vuelta (a return ticket).

Bear in mind that  billete  is used in Spain, while Latin American countries will typically use boleto or pasaje , depending on the country.

4. la maleta   (the suitcase, the bag)

I think this is one of those funny words every language has.

If you use it in the singular, it is translated as “suitcase.” Each individual bag you have is a maleta .

However, if you use it in the plural, you can translate it as “luggage” or “baggage.” You do not have to count how many suitcases you have (unless you want to). You can just refer to all of them as a whole:

Dame esa maleta . (Give me that suitcase.)

¿Están listas tus maletas ? (Is your luggage ready?)

5. el pasaporte   (the passport)

Never forget your passport or ID when leaving home, let alone when leaving your country!

DNI means Documento Nacional de Identidad (National Identity Document). I know you probably do not have one (yet), but if you are traveling to, say, Spain, do not expect people to say ID. For us, any ID is a DNI (deh-eneh-ih), and that is how we will say it to you.

Many European people have passports, but now you are able to travel throughout the whole European Union ( viajar por toda la Unión Europea ) by using just your European ID .

However, if you come from America, you will need a passport or a visa ( un visado in Castilian Spanish, also referred to as   una visa in some Latin American countries) .

A typical sentence you will hear when checking in is:

DNI o pasaporte, por favor. (ID card or passport, please.)

This may sound rude to you, but it is not. Despite being in the form of an order, it is rather a shorter way of asking:

¿Puede mostrarme su DNI o su pasaporte, por favor? (Could you show me your ID card or passport, please?)

7. el turista   (the tourist, the vacationer)

This Spanish word is very similar to its English counterpart , so it should not be problematic at all.

Just remember that nouns ending in -ista do not have a specific feminine form. Male and female tourists are both called turistas .  You just change the determiners and any other accompanying word:

el turista / la turista , los turistas / las turistas (the tourist, the tourists)

este turista / esta turista , estos turistas / estas turistas (this tourist, these tourists)

un turista español / una turista española , unos turistas españoles / unas turistas españolas (a Spanish tourist, some Spanish tourists)

8. el paisaje   (the landscape)

9. el avión   (the plane), 10. el coche   (the car).

For more information about the word “car” and its different translations into Spanish, such as carro and auto , take a moment to learn your Spanish transportation terms .

11. la gasolina   (the gasoline, the fuel)

Gasolina is a word normally used to refer to any kind of fuel for your car in general. However, we also use it to specifically refer to gasoline.

If your car uses diesel, do not use gasolina! Choose the gasóleo   or gasoil   dispenser.

12. la gasolinera   (the gas station)

Since  gasolina is used to refer to fuel in general, you fill your tank at the gasolinera .

13. las vistas   (the view)

You can use this word in its plural form if you are talking about landscapes. The singular form la vista   normally refers to our sight, although you can use it to talk about the view too:

La vista desde esta ventana es muy bonita. (The view from this window is very pretty.)

14. la playa   (the beach)

What can I say? Let’s go to the playa !

15. el museo de…   (the museum of…)

You can always find a museum that appeals to you. Always! Some of my favorites are:

El museo de Ciencias (The Science Museum)

El museo de Etnología (The Museum of Ethnology)

El museo de Arte Moderno (The Museum of Modern Art)

16. el cine   (the movie theater)

17. la piscina   (the swimming pool).

For people like me who love traveling during the winter, I recommend visiting a piscina cubierta   (an indoor pool).

Note that it’s also common to hear the word alberca   used to say “swimming pool” in Mexico and some Central American countries.

18. el mar   (the sea)

19. el concierto   (the concert).

If you travel to Barcelona, do not miss the conciertos al aire libre   (open-air concerts). They are simply great!

Note that you may also hear the term lentes  used to refer to sunglasses (and also eyeglasses) in some countries in Latin America.

21. la cámara de fotos   (the photo camera)

Let’s be honest, many people these days do not use photo or video cameras anymore. We use our cell phones to record our memories now, but you can still learn what these words mean.

24. la agencia de viajes   (the travel agency)

25. las llaves   (the keys).

It does not matter if we are talking about your house keys ( las llaves de tu casa ), the keys of the apartment you have booked ( las llaves del apartamento que has alquilado ) or the hotel key card ( la tarjeta llave del hotel ), just do not lose any of them, please!

26. el helado   (the ice cream)

27. la heladería   (the ice cream parlor), 28. la tumbona   (the lounger).

This is the kind of lounger you would use   by the pool, on the beach, in your garden, etc.  Tumbona comes from the verb tumbarse , which means to lie down.

29. la terraza   (the terrace)

30. el flotador   (the float, the rubber ring).

What about manguitos   (arm floats)? Do you think you will need them?

31. la Oficina de Turismo  ( the Tourist Information Office )

32. la farmacia   (the drugstore, the pharmacy).

Depending on where you are traveling to, you may also hear people call the drugstore la botica .

34. el cajero automático   (the ATM machine)

Remember to always print or ask for your comprobante   (receipt, slip) when using an ATM machine!

35. la avería   (the breakdown)

Avería comes from averiarse   (to break down). I hope you do not have problems with your car, but just in case, remember the following:

Mi coche se ha averiado . (My car has broken down.)

Necesito una grúa. (I need a tow truck.)

Disculpe, mi coche se ha averiado. ¿Puede llamar a una grúa, por favor? (Excuse me, my car has broken down. Could you please call a tow truck?)

There is no difference in Spanish between these two terms. Both refer to the document you should keep with you at all times while driving!

Presentar una reclamación means “to file a complaint”—but let’s hope there is no need for this!

38. la sombrilla   (the shade, the umbrella)

Sombrilla literally means “little shadow.”

39. la escala   (the stopover)

Here is how you would use this one:

Hago escala en Buenos Aires. (I’m stopping over in Buenos Aires.)

