the best way to travel spain

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Spain Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Spain is a country that moves slow. This is the land of the siesta. It’s a place for foodies, night owls, history buffs, religious pilgrims, and anyone not in a rush to do just about anything!

It’s a huge country with a lot of variety: Madrid and Barcelona are hip and energetic cities, Granada has a Moorish touch, Valencia has its own vibe, Catalonia has its own language and culture, and the Basque region (an autonomous community in northern Spain) feels like you’re in an entirely different country.

And, as an added bonus, Spain is an incredibly affordable place to visit. I’ve been traveling to the country for over a decade and I never break the bank while I’m there. It’s really easy to get by on a budget.

This budget travel guide to Spain can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this vibrant country.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Spain

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in spain.

1. Enjoy Barcelona

Barcelona is famous for its all-hours partying, late-night meals, and historic streets. Embrace the nocturnal lifestyle and you’ll fit right in. Don’t miss the Museu d’Història de la Ciutat — it’s one of the best in Europe and contains the largest Roman excavation outside of Rome itself. Other highlights include the Picasso Museum (Museo Picasso), where you’ll need some time to peruse 5,000 or so of the artist’s works; the towering and iconic Basilica De La Sagrada Família , one of a number of striking buildings across the city by famous architect Antoni Gaudí; Barri Gòtic (the Gothic Quarter), where winding streets create a welcome maze built for wandering; and finding your way through the actual labyrinth that is the city’s oldest green space, Parc del Laberint d’Horta.

2. Explore the history of Granada

Granada is one of my favorite cities in Spain. It’s a place where culture, architecture, and ideas from North Africa and Europe collide in a unique way, and no trip to the south of Spain is complete without a visit. Don’t miss the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Moorish palace and fortress built in the 13th century, and the Fajalauza ceramic factory, which dates back to 1517 and still remains in the same family. There are also a number of cathedrals and monasteries, including the peaceful Monastery of San Jeronimo, with leafy cloisters and a lavish chapel (5 EUR). Be sure to watch a flamenco show while you’re here (they’re usually around 20 EUR) and visit a Moorish tearoom for mint tea (locals recommend it with plenty of sugar).

3. Wander Madrid

Madrid , the capital of Spain, is famous for its museums, tapas, and nightlife. Like Barcelona, this is a city that doesn’t get going until midnight, which makes for quiet mornings with empty streets if you want the city all to yourself. Make sure you visit Museo Del Prado, one of the largest art museums in the world (get skip-the-line tickets from Get Your Guide ), and the Royal Palace — with nearly 3,500 rooms, it’s the largest palace in all of Western Europe. Other highlights include the Temple of Debod (an Egyptian temple from the 2nd century BCE), El Retiro Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the 15th-century Plaza Mayor, the city’s central square, and El Rastro market every Sunday — a mix of flea market finds, clothing, and jewelry.

4. Revel in La Tomatina

La Tomatina is an epic hour-long tomato fight that draws upwards of 20,000 people to the small town of Buñol (only 9,000 people live in the town itself). Started in 1945, this festival is held on the last Wednesday of August, and over 360,000 pounds of tomatoes are thrown during the event. It starts when water cannons fire, and it ends after exactly one hour. It’s the most amazing and messy festival I’ve ever been to! (Tip: Stay in Valencia for more overnight options.)

5. Discover Seville

Other things to see and do in spain, 1. lounge on the costa del sol.

Hang out on the beach and enjoy the laid-back lifestyle for which Spain is famous. This slice of southern Spain is renowned for its beaches, nightlife…and tons of tourists. That said, it’s still a fun place to eat great food in seaside restaurants (the region is famous for pescaito frito , or deep-fried fish), enjoy watersports in the clear Alboran Sea, drink sunset cocktails, and relax on beautiful beaches. Malaga is one of the go-to destinations on the coast, but I think there are better places further down, like El Bajondillo’s white sand beach and the incredible seafood surrounding La Carihuela beach. To beat the crowds, visit during the shoulder season. The weather will still be warm, but it won’t be as crowded.

2. See Valencia

Valencia is a pretty amazing town. Initially, I wasn’t attracted to Valencia — I simply went for the tomato fight in nearby Buñol (most participants use Valencia as their base during the festival). However, Valencia grew on me as I explored the city, as it makes for a quiet stop between Spain’s more lively cities. Originally a Roman colony and once the capital of Spain, it has delicious seafood, a unique local paella (rather than seafood, the recipe uses chicken, rabbit, and beans), a popular soccer club (Valencia CF), and a giant food market (Mercado Central) housed in an extravagant domed building that looks like a cathedral. It’s a cool city that straddles the past and future with historic streets, futuristic museums — there’s literally a museum focused on “enlightenment and modernity,” and an awesome seaside boardwalk that passes plenty of great tapas spots and the historic fishing district of Cabanyal.

3. Walk the Camino de Santiago

El Camino de Santiago, or The Way of St. James, is one of the most popular pilgrimage routes in the world. The path most people take, the French Way, runs from the border of France all the way to Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. Stretching 800 kilometers (500 miles), you need around a month to complete the entire route. The mostly flat Camino is best done in May¬–June or September–October (July and August are both very busy and very warm). If you have the time, it’s a really great way to see the country and some of the less-visited areas of Spain. Of course, you can also walk sections of it if you just want to see what it’s like on a day hike.

4. Tour the islands

Spain has some of the most beautiful islands in all of Europe. Unsurprisingly, during July and August, they’re crowded and expensive, so try to avoid peak season. If you love beaches, surfing, hiking, or cycling, then be sure to hit up Gran Canaria, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve filled with beautiful landscapes and wildlife, including dolphins. If you’re coming to Spain to party, a stop in Ibiza for its all-night clubs is a must. Other islands worth checking out are Tenerife (home to Teide National Park and the highest peak in Spain), Majorca (for turquoise water and medieval architecture), and La Palma (a certified Starlight Reserve). Ferries from Barcelona and Valencia run frequently from late spring to early summer. In the winter, ferries only run a few times a week.

5. Visit Gibraltar

Bordering Spain on the Iberian peninsula, Gibraltar has actually been an overseas territory of the United Kingdom since 1713. It’s known as “The Rock,” owing to the 426-meter-high (1,397-foot) limestone ridge that dominates the island — you can ride a cable car to the top, or get great views by climbing the 18th-century Mediterranean Steps. There’s an interesting mix of cultures here too, with influences from Britain, Spain, and North Africa. With sunny days year-round, views of two continents (Europe and Africa), wildlife galore (including Gibraltar monkeys, which are actually Barbary Macaques and the only population of wild monkeys in Europe). There are also plenty of sandy of beaches and caves to explore (St Michaels Cave is probably the most popular), it’s a small swatch of land with enough to see and do to make a short visit worthwhile.

6. Play in the Sierra Nevadas

This mountain range, located within Spain’s largest nathional park, is in southeastern Spain near the Mediterranean Sea. It’s the perfect place for summer hiking, winter skiing, and exploring small towns year-round. The area is one of the prettiest and most rugged regions in Spain and one of the better areas for outdoor activities in the country. There are plenty of trails ranging in length and difficulty, as well as the possibility for guided tours. Popular hikes include Mulhacen (6 hours), El Chullo (4-5 hours), and Pico de Veleta (4-5 hours). Lift passes for skiing at Sierra Nevada resort in the winter start at around 50 EUR per day.

7. Visit San Sebastián

Known as Donostia in Basque, San Sebastián is at the center of the Basque area of Spain. This place has killer nightlife and beaches (La Concha beach is the most popular), as well as loads of history throughout the city. It was founded in 1180 in the area that’s now become the Old Quarter. = The architecture — a cool mix of 16th-century Gothic churches, 19th-century mansions, and ultra-modern buildings — makes it one of the most beautiful and unique cities in all of Spain. For stunning views of the coast, hike up one of the 4 trails of Monte Urgull, located at the tip of La Concha. The city sees a fraction of the visitors compared to c Madrid or Barcelona so it’s much less crowded (and less expensive ). The regional Basque cuisine here is delicious, so be sure to take a food tour while you’re here.

8. Admire the Great Cathedral and Mosque

The Mezquita de Córdoba (Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption) is by far the most exquisite example of Muslim influence in Spain. Located in Córdoba just east of Seville, its giant arches, jasper columns, marble floors, richly gilded prayer niches, and the awe-inspiring domed shrine of Byzantine mosaics take you back to when Córdoba was under Muslim influence in the 12th century. Admission is 13 EUR and skip-the-line guided tours are 24 EUR.

9. Unwind in Salamanca

Salamanca seems to be in the middle of nowhere (it’s 2.5 hours northeast of Madrid by car), but it’s worth the detour for the history (it dates back to the Celtic era), and its historical Old Quarter which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The university town has a mix of small-town atmosphere, great nightlife, and plenty of backpackers. In the old quarter, join the other tourists trying to spot the frog carved into the 16th-century university facade — said to bring professional success. The main square, Plaza Mayor, is one of the largest in Spain and is great for soaking up the city, and the nearby cathedral is gorgeous. It’s actually two cathedrals —an Old, from the 12th and 13th centuries, and New, from the 16th — joined together.

10. Hike the Pyrenees

The majestic mountain chain that walls off France is laced with medieval villages, high mountain walking trails, and great skiing. It’s also the traditional start of the Camino (see #3 above). You can hike through the Pyrenees on one of three established routes, but it takes most people almost two months to complete the entire trek (choose spring or fall, summer will be extremely hot). Of course, you can also just hop on the Camino for a single-day hike or weekend hiking trip along one of the moderate routes. If you don’t want to go solo, you can take a full-day hiking tour of the Pyrenees from Barcelona with Get Your Guide .

11. Visit the Guggenheim Museum

One of the most famous museums in the world, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao (a port city in northern Spain) always has some interesting exhibitions on modern art (including a permanent sculpture, “Snake,” that’s made of hot-rolled steel and spans more than 100 feet long!). There is also the iconic (and giant) spider sculpture outside the museum, and pieces by Rothko hang inside. Even if you’re not a modern art fan (I personally don’t love it), it’s still worth stopping by because the building is art itself. Frank Gehry, arguably one of the most famous living architects, designed it to have an eye-catching, undulating style, and the grand atrium alone is worth a visit. Admission starts at 16 EUR.

12. Explore Basque Country

Basque Country is an autonomous region in Spain, a place with its own unique culture and heritage. (The Basque people inhabited the area before Spain became a nation.) Located in the northeast corner of the country, you’ll notice the cultural and linguistic differences as soon as you step foot in the region. If you’re into off-the-beaten-path locations, be sure to tour Basque Country, which offers coastal areas, small towns, and mountains. Don’t miss the 153-year-old La Bretxa market in San Sebastian (open every day except Sunday), the Gothic-style St. Mary’s Cathedral in Bayonne, and Le Grand Stroll in Biarritz while you’re here. (The start of the Camino passes through the area as well.) La Rioja wine region can also be found in Basque Country — try its famous drink, a white wine called txakoli . Expect lots of seafood, lamb dishes, and pintxos (Basque tapas).

  For more information on specific cities in Spain, check out these guides:

• Barcelona Travel Guide
• Granada Travel Guide
• Madrid Travel Guide
• Seville Travel Guide
• Valencia Travel Guide

Spain Travel Costs

Budget hotels begin around 125 EUR for a twin or double and go up from there. Prices are slightly lower outside of the major cities and tourist areas but are about 20-30% higher during peak season. For larger cities during the summer high season, expect to spend closer to 200 EUR or more a night.

Airbnb is common in most major cities, with a private room starting around 60 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 120 EUR per night (often double that in the big cities or during peak season).

For those traveling with a tent, there are hundreds of campsites across Spain. Campground costs around 20 – 40 EUR per night. They can be as low as 5-10 EUR for a basic tent plot without electricity, while other costlier sites (around 50 EUR per site) often include extra luxuries like a pool, electricity, and Wi-Fi.

Food – Spain has a strong food culture. Meals can last for hours, and dinner often isn’t served until after 8 p.m. Each region in the country has its own local dishes and food culture, but there are some common favorites, like paella (originally from Valencia), gazpacho, churros, jámon ibérico (cured pork), patatas bravas (fried potatoes with sauce), gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and tortilla (Spanish omelet).

You can usually find tapas and sandwiches for 5–10 EUR. Assembling a meal of tapas at a casual bar usually costs around 15-20 EUR, including a glass of wine. Cheap fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 9 EUR for a combo meal. Chinese food is around 10 EUR for a main dish, while pizza costs 10-14 EUR.

Beer is 3–4 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-4 EUR, and a latte/cappuccino is around 2 EUR. Bottled water is about 1.50 EUR. (In general, tap water is safe to drink in Spain.)

A decent casual restaurant meal costs around 25-30 EUR with a drink. If you go out for paella, drinks, or appetizers, plan to spend around 35-45 EUR for a meal.

Spain has a lot of expensive restaurants if you want to splash out. Meals at finer establishments begin around 55 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own food, groceries cost around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat or seafood. You can find the cheapest (and freshest) produce and meat at local markets.

Backpacking Spain Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 90 EUR per day, you can afford to stay in a hostel dorm or private Airbnb room, cook most of your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like free walking tours and relaxing in the parks. Add at least 20 EUR per day to your budget if you plan on drinking or partying a lot.

On a mid-range budget of around 215 EUR per day, you can stay in a private room in a hostel, or a 2-star budget hotel, eat out at inexpensive restaurants for most meals, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like cooking classes and museum visits.

On a “luxury” budget of 350 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a nicer hotel or entire Airbnb apartment, eat out regularly, drink more, take more taxis, and enjoy more guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget work. Prices are in EUR.

Spain Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Overall, Spain is pretty affordable. While accommodation costs in most touristy as well as larger cities have risen greatly in the last few years, everything else is still affordable. Individual city guides have more specific information on how to save in each city, but here are some general ways to save money while traveling around Spain:

• Get the menu of the day – Most restaurants offer a cheap and filling “menu of the day” ( menu del dia during lunch for around 10–15 EUR per person. They are a good way to save money while enjoying some delicious Spanish food. Wine or water are generally included, too. Look for more crowded spots — that’s how you know the food is good. Skip eating out for dinner — it’s too expensive!
• Eat free tapas – In some cities (like Granada), you can find bars where free tapas are given out when you order drinks. Bounce around the bars to eat cheap while enjoying a few drinks.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a great way to save money on accommodations while also getting some insights from locals. You might have better luck in the larger cities, but be sure to book early as the major cities also see the most requests.
• Take the bus – While the train system is fast, it’s expensive, with high speed trains double (or more) the cost of buses. If you have the time and want to save money, take buses to get around the country. It will take longer but, if you’re on a budget, it will be worth it. And look at booking your tickets online and in advance — it can save you money.
• Get a city pass – Most of the major cities have multiple museums, attractions, and activities worth checking out. Buying a city pass — like the Madrid City Card (from 8.40 EUR) or Malaga–Costa Del Sol Sightseeing Pass (starting at 14 EUR) — can save you money on these activities and also get you free transportation. These passes will save you a lot of money if you’re planning on visiting the major sights.
• Ride a bike – Tourists can use public bikes in cities such as Madrid and Seville for a daily or weekly fee. Take note, Barcelona’s red city bikes (Bicing) are for residents only, but you can find shops that offer daily or weekly bike rentals.
• Use BlaBlaCar – This app connects you with drivers who have room in their cars for additional passengers. Drivers are vetted and verified, so it’s a cool way to get out of stuffy trains and buses, meet interesting characters, and take a mini road trip. It’s one of my preferred methods of travel for medium- and long-distance trips.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. Spain now offers more water fountains and bottle-filling stations than in the past. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Spain

Spain has plenty of budget-friendly hostels and hotels all around the country. Here are some of my recommended places to stay:

• HelloBCN Hostel (Barcelona)
• Hotel BestPrice Gràcia (Barcelona)
• OK Hostel (Madrid)
• Petit Palace Puerta del Sol (Madrid)
• The River Hostel (Valencia)
• Red Nest Hostel (Valencia)
• Oasis Backpacker’s Hostel (Seville)
• Onefam Centro (Seville)
• ECO Hostel (Granada)
• Hostal Antares (Granada)

For more places to stay, check out the city specific destination guides.

How to Get Around Spain

Bus – The bus is the cheapest option for getting between cities in Spain. FlixBus has tickets starting as low as 6 EUR. Most buses come with outlets and free Wi-Fi. A 9–hour trip from Madrid to Barcelona starts from about 35 EUR, while the 4–hour trip between Seville and Granada costs around 25 EUR. Alsa is another popular bus company for travel throughout the country.

Trains – RENFE is the national rail line in Spain. High-speed trains are more expensive, but you can travel between Madrid and Barcelona in just 2.5 hours. Even on the more expensive high-speed train, however, you can find tickets from Madrid to Barcelona for as low as 55 EUR during off peak times in the offseason. The trip from Madrid to Seville is around 2.5 hours and costs 35 EUR, while Madrid to Valencia is just under 2 hours and costs 30 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Spain (and Europe), use Trainline .

A Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period, might also be a good option depending on your plans. For more information, here’s a detailed breakdown of how Eurail passes work and can save you money .

Flying – If you’re pressed for time and are looking to hop from one city to the next, a budget airline. You can find really cheap fares on most routes.

However, be aware that you have to pay for all the extras on these cheap flights (such as checked baggage, picking your own seat, etc.) So, while flights are cheap (Madrid to Barcelona can be found for as little as 65 EUR round trip), the little expenses add up. And when you factor in getting to/from the airport, most flights really aren’t much faster than the train.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 25 EUR per day for compact vehicles when booked in advance. Make sure to check if the car is standard or automatic when reserving. Renters will need an International Driving Permit prior to book. The minimum age for renting a car is 21. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

Ridesharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the biggest company.