40. el auxiliar de vuelo   (the flight attendant)

41. la tripulación   (the crew).

You can also choose the type of bed you want:

la cama individual (the single bed)

la cama de matrimonio / la cama doble   (the double/queen bed)

43. el secador de pelo   (the hairdryer)

You can ask at your hotel:

¿Hay secador de pelo en el cuarto de baño? (Is there a hairdryer in the bathroom?)

44. la atracción turística   (the tourist attraction)

45. la ciudad   (the city).

Remember that many cities do not allow cars into their historic centers. Look for any Calle Peatonal   (Pedestrian Street) sign, just in case!

These three verbs mean exactly the same, but bear in mind their construction is very different:

Voy a viajar a Madrid. (I am going to travel/go on a trip to Madrid.)

Voy a ir de viaje a Madrid. (I am going to travel/go on a trip to Madrid.)

Voy a hacer un viaje a Madrid. (I am going to travel/go on a trip to Madrid.)

48. ir de vacaciones   (to go on vacation)

49. pasar las vacaciones   (to vacation), 50. estar de vacaciones   (to be on vacation).

I know these three last verbs are pretty similar, but they are used in different contexts, just like in English:

Voy a ir de vacaciones a Perú. (I’m going to go on vacation to Peru.)

Estoy pasando las vacaciones en Perú. (I am vacationing in Peru.)

Estoy de vacaciones en Perú. (I am on vacation in Peru.)

Remember that in some places you are not allowed to use the flash ( no puedes usar el flash ).

52. montar a caballo   (to go horseback riding, to ride a horse)

You can use these two verbs interchangeably, but you had better remember that depending on the one you use, you might have to use a preposition . Besides that, the sentence construction looks a little different.

Have a look:

He hecho una reserva de hotel para dos personas. (I have made a hotel reservation for two people.)

He reservado un hotel para dos personas. (I have made a hotel reservation for two people.)

55. confirmar una reserva   (to confirm a reservation/booking)

I highly recommend ( te recomiendo encarecidamente )  that you confirm all your bookings before starting your trip.

You would not want to arrive in a foreign country and realize you have no place to sleep ( no tienes un lugar donde dormir )!

56. ir de camping   (to go camping)

Oh, look! An English word! Yes, we have more and more English words in Spanish !

However, if you want to be super Spanish when in a Spanish-speaking country, say acampar   (to go camping) instead of ir de camping .

They both mean exactly the same, but I am sure people will be quite impressed with your Spanish skills!

57. hacer las maletas   (to pack, to pack your luggage)

We “do” the suitcases in Spanish, because… why not?

58. visitar   (to visit, to tour, to see, to go, to pay a visit)

Visitar is one of those verbs which, depending on the object, will or will not need the personal a . Remember the rule: if the object is alive, you need the personal a:

Me gusta visitar museos. (I like going to museums.)

Ayer visité a mi hermana. (I visited my sister yesterday.)

59. tomar un taxi   (to take a taxi)

60. quedarse   (to stay, like at a hotel).

Watch out when using this verb, because it has different forms with very different meanings. Here you have some of them:

Quedarse (to stay at a place):

Nos quedamos en un hotel. (We stayed at a hotel.)

Quedar + noun or time (to remain, to be left):

No quedan cervezas. (There are no beers left.)

Quedan dos minutos. (There are two minutes left.)

Quedar (to arrange to meet):

Quedamos a las cinco. (We arranged to meet at five.)

Quedar bien a alguien / Quedar mal a alguien. (to look good on somebody/to look bad on somebody):

Esta camisa no me queda bien . (This shirt doesn’t look good on me.)

61. descansar   (to rest, to relax)

62. alquilar   (to rent).

More and more tourists are deciding to rent an apartment ( alquilar un apartamento )  for vacation rather than stay at a hotel.

It allows them to save money ( ahorrar dinero ) and they get much more freedom to do what they want, when they want ( hacer lo que quieran cuando quieran ) .

Note that you may also hear the verbs arrendar   or rentar  used in some Latin American countries to say “to rent.”

63. hacer un castillo de arena   (to build a sandcastle)

64. leer un libro   (to read a book).

You can use these three verbs interchangeably, but remember that pasárselo bien is a reflexive verb and has the object pronoun lo   (or la   in Latin American Spanish: pasárse la bien ).

Bear this in mind when you conjugate it:

Note that vosotros is not used in Latin American Spanish. You should use ustedes instead.

66. ir de compras   (to go shopping)

67. hacer turismo   (to sightsee).

In Spanish, we say “to make tourism,” which may sound quite weird but it is not that crazy when you think about it!

68. ver los lugares de interés   (to visit places of interest)

This verb is equivalent to visitar las atracciones turísticas   (to visit the tourist attractions).

69. dar un paseo   (to go for a walk)

70. hacer una barbacoa   (to barbecue), 71. hacer un picnic   (to have a picnic).

And while having a picnic, we say goodbye to this post.

Don’t feel overwhelmed by the amount of new words here. You don’t need to learn them all at once. Commit to learning five or ten per day and you’ll have them learned in no time! And to make sure the new words stick, try learning in context instead of simply rote learning them all.

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I hope you have enjoyed this trip to “Spanish vacation vocabulary” station.

See you next time!

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• Living & Lifestyle
• Education & Training

Spotlight: ‘Language Tourism’ – experiences to have while studying Spanish in Spain

Language tourism is an economic, linguistic and social activity that is becoming increasingly important in recent times. It is a type of tourism that is common in English-speaking countries, but since 2008 is observing a notable increase in Spanish-speaking countries.

Through language tourism, Spanish is not only a linguistic and cultural treasure, but it also becomes an economic engine for the entities and institutions that provide it, enriching the type of tourism in countries like Spain.

Spanish is the fourth most spoken language in the world and language tourism transports Spanish customs, traditions and culture to every corner of the world. It is well known that tourism is the sector that contributes the most wealth to the economy of this country.

People who travel to Spain generate wealth in the cities where they reside during their stay, accommodating themselves to the lifestyle of the country and spending their time in cultural, responsible, opportunity-generating tourism.

Learning a language is not just about grammar and vocabulary. It’s also about understanding the culture and society in which the language is spoken. Many Spanish schools in Spain offer cultural classes for their students. These classes can include activities such as guided visits to museums, excursions to historical monuments and tastings of food and drink typical of the region. ALSO READ: Spotlight: Why study Spanish in Spain?

The language tourism sector in Spain, therefore, presents great advantages and opportunities in the present and future, due to the leadership factor offered by being the cradle of Castilian compared to other pan-Hispanic countries. Spain is a country rich in history, culture and traditions, which makes it a very popular tourist destination for visitors from all over the world.

If Spain stands out for something, it is for the great variety of places to visit. No matter the city, there is always an interesting monument or place worth spending time on, from museums or cathedrals to parks.

Spain has a great number of centres specialised in teaching Spanish as a foreign language. The Spanish Federation of Spanish Schools for Foreigners ( FEDELE ) brings together a large number of accredited schools that offer high quality Spanish courses throughout the country.

Study Spanish and make a cultural immersion 

Many of the centres that teach Spanish as a foreign language in Spain offer cultural activities in the cities where they are located. In this way, any Spanish course becomes a tourist, cultural and traditional experience that will have you falling in love with Spain.

Barcelona stands out for its architecture, where you cannot miss a visit to the Sagrada Familia or Güell Park. Bilbao , capital of Biscay and located in the Basque Country, stands out for the Guggenheim Museum. If you are looking for natural beauty and amazing views you can go to Galicia , where you will also find the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, a historical monument known for being the end of the famous Camino de Santiago. Additionally, in this same region you can find the Rías Baixas, a natural wonder that you cannot miss.

Study Spanish and get to know the real Spain 

Spain is a large, diverse country, and sometimes, getting away from the big cities can offer you interesting alternatives. In this aspect, there are language centres that have visits to villages with few inhabitants to discover the popular traditions and traditional crafts of Spain.

If you are looking for relaxation, you can go to Castilla y León , with its well-preserved cities from the Roman times such as Valladolid , Segovia , Salamanca  or Ávila . And where you can find beautiful, isolated villages up in the mountains, and enjoy the pure air and absolute tranquility surrounded by nature.

Study Spanish and visit museums

All destinations have a full agenda of visits to museums and interpretation centres where, thanks to the teachers at the centres, you can get to know the Spanish language and history in a very special way.

Madrid  has many palaces and museums, as well as monuments, including one of the best museums in Spain, the Prado Museum. You’ll also find the Royal Palace, the largest in all Western Europe, as well as the Retiro Park, a fantastic place to walk and relax amongst shady trees or go for a row on the lake. Or try the  Valencia region , a place full of traditions, with cities of great tourist attraction such as Benidorm . A highlight is the City of Arts and Sciences, located in Valencia ; a visit to this architectural and cultural complex is highly recommended.

Study Spanish and enjoy the weather

The good weather means that you can enjoy all seasons of the year if you decide to learn Spanish in Spain. Practising water sports, volleyball, tennis or swimming in the afternoons after studying Spanish in the mornings, is one of the options at many of the centres.

The Canary and Balearic Islands stand out for their great beaches, their great climate as well as their mountain terrain. If you love geology, Mount Teide is an obligatory visit, the third largest volcano on Earth and the largest in Spain, located on the island of Santa Cruz de Tenerife , in the Canary Islands. If, on the other hand, you are looking for nightlife, luxury and partying, then Ibiza , in the Balearic Islands is your destination.

Finally, travel through the south of Spain through the lands of Andalusia . Its capital Seville surprises with all its monuments and its historic centre, highlighting places such as the Plaza de España, the Cathedral of Seville or the Real Alcázar. The eighth wonder of the world is found in Granada , with the Alhambra. Cordoba also stands out with its great Mosque. Or try the Doñana National Park, a large space that has many marshes for waterfowl and protects an endangered species, the Iberian lynx.

If you are looking for the opposite and want snow, you can find it anywhere in Castilla y León and northern Spain in general. But, if you are also looking to ski, there are the resorts of Sierra Nevada in Granada and Formigal in Huesca, where you can enjoy their ski seasons like a professional.

Study Spanish and cook

The Mediterranean diet, characterised by its variety and quality, stands out with dishes such as Valencian paella, Andalusian gazpacho, Galician octopus, Asturian fabada or Spanish potato omelette. Fresh or well-preserved products together with the great hand of our chefs make Spanish gastronomy, regardless of the place you visit, of great touristic interest as well as personal enjoyment.

We cannot forget the chiringuitos or beach bars, which can be found in every corner of every beach, with the best fresh fish and seafood to enjoy after a great day at the beach with the sea in the background.

And speaking of beaches, Spain boasts the most beautiful beaches, which attract millions of tourists.

Study Spanish and live the  traditions  

Each corner that we visit in Spain has its own traditions and festivities, very different from each other and at the same time very similar to each other. What they have in common is that they represent the customs of their land with charm and pride.

Valencia stands out for the Tomatina in Buñol and its Fallas, two events of interest that bring together more and more people every year. The carnivals of Cadiz and Tenerife always leave spectacular moments to remember. Continuing in the south, you can’t miss the Feria de Abril of Seville , a whole week that mixes culture, party and tradition.

Goingnorth you may find the festival of San Isidro in Madrid , the classic Ibizan festivals and the Sanfermines in Pamplona as the most outstanding events.

Students can join in the fun and immerse themselves in Spanish culture by participating in all these events. In addition to these activities, Spanish students can also experience Spanish culture through interaction with locals. Spaniards are known for their friendliness and hospitality, which makes tourists always feel welcome and comfortable in Spain.