When to Go to Spain

Spain is lovely year-round, but the peak season — meaning, busiest and most expensive— is in the summer, from June to August. Popular destinations like Barcelona and Ibiza experience a massive influx of tourism — so much so that Barcelona’s residents have started clamping down on overtourism. Accommodations in the larger cities require serval months of advance booking is summer, and small shops may be closed in August for family holidays. The weather is fabulous this time of year, with high temperatures well into the 30s°C (90s°F)

The temperature in Spain doesn’t often drop too low, with winter temps between 4-10°C (40-50°F) country-wide. However, Northern Spain does sometimes experience snowfall — especially in the mountainous areas. While I wouldn’t aim to visit in the winter, if you’re already in Europe, this is going to be one of the warmer destinations on the continent, especially in the south. Madrid and Barcelona have plenty of holiday festivals in December and early January for Christmas and Three Kings Day. If you are in Spain during the holidays, visit a bakery to try traditional, seasonal desserts.

The shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) are great times to visit. Tourist sites are less congested (think Gaudi attractions in Barcelona)and prices are a bit cheaper, especially accommodations in Barcelona or Madrid. Temperatures are pleasant, although it’s not exactly beach season. Beach destinations like Ibiza and Mallorca tend to get very quiet during this time, but there is still plenty to see and do around the rest of the country. If you plan on outdoor activities or hiking the Camino de Santiago, this is the time of year to do it.

How to Stay Safe in Spain

Spain is pretty safe to visit. Violent attacks are uncommon, and the country is safe for solo travelers However, petty crime is really widespread and pickpocketing is very common in the larger cities, especially near major tourist sites (such as La Rambla in Barcelona) and on public transportation. Always keep your valuables secure and out of sight when on public transportation and when out and about. The thieves here are incredibly quick here. Report thefts to the local police, or ask your hotel or hostel how to file a report.

Be extra careful in Barcelona, especially in high season, where people may try to snatch your phone on the street or grab your stuff in crowded subways (pickpocketing is not as bad elsewhere in Spain). Also, never leave your backpack, phone, or laptop out and unsecured when at a cafe or restaurant. They can disappear in the blink of an eye.

Scams are also very common, especially in the larger cities (not that common though in smaller cities). Keep an eye out for kids in groups who might try to distract you before lifting your wallet, as well as people who might offer to “help” carry your luggage or take your photo, only to expect a hefty tip as thanks. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard safety precautions apply (always keep an eye on your drink at the bar, never walk home alone at night while intoxicated, etc.). Many hostels also have female-only dorm rooms. For specific tips on staying safe, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on Spain. They’ll be able to provide specific advice that I, a man, can’t.

If you experience an emergency, dial 122 for assistance.

Always trust your gut. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, and keep them separate from your originals. When you’re walking around, take minimal cash and one form of ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Spain Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Spain.

Spain Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Spain travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 7 Best Hotels in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Seville

The Perfect 3 Day Granada Itinerary

The 7 Best Hostels in Seville

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Plan the Perfect Trip to Spain

For some, a visit to Spain is simple, a weekend on a beach on the Costa del Sol or a few days in Barcelona and that's all they are looking for.

But for the rest of us, there is so much to fit into a limited time that some hard choices will be necessary .

Spain is not a very big country if you compare it to, say, the United States, but it is quite culturally fragmented. Some things, such as free tapas with your drink, are only available in a limited area of the country.

Suggested Itineraries

If you know what you are looking for most out of your trip, check out these tips below on which city to start your trip in. 

For Cheap Tapas

Choose   Granada  (fly to Malaga) Why?  Spain is one of the few places you can get something for free, as there are many bars where you get a bit of food with every drink you buy. There are such bars all over the country, but the highest proportion of such bars can be found in Granada and other cities in the area (such as Jaen). Leon is a great city for this too.

For the Best Tapas

Choose   San Sebastian  (and nearby Logroño) or  Seville Why?  The gourmet tapas scene in San Sebastian and Seville vie for top honors in internationally acclaimed tapas. Logroño, close to San Sebastian, is a lesser-known but equally good challenger.

For Good Weather

Choose  Andalusia , but it depends on so much. Why?  Well, what's good weather? If you want to spend your time on the beach, you'll probably want to head to Andalusia, unless you're visiting at the height of summer, when it can be too warm here. Otherwise, if you want to go hiking in cool conditions, Galicia is your best bet, though it will probably rain. 

For the Best Wine

Choose   The Basque Country  or  Madrid Why?  San Sebastian and Bilbao, in the Basque Country, are close to the Rioja wine region, but they also have their own wine: Txakoli. Madrid, as the capital, gets the best of the wine in the country. 

For Architecture

Choose   Barcelona

Why?  One word: Gaudi.

Choose   Madrid  or  Bilbao Why?  The Reina Sofia, the Thyssen-Bornemisza and the Prado museums of Madrid and the  Guggenheim  in Bilbao.

Choose  Barcelona Why?  For its good access to the Pyrenees . 

For Bullfighting

Choose   Seville  or  Madrid Why?  Bullrings can be found throughout Spain. But a bullring doth not a bullfighting town make. Bullrings sprung up throughout Spain under dictator Franco as a part of his attempts to bring tourism into Spain. The main places to see bullfighting are in Andalusia (particularly Seville) and Madrid. There is also a number of  bullfighting festivals in Spain  which are great places to catch a fight. TripSavvy trusts its readers to make their own decisions on the ethics of bullfighting as an attraction.

Unique Things

• Africa is just an hour away. There are plenty of options to take  ferries from Spain to Morocco
• In theory, nudity is legal anywhere in Spain.
• Spain has a strong Muslim, Christian, and Jewish heritage.
• No one will tell you that you're lazy for having a sleep in the afternoon! The Spanish tradition of siesta ensures that.
• You can throw tomatoes at people and not get arrested. (As long as you do it at the right time .)
• You can celebrate the most reverent Easter celebrations in the world.

Where to Go and When

Spain can best be divided into four areas: north, south, east and central (western Iberia is Portugal, which is also worth visiting).

Central Spain , which is dominated by Madrid, is home to historic walled cities such as Toledo and Avila , the windmills of Consuegra and grand old cities like Salamanca , Segovia , and Leon .

The  east coast  is also famous for its sun, sea, and sand, but it also has Barcelona, with its fabulous modernist architecture, and Valencia , the birthplace of paella .

The south of Spain is all about Andalusia , with classic cities such as Seville, Granada, Cordoba, Jerez and Cordoba to visit. Eat classic tapas, drink sherry and explore Spain's centuries-long relationship with Islam at the Mezquita in Cordoba or the Alhambra in Granada. Plus there's also the beaches of the Costa del Sol .

The north is an undiscovered country for many visitors to Spain. But with the modern cuisine of the Basque Country (especially in San Sebastian), the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, the wines of La Rioja, cider in Asturias and the UNESCO-protected old town of Santiago de Compostela , there is so much to see in northern Spain. And don't forget all that seafood!

But  when should you visit?  For guaranteed good weather, the summer is best, though what you would consider 'summer' gets longer the further south you go. The big events of the year for visitors are Easter (Semana Santa), Las Fallas in March, the Tomatina Tomato Fight in August and the Pamplona Bull Run in July. But there is so much happening all year round .

Trip from Madrid

The capital of Spain, Madrid , is the center point of the country, quite literally, around which all else revolves. Most of the other major cities are on the coast, typically at least six hours away from the capital by car. Between these are a lot of agricultural villages and barren land, with Seville, Granada, Leon, and Salamanca the main inland cities of note.

Madrid is a good place to arrive, as the capital is well connected by train, bus and internal flights . But that isn’t to say you should hurry out of the country’s premier city. While Madrid isn’t in the league of other European capitals like Paris and London, it is a living, breathing city with every kind of bar , restaurant and leisure activity you could desire.

Madrid and Barcelona are obviously Spain's two most famous cities and if you can't decide between the two, then this is an ideal way to cover them both.

Nearby Cities

Madrid is a great base for day trips to the wonderful aqueducts of  Segovia  and the historical delights of  Toledo , with  El Escorial  also a short train ride away.

Madrid's location in the center of Spain, as well as its good train connections, means you'll want to travel by rail from the capital. This isn't always true for other cities in Spain.

• San Sebastian
• Lisbon, Portugal

Trip From Barcelona and Valencia

For a more cosmopolitan experience, there is Barcelona in the northeast, in the community of Catalonia. The locals say it isn’t really Spain at all and, while this is not the time to get into a political discussion, Barcelona certainly does have a different feel to it from the rest of Spain. It's spectacular Gaudí architecture , solemn Barri Gòtic and lively Ramblas street are as iconic as you can get in Spain.

Barcelona or Valencia

There are more flights to Barcelona than Valencia, so it is more likely you'll arrive in Barcelona. Valencia is Spain's third city (by population) and, like Barcelona, is connected to Madrid by the high-speed train (it takes about two-and-a-half hours from both cities to reach the capital).

However, Valencia is not Spain's third city when it comes to tourist sights. This may be an attraction in itself as the small city center allows you to ignore the vast suburban sprawl outside it. But for a full and active trip, you'll get a lot more out of Barcelona than Valencia. 

Barcelona is also much better connected to other cities in Spain than Valencia is.

Places to Visit

The top sights outside Barcelona are not cities, but rather the Montserrat mountain and the Salvador Dali museum in Figueres. 

After that, you have Tarragona, famous for its Roman ruins, and Girona, which is known for its Jewish quarter . 

How to Get to Other Cities From Here

Barcelona's location in the north-east of Spain means it's quite difficult to get to the other extremes of the country, though the high-speed AVE train helps for getting to Madrid and Seville. In many other cases, you'll want to fly.

Connect the dots with these routes.

The Big Three:  If you're a city-type that wants to see Spain's biggest cities on your trip here, this Big Three Itinerary covers Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, the country's biggest cities by population, in a tight triangle that squeezes in a stop in Zaragoza too. Much of the journey can be taken by high-speed  AVE train   or by bus if you're on a tighter budget. There's also a  Guided Tour of Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia .

Barcelona to Seville:  It's a long way from Barcelona to Seville and you miss out a lot of top sights if you fly direct.

Trip to Malaga or Seville

The tourist brochure image of Spain, with its flamenco dresses, bullfighting, and blistering hot sunshine is not as universal in Spain as many think but if you go to Andalusia, you won’t be disappointed. With the Alhambra of Granada , the Mezquita of Cordoba , and the, well, everything of Seville, there is more than enough in Andalusia to fill several vacations.

Most flights to Andalusia arrive in Malaga, though there are a few to Seville too, so you'll probably choose to base yourself in one of these two cities for most of your time in the south of Spain.

Seville or Malaga

Seville is a far more attractive city than Malaga , with better food and plenty more to do. However, you'll find fewer flights to Seville than to Malaga.

For me, the best thing about a flight to Malaga is that you can connect easily to Granada. In every other way, you are better off in Seville.

Cities to Explore Nearby

All of Andalusia is within reach of Malaga and Seville, while there is also the high-speed AVE train to Madrid from both cities. 

Granada is the best option from Malaga, as it is just over an hour away. It also has good connections with Ronda and is slightly better than Seville for getting to Morocco.

From Seville, you have great access to the nearby cities of Jerez and Cadiz.

• Jerez and Cadiz
• Marrakech, Morocco

Suggested Itinerary: Andalusia

Andalusia has the highest concentration of tourist sights in the whole of Spain. The  high-speed AVE train  can take you from Madrid to Cordoba and on to Seville. After that, a stop in Granada to see the Alhambra is a must.

Trip to Northern Spain

To really experience the diversity of Spain, you have to explore Spain's northern-most regions – Galicia, Asturias or Basque Country. Galicia's national instrument is the bagpipe, while in Asturias you are more likely to find cider than sangria , not what tourists usually expect of Spain!

The City You Should Base Yourself in

This will depend on where you can get flights to. There are airports all along the north coast in Vigo , Santiago de Compostela , A Coruña , Asturias, Santander, and Bilbao , plus Biarritz in France and Porto in Portugal, but most of these are small airports with few flights. If heading to the Basque Country, you're most likely to find flights to Bilbao, if heading to Galicia your best bet will be to Santiago, though you might need to fly to Porto.

How to Get Around

Galicia is well connected by train, with a fast, cheap line connecting A Coruña to Santiago de Compostela and Vigo. If traveling between northern Portugal and Galicia, you'll need to change in Vigo.

And then there's the Basque Country. Bilbao and San Sebastian are, the two main cities, are close together, with regular buses connecting the two. There are also bus and train services to the Rioja wine region.

Asturias, between the two, is a less well connected, with mainly bus services to connect you to the east and the west (trains in Asturias mainly head south to Leon, also great for tapas, and Madrid).

How to Get from City to City in Spain

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The Very Best of Spain's Cities, Regions, Food, and Drinks

Top 12 Day Trips From Malaga, Spain

Guide to Bus and Train Travel in Spain

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The 10 Best Traditional Festivals to Experience in Spain

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Best Way to Travel in Spain: Train/Car/Bus/Boat Guide (2024)

Table of Content

Spain is a beautiful country with diverse regions, fascinating history, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. When planning a trip to Spain, one of the most critical decisions is choosing the best way to travel in Spain. Depending on your itinerary, budget, and personal preferences, you can explore Spain by train,  car ,  plane ,  bus , or  boat .

Here you go through the different modes of transportation in Spain and help you choose the most efficient and comfortable way to get around. From the convenience of train travel to the flexibility of driving, to the scenic  boat  journeys, you’ll find all the essential information you need to plan your dream trip to Spain.

Key Takeaways

• AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) is the fastest way to travel long distances in Spain, connecting major cities through Madrid. AVE trains are comfortable and efficient.
• RENFE Alvia trains connect northern cities to Madrid with high-speed service and stops along the way.
• Train travel is generally pricier than buses but offers speed and comfort.
• Buses are the most economical option for travel around Spain.
• It is ideal for reaching smaller towns not served by trains.
• Long bus journeys may not be suitable for short trips or tight schedules.
• Renting a car provides flexibility for exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.
• It can be expensive considering gas, parking, and tolls.
• Ferries are a good choice for reaching Spain’s islands like the Canary and Balearic Islands.
• It is also suitable for coastal cities like Barcelona and Valencia.
• Boat travel is slower, and not recommended for tight schedules.

Also Read Best Ways to Travel Around Italy: Best Transportation (2024)

Traveling Around Spain by Train

Spain boasts an extensive and efficient train network, making it a popular choice for travelers. For tourists,  traveling around Spain by train  is a convenient and comfortable option. With high-speed trains, you can get from Madrid to Barcelona in just 2.5 hours!

Train stations in Spain are well-connected, making it easy to access different parts of the country. Spain has two major train operators: Renfe and AVE. Renfe is the national train operator, while AVE provides high-speed trains between major cities.

When traveling by train in Spain, there are different ticket options available. You can choose between flexible or non-flexible tickets, round-trip or one-way tickets, and first or second-class tickets. It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during high season, to avoid sold-out trains and higher prices.

Tips on Navigating Spain’s Major Train Stations

Spain’s major train stations, including Atocha in Madrid and Sants in Barcelona, can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. Here are some tips on how to navigate these stations:

• Plan ahead and arrive early to avoid rushing
• Look for information desks or ask station employees for help if needed
• Be aware of pickpockets and keep your belongings close to you at all times
• Check the departure board and platform number for your train
• Board the train at least 5-10 minutes before departure

Types of Trains in Spain

Spain has different types of trains that cater to different needs. The high-speed AVE trains are the fastest and most expensive, while the regional Cercanías trains are slower and more affordable.

Here are the different types of trains in Spain:

When traveling by train in Spain, it’s important to note that smoking is prohibited on all trains and eating or drinking is only allowed in designated areas.

Overall,  traveling around Spain by train  is a convenient and enjoyable experience. With comfortable seats, picturesque views, and access to Wi-Fi, you can sit back and relax while exploring the beautiful country of Spain.

Exploring Spain by Car

If you’re looking for a more flexible way to travel around Spain, renting a  car  might be the best way to travel in Spain. It allows you to explore the countryside at your own pace and visit off-the-beaten-path locations that are not easily accessible by other means of transportation. However, before hitting the road, there are a few things to consider.

Renting a Car

There are many car rental companies in Spain, both international and local, and it’s important to do your research to find the best deal. You can compare prices and reserve a car online before your trip.

Most car rental companies require you to be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Some companies may also require an International Driver’s Permit, so it’s important to check the requirements with your rental company before you go.

When you pick up your rental car, make sure to inspect it thoroughly for any damage and take note of it on the rental agreement before you sign. This will prevent any misunderstandings or charges for pre-existing damage when you return the car. Also, be aware that automatic cars may cost more to rent than manual ones.

Driving in Spain

Driving in Spain can be different from driving in other countries as there are unique traffic regulations and customs to be aware of. Speed limits are in kilometers per hour and are generally 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on secondary roads, and 120 km/h on highways.

In addition, it’s important to be aware of the right-of-way rules at roundabouts, yield signs, and pedestrian crossings. Always wear your seatbelt and make sure all passengers do the same, as it is mandatory by law. Finally, be cautious when driving at night, as some rural roads may not have adequate lighting.

Parking in Spain

One of the challenges of driving in Spain is finding suitable parking, especially in cities. There are various parking options available, including street parking, public garages, and private lots. Be aware that some cities have restricted areas known as Zonas Azules or Zonas Verdes, where parking is limited to a certain amount of time and requires a parking disc.

To save time and avoid the hassle of finding parking, some cities have park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts that offer a convenient way to access downtown areas.

Alternative Transportation Options

If you prefer not to rent a car or drive in Spain, there are alternative transportation options available. Public transportation, such as buses and trains, is widely available and affordable.

Another option is to join a guided tour, which allows you to sit back and relax while a professional driver takes you to your destination. This is also a great way to meet other travelers and learn more about Spain’s history and culture from a knowledgeable guide.

Flying Within Spain: Efficient and Affordable Transportation Options

Spain has a well-connected domestic flight network with many affordable airlines, making flying a convenient and efficient mode of transportation when traveling within the country.

Major airlines that operate domestic flights in Spain include Iberia, Vueling, Ryanair, and Air Europa. These airlines offer a variety of routes, including flights between major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, as well as smaller destinations like Santiago de Compostela and Bilbao.