Do you want to  Study Spanish  in Spain? 

FEDELE brings together a large number of accredited schools that offer high quality Spanish courses throughout the country. These schools are located in important cities such as Madrid , Barcelona , Seville , Malaga or Valencia , among many other cities spread throughout the Spanish territory. With a total of 105 Spanish teaching centres, FEDELE seeks the highest quality in its language teaching, always seeking the balance between learning the language, culture, customs and carrying out activities that vary according to the city in order to ensure that anyone who comes to Spain enjoys the experience to the fullest and feels just like another Spaniard.

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Tourism and Leisure

Spain, a world leader in tourism .

Spain leads the world in tourism. Since 2015 it has placed first on the World Economic Forum (WEF) podium, which awards the most competitive countries in the tourism industry from among 140 economies. 

Spain  1º  /140

Travel&Tourism Competitiveness Index, 2019

Since 2017 it has broken the record in number of visitors: thanks to the more than 83 million tourists arriving in Spain, every year it is recognized as the second most visited country in the world, after France. The United States and China follow.

Spain's success in the tourism industry is due especially to its rich cultural and natural attractions, but also to its exceptional infrastructures, the quality of its transportation and hotel density. These are the three key points that the WEF considers essential to having a competitive advantage over other countries in tourism.

The tourism industry is an important engine of the Spanish economy and employment (2.5 million jobs). The strong public policies backing the industry, with public-private collaboration, and a clear orientation towards a sustainable and quality tourism model, ensure that about half of the tourism industry’s internal expenses are met by international visitors (tourists spend around 90 billion euros).

Catalonia, the Canary Islands, the Balearic Islands, Andalusia and the Community of Valencia are the Spanish regions that welcome the most tourists. 

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Why invest in the tourism and leisure industry in Spain?

Spain upholds its position year after year in competitiveness and demonstrates that this industry offers great investment opportunities.  

World leader in the industry. Second country in the world by number of visitors.

According to the World Economic Forum, Spain leads the Travel + Tourism Competitiveness Index 

4th country in the world in UNESCO World Heritage Sites (53 sites). Historic cities, outstanding monuments and museums. 

With 49 Natural Areas and Natural Spaces, UNESCO declares Spain to be the country with the highest number of biosphere reserves in the world, followed by the United States, Russia and China.

More than 300 days of sun a year and over 2,000 km of green slopes; various ski facilities; rural activities; wellness. Spain is distinguished for the number of its  beaches awarded the Blue Flag eco-label, compared to other countries like Greece and Turkey. 

The exceptional quality and variety of Spanish gastronomy is world renowned

Spain is one of the safest countries on Earth. According to the Global Peace Index, it is one of the 25 safest countries in the world.

It has an outstanding and modern public health system with very high standards.

Infrastructures. High-level land, rail and air connectivity, and second only to Korea in digital infrastructure. 

What are the best investment opportunities?

Cultural heritage tourism, health tourism and gastronomic tourism

MICE Tourism

One of the best sources for business opportunities is digital transformation in the tourism industry. It is based around four mainstays: cloud solutions, mobile devices, the internet of things (IoT) and the sharing economy.

Cloud solutions

•  Developing new business models
• e-Commerce integration solutions and advanced customer relationship management (ERP, CRM)
• Centralization, efficiency and savings in ICT management
• Customer relations and internal collaboration models
• Insights and big data monitoring

Mobile devices

• Customization and customer service centers
• Improved experience through innovative models
• Infrastructures and access

The Internet of Things

• Smart destinations
• Automation of products and services
• Innovative experiences for niche markets

Social networks and the sharing economy

• Customer communication and relationships channel
• Online reputation and active listening
• Specialized social media
• Exchange of goods and services between companies and individuals

The objective of public institutions is to diversify the industry in order to expand the offer to tourists seeking other alternatives to sun and beaches.

Inland tourism in Spain is a business niche yet to develop. It is an upmarket industry associated with gastronomy and culture that attracts medium to high- spending visitors. Especially interesting is wine tourism, which has great potential given the allure of the sector in Spain.

While local and provincial administrations devote resources to promote it, in fact, the wine industry is highly atomized and lacks agents to coordinate and organize activities, therefore the level of business that drives this type of tourism is well below its potential. 

Spain has an established position as a destination for mice tourism (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) thanks to the country's professionalism, stability and security.

It ranks first in world destinations with the highest meeting participation according to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA). In 2018 there were 5,200 events in Spain, 28% of them international.

Spain’s primary advantage is that it perfectly combines business and leisure ("bleisure") tourism,  but in order to maintain this position, the industry has to quickly adapt to the changes in mice tourism trends, the increase of specialization, technological innovation and continuous advancement of customized meetings.

The most popular destinations for business tourism in Spain are Barcelona and Madrid, followed by Zaragoza, Valencia, Valladolid and Bilbao.

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Success stories

The British budget hotel company has a plan for growth in Spain that will create hundreds of jobs

Travelodge was the pioneer of budget hotels in the UK back in 1985. Over nearly four decades, it has grown from strength to strength ...

Evaneos recently closed a financing round of 20 million euros, which it will be mainly investing in marketing ...

A lifelong seasoned traveller like Yvan Wibaux, his long-time friend and now co-founder and CTO of the company, Eric la Bonnardière ...

For the past two decades, Ryanair has been a crucial player in the Spanish tourism industry, connecting ...

A pioneer in introducing new Spanish destinations to travellers, it is the number one airline in Spain, carrying 50 million passengers ...

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The Anytime Fitness chain plans to open 200 clubs Spain by 2020

Anytime Fitness is a US gym franchise which currently has some 2,300 fitness centres around the world, of which 1,600 are in the ...

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Presentation of the Global LATAM 2024 report

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A Traveler’s Guide to Hotel Vocabulary in Spanish

Spanish hotel vocabulary is useful for any traveler going on an adventure. 

If your bags are packed and your Spanish immersion trip is around the corner, staying at a hotel is a fantastic accommodation alternative you can choose. 

From booking the room to enjoying your stay; there are multiple opportunities for you to practice Spanish hotel vocabulary. Hotels in Spanish-speaking countries are known for having a warm and friendly environment for travelers to practice Spanish conversation.

Take your language skills to the next level and prepare for your upcoming adventure with this complete Traveler’s Guide to Spanish Hotel Vocabulary. 

Spanish Hotel Vocabulary Is Essential for Travelers

Knowing basic Spanish vocabulary proves to be a gamechanger when you travel to Latin America or Spain. 

You’re able to ask questions, form basic sentences, and ultimately engage in conversation intuitively. This preparation takes time but is certainly worth your time and effort! 

Your travels are guaranteed to be easy-going and rewarding when you communicate with native speakers. You enjoy yourself more because as you explore unique destinations and embrace a new culture, your language skills ultimately improve. 

The different styles of hotels and the one-of-a-kind experiences they give travelers are perfect environments for Spanish learners. People go above and beyond to provide good service. This includes plenty of conversation opportunities with the hotel staff and other guests. 

Types of Hotels in Spanish

Un hotel (hotel) provides accommodation options to huespédes (guests) who are away traveling on holiday, business, or pleasure.

There are different styles of hotels that are categorized according to amenities, comfort, location, and price. Let’s take a look.

Airport Hotels (Hoteles de aeropuerto)

Los hoteles de aeropuerto get their name due to the precise location and proximity to an airport. They target travelers who are usually passing by. People who choose this type of hotel, need to stay close to the airport because they have limited time and require easy connectivity. 

This type of hotel also welcomes tripulación de aerolíneas (airline crew). The services often include private rooms, airport transfers, and a practical restaurant. 

One to Five Star Hotels (Hoteles de una a cinco estrellas)

Hotels in Spanish-speaking countries are often categorized according to a five-star system. 

The amount of stars a hotel gets depends on the services and facilities. Luxury hotels with pools, elevators, restaurants, bars, concierge, and more; often get five stars, the highest category of all. 

The categories in ascending order are. 

• Hotel de una estrella (One Star Hotel)
• Hotel de dos estrellas (Two Star Hotel)
• Hotel de tres estrellas (Three Star Hotel)
• Hotel de cuatro estrellas (Four Star Hotel)
• Hotel de cinco estrellas (Five Star Hotel)

Motel (Moteles)

Los moteles are usually on the side of the road and highways around urban centers. They offer basic services such as private rooms, parking, vending machines, and sometimes a pool. 

They are a highly affordable option that targets travelers staying for 24 to 48 hours. 

Apart-Hotel (Hoteles de apartamentos)

Los hoteles de apartamento focus on guests who require accommodation for a long-term stay.

 The rooms are like apartments and are equipped with a working space, living room, kitchenette, pantry, and bathroom. They are a comfortable alternative for those who need more privacy and independence. 

The English name is widely accepted and used in Spanish-speaking countries. 

Boutique Hotel (Hoteles boutique)

Los hoteles boutique are known for having a charming design and exceptional personalized service. 

Boutique hotels have a small number of private rooms that have luxury amenities. Many boutique hotels have a theme and have a small restaurant, pool, and bar. 

They target honeymooners and couples. 

Bed and Breakfast ( Pensión )

Las pensiones are large houses that offer private rooms and include breakfast. They are often found in small towns and cities. 

Bed and breakfasts usually have the owner tending personally to the guests. 

Eco-Hotel (Hotel ecológico)

Un hotel ecológico is conveniently located near or within national parks and reserves. These places are designed to coexist in harmony with nature and wildlife. 

Many eco-hotels stand out for using renewable energy and for having a low impact activity on the environment. You can find hoteles ecologicos in jungles, forests, coastal areas, and more. 

The interest in this type of hotel is on the rise among travelers. They are known for providing an environment of peace and relaxation. 

Hostel (Hostal)

Los hostales are the chosen alternative for backpackers and young travelers. They target guests who need a long or mid-term stay, and who often go on excursions. 

The hotel rooms in hostels are both private and shared dorms with bunk beds. They are known for having like-minded travelers from different nationalities and backgrounds. 

Guests in a hostel often share a kitchen, bathroom, and common room.

Guest House (Casa de huéspedes)

Las casas de huespedes are known for offering private rooms from a large house to travelers. They often include breakfast and have a shared kitchen, working space, common room, and dining room. 

They are similar to las pensiones , except the owner doesn’t live in the guest house. 

Resort (Resort)

Un resort is a type of hotel located on the beach or coast. Resorts are designed for guests to enjoy a vacation and find everything they need in the hotel. 

Los resorts have areas that offer recreation and entertainment for both kids and adults. They’re usually all-inclusive and have multiple dining options with all-you-can-eat buffets, snacks, and drinks. Some have large convention centers for hosting events. 

Resorts are known for having large pools and a wide array of optional activities and tours for guests to participate. They are the perfect option to enjoy a vacation.

Learn How to Talk About Your Vacation in Spanish with this endearing blog post and lesson. 

Booking a Hotel Room

Now that you know a few of the many hotel styles to choose from, you must learn how to make a reservation in Spanish. The internet often facilitates the process but calling straight to the hotel is also a wonderful and easy option. 

Some hotels even welcome walk-ins, however having a reservation is reassuring for those who like to plan ahead. 

Practice Spanish hotel vocabulary with this list of words and phrases that will help you make a reservation at your chosen hotel. 

Spanish Hotel Vocabulary: Making a Reservation Part 1

Example phrases.

¿Para cuántos huéspedes es su reservación? For how many people is your reservation?