Booking flights in advance is the best way to secure the most affordable fares. It’s recommended to book at least two weeks in advance, but prices can be even lower if you book further ahead.

When  flying within Spain , it’s important to keep in mind the baggage restrictions of each airline. Budget airlines like Ryanair and Vueling tend to have stricter baggage limits, so be sure to check their policies before you pack.

Some  popular tourist destinations in Spain , such as the Balearic and Canary Islands, can only be reached by air or by boat, so flying is often the most efficient option.

Comparing the Cost of Flying vs. Other Modes of Transportation

While flying can be an efficient option, it may not always be the most cost-effective. For shorter distances, traveling by  bus  or train can be more affordable.

For example, a train ticket from Madrid to Barcelona can cost as little as €25 ($29), while a flight for the same journey can cost upwards of €50 ($60).

However, for longer distances or when time is a consideration, flying can often be the most affordable and efficient option. It’s important to weigh the cost and time benefits of flying versus other modes of transportation to determine the best option for your travel needs.

Getting Around by Bus

If you’re planning on traveling around Spain on a tight budget, the bus is an excellent transportation option. The extensive bus network covers all major cities and popular tourist destinations, making it easy to get around Spain in 10 days or less. The buses are also equipped with comfortable amenities such as air conditioning, onboard toilets, and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.

When choosing bus travel, it’s important to research the various bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal. Some of the most popular bus companies in Spain include Alsa, Avanza, and Socibus. You can purchase tickets online in advance or at the bus station on the day of travel.

Choosing the Right Bus Routes

When planning your itinerary, keep in mind that some bus routes are more frequent than others. If you’re traveling to popular tourist destinations such as Barcelona or Madrid, you’ll find plenty of bus options with multiple departures per day. However, if you’re planning to visit smaller towns or off-the-beaten-path locations, you’ll need to plan your travel carefully, as bus routes may be less frequent.

For example, if you’re planning to visit the picturesque mountain village of Ronda, located in Andalusia, you’ll need to take the bus from Malaga. However, there are only a few buses per day, so it’s important to plan your travel schedule accordingly.

Purchasing Bus Tickets

Most bus companies in Spain offer online ticketing services, making it easy to purchase tickets in advance. You’ll need to provide your travel dates, destination, and number of passengers to book your tickets. Some bus companies also offer mobile ticketing options, allowing you to show your ticket on your smartphone instead of printing it out.

If you prefer to purchase tickets at the bus station, make sure to arrive early, especially during peak travel seasons. You may also need to show identification when purchasing tickets at the station.

If you’re planning to travel extensively by bus, you may want to consider purchasing a bus pass. Some bus companies offer unlimited travel for a specific period of time, such as one week or one month. This can be a cost-effective way to explore Spain, especially if you’re planning to visit multiple destinations.

Getting Around in Cities

Once you arrive at your destination by bus, you’ll need to find transportation within the city. Most cities in Spain have extensive public transportation networks, including buses, trams, and metro systems. You can purchase tickets at ticket machines located at the station or in some cases, directly from the driver.

If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions in the city, you may want to consider purchasing a tourist travel card. These cards offer unlimited travel on public transportation for a specific period of time, as well as discounts on admission to popular tourist attractions.

Navigating Spain’s Waterways

Spain’s waterways offer a unique way to experience the country’s stunning coastal and island regions. From ferries to cruises and water taxis, there are plenty of ways to travel by boat in Spain.

Ferries are a popular option for traveling between Spain’s islands and coastal cities. They are generally affordable and comfortable, offering amenities like food and drink service, restrooms, and outdoor seating. There are also high-speed ferries that can provide a faster and more efficient mode of transportation.

If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, a cruise might be the right choice for you. Spain is a popular destination for Mediterranean cruises, offering a chance to visit multiple coastal cities and experience the country’s diverse culture and cuisine. Many cruises depart from Barcelona or Valencia and include stops in popular tourist destinations like Ibiza, Malaga, and Palma de Mallorca.

Water taxis are a convenient option for traveling short distances along Spain’s coast. They are often quicker and more direct than other modes of transportation, and can be a fun way to see the sights from the water. Prices vary depending on the distance and destination, but they can be an affordable and enjoyable way to get around.

Popular Tourist Destinations Accessible by Boat

Some of the most  popular tourist destinations in Spain  can also be accessed by boat.

• The Balearic Islands, located in the Mediterranean Sea, are a top tourist destination known for their beautiful beaches, nightlife, and historic sites.
• The Costa Brava, a rugged coastal region in northeastern Spain, is another popular destination accessible by cruise. The Costa del Sol, located in southern Spain, offers sunny beaches and charming towns that can be reached by ferry.
• Galicia, a lush region in northwestern Spain, is known for its seafood and Celtic heritage and can be accessed by ferry from several ports.
• Finally, the Canary Islands, located off the coast of Africa, are a popular destination for winter sun and can be accessed by cruise.

When traveling by boat in Spain, it’s important to research your options and book in advance if possible. Some routes and destinations may have limited availability, especially during peak tourist season. However, traveling by boat can offer a unique and memorable way to explore Spain’s diverse regions.

Planning an Efficient Itinerary

Spain is a diverse country with many regions and attractions to explore.  Planning an efficient itinerary  is crucial to maximizing your time and making the most of your trip. Here are some tips to help you achieve a well-planned itinerary:

Research and Prioritize

Before your trip, research the different regions and attractions in Spain and prioritize the ones that interest you the most. This will help you focus your itinerary and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Be sure to factor in the transportation time between each destination and plan accordingly.

Combine Modes of Transportation

Spain offers a variety of transportation options, and combining different modes of transportation can help you save time and see more. For example, you could take a train to a major city and then rent a car to explore the surrounding countryside. Alternatively, you could fly or take a ferry to an island destination and then use public transportation to get around.

Plan for Rest and Relaxation

While it’s important to see and do as much as possible, it’s also essential to plan for rest and relaxation. Schedule in downtime to enjoy the local culture, cuisine, and scenery. Allow yourself time to savor the moment and immerse yourself in the experience.

Consider Time of Year

Spain experiences seasonal fluctuations in tourism, with peak seasons being summer and major holidays. Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons, such as April to June or September to November, to avoid crowds and save money on transportation and accommodation.

Book in Advance

Booking transportation and accommodation in advance can save you time and money. For example, train and bus tickets are often cheaper when booked in advance. Similarly, hotels and vacation rentals tend to fill up quickly during peak season, so it’s best to book early to secure your desired accommodations.

Stay Flexible

While it’s important to have a well-planned itinerary, it’s also essential to stay flexible and be open to unexpected opportunities. Allow room for spontaneity and adjust your itinerary as needed. Who knows, you may stumble upon a hidden gem that wasn’t on your original itinerary!

Budget for Transportation Expenses

Transportation expenses can add up quickly, so it’s important to budget accordingly. Research different transportation options and compare prices to find the most cost-effective solutions. Consider purchasing a travel pass or using discount airlines to save money on transportation.

Sample 10-Day Itinerary

By following these tips and  planning an efficient itinerary , you can make the most of your transportation options in Spain and enjoy the diverse experiences this country has to offer.

Tips for Traveling in Spain on a Budget

Spain is a popular tourist destination and can be expensive, but there are several ways to save money on transportation while still enjoying all that this vibrant country has to offer. As a seasoned traveler, I have discovered some excellent  affordable travel options in Spain  that I will share in this section.

Traveling by Train or Bus

Spain has a well-connected train and bus network, which can be a cost-effective way to explore the country. One of the best way to travel in Spain to save money is by purchasing tickets in advance and taking advantage of discounted fares. The Renfe website offers a variety of passes and discounts for train travel, including the Spain Pass, which provides unlimited train travel within a set timeframe.

Another great option is using bus companies like ALSA, which offers budget-friendly bus tickets to various destinations in Spain. Additionally, it’s worth considering overnight buses, which can save you the cost of accommodation for a night.

Choosing Budget Airlines

Spain has several budget airlines , such as Ryanair and Vueling, which offer affordable flights to many destinations within the country. The key to getting the best deals is to book early and be flexible with your travel dates. It’s also essential to read the fine print and check if there are any hidden fees, such as charges for baggage or seat selection.

Using Public Transportation in Cities

Most major cities in Spain have an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trains, and metro systems. Buying a multi-day travel pass can save you money if you plan on using public transportation frequently during your stay. Additionally, consider walking or renting a bike to explore the city at a more leisurely pace.

Staying in Budget Accommodations

Accommodation can be a significant expense while traveling, but there are budget-friendly options in Spain. Hostels are an excellent choice for solo travelers or those on a tight budget, and many offer private rooms as well as dorms. Another affordable option is renting an apartment or room through Airbnb or other similar services.

Eating Out on a Budget

Eating out can be expensive in Spain, but there are ways to save money while enjoying delicious local cuisine. Consider visiting local markets and grocery stores for affordable snacks and meals. Additionally, opting for a menú del día (menu of the day) at lunchtime can be an excellent value, providing a three-course meal at a fixed price.

Overall, Spain offers a variety of affordable travel options that make it possible to explore the country on a budget. By planning ahead, being flexible, and taking advantage of discount options, you can enjoy all that Spain has to offer without breaking the bank.

Must-Visit Destinations in Spain

Spain is a country filled with history, culture, and stunning landscapes. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide which destinations to include in a 10-day trip. Here are a few must-visit places that showcase the diversity and beauty of Spain:

Must read Best Tourist Cities in Spain: Top Places, Attractions (2024)

Barcelona is a vibrant city that combines modern architecture with historical landmarks. A visit to the famous Sagrada Familia and Park Guell is a must for any first-time traveler to Barcelona. The city is also known for its delicious food, bustling nightlife, and beautiful beaches.

Madrid is the cultural and political capital of Spain. The city is full of museums, including the famous Prado Museum, and historical landmarks, such as the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor. Madrid also boasts a lively restaurant and bar scene, where you can experience the famous Spanish tapas and wine.

Seville is a charming city located in the Andalusia region of Spain. It is famous for its stunning architecture, including the Alcazar Palace and Cathedral of Seville. Seville also offers a taste of traditional Spanish culture, with flamenco music and dance shows and bullfighting events.

Valencia is a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture. The city is home to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, a unique architectural complex that includes an opera house, science museum, and aquarium. Valencia is also famous for its delicious paella.

Granada is a city located in the southern region of Andalusia. It is famous for the Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress complex that dates back to the 13th century. Granada also offers a glimpse into traditional Spanish culture, with narrow cobblestone streets, bustling markets, and tapas bars.

Best Way to Travel in Spain in 10 Days

If you’re looking to visit these  popular tourist destinations in Spain  in just 10 days, the best way to travel is by a combination of train and rental car.

• Begin your journey in Barcelona, taking a few days to explore the city’s famous landmarks and delicious food.
• Then, take a high-speed train to Madrid, where you can spend a day or two visiting the many museums and historical sites.
• Next, drive south to Sevilla and Granada, taking in the stunning architecture and traditional Spanish culture along the way.
• Finally, drive to Valencia, where you can relax on the beach and explore the City of Arts and Sciences.

Exploring Off-the-Beaten-Path Locations

Spain is a country full of surprises, with many hidden gems beyond the well-known tourist destinations. If you’re looking for an authentic Spanish experience, exploring off-the-beaten-path locations is a must. Here are some of my favorite lesser-known places to visit:

Nestled in the mountainous region of Andalusia, Ronda is a charming town with a rich history and stunning natural surroundings. The town is split in two by a deep gorge, connected by the Puente Nuevo Bridge that offers breathtaking views. Visitors can explore the ancient Moorish heritage, winding streets, and enjoy traditional tapas.

Located on the Costa Brava, Cadaqués is a picturesque fishing village that has drawn artists and writers for centuries. The town’s white-washed houses and winding streets are truly enchanting. Visitors can spend time in the village’s art galleries, stroll along the beaches, or simply take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean.

Teruel, a city in the region of Aragon, is known for its Mudéjar architecture, a unique blend of Islamic and European styles. Visitors can explore the city’s medieval walls and towers, visit the beautiful Cathedral of Teruel and the iconic Lovers of Teruel Mausoleum. The city is also known for its local delicacies, including jamón serrano and truffles.

The region of Asturias, located in northern Spain, is a hidden gem full of natural beauty and unique cultural traditions. Visitors can explore the stunning Picos de Europa National Park, indulge in the region’s famous cider, and take part in traditional Asturian festivals and celebrations.

Albarracín, a small town in the province of Teruel, is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can explore the town’s maze-like streets, discover the ancient castle and churches, and enjoy hiking in the surrounding hills.

Transportation Options

While these destinations may be off the beaten path, there are still transportation options available for visitors. Renting a car is a popular option for exploring these remote regions, but public transportation can also be convenient. Buses and trains connect many of these destinations, and some towns may even be accessible by boat.

Planning Your Visit

If you’re interested in exploring these off-the-beaten-path locations, be sure to plan ahead. Some of these destinations may not have as much tourist infrastructure as the major cities, so it’s important to research accommodations and activities in advance. With careful planning, you can discover some of the most beautiful and unique places in Spain.

Cultural Etiquette and Tips for Travelers in Spain

As a tourist in Spain, it’s important to be respectful of the country’s cultural etiquette and norms. Spanish people are generally friendly and welcoming, but it’s important to understand their customs and behavior to avoid any unintentional offense. Here are some tips for interacting with locals and embracing the culture:

While many Spanish people speak English, it’s always appreciated when tourists make an effort to speak the local language. Learn some basic Spanish phrases such as greetings and thank-yous. Spanish people are also generally loud and expressive, so don’t be surprised at raised voices and animated gestures.

Eating and Drinking

Food is an important part of Spanish culture, so don’t be afraid to try local specialties. When eating out, it’s customary to share dishes and order tapas to try a variety of flavors. Always wait for the host or hostess to give a toast before starting to drink. In Spain, the main meal is lunch, and dinner is usually eaten late at night.

Spain is a fashionable country, so dress to impress. However, when visiting religious sites and cathedrals, dress modestly and avoid shorts and tank tops. Beachwear is also not appropriate outside of the beach areas.

Transportation

When using public transportation, always offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Avoid eating or drinking on trains and buses, and keep your belongings close to you at all times to avoid theft.

Spain is a predominantly Catholic country, so be respectful of religious traditions and practices. If attending a Mass or religious event, dress appropriately and follow the instructions of the priest or officials.

When meeting someone for the first time, a simple handshake and greeting is appropriate. Kissing on the cheek is also common among friends and family, but it’s best to wait for the other person to initiate it. When saying goodbye, it’s customary to offer well wishes for the future.

C) Traveling Safely in Spain

When traveling to a new country, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some tips to help keep you safe while exploring Spain:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuables with you.
• Be cautious when using public transportation, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid empty train cars or buses.
• Learn the local emergency numbers and keep them handy in case of an emergency.

It’s also important to have a basic understanding of Spanish laws and customs. Here are some practical tips:

• Respect Spanish customs and traditions, such as siestas and meal times.
• Learn some basic Spanish phrases to help you communicate with locals.
• Be respectful when taking photos, especially at religious sites or in areas where photography is prohibited.

If you need medical assistance while in Spain, the country has a well-developed healthcare system. However, healthcare can be expensive for tourists, so it’s important to invest in travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses.

By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Spain.

As I conclude my article, I hope that I have provided valuable insights into the best ways to travel in Spain using different modes of transportation. Spain is a country that offers an array of experiences, and choosing the best mode of transportation can make a huge difference in the overall travel experience.

Whether you opt for a train, car,  plane , bus, or boat, it’s important to consider your itinerary, budget, and personal preferences when making your choice. Spain’s efficient transportation network makes it easy for tourists to navigate the country and explore its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage.

By planning your trip well and keeping in mind the tips and suggestions shared in this article, you can make the most of your journey in Spain while staying safe, comfortable, and within your budget.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Spain today and experience all that this beautiful country has to offer. From the bustling streets of Madrid to the serene beaches of Andalusia, Spain is a paradise for travelers, and the best way to travel around is just a click away. Happy travels!

What’s the best way to get in Spain?

Public transportation in Spain is multi-modal and highly efficient with great convenience for commuters. Travelling on speed in Spain is through trains. The bus is ideal for those traveling on a budget and who can put up with slow travel times in Spain. Spanish air transport is considered as the fastest mode of movement around Spain especially with regards to flying to Spanish overseas archipelagos.

What is the best mode of travel in Spain?

Your choice of the preferred mode of travel in Span should be determined by the nature and duration of your trip. When it is possible, use trains, especially if you travel widely. However, train can be ideal if you are planning to spend much time in big cities. However, a car might just come in handy if you want to venture into the unknown paths that lead to small towns. The cheaper alternative for budget conscious visitors or groups more than two are rental cars.

What is the best way to explore Spain?

Your choice of exploring Spian should also depend on what interest you and how much time is available for the tour. As first time visitor, you could begin in the biggest cities, namely Barcelona has huge amount of everything – culture, cuisine, sights, history while the same can be said about Madrid as well. Additionally, you can visit southwards in Andalusia and northwards in Catalonia. You can as well have a road trip that goes into deeper details about the country if you have extra time.

Is it better to travel Spain by car or train?

Depending on your traveling schedule and preferences, you may prefer traveling through the country in a car or by trains. The train would be an ideal choice if you only wanted to visit major places such as Madrid, Barcelona, Sevilla, and Valencia. Therefore, if you wanted to travel around several cities and sights, far from big cities, a road trip is what would you surely like.

Hi there! My name is Sarah Gautam, a travel blogger, and digital nomad, currently living in the United States. I believe life is all about experiences, and what better way to gain them than by seeing the world that's exactly why I left my office job in England and escaped to the national parks of Utah, working remotely as I go, to earn my income. It's a fantastic lifestyle choice and I want to inspire others who are looking to do something similar as well. These are my free resources for future nomads.

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• How To Travel Get Around...