Quiero hacer una reservación para dos personas. I want to make a reservation for two people.

La fecha de llegada es el 23 de octubre de 2021. The arrival date is October 23rd 2021.

Mi nombre completo es John Smith. My full name is John Smith. 

La fecha de salida es el 30 de octubre de 2021. The departure date is October 30th 2021.

Tengo una tarjeta de crédito para confirmar la reserva. I have a credit card to confirm your reservation. 

El número de confirmación es 2956 a nombre de John Smith. The confirmation number is 2956 under the name John Smith. 

¿Cuál es su hora de llegada? What is your arrival time?

Lo siento, no tenemos disponibilidad en esas fechas.  I’m sorry, we don’t have availability on those dates. 

Spanish Hotel Vocabulary: Making a Reservation Part 2

Necesito hacer una reservación para mi esposa por favor.  I need to make a reservation for my wife please.

¿Qué tipo de habitación necesita? What type of room do you need?

Somos dos adultos, necesito una habitación doble. We’re two adults, I need a double room. 

Necesito su nombre completo, número de celular, correo electrónico, número de pasaporte y nacionalidad. I need your full name, mobile number, email, passport number, and nationality.

¿Cuál es la tarifa por noche? What is the right per night?

¿Cuál es la forma de pago? What is the payment form?

¿Aceptan tarjeta de crédito? Do you take credit cards?

The Hotel Experience

Now that you’ve engaged with the reservations staff, the time has come to begin your hotel experience. 

Let’s imagine you’re staying in a five-star hotel. You first arrive at la recepción (front desk) and are greeted by a botones (bell boy) who helps you with your equipaje (luggage). You’re blown away by the warm welcome. 

The time has come to check in to your hotel room and get the show on the road. 

After checking in, it’s important for you to pay attention to what your hotel room has. This can help you be aware of extra charges or request anything you might need and don’t have. Remember the words check-in and check-out are easily understood and used in Spanish-speaking countries. 

Once you have gone up to your room, you are free to explore the different hotel areas, and meet other guests. Be prepared to interact with the hotel staff for anything you might need. Ultimately, hotel staff are highly friendly and there to support you in having a comfortable stay. 

Use these interesting lists of Spanish hotel vocabulary to enjoy your hotel experience to the fullest. 

Spanish Hotel Vocabulary: Checking-in

The first interaction will be with the front desk staff who will ask you about your reservation. Depending on if the room is ready or not, you can check in to the hotel. 

Prepare to interact with them and answer their questions with these phrases that’ll help you during the check-in process.

Hola, tengo una reservación. Hi, I have a reservation.

Hola, quiero registrarme por favor. Hello, I would like to check in, please. 

Mi reservación está a nombre de Ana Lopez. My reservation is under the name Ana Lopez.

¿A qué hora es el check-in? At what time is check-in?

Aquí está mi pasaporte. Here’s my passport.

Quiero pagar la habitación con mi tarjeta de crédito. I want to pay for the room with my credit card.

¿Se puede pagar en efectivo? Can I pay with cash?

Quiero agregar una noche extra por favor . I want to add an extra night please. 

¿Está lista mi habitación? Is my room ready?

¿En qué piso está mi habitación? What floor is my room in?

¿A qué hora empieza el desayuno? At what time does breakfast start?

¿Cuál es el horario de la piscina? What is the pool schedule?

¿Dónde puedo pedir un taxi? Where can I get a taxi?

¿Alguien me puede mostrar dónde queda mi habitación? Can someone show me to my room?

Necesito una llave extra para la habitación por favor. I need an extra room key, please.

¿Me puede dar factura? Can I have an invoice?

¿Cuál es la hora de salida? At what time is check-out?

Spanish Hotel Vocabulary: The Room Part 1

En mi habitación no funciona el aire acondicionado. The air conditioning doesn’t work in my room.

El baño del hotel tiene una tina. The hotel bathroom has a bathtub.

¿Puedes cerrar las persianas por valor? Can you please close the blinds?

¿Me pueden traer a la habitación otra botella de agua y acondicionador? Can you bring to my room another bottle of water and conditioner?

Necesito que hagan la cama y un cambio de cubrecama. I need my bed made and a change of bedspread.

En la habitación del hotel hay una silla y escritorio para trabajar. There’s a desk and chair for working in my hotel room. 

Voy a tomar una siesta, colgaré el rótulo de no molestar en la puerta. I’m taking a nap, I’ll hang the do not disturb sign on the door. 

Spanish Hotel Vocabulary: The Room Part 2

Olvidé mi secadora de pelo en el baño del hotel. I forgot my hair dryer in the hotel bathroom.

¿Puedes llamar a limpieza de habitación por favor? Can you please call housekeeping?

El mini bar de mi habitación tiene muchos chocolates. My hotel room mini bar has many chocolates.

Las almohadas son muy cómodas. The pillows are very comfortable. 

Tengo hambre, voy a llamar a servicio a la habitación. I’m hungry, I’m calling room service.

Mi pasaporte lo guardo en la cajilla de seguridad. I keep my passport in the safety deposit box. 

¿Me pueden cambiar las sábanas por favor? Can you change the sheets, please?

Spanish Hotel Vocabulary: The Room Part 3

La ducha no tiene agua caliente. The shower doesn’t have hot water.

No hay jabón para el lavamanos. There’s no soap for the sink.

La habitación tiene televisión satelital. The room has a satellite tv. 

No necesito que me cambien las toallas, gracias. I don’t need a change of towels, thanks. 

¿Cual es la contraseña de la red wifi? What’s the wifi network password?

Puedes ver la ciudad desde las ventanas de mi habitación.  You can see the city from the windows in my room. 

El inodoro no funciona.  The toilet doesn’t work. 

Spanish Hotel Vocabulary: Hotel Areas and Staff Part 1

Example sentences.

¿Dónde queda el bar? Where’s the bar?

Pídele un cóctel al bartender por favor. Please order a cocktail from the bartender.

Le di propina al botones. I gave the bellboy a tip.

Puedes imprimir tu pase de abordar en el centro de negocios. You can print your boarding pass in the business center.

La cajera de recepción es muy amable. The front desk cashier is very friendly.

La comida está deliciosa, el cocinero es muy talentoso. The food is delicious, and the chef is very talented.

¿El elevador me lleva al piso ejecutivo? Does the elevator take me to the executive floor?

¿A qué hora abre el gimnasio? When does the gym open?

Spanish Hotel Vocabulary: Hotel Areas and Staff Part 2

La camarera se llama Lydia. The housekeeper is named Lydia,

El lobby siempre tiene flores. The lobby always has flowers.

Mi lámpara no funciona, ¿pueden enviar a alguien de mantenimiento? My lamp doesn’t work, can you send someone from maintenance?

La piscina y el jacuzzi del hotel están en el penthouse. The hotel pool and jacuzzi are in the penthouse.

El restaurante cierra a las once de la noche. The restaurant closes at eleven at night. 

Hice una cita para el spa con la recepcionista. I made an appointment for the spa with the room clerk. 

El mesero está bajando las gradas con mi orden. The waiter is coming down the stairs with my order.

Enjoy your visit to any hotel restaurant with this captivating blog post on How To Order Food in Spanish. 

Speak Spanish and Enjoy Your Stay!

People who speak Spanish are able to ask for directions, order food, shop, and explore without any hassles. They’re also able to make new friends and have meaningful conversations. 

Speaking the second most spoken language in the world gives you endless travel possibilities to any Spanish-speaking country. According to Forbes , Spanish is also the second most spoken language in the United States.

Knowing Spanish is guaranteed to expand your possibilities to communicate and engage with people from different cultures.

Enjoy your stay in any Spanish-speaking country with the support of our fantastic team of certified teachers from Guatemala. Join a free class with a native speaker and improve your fluency today. 

Ready to learn more Spanish vocabulary? Check these out!

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11 Different Types of Spanish & Where They Are Spoken

The Spanish language is the second most spoken language in the world by native speakers, and it has more than 500 million speakers globally. So, it's no wonder that there are multiple types of Spanish across the globe.

These Spanish speakers, both native and non-native, are dispersed across every continent and, while they can all communicate with one another, they speak different types of Spanish.

Today, we will explore the variations of Spanish spoken in Spain and across other Spanish-speaking countries of the world.

By the end of this guide, you will have a deeper understanding of the differences between various European, African, and Latin American Spanish dialects.

The Spanish Language: A Brief Summary

Spanish is a Romance language belonging to the Indo-European language family that evolved from Vulgar Latin. It originated in Europe, but Spanish colonizers in the Early Modern Period introduced the language to the Americas and parts of Africa. Across these continents, there are many different types of Spanish.

Now, the largest population of native Spanish speakers is in Mexico. Spanish is spoken in different dialects around the world and it is the official language of 20 countries and 1 territory.

Spanning the continents of North, Central, and South America, as well as Europe and Africa, Spanish speakers are spread far and wide. 

It is the third most used language on Internet sites, after English and Chinese. So, by learning Spanish, you become part of a vast and diverse community.

Types of European Spanish

In Europe, the varieties of the Spanish language are known collectively as "Spain Spanish", or Peninsular Spanish (of the Iberian Peninsula). There are different Spanish dialects across Spain, some of which are considered by their speakers to be languages in their own right.

If you Speak one form of European Spanish, you will be able to communicate with all other European Spanish speakers, though the regional variations do boast some distinctive differences.

1. Castilian Spanish

Known en Español as Castellano, Castilian Spanish is spoken across Spain, particularly in the northern and central parts of the country.

Sometimes Castilian is referred to as "pure" Spanish, however, the idea of "pure" languages is controversial, as all dialects have a rich history and should not be seen as lesser.

If you learn Spanish in school, you will learn this version of the language. One distinctive feature of Castilian Spanish is that when a word ends in /d/, it may be pronounced as a soft sound between a "d" and "th", represented phonetically as ⟨θ⟩.

Castilian Spanish differs from other official languages in Spain, such as Catalan , Catalan dialects , Basque and Galician.

2. Andalusian Spanish

Variants of the Andalusian dialect are spoken across Southern Spain. They differ from central and northern Spanish dialects in their pronunciation and lexicon in several ways.

Historically, the rest of Spain looked down on these dialects, however, this is gradually becoming less prevalent. Within Spain today there are many different types of Spanish.

Andalusian Spanish is sometimes referred to as a language in its own right by its speakers and is known to be difficult for Spanish learners to understand at times, due to the dropping of letters in words.

When a "d" occurs between two vowels, such as in the word pesado ("heavy"), it is often dropped. So, an Andalusian would say pesao. Other examples of this are a menúo for a menudo ("often") and he ganao for he ganado ("I have won").

3. Canarian Spanish

The Canarian dialect is similar to Caribbean and Andalusian Spanish because of the location of the Canary Islands. It is influenced by Iberian Spanish, Arabic, and the Guanche native language.

Guagua is the local word for "bus", rather than autobús, and alacránis "scorpion", rather than escorpión.

Spoken in Gibraltar, Llanito is a combination of Andalusian Spanish and British English. This is because Gibraltar is a British overseas territory off the South coast of Spain. It is also heavily influenced by Genoese, Hebrew, Maltese, and Portuguese .

The Spanish Lisp

The famous Spanish lisp is sometimes referred to as the "Castilian lisp", however, this phenomenon is not only heard in Castilian Spanish . In most Spanish dialects across Spain, the distinction ( distinción ) between the "s" (s) and "th" (c) sounds is realized.

In central Spain, particularly Madrid , and surrounding areas, the "th" sound is very prominent.