How to Travel & Get Around in Spain

From the wild shores of the Atlantic to the azure coves of the Mediterranean , the Pyrenees to the Sierra Nevada – there is much to see in Spain . Public transport has come along in leaps and bounds in recent years, with high speed trains, internal flights and bus services being some of the easiest ways to get round.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Travelling by plane

There are over 40 airports dotted across mainland Spain and the islands, many of which have regularly scheduled external flights as well as internal flights. The largest airports are those of Madrid Barajas and Barcelona El Prat which have the most frequent flights in and out of the country.

Flying is the fastest and often cheapest way to access the Balearic Islands , Ceuta, Melilla and the Canary Islands. A flight from Barcelona to Ibiza takes just one hour, while a flight from Madrid to the Canary Islands will take around three hours. When travelling to the Canary Islands remember that the time zone changes from GMT+1 in mainland Spain to GMT+0.

Travelling by train

RENFE is Spain’s national train network which operates regular services across the country with high-speed, regular and suburban train lines. The train lines were vastly modernised in recent decades and today the system is generally efficient and reliable. Train lines also operate with neighbouring Portugal and France, although a train from Paris to Madrid will take around 10 hours, so this is not always the fastest way to get in to the country.

The best way to travel long distances in Spain is to book the high-speed train or AVE (Alta Velocidad) which run between most major cities. A train ride from Barcelona to Madrid covers some 500km (311 miles) in just 2hrs 40 minutes, while a train from Madrid to Seville takes around the same time.

There are a number of regional train companies which work in parallel with RENFE to offer suburban and local lines. In Barcelona the FGC trains (Ferrocarils de la Generalitat de Catalunya) provide regular connections to the suburbs as well as places such as the Montserrat mountain and monastery, a popular tourist site. In the Basque Country, Euskotren operates services between the San Sebastián and Bilbao to just over the border with France.

When travelling by train it’s important to buy your tickets in advance, especially for AVE trains and long distances as a seat reservation is necessary on many routes. There is also a financial incentive to book in advance, as tickets are often considerably cheaper if booked online or in the train station before the travel date. Be sure to check the calendar as bank holidays may affect regular services.

Travelling by bus

Getting the bus is one of the cheapest ways to get around Spain – although for long distances it is not always the most comfortable. It’s also one of the easiest ways to access off-the-beaten-track destinations and rural areas where there are no train lines.

There are often a huge number of routes departing from main cities and connecting to smaller towns in the surrounding countryside. These routes are popular with workers and as such there are often more services during the week than at weekends. Most cities and larger towns will have a bus station (look for the ‘ estación de autobuses ‘) from which buses depart and from where tickets can be bought in advance for certain routes. On the vast majority of buses, tickets can be bought from the driver when accessing the bus.

There are many bus companies operating across Spain, often with more than one operator in any given area. One of the easiest ways to find the right provider for you is to use a website such as movelia.es which offers services by most of the main bus companies in the country.

Travelling by car

Last but not least, hiring a car is another great way to get around in Spain as it allows you to plan your own route and follow your own pace. There is a vast network of motorways known as ‘ autovías ‘ which can be identified by an A letter at the beginning of the road number. Some of these roads are toll roads called ‘ autopistas ‘ – in which case they are identified by the letters AP – so be sure to have either a card or cash to pay for your journey.

A cheaper but slower option is to stick to the normal roads which often run parallel to the motorways but do not allow cars to drive as fast and are not always in as good condition. The speed limit on A roads and AP roads is 120km/h (75 miles/h) whereas on standard roads the speed limit is 90km/h (56 miles/h) unless otherwise indicated (and in town the speed limit is 50km/h (31 miles/h)).

Be aware that hotels in towns and cities will often charge you up to €25 per night to keep your vehicle in parking. Public parking lots are cheaper but can still be up to €15 per night depending on where you are.

¡Buen viaje!

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Be prepared to visit Spain with these 16 things to know before you go

Jun 21, 2023 • 6 min read

Here's what you need to know to get ready for a trip to Spain © Flashpop / Getty Images

Spain has been home for the past 16 years, ever since I moved to its capital Madrid in my early thirties.

From day one, it was easy to be charmed by this warm and inviting country . It ticks a lot of  boxes in terms of what you’re looking for in a European destination – great cuisine and wine , spectacular landscapes , architectural gems, green spaces and a thriving art scene. 

Getting around the country is also very convenient, thanks to Spain's efficient and reliable multi-modal public transport system . And the Spanish people are some of the friendliest locals, who will happily go out of their way to point you in the right direction if you’re lost.

Of course there were still some cultural quirks I had to adjust to – for one, eating times in Spain are very late in comparison with the rest of the world's dining schedules. I still remember my early days in Madrid when my belly would be in outright rebellion while waiting for “early” dinner reservations at 9pm. And forget about making a speedy exit from social gatherings; in Spain saying farewell could take up another hour of your time.

Cultural idiosyncrasies aside, your trip to this incredible country can be your most memorable one yet if you plan well ahead, and follow these useful travel tips.

1. Pack warm clothes. Really.

There is a humorous Spanish expression that goes, “Hasta cuarenta de mayo, no te quites el sayo” , which translates to “Until the 40th of May, don’t remove your coat” – sage advice to keep a jacket handy until mid-June. While Spain may be famous for its blue skies and sun-drenched beaches, it actually has more colder seasons in the year than warm ones, during early spring (March to May), autumn (September to November) and winter (December to February). Regions in northern Spain, such as the Basque Country, Asturias and Galicia, have cooler temperatures compared to the rest of the country. 

2. Being cashless is common

Card is king in Spain. The main tourist hubs such as Madrid, Barcelona , San Sebastián and Ibiza are generally credit card-friendly destinations. In fact, you could go cashless for days and pay for your meals, drinks, taxis and bus fares without a problem using a credit or debit card.

If you do bring cash, make sure you have loose change. Several establishments, bus and taxi drivers, especially on morning shifts, usually do not have change for bigger bills. So if you prefer paying cash, it’s a good idea to be stocked up on smaller bills (€5 and €10) and coins.

3. Choose your time to visit Madrid wisely

Think twice about visiting Madrid in August . Most establishments in the Spanish capital close, and Madrileños usually head for the beaches to escape the brutal August heat . 

4. Expect to eat late

Prepare for late Spanish dining times. Many tourists who come to Spain for the first time end up hungry while waiting for restaurants to open. Most restaurants open for lunch from 1pm to 4pm, and dinner from 8pm to 1am. A lot of establishments also close on Mondays. You can stave off hunger pangs before mealtimes by snacking on tapas – small savory plates that are usually free with a drink order in many Spanish cities. In San Sebastián or Bilbao in the Basque Country , you can savor pintxos , or bite-sized portions typically served on a slice of bread and skewered with a toothpick.

5. Ordering certain drinks will immediately mark you as a tourist

A popular drink among tourists, sangría is usually served in pitchers meant for sharing, and not by the glass. Instead, try ordering a local favorite that’s similar to sangría, tinto de verano , a concoction of red wine and lemon soda. 

Ask for a caña  like a local instead of a cerveza . A caña  is a small glass of beer on tap (about 250ml).

6. Tipping is not expected

European countries in general don’t have a tipping culture. But of course, it is very much appreciated – especially if you enjoyed good service. 

7. Don't eat food while you’re on the move

Eating is an age-old pleasure that must be savored unhurriedly, so it’s uncommon to see Spaniards biting sandwiches or munching on fries while walking down the street or riding public transportation. 

8. Look for fixed-price lunches

Order the menú del día (daily menu) for lunch on weekdays. Take your cue from the locals and ask for the fixed-price menu (ranging from €8 to €17) that includes a three-course meal with dessert, drinks, bread and coffee.

9. Eat late, stay late

Make time for sobremesa  – lingering long after a meal for a post-dining conversation. This is a hallmark of sociable Spanish culture, to extend conversations well beyond mealtimes to be able to enjoy each other’s company for as long as possible, usually over drinks.

10. Keep an eye on your belongings

Be vigilant of pickpockets and keep your belongings close. Pickpockets are unfortunately rampant in high tourist traffic areas. If you’re sitting at an outdoor table, watch out for vendors that get suspiciously close and distract you with their items for sale, such as flowers or lottery tickets, while they surreptitiously steal your wallet or mobile phone on the table (this is a modus operandi I’ve witnessed more than once!). 

11. You can drink tap water in Spain

Go ahead and drink the tap water. Spanish tap water or “agua de grifo” is safe to drink, though the taste varies across regions. 

12. There's one number for an emergency

Call 112 for any emergency. You can contact this number for any kind of emergency in Spain, even without a Spanish SIM card on your mobile phone. You’ll be connected to the right emergency service through multilingual operators. To contact the Spanish National Police, dial 091. 

 13. Dress appropriately when away from the beach

Opt for smart casual attire and avoid overly casual outfits like athleisure wear, beachwear, or excessively revealing clothing in the city. If you’re visiting religious sites such as churches, cathedrals or mosques, cover your shoulders and knees to show respect for these places.

14. Brush up on basic Spanish

Like any destination, it helps a lot if you know basic local phrases. While you can get by speaking English in the bigger, more touristy cities, it is a different story when visiting smaller, lesser-known towns outside the tourist radar. 

Don't say “no problemo”, which is incorrect. The correct phrase is “no hay problema” or more colloquially, say “no pasa nada” . 

15. Know what is considered polite

Greet people, even strangers. It’s commonplace to greet people in elevators, shops and along hallways. Compliment good service by saying “muy amable” . Meaning “very kind”, this is a commonly used polite phrase to express gratitude for someone’s helpfulness. It can be said in different situations – if a person has gone out of their way to assist you, like giving you directions, holding a door or giving up their seat for you. You can also say this to show your appreciation for customer service that goes above and beyond.

16. Don’t leave a social gathering without saying goodbye

It is generally frowned upon to leave an occasion without letting your host know. However, be prepared for a long, drawn out goodbye – the Spanish are highly sociable people who like extending conversations, leading to lengthy, and often multiple stages of farewells. 

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Spain Travel Guide

Our detailed spain travel guide provides you with tips & personal advice on things to do, how to save money and everything else you need to plan your next trip to spain..

Spain is known for its friendly inhabitants, relaxed lifestyle, delicious cuisine, crazy all-night parties, and rich history.  

But did you know that it also has the second-largest number of UNESCO World Heritage sites after  Italy?

We have been visiting Spain almost yearly for the last 5 years and have fallen in love with its unforgettable beaches, cultural regions, historic cities, and wild nightlife.

From the world-class food culture of San Sebastian and Basque country to the stunning beaches of the Costa Del Sol, each region of Spain offers something different.

Spain is also one of the cheaper European countries so you know your dollar or Euro will stretch a little further.

This Spain travel guide will help you decide where to stay, find the best things to as well as offer budgeting tips an packing tips to make your next trip to Spain easier and more fun.

Popular City Guides

• Cities in Spain

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Spain

• Spanish Power : Voltage is 230 V 50Hz;  Plug C & F.
• Spanish currency:  The EURO and is around 1 Euro to 1.35 USD
• Most Spanish banks close in the afternoon,  all day Saturday during summer, and all day Sunday year-round.
• Value-added tax (VAT)  is charged on purchases, such as meals at restaurants, shopping expenses, and hotel accommodations. If you are a resident of a non-European Union country, you can get a refund of this tax in certain participating shops.  For more info on VAT refunds,  click here .

Things to See and Do in Spain

• Hike the Camino de Santiago:  One of the most popular hikes in the world that goes through Spain.
• Visit Gaudi in Barcelon a  – you cannot visit Barcelona without checking out some of its most interesting architecture designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi.
• Take a tour through the Santa Maria de Ripoll Monastery  – dating back to 888, this monastery is known as the birthplace of Catalunya (also known as Catalonia).
• Enjoy Calcots and Build a Castell in Catalonia  – spend an afternoon eating the most delectable foods of calcots before building a castell or a human pyramid
• Explore the Universe In Catalonia  – visit the Astronomy Park Montsec to gaze inquisitively into the unknown.
• Admire the Hanging Buildings in Cuenca  – Built on the side of a cliff these Casa Colgadas are just one reason why you should visit the beautiful town of Cuenca.

SpainTravel Guides

• The Hanging Houses of Cuenca – Casas Colgadas
• 26 of the Best Places to Visit in Barcelona
• Gaudi in Barcelona – 13 Must-See Architectural Wonders

Accommodation

Budget  – You can stay in hostels and other budget hotels for around $30 US a night in Spain.

These often include a continental breakfast, private rooms, and a TV.

Mid Range  – Mid-range hotels will cost you around $50 a night in Spain and may include a restaurant, airport transfers, and a private safe.

High End  – High-end hotels start at around $150 per night and may include a private balcony, pool, and lounge.

Check out our favorite booking platforms  Booking.com ,  Tripadvisor  and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation in Spain.

• Croquettes  – This is a typical dish found in many restaurants in Spain which often have cod or jam in them with béchamel sauce and covered with bread and fried. You can get them with cheese as well.
• Cured meats  – You can see cured meats like jamon (ham) or chorizo in most restaurants and bars.
• Gazpacho  – This soup is made with plenty of vegetables, including full-flavored tomatoes, and served chilled as an appetizer.

The Best Ways to Get Around Spain

Getting to spain:.

Flights:  There are many direct flights available from North America and other parts of Europe to Spain.

Barcelona International Airport and Madrid Barajas Airport are some of the popular airports you may fly into.

You can check for the best flights to Spain on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Buses : Busses are found all over Spain and you can get a bus ticket in major cities like Madrid starting at 3 €.

High Speed Trains:  If you want to cover a good distance in a short time the RENFE (the national rail line in Spain), has both high-speed trains and regular trains.

Depending on your budget and how much time you have it can be an economical way to get around.

Taxis / Uber : Taxis are found throughout Spain and start at 3.50 € for a base price.  

Car Rental:  You can rent a car for as low as 10 € per day for a compact car.

You can also compare  prices here .

When to go To Spain

The best time to visit Spain tends to be from September to November and March to May.

This is when you’ll find cheaper flights and hotels but still get great weather for going to the beach.

Where to Stay in Spain

• Hotel SB Diagonal Zero Hotel  – This Barcelona hotel offers family rooms, suites that have jacuzzis, and a pool with a view. It’s also located near a large shopping center and the coast.
• Artiem Madrid   – This Madrid hotel offers free Wi-Fi, soundproof rooms, and dry cleaning. There’s also a breakfast buffet and secured parking.
• El Rey Moro Hotel Boutique  – This Seville hotel is nearby to many tourist attractions and has a rooftop terrace that includes a hot tub. The hotel also has room service and living areas in the suites.

Spain Guides

• Beautiful Things to do in Andalusia, Spain
• 15 Free Things to do in Seville, Spain
• 10 Fun Things to do in Barcelona at Night

What to Pack for Spain

Packing  for Spain can be tricky depending on what parts of Spain that you will be visiting and the time of year.

The climate of Spain varies across the country from a subtropical climate in southern Spain (The Canary Islands) to an alpine climate found in the Pyrenees mountains.

Nonetheless, whatever you don’t have, you can always buy upon arrival!

• Camping gear  – if you plan on   camping in Spain , then make sure to bring chairs, a table, an adapter, and earplugs.
• Personal safety products  – Certain areas in popular Spanish cities are known for their  crafty pickpockets ; one of those infamous spots is Las Ramblas in Barcelona.
• Before leaving for your trip, make sure to pack some  personal safety products , like money belts and locks, so that you can keep your valuables safe on your trip
• Layers  – When traveling to different climates we highly recommend that you bring layers. Layering is the key to effortlessly transitioning from cold to hot climates or vice versa.
• See our Packing for Europe – Tips That Will Make Your Travel Life Easier

Spain Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Spain Travel Guide: Related Articles

Read all our articles about Spain Here.

Your Essential Guide: How to Rent a Car in Spain with Confidence

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Alhambra: Tips, Tricks and Must-Sees

Where to Stay in Barcelona This Year: Our Favorite Places And Neighbourhoods

What’s the best way to travel across Spain: a road trip or take the train?

Embarking on a road trip to travel across Spain is one of the most common ways to visit the country. But what’s best? The car or the train?

It all boils down to what you’d like to do during your trip.

Do you want to explore many different cities and other highlights that are not near major cities? Then, you’ll definitely want to make it a road trip.

But if your objective is just to see large cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville or Valencia, the train is a great way to go.

Depending on what you decide, have a look at A full guide on where to book your rental car online . A complete guide on train travel in Spain.

Table of Contents

You doubt between renting a car or taking the train. What’s best for you?

Well… It actually depends!

So to help you decide between taking the train and renting a car while you prepare your trip, here’s a list of variables you should consider:

• Geographical range. Trains are better if your itinerary covers a wide area. Americans, Canadians and Australians usually believe that Spain is a small country, which is true compared to this specific countries. And while Spain has an excellent road network, the train is a better option if you plan to travel across the country. This is particularly the case for an itinerary including Barcelona , Madrid and Seville .
• Rail coverage. Fortunately, train travel in Spain is extremely easy, comfortable and safe. There are more than 14,000 km (8,700 mi) of railways. Such a vast network serves almost every town in the country.
• Urban vs. rural. Do you plan to spend most of the time in big cities or do you prefer to explore off the beaten path little towns? The answer to this question will determine your final choice. A car is a pointless hassle in most Spanish cities, but it can be really helpful in the countryside where train communications are less frequent.
• Number of travelers. How many people are going to be traveling with you? As soon as you share it with more than 2 people, a rental car is 9 times out of 10 the cheapest option. And it’s a great option if you’re traveling on a budget. But do you math and take into account all the extra costs and fees that a rental car can imply.
• Luggage. Actually, it’s not really a matter of packing light or not. But if you’re traveling by car around Spain, you can basically fill the trunk with all kinds of stuff and luggage. On the contrary, traveling by train has its limits: Renfe, the Spanish railway operator, lets you carry up to 3 pieces of luggage that may not exceed 25 kg without any chance to buy extra baggage allowance. Other low cost train operators (e.g. Avlo, Ouigo, Irya) are even more restrictive.
• Kids. Car travel is more flexible, but trains give kids room to move around. Travel times will also be considerably lower so your patience won’t be challenged by their usual “when are we getting there?” question. In addition to this, did you know that children younger than 4 can travel by train around Spain for free?
• Energy and time. First of all, by taking the train you won’t get tired having to drive yourself. And, depending on where you’re going, the train can take you there much faster (e.g. the high-speed train from Madrid to Seville).

7 reasons for a road trip in Spain

Traveling across Spain by car is one of the most common ways to visit the country. Here you have 7 reasons why taking a road trip in Spain is an excellent idea.

1. Freedom to travel where and when you want

One of the great advantages of a road trip around Spain is having the flexibility and freedom to go at your own pace, as well as the ability to get off the main road to explore the lesser known towns. And you can stop whenever you need to.

So leave the highway behind, turn on Google Maps on your smartphone, and set it to a random town you saw on the screen map.

2. It’s easy to get off the beaten track

Over-tourism has raised its ugly head in Spain in recent years. Talk to anyone living in Barcelona or Seville and they will share a bittersweet tale. Tourism in Spain has been booming for decades, bringing much needed receipts to the country. But we’ve paid a hefty price.

Interestingly enough, not all of Spain has suffered in an equal measure. While the large cities and most beach destinations have had to accommodate ever increasing hordes of tourists, once you get away from the cities and head to the interior of both countries, you’ll find a territory waiting to be explored.

3. Distances are relatively short

Since the distances in Spain are relatively short compared to other countries (e.g. The US, Canada or Australia), exploring Spain by car is one of the best options to know the country.

On top of it, Spain’s roads and highways are in very good condition. In fact, if you choose alternative roads instead of highways, you’ll discover amazing villages and admire wonderful landscapes.

4. Spain is the perfect destination for a road trip

Since Spain’s economy is heavily dependent on tourism, you’ll find that even the smallest of towns provide information and services catering for all types of tourists.

Car parks and viewpoints along the roads are built wherever necessary. As for the accommodation and food industry, it goes without saying that they rank among the most professional in the world.

5. You’ll enjoy a mind blowing and diverse scenery

Spain is in many areas, a densely populated country. This means that the close proximity between locations, and the diverse landscapes, make a trip through Spain an adventure that has something for everyone.

Do you like the coast?

No road trip is complete without a trip to the coast to take in the beach, admire the rugged shoreline and sample the delectably fresh fish. Spain, whether you’re on the northern or southern coast, has miles upon miles of uninhabited scenery that you can explore thanks to a rental car.

On the contrary, do you prefer the mountain?

Having a car in Spain allows you to explore the mountains and find some amazing hiking trails. There are tons of scenic hikes that trail off from the foot of every mountain range that will leave you physically and mentally breathless.

6. It’s the best option to explore the islands

If you are planning to explore any of the beautiful islands off the coast of Spain, a rental car is the way to go. Public transportation is limited and very often will not take you to all the extraordinary places you will want to go.

Whether you head to the Balearic Islands or the Canary Islands, you should definitely consider a road trip.

Let the adventure begin!

7. Savor the experience of slow travel

When you have limited time to travel but much to see, your trip in Spain can feel a bit rushed. While short train trips mean you can cover more ground, you won’t have much time to truly experience any destination.

Traveling by car, on the other hand, lends itself to more meaningful experiences that are about the journey, not the destination.

With a car, you’ll enjoy a dynamic itinerary without rushing to catch a train, make a check-in time, or nail a photo. This will allow you to savor more, rather than rushing to check the next thing off your agenda.

If you prefer a scenic adventure, you can prioritize back roads over highways and see where they lead. Or, if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can set aside the map to discover some off-the-beaten path surprises.

Once you’re not racing against the clock, you can discover places you didn’t even know they existed.

This article is part of a complete tutorial about car rental in Spain where you can read all the information you need to organize your road trip around the country.

Here is a complete summary of all the guide:

1. What’s the best way to travel across Spain: a road trip or take the train? 2. Traveling to Spain by car 3. 10 epic Spain road trips 4. How to book your rental car online 5. How to find cheap car rental rates? 6. 8 Rental car tips & hacks for your Spain road trip 7. Do you need an International Driver’s Licence? 8. Getting around Spain: rental car 9. 6 tips for driving in Spain 10. Car parking in Spain

The Ultimate 10 Days in Spain Itinerary (+ Travel Tips)

If you’re planning your first trip to Spain and are hoping to sample a variety of what makes this sun-drenched country special, we designed this 10 day Spain itinerary for you!

Spain has had a special place in our hearts ever since we landed in Madrid for the first time when kicking off our supposed “6-month” round-the-world trip (that was almost 7 years ago, and that trip arguably never ended).

In the years since, we have been lucky enough to visit Spain so many times that we’ve lost count, exploring countless cathedrals, castles, alcabazas , beaches, and cities along the way.

We’ve explored the country via train, car, bus, and ferry, sampling iconic attractions and little-known villages alike, traveling both alone and with various groups of family and friends.

This itinerary for Spain in 10 days has been curated for first-time travelers based on our lived experiences in Spain, and we hope that you walk away loving this beautiful country as much as we do!

Here’s how to fall in love with Spain in 10 days.

Table of Contents

How We Structured This 10 Day Spain Itinerary

Getting around during your 10 days in spain, the ultimate 10 days in spain itinerary, the best time of year to enjoy this itinerary for spain, more than 10 days in spain, what to pack for your trip to spain, your 10 day spain itinerary map.

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We structured this 10 day Spain itinerary to cover many of the country’s most popular destinations in a “U” shape, beginning in Madrid and ending in Barcelona.

In addition to the ever-popular Madrid and Barcelona, this itinerary also loops through Toledo, Seville, Granada, and Cordoba in a quest to sample a variety of what makes traveling in Spain special.

With the help of the high-speed train between Madrid and Barcelona , you can easily enjoy this trip by either flying round-trip to and from Madrid, or booking an open-jaw ticket where you fly into Madrid and leave from Barcelona.

And, while we opted to start this itinerary for Spain in the capital, you can easily reverse it and start in Barcelona instead, if the flights work out better that way!

Since this 10 days in Spain itinerary is focused on cities, there’s no need to rent a car or drive on this route!

The simplest (and most fun) way to travel between each destination on this itinerary is via train.

For most places, you’ll have the choice of a high-speed train (more expensive but much faster), or a slower regional train.

We recommend comparing train schedules and prices via Omio , the service we use to book many trains around Europe.

Spain’s high-speed AVE trains, like many high-speed trains around Europe, use dynamic pricing–in other words, you should lock down your fares as soon as you can commit to dates!

Once you’re in a given destination, each city is walkable (with the help of public transportation and/or cab rides in certain places).

Shop train tickets for your trip to Spain today!

Day 1: Arrive in Madrid and start sightseeing.

There’s nowhere better to kick off your 10 days in Spain that in the vibrant capital city of Madrid!

Often underestimated compared to popular Barcelona, Madrid is beautiful, endlessly interesting, and pulsates with life from every corner.

It’s one of our favorite cities in Europe to fantasize about living in, and who knows–one day we might just make it happen.

On your first day in the city, tour the (gigantic, opulent) Royal Palace , check out the cathedral, meander through Plaza Mayor, and stop by the Templo de Debod.

And, of course, your first day in Spain can’t be complete without tapas!

Head to Mercado San Miguel for endless options, or opt for this popular tapas tour to learn the ins and outs of this tradition (knowledge that will be very useful for the rest of your time in Spain).

Book your Madrid tapas tour today!

Where to Stay in Madrid

Hostal Adis  — Located just off Puerta del Sol and boasting excellent reviews, you couldn’t ask for a better location in Madrid–and at a budget price, too!

Hostal Adis is an excellent property for budget travelers looking for an excellent location and plenty of privacy–rather than being a traditional hostel, Hostal Adis is more like a budget hotel.

Check rates & book your stay at Hostal Adis today!

Hotel Regina  — Featuring plush beds, spacious rooms, excellent customer service, and a perfect location near Puerta del Sol, mid-range travelers can’t go wrong with a stay at the popular Hotel Regina.

If you’re feeling like a bit of a splurge, upgrade to a room with a panoramic view for an experience you won’t forget anytime soon!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Regina today!

Catalonia Las Cortes  — Simultaneously sleek and cozy, modern and traditional, Catalonia Las Cortes is housed in an 18-century building in the heart of Madrid and has blended together all the best of classic atmosphere and modern convenience.

We’ve stayed at a few Catalonia hotels over the years and have always been impressed.

An excellent location near Puerta del Sol, rave reviews and beautiful rooms make Catalonia Las Cortes the perfect luxury hotel choice for those looking for a blend of traditional and modern during their 3 days in Madrid!

Check rates & book your stay at Catalonia Las Cortes today!

Day 2: Enjoy a second day in Madrid.

The second day of this itinerary for Spain opens with one of the most memorable art museums in the country: Spain’s National Art Museum, the Prado.

Packed with masterpieces (primarily Spanish, but also from across Europe), the Prado is one of those museums that we never get tired of.

Skip-the-line tickets are a great idea here, but for the most context (and efficient sightseeing), consider taking a tour in order to make sure you see the best of Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, and beyond!

Book tickets to visit the Prado today!

Once you’re ready to move on, head to the delightful Retiro Park.

With gardens to explore, rowboats to rent, statues to admire, lawns to lounge on, and even the Palacio de Cristal to enjoy, Retiro Park is a wonderful place to relax.

Eventually, make your way to the exit by the Puerta de Alcalá and head up Gran Vía to check out some of Madrid’s most famous architecture!

This shopping street is where you’ll find the iconic Metropolis Building (the rooftop bar and restaurant on top of the Círculo de Bellas Artes has an amazing view of it!), as well as the Cybele Palace.

Branch off to explore the Puerta del Sol and lively La Latina neighborhood in the afternoon and evening!

Don’t wrap up your last (full) day in Madrid without at least one round of churros con chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés , either.

Day 3: Take a day trip to Toledo.

Today, it’s time to leave the capital behind and take a day trip to the beautiful medieval city of Toledo.

Set about 35 minutes away from Madrid by high-speed train (or about an hour by bus or car), beautiful Toledo is easily one of the best day trips from Madrid.

Surrounded on 3 sides by the Tagus River, Toledo is as charming to look at as it is historically relevant.

The city once briefly served as the capital of Spain, and was even an independent kingdom at one point!

Some of the best things to do in Toledo include visiting the magnificent Toledo Cathedral, touring the Alcázar, stepping inside the Monastery of San Juan de Los Reyes, and meandering through the city’s charming streets.

Don’t miss the viewpoints of the town from across the river, either!

You can easily take the high-speed train to Toledo yourself for the day, but if you prefer the context of a tour (and/or want the easiest access to the viewpoints from across the river), this popular day trip is also an excellent option.

Book your day trip to Toledo today!

Day 4: Head south to Seville.

Sunshine, sour orange trees, flamenco, and some of the most fascinating architecture in Europe await in the next part of this Spain itinerary: welcome to Andalucia.

This is one of our favorite regions in Spain, and it always seems to keep drawing us back.

A roughly 2.5-hour high-speed train journey will deliver you from Madrid to Seville, the capital of the Andalucia region and an excellent jumping-off point for your explorations.

We recommend taking an early train down from Madrid, dropping off your luggage at your hotel (most are happy to hold it until check-in for you), and starting your sightseeing.

Today, be sure to check out the stunning Seville Cathedral , climb to the top of the Giralda (bell tower) for beautiful views of the city, wander through the famous Plaza de Espana, and explore the delightful neighborhood of Barrio Santa Cruz.

The Royal Alcazar of Seville is stunning, and also one of the best attractions in town–but we’d only recommend visiting today if you’re a really big architecture fan.

As amazing as the Alcazar is (and it is, truly), it’s somewhat overshadowed by the Alhambra, which you’ll see in another couple of days when following this 10 day Spain itinerary.

On the other hand, if you’re interested in adding a flamenco show to your Spain itinerary, Seville is the place to do it.

Andalucia is widely considered the birthplace of flamenco (though the specific origins are debated), and a flamenco show like this is a wonderful way to close out your evening.

Book your flamenco show in Seville today!

Where to Stay in Seville

When deciding where to stay in Seville, location is key as ideally, you’ll want to stay within walking distance of Seville’s best attractions.

We had a fantastic experience at  Petit Palace Puerta de Triana  on our most recent trip to Seville.

The hotel  has a fantastic location (central but also quiet–a far-from-guaranteed combination in Spain), a delicious breakfast, and comfortable rooms.

Looking for something a bit different?

The incredibly popular  Hotel Rey Alfonso X  is an excellent choice, and its rooftop views are sublime!

If you’d like to stick to more of a budget,  Hotel America Sevilla  gets wonderful reviews and doesn’t sacrifice too much in terms of location.

Meanwhile, for the height of luxury, you can’t beat the absolutely stunning  Hotel Alfonso XIII !

Check rates & book your stay in Seville today!

Day 5: Take a half-day trip to Cordoba.

Less than an hour from Seville by train or car, you’ll find the captivating Andalucian city of Cordoba–which happens to be one of our favorite places in the region!

Once the most powerful city in Islamic Spain, the Cordoba of today is small and manageable, a bite-size tourism destination that nonetheless leaves a big impact on visitors.

Cordoba is most famous for its incredible Mosque-Cathedral –literally a former mosque with a cathedral built into its center–which is one of the most memorable buildings we’ve had a chance to visit anywhere.

The Mosque-Cathedral should absolutely be your top priority when visiting Cordoba, but beyond that, there’s still plenty to see within a short walk!

Snapping photos of the picturesque Calleja de las Flores, relaxing in the Patio de los Naranjos, wandering through the Jewish Quarter, and checking out some of the beautiful patios of Cordoba should also be on your to-do list.

After seeing the best of Cordoba, you have two options for the rest of your day: first, you could enjoy another evening in Seville.

Or, if you’d rather make today particularly busy in favor of having more time for sightseeing tomorrow, you could head onto Granada.

Granada, home to the Alhambra, is about 3 hours from Seville by train or car and is your destination for tomorrow.

You could opt to continue sleeping in Seville and take a long day trip there on day 6, or, if you’re open to packing and unpacking an extra time, you could sleep in Granada starting tonight to give yourself more time in the city.

Personally, we love Granada and would recommend spending extra time there, but both options are compatible with this Spain itinerary.

Where to Stay in Granada

When spending a few days in Granada, we opted to rent an apartment from  Mosaiko Homes and could not have had a better experience: the owner was responsive, the apartment fantastic, and the location unbeatable!

Mosaiko Homes  is located on a quiet street a short walk from many of Granada’s top sights, offering the combination of a convenient location and a lack of noise at night–two things that can be difficult to find together in Andalucia!

Another excellent option with near-perfect reviews is the incredibly unique  Casa de Reyes  (that decor!).

For a bit of luxury, the popular  Shine Albayzin  is not only housed in a 16th-century palace, it overlooks  the Alhambra .

Generally speaking, lodging in Granada is much more affordable than in, say, Barcelona or even Seville.

If you’re going to splurge on a luxury property during your 10 days in Spain, Granada is a fantastic place to do so!

Check rates & book your stay in Granada!

Day 6: Explore Granada and tour the Alhambra.

Whether you’re visiting on a day trip from Seville or spending the whole day in Granada (we recommend the second, but the first is doable too), there is one major item on the agenda today: the Alhambra.

This collection of centuries-old palaces (plus a fort, gardens, ruins of a medina, and more), is one of the most unique groupings of architecture in Europe, and the most-visited tourist attraction in Spain!

We wrote about visiting the Alhambra extensively here , so I’ll try to keep this (kind of) brief, but the long and the short of it is that this is a place you need to plan ahead for.

Tickets often sell out, and a tour is a great idea here if you like historical context ( we enjoyed this one ).

If you’re visiting from Seville, we recommend booking a day trip , because 3 hours of transit each way plus navigating to and from the complex is a headache in a short time frame (we rarely suggest taking day trips this long, but the Alhambra is worth it).

However you decide to visit, make sure that you book a ticket or tour that includes the Nasrid Palaces!

These magnificent palaces, the final stronghold of Islamic Al-Andalus before the Reconquista was officially completed by the Catholics in 1492, are the jewel of the Alhambra and an absolute must-visit.

Not all tours and tickets include them, though, so book yours carefully .

Once you wrap up at the Alhambra, if you’re staying in Granada, be sure to wander through the Albayzin neighborhood, admire the views of the Alhambra from a distance at the beautiful Mirador de San Nicolas, and visit the beautiful Granada Cathedral.

Granada is also a fantastic place to enjoy Spain’s tapas culture, so be sure to indulge in some snacks along with a tinto verano .

Day 7: Head north to Barcelona.

Today, say goodbye to Andalucia and head north to Barcelona!

This is the longest travel day included on this 10 days in Spain itinerary, and you can expect to spend 6+ hours on a train from Granada to Barcelona.

We recommend booking this trip at least a few weeks in advance, as you’ll want a choice of schedules and to get the best price possible.

If you’re on a budget, you can price out flights too, but traveling by train is much more fun!

Once you arrive in Barcelona, you can check into your hotel, get unpacked, and start exploring.

Meander through the Gothic Quarter, check out the Barcelona Cathedral, sample the Santa Caterina Market, stroll down Las Ramblas, and soak up the beauty of Plaça Reial.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

When deciding where to stay in Barcelona, it’s important to keep in mind that this sprawling city requires some effort to move around–there’s no way to stay near all the best things to see in Barcelona, but it’s best to stay by some of them!

We checked into Citadines Ramblas Barcelona and were extremely satisfied–to the point that we may just keep going back on additional trips.

Our room was spacious, complete with a kitchenette, and extremely quiet despite the hotel being located in a prime spot right along Las Ramblas.

The view of the Barcelona Cathedral from the rooftop deck of the Colón Hotel Barcelona is pretty incredible too, though, and we have it bookmarked for a possible future trip.

If you’re traveling on a bit more of a budget, Hotel Nouvel also gets excellent reviews and is in a wonderful location.