Only in parts of southern Spain do they pronounce both s and c as "s". This pronunciation is known as seseo , and it is standard across Latin America.

In the southernmost parts of Spain, some Andalusian Spanish speakers will pronounce both sounds as "th". This is known as ceceo .

North American Spanish

Next, let's jump across the pond and discuss Spanish in the Americas.

5. New Mexican Spanish

This is a variation of Spanish that is spoken in the state of New Mexico and in southern parts of Colorado.

There are some distinct conjugation changes in New Mexican Spanish. The conjugation of haber is: ha , has, ha, hamos , han. So, the present perfect tense looks like yo ha comido , for instance.

6. Mexican Spanish

Mexican-Spanish is different from Spain-Spanish variants, as it is influenced by the Indigenous languages Nahuatl and Tzotzil, as well as American English. The Mexican accent is distinct as it has a slightly nasal and drawn-out tone.

Some sayings common in Mexico include ¿qué onda? ("what's the vibe?/ what's up?) and ahorita ("right now" or, in Spanish/ Latin fashion "whenever I get around to it").

Other Types of Latin American Spanish

The large portion of the world known as Latin America includes all the countries and territories in North, Central, and South America that speak Latin languages, such as Spanish or Portuguese.

The broad term "Latin American Spanish" refers to all Spanish dialects and variations spoken in Mexico, Central America, and Spanish-speaking South American countries.

7. Central American Spanish

Spoken in Costa Rica, Guatemala, Panama, Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador, " Central American Spanish " is another huge umbrella term for many dialects.

Speakers of Central American Spanish sometimes turn their "s" sounds into "h" sounds and can drop the "j" and "m" sounds entirely in certain words, such as ejercicio.

8. Caribbean Spanish

The Spanish spoken along the Caribbean coast of the Americas resembles Andalusian and Canarian Spanish in pronunciation. It is spoken in Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico, as well as parts of Panama, Colombia, and Venezuela.

Caribbean Spanish notably uses the second person subject pronouns more than other Spanish variants, which often omit them when the meaning is clear. So, ¿Qué tú quieres? instead of ¿qué quieres? and tú estás hablando , rather than simply estás hablando.

9. Colombian Spanish

When we talk about "Colombian Spanish", we are referring to various Spanish dialects spoken across a huge geographic area. The diversity of populations, cultures, and histories in Colombia means that the Spanish forms vary greatly across the country.

Generally, when the /b/, /d/, and /ɡ/ sounds occur between vowels, they are very weak. So, Bogotá may be pronounced without the "g". Colombian Spanish is the Spanish you will often hear in modern Latin American music .

10. Rioplatense Spanish

This dialect is spoken in the River Basin region between Argentina and Uruguay and is distinctive for its different verb conjugations and pronunciation.

Speakers of Rioplatense Spanish use voseo ( vos ) as the second person singular pronoun instead of tú, and they do not generally speak as fast as Chileans or Caribbeans.

In most Spanish dialects, the yeísmo pronunciation is standard. This means that "ll" and "y" are both pronounced like the "y" in the English word "your". So, calló and cayó would be pronounced like "ca-yo".

In Argentina, _zheísmo_is common. This is when the "ll" and "y" sounds are pronounced somewhere between a "sh" and a "j" sound.

The first Spanish speakers in Argentina spoke Andalusian Spanish, then after the Second World War, many Italians moved to Argentina, which could account for their distinctive pronunciation.

Word Choice

There are also many examples of words that have entirely different translations in European and Latin American Spanish.

"Juice" is zumo in Spain and jugo in Latin America, “glasses” in the Americas are lentes but in Spain are gafas, and " potatoes " are patatas in Europe but papas across the Atlantic.

African Spanish

Finally, there is Spanish spoken in Africa as well.

11. Equatoguinean Spanish

Spoken in Equatorial Guinea, this is the only Spanish dialect that holds official status in Sub-Saharan Africa. It has more similarities with European Spanish than American Spanish variants.

A distinct feature of this Spanish dialect is that the pronoun usted can be used with the tú verbal conjugation and vosotros can be used interchangeably with ustedes . Moreover, there is no distinction between the subjunctive and indicative moods.

FAQs About the Different Types of Spanish

Now, let's look at some frequently asked questions about Spanish dialects around the world.

Is it easier to learn Spanish-Spanish or Latin American Spanish?

Latin American Spanish is simpler in some ways, as it does not use the vosotros conjugation and is generally easier to pronounce, without the "Spanish lisp". However, there are quite distinct dialects in Latin America, in Argentina and the Caribbean, for instance. It depends on where you go.

Which country has the most Spanish speakers?

Mexico is the largest Spanish-speaking country, with over 120 million native speakers. Colombia also has a larger Spanish-speaking population than Spain itself, with 50 million natives. Spain is third, with 47 million natives, shortly followed by Argentina, which has 45 million.

Do I need to learn different Spanish dialects when I visit Spanish-speaking places?

No, you do not need to learn whole new dialects in Spanish in order to travel. All Spanish speakers can understand all other Spanish speakers. However, you can make an effort to use the correct local conjugations, terminologies, and pronunciations when visiting different countries.

Summing Up: Different Types of Spanish Around the World

Now that you have skimmed the surface of several different types of Spanish, you should have a better idea of the diversity and complexity of the Spanish language. It is full of nuances, different verb conjugations, and accents.

Every country and region has its own Spanish dialects, just like many other languages.

In this post, we have looked in some detail at the major Spanish dialects, focusing on differences in pronunciation, conjugation, and word choice.

These differences arise as a result of Spain's colonial past (just look up the Spanish Empire for context), and the Spanish-speaking populations mixing with indigenous American and other European communities.

There are other Spanish dialects and communities we have not discussed today. You can learn about their language through engagement with TV shows and movies set across el mundo hispanohablante .

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