Check rates & book your stay in Barcelona today!

Day 8: Explore Barcelona’s unique architecture.

On your first full day in Barcelona, start with a visit to either Casa Milà or Casa Batlló , two of the most famous homes designed by Gaudi!

They’re fairly close together, but with only a couple of days left in Spain, we recommend only going inside one and seeing the other from the outside.

You’ll also want to get an early start–personally, we recommend pre-booking tickets for Casa Batlló when it opens).

From there, explore any nooks and crannies of the Gothic Quarter you didn’t get to see yesterday, including Catalunya Plaza and Mercado de la Boqueria.

If you’re excited about all of Barcelona’s Catalan modernism architecture, we can also heartily recommend a visit to Palau de la Música Catalana .

Though not designed by Gaudi, it’s an amazing (and compared to much of Barcelona, uncrowded) example of the style and a memorable place to visit!

Barcelona’s Arc de Triomf is also only a 10-minute walk away.

From there, you’ll be about a 25-minute walk from Barcelona’s beaches and bustling coastline.

Day 9: Dive deeper into Barcelona (and possibly take a day trip).

With its long list of incredible attractions, it would be very easy to spend the penultimate day of your Spain vacation exploring the city in-depth–but another option would be to add on a trip to the monastery of Monserrat.

This mountain retreat away from the city is known for its incredible views, and a half-day trip there is a wonderful way to get a taste of Catalonia beyond Barcelona itself.

However, staying in the city also has its charms: the views from Park Güell  and/or Tibidabo, the incredible Picasso Museum (which holds over 4,000 of the artist’s works), and a visit to Camp Nou are possible additions to your list.

And, of course, we can’t forget the Sagrada Familia : Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece of a cathedral is an absolute must-see when visiting Barcelona!

We visited in the early evening after hearing that the interior’s light was at its best then, and we were not disappointed–the colors were phenomenal.

If you wrap up at the Sagrada Familia before sunset and would like to enjoy the Mediterranean while in Barcelona, consider wrapping up your evening with a sunset catamaran cruise .

Book skip-the-line tickets to visit the Sagrada Familia today!

Day 10: (Maybe) head back to Madrid and say goodbye to Spain.

How the final day of this itinerary for Spain works for you depends on one factor: whether you’re flying home from Madrid or Barcelona.

If you’re taking an evening flight home from Madrid, you’ll need to take the high-speed train back to the capital (we highly recommend booking this in advance ).

If you’re leaving from Barcelona, you may have time for one more round of pan con tomate enjoyed while admiring the bustling of the city before you catch your flight!

However you close out your 10 days in Spain, we hope you say goodbye already dreaming of your trip back.

Shop train tickets from Barcelona to Madrid today!

Spain is the definition of a year-round destination, and that includes this Spain itinerary!

That being said, though, if you have flexible dates and are trying to pinpoint the ideal time to travel Spain, we recommend enjoying this itinerary in the spring or fall.

Summer in Spain, especially in Andalucia, can be brutally hot (we shudder to think of visiting the Alhambra at noon in July).

Winter is perfectly doable, but the weather can be rainy and less predictable than in spring or summer.

On the plus side for winter, though, you’ll experience few crowds, low prices, and still have a decent chance at soaking up some Spanish sun, albeit with a jacket at hand.

The sweet spot for this 10 day Spain itinerary, though, which travels a decent chunk of the country and therefore needs to take multiple climates into account, is the spring and fall.

We have visited Spain in every season, and while each trip was a delight, we have a special place in our hearts for our spring and fall visits!

Lucky enough to have longer than 10 days in Spain? If so, congratulations!

Our first recommendation with a couple of extra days to add to your Spain itinerary is to slow down: every destination covered in this travel guide could easily use another day or two at least.

While it’s doable to travel Spain at a breakneck pace for a week and a half, the longer you’re there, the slower you’ll want to travel.

Alternatively, if you want to keep the speed going, you could add on another day trip: visit Girona from Barcelona, Segovia from Madrid, or Ronda from Seville, for example.

If you have closer to 2 weeks in Spain, consider adding Basque country to your itinerary!

San Sebastián, Bilbao, Vitoria-Gasteiz, and beyond makes for a wonderful extension to round out a couple of weeks in Spain.

Alternatively, you could opt to extend the Andalucia portion of your trip to include a couple of days on the Costa del Sol.

With near-limitless ways to enjoy a Spain vacation, it’s safe to say that wherever you head, you’re bound to have a wonderful trip.

Our detailed packing lists for Europe in summer , fall , and winter cover just about everything you’ll need to bring on your 10 day Spain vacation!

To get you started on your list, though, here are a few essentials to add to your packing list:

Travel Adaptors for Spain — If you’re coming from outside of mainland Europe, you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics. 

Camera  — We completely adore our  Sony a7R III , but whatever camera you’re comfortable with works–just make sure you have something with you to preserve your memories! 

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use   Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable.

Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

Sunglasses  — They’re not kidding about the Spanish sun! I find myself reaching for sunglasses regularly even when visiting Spain in winter.

Portable USB Charger  — Don’t stress about your phone dying while you’re sightseeing in Spain: bring a USB charger along for the ride.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

63 thoughts on “The Ultimate 10 Days in Spain Itinerary (+ Travel Tips)”

Great overview and suggestions, Kate!

Any suggestions you can offer for an afternoon of wine tasting along the journey?

Thanks, Rob!

We haven’t done a lot of dedicated wine tourism in Spain, though of course, the local wines are delicious. You’ll be near wine regions in each stop, though, so can easily opt for a half-day wine tasting outside the city somewhere.

Alternatively, every city has more excellent wine bars and wine shops than you can count!

Amazing!! Thank you so much for all of this!!

Kate quick question if I may bother you for a bit.

I went through everything you wrote and I calculate maybe about $5,000 would cover the hotel, train and eating expenses between cities for a family of three (My husband and I and our baby girl, toddler) This does not count the air flight ✈️ to Spain.

We were thinking of visiting ending of May or Beginning of June.

Does this sound about reasonable amount to take ??

$5000 (USD, I’m assuming) is very doable, especially if you’re conscious of your budget when booking hotels! I’d recommend booking your train tickets in advance too, as those can be pricier at the last minute.

Generally speaking, Barcelona will be the most expensive stop on this itinerary and Andalucia the most affordable.

Thank you so much!

Thank you so much for creating this! This is extremely helpful and I appreciate all your tips. I am going to Spain in the middle of Semana Santa, but flying into Barcelona and departing from Madrid. I would love to visit the cities you mentioned, but this is the current itinerary I have going. Do you think that this is doable?

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN BARCELONA DAY 2 – BARCELONA DAY 3 – BARCELONA Easter DAY 4 – Fly to GRANADA DAY 5 – GRANADA (Alhambra visit) DAY 6 – SEVILLE DAY 7 – SEVILLE (day trip to Cordoba) DAY 8 – SEVILLE DAY 9 – MADRID DAY 10 – MADRID DAY 11 – Fly home

Yes, that sounds like a very reasonable itinerary! You’ll have a great time.

I’d definitely have some food/snacks with you as you’re traveling on Easter Sunday, as you’ll no doubt run into lots of closures.

The week of Easter is also VERY busy in Spain (and in much of Europe), so expect higher-than-usual prices and crowds. I’d recommend booking your hotels ASAP and Alhambra visit ASAP!

I love your site and this itinerary for Spain. We’re spending about 12 days in Spain in early April (unfortunately also over Easter, like Chloe in the message above), and using your itinerary as our template, we want to add a day or two in Gibraltar & Tangier. Have you done this? Too ambitious to add to the itinerary? It would look something like this:

1 – Arrive in BARCELONA 2 – BARCELONA 3 – Fly to GRANADA 4 – GRANADA (Alhambra visit) 5 – GIBRALTAR 6 – TANGIER 7 – SEVILLE 8 – MADRID 9 – MADRID (Toledo) 10 (Easter) MADRID 11 – Back to BARCELONA 12 – Fly home

That is a very packed schedule, but I do get the temptation of adding on a quick day in Morocco (and the UK, in a manner of speaking).

If you want to add on Gibraltar and Tangier, I’d consider trimming a different destination to give yourselves more breathing room, as that’s a tough pace to keep up for 12 days (though doable, if you are dedicated to seeing every last place).

Seville is a gorgeous city, but taking it off your itinerary would give you another day to work with, which you could then add to Granada or Gibraltar, since you’ll really only have an afternoon and evening there.

If you really want to see Gibraltar, of course it’s worth seeing, but if it’s more or less just a stop on the way to Tangier, you could also look at Tarifa, a beautiful Spanish beach city (no passport control) that you can access Morocco from (I believe the ferry is slightly shorter from there, too–we’ve taken that one ourselves).

Alternatively, the high-speed trains do run on Easter, so if that day is more or less just a holding day on your calendar (since the Madrid sites will be closed), you could travel back to Barcelona then, which would give you day 11 back to see a bit more of that city.

Any high-speed trains you do opt for, though, I’d book ASAP. It’s often a mad rush for trains over Easter with people traveling for the holiday.

Thanks Kate. After doing some more reading and research, we’re going to bypass Tangier. Instead, we’ll use that time to explore the towns between Granada and Seville (Thinking Nerja and Ronda) by car. Have you rented a car and driven in southern Spain? Any issues we should know about or is it a pretty standard car rental experience?

Gracias! Chris

We’ve driven in southern Spain many times(including Granada, Seville, Ronda), but generally by renting cars in Portugal and then driving them over.

It’s a pretty standard European driving experience, though–parking outside of historic centers and walking in, etc. If you’re a confident driver I wouldn’t be worried. The driving is also stunning–plenty of chances to enjoy gorgeous views along the way!

There is no condensed itinerary on this page

Here you go, Sarah. 🙂

Day 1: Arrive Madrid Day 2: Madrid Day 3: Day Trip to Toledo From Madrid Day 4: Travel to Seville Day 5: Half- Day in Cordoba Day 6: Granada and the Alhambra Day 7: Travel to Barcelona Day 8: Barcelona Day 9: More Barcelona or Day Trip Day 10: Travel Home

This is a GREAT article. I’m going to follow your itinerary. I’d also like to visit San Sebastián and Cadiz. Could you recommend a way to incorporate these into your itinerary? Thank you!

So glad you found our post helpful!

There’s not an incredibly efficient way to add San Sebastian to this itinerary, as it’s several hours out of the way regardless of where you add it on. It is a gorgeous city, though!

Your best bets would probably be either visiting after Madrid and then flying to Andalucia from San Sebastian, or visiting after Barcelona (especially if you’re flying out of Madrid) and then taking the train back to Madrid to head home.

Of course if you find a good flight to or from San Sebastian you could use it as a starting or ending point, but Madrid and Barcelona tend to have the best deals for transcontinental flights (assuming you’re not coming to/from Europe).

Cadiz is much easier to add on–it’s just an hour or so south of Seville by car, so you can easily add it to your Andalucia leg. Some people even visit it as a day trip from Seville.

Hi! Your trips look amazing! Wondering if you could offer advice. I have 10 days to plan. In my head I will be able to see Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, a beach town, Lisbon or some location in Portugal, and Morocco. As I’m researching, this looks like it might be impossible. Knowing my family would like to hit all 3 countries, what would you offer as a reasonable way to spend these days without feeling crazy and traveling constantly. It is myself, my husband, and kids age 13 & 17 who travel very well. Thanks for any help!

You know, I actually have it on my list of future blog posts to write some sample itineraries combining Spain and Portugal. Thanks for the reminder!

If you want to see all 3 countries in 10 days, the most realistic way is to do it via a sampler platter style, meaning 1-2 base destinations in each of Spain and Portugal, depending on whether you want to take a day trip to Tangier or you plan to spend a few days in Morocco.

One option could be 3 days in Lisbon (with a possible day trip), 3 days in Seville (with day trips further afield–possibly Granda/the Alhambra and Cordoba), 2 days in Tarfia (pretty Spanish beach town with ferries to Tangier), and then a couple days in Tangier. But that’s already pushing it as far as what you can fit in!

Keep in mind that unfortunately, Spain and Portugal are not very well-connected to each other by rail. When you’re short on time, your best options will be renting a car and driving across the border (in the south/if you want to go to the Algarve) or flying (between major cities).

Hi, Thank you for this great itinerary! My husband and I are planning a trip on similar lines this year and I had a few questions I was wondering you could advice us on: 1. Is early September a good time to visit? Would August be too hot?! 2. Is one day in Granada enough? I have heard that Alhambra itself can take quite a while and hence was wondering if one day would be too tight a squeeze 3. Between Barcelona and Madrid, if you had to suggest one for first time travellers, which would you recommend?!

Hi Rushali,

Of course, happy to help!

Early September is definitely preferable to August. It’ll still be warm, especially in Andalucia, but it’ll be much less crowded. It often feels like all of Europe heads to the beaches or mountains in August and then promptly goes home by September 1–so September will be much more pleasant from that angle.

One day being enough in Granada is all dependent on how much else you want to do! In a perfect world, I’d love to rent an apartment in Granada for a few months and take advantage of all the food and nearby hiking. 🙂

But for the purposes of a short trip, one day is enough to see the Alhambra (it will take up the bulk of your day) and then do a quick pass through the rest of town, hopefully prioritizing the Albayzin neighborhood, the Mirador de San Nicholas, and tapas.

If you’re able to add on a second day (or even half day, like I laid out as an option above), you won’t be sorry, though.

Barcelona vs Madrid… that’s an intense debate! Personally, we prefer Madrid, but we’re in the minority. Barcelona is wildly popular (deservedly so!) and has the beach, more outlandish architecture, and a more fast-paced vibe.

Madrid is arguably more elegant, with world-class museums, and is a bit cheaper.

Both are incredible–if you are struggling to decide, I’d make a list of the top 3-4 things you want to see in each city and see which ones pull to you more.

Hope you guys have a wonderful time!

Hi Kate, Would you recommend activities like River Rafting, Hot Springs, Walk in the wild while in Spain? We are planning a trip during early May

If they’re priorities for you and you have time, absolutely! Andalucia in particular has great options for all of those. You might want to look into extending your time in Granada if you want to get outdoors during your trip.

Hi! My husband and I are going on a 10 day trip starting in Barcelona. We go to Mallorca then Seville. Were having a hard time deciding if we want to end in Madrid or Lisbon, any recommendation?

Hi Samantha,

That’s a hard call, as they’re both wonderful but very different!

Very generally speaking, I’d say that Madrid is best if you’re looking for museums, the royal palace, and a chance to travel overland from Seville (it’s an easy train ride).

Lisbon is best for views, being near the coast (you can easily take a day trip to Sintra, Cascais, or both), and the chance to sample another country during your trip. There’s no train service from Seville, you’ll need to fly, drive, or take a bus.

Both offer popular food options, but Lisbon has a bit more of a seafood focus while Madrid tends toward pork.

This is all very general, but I hope it helps a bit!

If you haven’t seen them, our guides to spending a few days in each city will give you a feel for them:

Madrid: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/3-days-in-madrid-itinerary/ Lisbon: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/3-days-in-lisbon-itinerary/

Good luck deciding! 🙂

Hi Kate! Would recommend Lisbon or Madrid if we can only go to one on our trip? Were going to Barcelona, Mallorca and Seville before.

Hi Kate! Thank you for this great itinerary. My husband and I are planning to visit Spain this September (finally will be going on our honeymoon!). We are thinking of being out there for about 10-12 days. I have two questions that I would love your insight on. First, considering we may have extra days, any suggestions on which cities we should extend our stay at? We love wine, great food, and the outdoors. Second, what, if any, restrictions are still in place due to COVID that we should keep in mind? Thank you in advance for your help!

Congratulations on your marriage!

Honestly, any of these cities are worthy of spending more time in, but if I absolutely had to pick, I’d recommend Granada (because your time there is really compressed in the original 10-day itinerary and there’s lots of great hiking just outside of town) or Barcelona (the most popular day trips include the Penedes Wine Region and the beautiful small towns along the Costa Brava–a different kind of nature to appreciate).

I could make a case for any of them, though!

As far as COVID, there aren’t any current restrictions that are likely to impact your trip. I believe masks are still required in pharmacies and hospitals, but that’s about it.

Hope you guys have a fantastic honeymoon!

Hi! Thanks so much for this super helpful blog.. I have a question about transportation. We are a group of 3 ladies arrving from US to Madrid in the afternoon and would like to start our trip in Barcelona and end in Madrid for return flight. I think we will travel via train same day to Barcelona but my concern is luggage. Do you know if trains allow for larger suitcases or will we be met with bag costs?

Thanks so much for any advice!

You can take your luggage onto the train without issue! European trains are much more flexible with bags than any plane is, you’ll even see people bringing sporting equipment and such onboard, depending on the place.

We have many more tips on what to expect on trains here: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/travel-europe-by-train/

Have a great trip!

Hi Kate! I am planning a two-week trip to Spain for my husband and me for next spring. (Your 10-day Spain itinerary has been super helpful!) So far, I am generally following that itinerary with a few extra nights in some places (we have 3 nights in Madrid with a day trip to Toledo, 3 nights in Seville with a day trip to Cordoba, 2 nights in Granada, and 4 nights in Barcelona with a day trip to Girona). My question is, if we still have 2 more nights we can add on somewhere, would you recommend renting a car and seeing some of the White Hill Towns of Spain (with 2 nights in Ronda), or using the Lisbon stopover program and spending those 2 nights in Lisbon (with a day trip to Sintra)? I can’t decide between the two! Any thoughts or suggestions you have would be great! Thanks!!

Definitely a very hard decision! And unfortunately, there’s no right answer.

I’d opt for the hill towns if you’re looking for more peace and quiet with a side of nature, and Lisbon if you’re looking for a city break and palaces (in Sintra). The hill towns are gorgeous but aren’t as heavy on sightseeing as a capital city is.

Lisbon definitely adds more variety to your trip, so I’m inclined to lean that way (the stopover program is very convenient, we used it ourselves several years back), but if hill towns definitely make for a more relaxing trip since you’ll be spending a full week in Andalucia that way.

Hope that helps a bit, but I’m afraid there’s no clear winner or loser here!

I think we are going to spend a few days in Lisbon! Thank you!! 🙂

Hi, how would you recommend adding Ibiza to this itinerary in a 2 week trip?

Hi Rebecca,

Assuming you’re trying to fit everything within 14 days, the only realistic way to do so would be to trim another destination or two. Personally, I’d recommend visiting either Madrid or Barcelona (whichever appeals to you more/has better flight options for you), then Ibiza by plane, then fly to Andalucia from there.

You can take the ferry to Ibiza as well, but I’d recommend looking into an overnight route so you don’t lose one of your days to traveling there.

If you have longer than 14 days and want to add Ibiza as an addition, I’d probably leave from Barcelona and then fly to Andalucia afterward.

Hi Kate, we will be visiting friends who live in Madrid in later March-early April of 2023 (exact dates still TBD). We’re spending a week 3/23-3/31 with them at a rental house in Benimeli, but will likely travel around on our own for another week or two on our own. Your itinerary sounds lovely. Can I ask why you don’t include Valencia? My sister studied there in college and loved it.

For the same reason we didn’t include Basque Country, Mallorca, Galicia, and many more… simply time! Can’t see it all in 10 days, as lovely as that would be, so we focused on the destinations that tend to be a priority for first-time visitors.

Valencia is a beautiful city, though, and would definitely allow you to trim the budget a bit if you swapped it for Barcelona. 🙂

Hi Kate! This is SO helpful!

I’m planning a trip for December, which will be winter and on Christmas Eve/Day. Do you have advice or tips for travelling, where to go, what to do/not do or anything that would be useful for being in Spain at this time?

Thank you!!

In general, expect for things to be closed and everything to be VERY quiet on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day! Some places will be open the morning of the 24th and then close around midday.

I’d recommend stocking up on groceries and planning to spend a relaxed day exploring places that can’t “close”–parks, plazas, etc.

If you’re there before Christmas, check out any Christmas markets that are around! They don’t have quite the same atmosphere as the ones in Central Europe, but they can still be lots of fun.

We’ve already been to Seville (loved it of course), any thoughts on swapping it with Valencia? Curiously nobody in the comments has mentioned it, and you don’t either…we travel in January and seems like a really nice place to visit that time of year. Looks beautiful. 10ish days split between Madrid/Valencia/Barcelona seems easy travel wise too.

Valencia is a beautiful city, and very popular with expats! It doesn’t tend to call as many tourists as Seville, probably due to both location and fame. I don’t know anyone who has visited who didn’t love it, but as most people are working with very limited time, the most iconic cities tend to pull visitors.

I’d have a hard time suggesting someone skip Andalucia entirely if it’s their first trip to Spain (it’s one of our favorite regions, and we’re far from alone in that), but you’re obviously in a different position!

We are planning this trip from Jan 1-11th. Thank you so much for sharing your trip. The only place we are skipping is Granada. Should we try to accommodate a stop there, or leave it for another trip.

1st DAY- MADRID (1)(Hotel Regina, RIU, or any other) 2nd Day- TOLEDO (2) (35 mins highspeed train) 3rd Day- MADRID TO SEVILLA (3) (2.5 hrs highspeed train) 4th Day- Still in Sevilla (Day trip to Cordoba (4)) 5th Day- Sevilla to Cadiz (5) 1hr 24 mins 6th Day- Cadiz to Malaga (6) 3hrs 48 mins (day trip to Marbella(6)) 7th Day- Malaga to Barcelona (7) 6hrs 17 mins 8th Day- Barcelona 9th Day- Barcelona 10th Day- Madrid

Your itinerary is already very full, so if Granada isn’t at the top of your priority list, I think it makes sense to leave it off for this trip!

I’m not sure if you’re planning to sleep in Toledo on day two or take a day trip, but personally, I’d recommend opting for a day trip to keep the transition simpler.

The other day that sticks out is day 6. It doesn’t seem like you have enough time to explore both Malaga and Marbella, so I’d recommend choosing one of them and staying there. If you’re mostly hoping to appreciate Marbella, in other words, I’d just head right there and spend the night instead of taking a half-day trip after spending several hours getting there from Cadiz.

Hope that helps and that you have an incredible time in Spain!

Kate and Jeremy,

Thank you so much for taking the time and effort to educate those of us who will be traveling to Spain for the first time. My wife and I, who are around 70, are planning a 10 – day trip to Spain in September. Your 10-day intinerary sounds fantastic. While we are both in good health, my wife does have a knee that can act up. Based on your experience, is this itinerary a reasonable one for people our age?

The other question I have is whether there is a travel agent you would recommend to help us coordinate everything? We are spoiled as we just returned from a trip to Argentina and worked with an amazing person — both professionally and personally. Plans came together perfectly. Does anyone come to mind?

Thank you, again, for your thoughtful recommendations. It is incredibly helpful and reduces the anxiety of being completely overwhelmed by all the touring options. Happy holidays.

Gayle and Alan

So happy you’ve found our site helpful!

Everyone is different at any age, of course, but I’d say you’d have better luck with this Spain itinerary than, say, a similar one in Italy–fewer hills. You’ll definitely want to take advantage of tours to smaller towns (with possibly some hop on/hop off bus tours), including Toledo, to limit walking in hilly places. For the Alhambra, definitely take transportation up to the palace–it’s a long, steep walk from town.

But Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville all offer lots of flatter walking areas.

Anecdotally, we visited Seville and Cordoba last year with my grandparents in their late 70s, and they found it very doable.

As far as travel agents, no advice to offer there, I’m afraid–we’ve never worked with one ourselves.

Hope you guys have an incredible trip!

I have been practicing Spanish for the goal of traveling to Spain in 2024 or 25 with my family. I wanted to do 10 days and capture all the popular and non-popular but recommended spots. I think this is perfect – going to save it!

That’s great to hear, thanks Anita! Good luck with your Spanish studies–it definitely does a lot to enhance a trip. 🙂

HI KATE HOPE YOU DOING GOOD . UR DETAILED ITENIARY ABOUT SPAIN IS AMAZING . WE ARE PLANNING A TRIP IN START OS MAY . THOUGH WE ARE CONFUSED WHETHER WE SHOULD DO SPAIN OR ITALY . WE HAVE 10 TO 12 DAYS IN HAND , COULD YOU PLEASE SHARE SOME OF YOUR VIEWS TO IT . THANK YOU MARISHA

So happy you found our posts helpful, Marisha!

Choosing between Spain and Italy definitely isn’t easy! Personally, we have a slight preference for Italy, but both countries count among our favorite places to travel. You truly can’t go wrong, so I’d decide which is home to your absolute top 1-2 destinations, whether that’s Madrid, Cinque Terre, etc, etc, and then go with whichever country that is.

Alternatively, you could of course enjoy one city in each country with a flight betweeen!

Here’s our recommended 2 week Italy itinerary if you want to compare: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/2-weeks-in-italy-itinerary/

Thank you for all your wonderful tips! My husband and I are planning a 10-12 day trip to Spain this year and wanted to ask for some advice on cities to see. We love architecture, churches, markets, and music and enjoy walking and exploring new sites.We were thinking of doing the following cities: Madrid (fly in/out of), Toledo, Seville, Cordoba, Granada but wanted to know what other day/overnight trips you would recommend to places such as Ronda, Nerja, Malaga, Andalusia or Estepona. As much as we would love to visit Barcelona we would rather do that on another trip.

Hi Melinda,

There are definitely more than enough day trip options (or overnights) to keep you busy with that timeline! Truly you don’t necessarily need to add any others–slowing down a bit in the places you mentioned will still leave plenty of stones unturned–but if you would like, the white villages (including Ronda, Setenil de las Bodegsas is also very memorable, among others) are a great option.

The Costa del Sol is a bit further, but if you want to spend some time on the beach, Estepona, Malaga, Cadiz, Tarifa, etc, are all wonderful bases as well.

Our Seville day trips guide might give you some ideas, it covers the general area pretty well: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/day-trips-from-seville/

Thank you Kate for the info! Do you mind giving recommendations on day trips vs. overnight stays? I don’t want to feel rushed when visiting a city but don’t mind spending a night or two in places where there’s plenty to see and do.

In your case, if you’re hoping to spend time on the Costa del Sol, I’d pick one base to spend a night or two in down there and potentially visit another spot from that base. Personally, we love Tarifa, while Malaga is very convenient for hopping from village to village. The smaller beach towns are lovely, but I’d opt for one of those if you’re hoping to stay in one place for a bit, as opposed to using it as a place to take day trips from.

The small white villages, like Setenil de las Bodegas, can easily be done as a day trip. We spent a few days in Ronda and loved the slower pace, but you can easily cover over half its main attractions on a day trip as well–just depends on your priorities!

Hi Kate, thank you for creating this itinerary! We used your Portugal itinerary last year and loved it! Planning a 12-day family trip to Spain in July with 3 kids ages 14-17. Currently considering the following: Fly into Malaga (2-3d) Granada (1d) Seville (1d) Cordoba (1d) Madrid (1-2d) /Toledo day trip (opt) Barcelona- remaining time/fly out of Main question- is Malaga worth visiting? Or we can do start/ end in Barcelona. Is it too much? Remove/add something? We don’t plan to rent a car, but may consider if it makes sense for a portion of the trip. Thank you in advance!

That’s amazing you hear you enjoyed our Portugal suggestions, thank you for sharing!

First, Malaga–if you’re wanting to spend a couple days relaxing on beaches, I’d consider going a bit further afield, perhaps to Nerja, Estepona, etc. If you’re just wanting some general sightseeing, a full day in Malaga is probably enough, and I’d consider trimming a day or two there and giving it instead to Seville, Granada, or Madrid.

Malaga has some cool places, and it’s definitely worth seeing the Alcazaba, Picasso Museum, Cathedral, etc. if you fly into there, but I would say that personally, we find it the least compelling city on your list (which is admittedly a list with very stiff competition).

You may already be planning on this, but I’d definitely take a day trip to Cordoba from Seville rather than spending the night there to avoid the hassle of changing hotels again–it’s a very easy day trip.

If you trim a bit from Malaga, I think you’ll be moving at a very doable pace, and agree there’s no need for a car on this route.

Enjoy some tapas for us!

Hi Kate, thank you so much for your reply and additional tips! I was thinking the same regarding Malaga, given the competition :). So reworked the itinerary as follows: D1 Fly into Madrid (seems to be doable with current flight options) D2 Madrid /Toledo day trip D3 Seville D4 Seville/Cordoba day trip D5 Granada D6 Granada D7-D12 Barcelona- /fly out of

A couple of questions: 1. Would you recommend adding a day or two D1-D6, and if so, where? 2. In addition to sightseeing in Barcelona, we hope for some beach time. Would you recommend staying in Barcelona for the beaches? Or is there one that is a reasonable day trip and is worth it. 2a. I looked into Cala sa Boadella, do you have any thoughts on that or any other one? Thank you so much!

Personally I’d suggest adding one day to Madrid to give you time to see a bit of the city in addition to visiting Toledo. Gives you a little more time after the flight to get settled, and Madrid is also a very cool city (we love it there).

Barcelona’s beaches are expansive, sandy, and good for relaxing on, but they’re generally not considered the best beaches in the region. If you’re looking to get out of the city for a little beach time, Sitges is a very easy and popular day trip, and Tossa de Mar offers a combination of beach + castle. There are lots of beach towns nearby, though! A Barcelona expat we know wrote up several day trip options from Barcelona for us and she included quite a few beach destinations: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/day-trips-from-barcelona/

Hi Kate! I am so sorry, somehow I missed your reply, just saw it. Thank you so much, I greatly appreciate it! Love Barcelona day trips, we will plan to do at least one. Thank you again!

Hi Katie I just read through your entire itinerary and it sounds great. My husband and I and our two adult children are flying into madrid, arriving on 4/15 and out of Barcelona on 4/24. We want to visit Sevilla during the Feria de Abril. I was thinking 4/15 and 16 in Madrid. Should we take train to Sevilla on the 17th or plan to leave Madrid on the evening of the16th? Want to do a day trip to Cordoba and see Granada before heading to Barcelona, Could you give me your thoughts how we should alot time in each city

Hi Suzanne,

If you are open to a more fast-paced itinerary, I’d definitely consider an evening train to Seville on the 16th, since it sounds like you’re hoping to fit in quite a bit down there.

From there, I’d recommend spending the 17th-19th in Seville (with one day allotted for Cordoba), then head to Granada on the 20th, see the Alhambra on the 21st, and head to Barcleona the 22nd.

That leaves you with only enough time for a very whirlwind tour of Barcelona, but since you’re hoping to enjoy the Feria de Abril, you won’t want to cut Seville short!

Kate This might be a duplicate comment. Going to Spain arriving in Madrid 9am on 4/15/24 and leaving from Barcelona on 4/24/24. We want to see El Palacio Real and Prado museum for sure. We are thinking of just staying one night in Madrid and then heading to Sevilla. We would like to go to Toledo. Should we go from Madrid or Sevilla? We are not interested in other museums in Madrid but have considered 2 nights in Madrid. We also want to go to Granada before Barcelona. Not sure how to split up our days. Any suggestions? We are traveling as a family with my husband, 31 yr old daughter and 28 yr old son. Also what are would you suggest if we would rather get an apartment than hotel in Madrid

Just saw you left two comments! I also have a message for you under your other one. 🙂

For Toledo, I’d recommend taking a day trip from Madrid and not changing hotels. You will have to double-back slightly that way, but overall it should be more efficient than changing hotels again, as the city is really very close to Madrid.

As far as using a hotel vs apartment in Madrid, there are pros and cons to both (and we use both depending on the trip). For such a short trip, though, we’d personally probably opt for a hotel unless you’re planning on eating most of your meals in an apartment versus going to markets/restaurants. If you do opt for an apartment, I’d carefully peruse the reviews for noise, as it can be an issue in Madrid depending on the street and neighborhood!

Not sure about the festival but we will be there during that time. How much time should we consider spending in Sevilla? If we want more time in Barcelona would you give up Cordoba or Granada?

I’d recommend making your you have one full day in Seville itself, excluding days you arrive, depart, or take a day trip to Cordoba. Here’s what we’d recommend doing with one day in the city: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/one-day-in-seville-itinerary/

As far as Granada versus Cordoba, they’re both wonderful.

Based purely on sightseeing, I’d recommend Granada, as it’s a distinct city that has a very different feel than Seville, and it also has the Alhambra, which is easily one of the best historic sites to visit in Spain.

However, Granada can’t easily be done as a day trip from Seville (you really need an organized tour for it, and even then, it’s a very long day), so I’d make the decision based on whether you want to keep your pace of travel slower (in which case I’d visit Cordoba), or if you want to prioritize seeing as much variety as possible in limited time, in which case I’d visit Granada but make sure to spend at least one night there.

That being said, we love Cordoba too! The Mosque-Cathedral is an unforgettable building, and either city will be a great addition to your trip.

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How to Plan a Trip to Spain: Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on Last updated: January 3, 2024

Home » Destinations » Europe » Spain » How to Plan a Trip to Spain: Step-by-Step Guide

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Dreaming of your first trip to Spain? Let me show you exactly how to plan a trip to Spain like a pro!

This post about how to plan a trip to spain for the first time was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Ready to put your High School Spanish to the test and learn how to plan a trip to Spain?

It’s a fantastic choice! Spain is the home of tapas, flamenco dancing, wine regions, colorful architecture by Gaudí or the Moors, and some of the best beaches in the world.

But if you’re planning your very first trip to Spain, you need to make a lot of decisions before you can sip sangria in the sun.

Where are you going to go? When is the best time to go? And what are all the top things to do in Spain that you simply cannot miss but don’t know what they are yet?!

This is an easy Spain trip planner that you can follow as you navigate your way through the Spain travel planning process. It’s super simple to follow and includes all the essential info and insider tips you need to have a fantastic Spanish vacation!

14-Step Guide on How to Plan a Trip to Spain

Step 1: check your passport and visa requirements for spain.

If you’re visiting Spain for the first time, you might not be aware of your visa and passport requirements. 

Most US passport holders will need at least six months left on their passport. Spain is one of the 27 countries in the Schengen Area, so most Americans can apply online for an ETIAS visa waiver to travel there as a tourist.

This will allow you to spend 90 days within a 180-day period in any of these 27 countries in the European Union.

Note that you won’t be able to apply for a visa waiver without knowing the address of your first accommodation in Spain . It’s just good practice to check your passport information first in case you have to apply for a new one.

Step 2: Figure out the Length of Your Trip to Spain

Your next task when going through the steps of how to plan a Spain trip is to decide how much time you want (or are able) to spend in Spain.

Most people have to consider vacation allowances with their jobs, family commitments, budget constraints, and school breaks. This is an easy step because it’s often decided for you!

Long-haul vacations should be five days at the minimum, but 10 days or two weeks in Spain is ideal. 

Step 3: Research the Best Time to Travel to Spain

Figuring out the best time to travel to Spain depends on the climate, festivals, and popular travel seasons. 

Northern Spain (Galicia, Basque Country, etc.) has a generally cooler and wetter climate than Southern Spain (Andalucía).

Summer in Southern Spain can be dangerously hot (over 104°F/40°C every day). On the flip side, it’s the perfect place for a winter break.

Easter is always a special time to travel to Southern Spain with lots of religious festivals and celebrations. La Tomatina in Valencia and The Running of the Bulls in Pamplona are two other popular festivals you may want to check out.

To strike a balance between climate, affordability, and crowds, travel in Spain’s shoulder seasons. These are from April – June and September – October. 

But if you’re planning a family trip to Spain and you have school-age kids, you’ll have some restrictions on the times you can travel.

At least you have the information to make an informed decision about what you can expect when traveling in Spain at certain times of the year!

Step 4: Choose Your Spain Destinations

Alright, let’s get to the fun part of Spain trip planning and choose where you want to go in Spain!

Some of the best cities to visit in Spain for first-timers include Madrid , Barcelona , Valencia, Palma de Majorca , and Granada.

They all have busy international airports with the best infrastructure for tourists as well as lots of cultural and fun activities.

Plus, they all have lots of fun day trips you can take while using these cities as a base.

If you’re planning a 7-days in Spain itinerary or a 10-day trip to Spain, city-hop or road trip around a whole region! You could easily see the best of Catalonia in seven days or Andalucía in 10 days.

Step 5: Create a Budget for Your Spanish Vacation

The cost of a trip to Spain depends on a lot of factors. Your travel style (budget, comfort, or luxury), who you are traveling with, the length of your trip, and the time of year will affect how much you will spend.

Not including flights, most guides agree that a family of four spends the equivalent of $1,000 per week on a trip to Spain.

Want to know how to plan a trip to Spain on a budget? Beaches cost nothing! 

Book as much as you can (flights, accommodation, etc.) months ahead of time for cheaper deals. Stay in short-term rental accommodation outside of historic centers so you can cook some of your own meals.

Step 6: Book Your Flights to Spain

When planning a vacation to Spain from the US, it helps to be aware of which airports offer direct flights to Spain.

New York, Chicago, Miami, Los Angeles, Boston, Washington D.C., Atlanta, and Dallas offer direct flights to Madrid and Barcelona. Some also offer direct flights to more seasonal Spanish destinations like Seville , Granada, and Valencia.

Spain is an incredibly popular destination for Europeans traveling from colder climates like the UK and Scandinavia.

So if you can’t find direct flights from your local airport, you can often fly to another European city that offers good connections.

Step 7: Plan Your Spanish Vacation Itinerary

How to plan a trip to Spain itinerary will depend on where in Spain you’re going! Here are some suggestions and tips for popular Spanish destinations:

• How to plan a trip to Barcelona – Book the top attraction, La Sagrada Família, in advance and visit the other attractions (Barcelona Cathedral, Park Güell) earlier in the day to avoid crowds. Don’t miss Mount Tibadabo’s amusement park!
• How to plan a trip to Madrid – Take a walking tour of the top sites and plan lots of day trips . Toledo and Castilla La Mancha (Don Quixote Country) are both great.
• How to plan a trip to Andalucía – Plan a city-hopping trip to big cities like Granada, Málaga, and Seville so you can take day trips to Rhonda, Córdoba, and Cádiz.
• How to plan a trip to the Balearic Islands – Pick one of the main cities or towns as a base and enjoy cultural activities, beaches, and outdoor sports all over the island.

Use this Spain travel planner as a guide to make your own trip itinerary, but keep it flexible. 

Do as the Spanish do and leave a few hours free in the afternoon to take a siesta.

Step 8: Book Accommodation in Spain

From villas to resorts, hotels, guesthouses, and short-term rental apartments, you will find a range of accommodation options in Spain!

Here are our favorite kid-friendly hotels in Madrid and Barcelona .

Some regions in Spain, but not all, charge a nightly per-person tourist tax up to a maximum of seven nights. These regions are Barcelona, the wider Catalonia region, and the Balearic Islands. 

The amount varies depending on region and style of accommodation. For example, tourists staying in the Balearic Islands during the low season will only pay around €0.25 per night. 

But if you’re staying in a five-star hotel in Barcelona, you’ll pay more than €5 per night.

Step 9: Book Transport or Rent a Car

If you’re traveling to a few different destinations in Spain, you will need to book transport. Two of the best options are bus and rental car.

Spain does have a good intercity rail network, but only for major cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Buses are the way most locals travel around Spain, but it’s understandable if you’d rather not travel by bus if you have big suitcases!

Renting a car is best for traveling around more rural areas like Andalucía.

Step 10: Purchase Attraction Tickets and Plan Activities

You’ve spent a lot of time creating your dream Spain itinerary so you need to make sure you turn that dream into a reality.

Avoid standing in long lines to the busiest attractions in Spain in the baking heat by booking tickets ahead of time.

These are landmarks like the Alhambra in Granada and La Sagrada Família in Barcelona. Alternatively, book guided tours so you can skip the lines too.

Plan cultural activities for the appropriate part of Spain that you’re visiting. You wouldn’t watch a rodeo in New York City, so don’t book a flamenco show in Madrid! Flamenco originates in Southern Spain and Valencia is the best place to taste paella.

Luckily, you can find great tapas restaurants everywhere. Note that small plates are called ‘pintxos’ in northern Spain, not tapas.

Step 11: Get Travel Insurance for Your Trip to Spain

Most travel insurance providers recommend getting travel insurance just after you book your flights. This means you can claim at any point during the planning process as well as when you’re on your trip.

But travel insurance covers much more than just canceled plans and stolen belongings, it covers any emergency healthcare you need abroad. As long as you take out a policy before your trip, your most valuable asset (your health) will be covered.

Check if you get travel insurance as part of your credit card benefits.

Step 12: Figure out Phone, Credit Card, and Currency

Organizing your money when you travel is easier than ever as you can use your credit card for the majority of purchases. Just make sure you have a travel-friendly credit card and aren’t getting hit with high exchange fees!

Bring some euros to carry with you for the few occurrences where you can’t pay with a card, as there are still some vendors in Spain that prefer cash.

It’s a good idea to get an eSIM so that you have data during your trip to Spain. Some cafes and attractions have WiFi, but not all and the quality is inconsistent. 

If you’re planning a trip to Spain and Portugal , make sure you get data coverage in both countries.

Step 13: Watch Movies and Read Books Set in Spain

Once you’ve completed most of the planning for your Spain vacation, you can spend the rest of your time watching movies and reading books set in Spain. This will make you feel even more excited for your trip!

Some recommendations are Driving Over Lemons by Chris Stewart, Don Quixote

by Miguel de Cervantes, and the movie The Way (2010).

Step 14: Go To Spain!

Once you’ve finished planning your trip to Spain, all you need to do now is pack and go.

Stay safe and healthy in the Spanish sun by staying in the shade as much as you can and drinking plenty of water. You didn’t plan a trip to Spain to get heatstroke!

Planning a Trip to Spain FAQs

How do i prepare for a trip to spain.

There are some easy things you can do to get to grips with how to prepare for a trip to Spain before you go. 

Prepare to eat a little later than you do back home and learn a few handy Spanish phrases. Invest in a comfortable pair of shoes and light, sweat-wicking clothing. 

How much is a trip to Spain?

The exact cost of a trip to Spain is dependent on lots of factors: your travel style and budget, when you travel, and how many people you are traveling with.

But there are a few average costs you can use as a guideline. Trip.com states that a round-trip economy flight from the US to Spain costs $500 to $1,500 depending on where you’re located and some other factors.

Budget Your Trip states that the average couple on a week-long trip to Spain spends around $2,286 in total.

How much money do I need to take to Spain for a week?

The Spanish government states that all international tourists should be able to prove that they have €100 (or the equivalent) for every day of their trip. 

It’s very, very unlikely that you will actually have to prove this! But it’s important to be aware of this rule.

Statista states that international tourists spend approximately €162 per day in Spain, but you could easily spend more or less than this depending on your travel style.

How To Plan a Trip to Spain Wrap Up

It couldn’t be easier to learn how to plan a trip to Spain with the right guide.

You won’t make the mistake of not booking Alhambra tickets in advance, or seeing a flamenco show in Madrid.

All that’s left do to is pack your Spanish phrasebook and high-SPF sunscreen!

Looking for more Spain travel resources? Check out my top Madrid travel tips , things to do in Barcelona with kids , Barcelona travel tips , day trips from Madrid by train , Barcelona day trips , things to do in Madrid with kids , Europe travel tips , Seville tourist attractions , day trips from Benidorm , and Mallorca travel tips !

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25 Top Tips for Travelling in Spain for the First Time

Idyllic islands, whitewashed villages, green landscapes, iconic monuments and incredible food culture make Spain an excellent European destination.

Spain is very diverse, but not everyone is aware of it. It’s often sold as a beach and warm destination, but you need to know that Spain has more than beaches, sangria and flamenco.

At the same time, there are more incredible destinations than famous cities like Barcelona and Madrid, and you’ll be surprised.

If this is your first time visiting the country, there are a few things you want to know to enjoy an authentic experience in the country and avoid any disappointments.

If you’re asking yourself, “What should I know before visiting Spain?” keep reading to discover tips for travelling in Spain from a Spaniard.

This post contains affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click through and purchase something, I receive a small commission on the price at no extra cost to you. This helps me keep the content up to date and make other improvements to the blog.

Table of Contents

Tips for travelling in Spain

1. don’t assume the weather is sunny and warm everywhere.

Although it’s quite common to see photos and videos of sunny Spain, the truth is that the weather is different from region to region, and this is something essential to consider when choosing the right destination for you.

If you want a beach holiday, visit Southern Spain or the islands, but if you’re looking for a hiking adventure, Northern Spain is the best choice for you.

If you aren’t sure about the destination you plan to visit, do some research so you can also pack appropriately and plan activities according to the weather.

2. Pack appropriate clothes

As I mentioned before, the weather in Spain varies from region to region, and the last thing you want to do is pack clothes that you aren’t going to wear because it’s too hot or it’s a bit chilly.

To avoid this, I always check the weather forecast before I travel to any destination.

Generally, if you visit Spain in spring or early autumn, you should be fine with light clothes and a jacket, but this can be different from person to person.

Spain in winter can be cold in certain locations, particularly in the north, and you can even see the snow , so you’ll need to pack more than a light jacket.

3. Visit off-the-beaten-path destinations

Barcelona , Madrid and Sevilla are some of the most popular city breaks in Spain, and there is no doubt that these destinations are unique in their own way.

La Sagrada Familia and all of the Gaudi pieces of art are to admire, the lively atmosphere of Madrid is unbeatable, and the Andalusian culture in Sevilla is something you want to experience.

Whilst these cities must be on your Spain bucket list , there are other unique and magical places that are worth visiting.

When you visit these less touristy destinations, you have a more authentic experience in Spain; you get to know a bit more about the culture and experience the place without crowds or queueing to visit attractions.

One of my favourite towns is Nerja in the Costa del Sol. Visiting this whitewashed town is incredible because you can enjoy some of the best coastal views in Southern Spain and relax at less frequented beaches .

4. Sightsee during the low season

Summer in Spain is very warm, especially in the south where temperatures reach up to 40 degrees Celsius which makes sightseeing a bit difficult. If you’re travelling to Spain to explore must-see attractions instead of a beach holiday, visit the country during the low season.

The low season is perfect for sightseeing because there are no crowds, and you can often find cheap flight and hotel deals. However, you can save money on accommodation all year round by doing a house swap. I recommend the Holiday Swap app .

The downside of visiting Spain during the low season is that some attractions may not be open since they are only open for the summer season (June to September), and you can also experience some rainy and cloudy days.

5. Tipping isn’t a thing in Spain

Whilst tipping in many European countries is the norm, you won’t see Spanish people tipping in a restaurant or bar, and if you see any locals doing so, they won’t tip a 5 euro note but a very small change.

That doesn’t mean you can’t do it, but don’t be surprised if the waiter is surprised.

6. Avoid restaurants in the tourist areas

When you’re a tourist, it isn’t always easy to tell whether a restaurant is good. 

It’s pretty often that restaurants or bars located near main attractions don’t offer authentic traditional food. Those that have a menu poorly translated into several languages won’t offer authentic dishes either.

In addition to this, if you see too many tourists, it probably isn’t going to be a good sign. 

Having a meal with a stunning view of Sagrada Familia can be lovely, but the food isn’t the best.  

To avoid this, do some research before visiting the destination. Have a look at Tripadvisor and blogs to see food recommendations from other travellers, or even better, ask a local if you know one.

7. Attend ferias and traditional events

Immersing yourself in the culture is a unique travel experience and for many travellers, like me and maybe you, discovering the local culture is essential.

A great way to learn more about Spain and its people is by attending the local fairs ( ferias ) and traditional events. You don’t necessarily need to attend a popular event like Las Fallas in Valencia to experience one; there are many small towns that have their own feria .

Before travelling to your destination, look at the city’s or town’s event calendar to ensure you aren’t missing a fun or interesting event.

Popular events in Spain

• Semana Santa . Easter is a big celebration in Spain. During the Holy Week, you can see the processions in which men carry heavy floats carefully decorated with Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary figures representing scenes from the last days before its death. Even if you aren’t a religious person, it’s quite interesting seeing it.
• San Fermín . This is a very controversial festival that happens in Pamplona in early July. San Fermin consists of a festival in which bulls run after you. The truth is that it is very dangerous and unethical, so I wouldn’t recommend attending this event.
• La Tomatina . This is the famous tomato festival in which people throw tomatoes at each other! It takes place in Buñol (Valencia) on the last Wednesday in August.
• Las Fallas . Another popular event from Valencia is Las Fallas, held from 15th to 19th March. This is celebrated by burning artistic monuments of all sizes and colours in the tradition of ancient Valencian carpenters.
• Feria de Sevilla . Seville’s Fair is one of the most known in Spain. It begins two weeks after the Semana Santa, and here you’ll immerse yourself in the Andalusian culture. Expect lots of fun attractions, flamenco dancing and food.
• Carnaval . The carnival isn’t as big as other events, but it’s still celebrated. Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Cadiz are among the best cities to experience the carnival. Locals are very passionate about it, and not only do they dress up but also sing chirigotas , satirical songs about daily life, politics, and other topics about society.
• Nochevieja/Año Nuevo . Have you ever heard of the 12 grapes that need to be eaten just before 12 o’clock? Nochevieja is one of my favourite events because you gather with family and friends to celebrate the New Year. If you want to spend New Year’s in Spain, you must go to Puerta del Sol in Madrid.

8. Many shops and attractions close in the afternoon

Something worth knowing before visiting Spain is the fact that many shops and attractions close in the afternoon because it’s lunchtime (2-3 pm) and siesta time for some people. So it’s not surprising to see that places close at 2 pm and reopen at 5 pm.

Knowing this can make a big difference, especially when visiting a city for a short period, and you want to tick off as many places as possible.

If in doubt, double-check the opening and closing times of the attractions you have in your itinerary before turning up there.

9. Book attractions in advance

Are you visiting a popular destination like Madrid or Barcelona? Make sure to book your attractions in advance to avoid any disappointment.

Instead of booking them a few days in advance, I’d recommend booking them two weeks in advance if possible, as many of them sell out or may not have the time slot you want to choose.

Not only does this apply to these two big destinations, but to other big cities as well. This becomes even more important if you’re travelling to Spain during peak season.

10. Learn basic Spanish words and sentences

If you’re wondering if you really need to know Spanish to travel around Spain, the answer is probably no.

However, this depends on the places you plan to visit; let’s say you go to Costa del Sol , then you won’t find many issues with the language if you’re in the touristy area; however, if you go to a less popular town or village, then it may be good to know the basics.

Regardless of the city you’re visiting, it’s always good to know a bit of the language. You’ll feel better, and the locals will appreciate your effort to speak the language.

Basic words in Spanish

• Hola – Hello
• Adiós – Bye
• Gracias – Thank you
• Por favor – Please
• Lo siento – Sorry
• Sí – Yes
• No – No
• ¿Puede ayudarme? – Can you help me?

11. There’s more than paella

Who doesn’t like paella? This dish from Valencia is the most well-known Spanish dish in the world. There are so many different types of paella to keep everyone happy. You can have a vegetarian paella, a traditional Valencian paella, a chicken and prawns paella, and the list goes on.

Although paella is incredibly delicious, Spain has other incredible dishes too. If you’re a foodie, you’ll love tasting the different regional dishes across the country.

If you go to Andalusia, gazpacho (cold tomato soup) and fried fish are traditional Andalusian dishes to try; if you go to Madrid, bocadillo de calamares (squid sandwich) needs to be on your list, and let’s say that you go to Mallorca, ensaimadas are mouthwatering pastries you’ll fall in love with.

12. Be careful with alcohol

Alcohol in Spain isn’t measured, and if you go to a beach club or any club, you’ll see the waiter directly pouring the alcohol into your glass, so if you don’t want a strong drink, make sure to tell them to stop.

In other countries, there’s no way that they would do this, and alcohol is carefully measured. Therefore, you end up buying more drinks. This is one of the reasons why some tourists get drunk very quickly in Spain. If you don’t want to get drunk, just be aware of this.

Those who love a drink will be very happy with this and will save money at the same time.

13. Go party late

If you’re planning a night out during your trip to Spain, you need to know that clubs open late, and by late, I mean from 11:30 pm onwards.

If you go early, there are two possible scenarios: the club is still closed, or you turn up and there’s no atmosphere because there are no people.

At the same time, clubs close quite late, and locals sometimes stay all night and have breakfast as soon as the cafes open before heading home.

14. Don’t go to the beach on a Sunday

If you’re visiting Spain in the summer, you’ll want to head over to the beach. This is a great activity considering how warm it is in most places in Spain during this time of the year.

However, one of my best tips for traveling to Spain in the summer is don’t go to the beach on a Sunday. The reason behind this is very simple. Many people don’t work on a Sunday and may not have a swimming pool, so the best place to be is the beach.

Families and friends gather together at the beach; it isn’t unusual that they set up a tent with tables, chairs, and towels. Some of them meet up early so they can ensure a spot at the beach. As you can imagine, the beach is full, and if you don’t want crowds, opt for an alternative activity.

If you can cope with warm temperatures, it may be worth visiting some outdoor attractions so you can have it to yourself or go to a museum.

15. Spanish isn’t the only language

Did you know that there are 5 different languages in Spain ? Spain is rich in culture, and this can be seen in the languages and dialects you’ll find across the country.

The 5 official languages are Aranese, Basque, Catalan, Galician and Castilian (Spanish), and on top of these, there are many dialects like Andalusian. All of them are complex in their own way, but if you’re a traveller, you won’t need to know any of these languages.

However, if you plan to move to Spain , you’ll need to learn Spanish and get used to the dialect of the area. Let’s say you move to Barcelona; there is no need to learn Catalan, as well as locals who will speak to you in Spanish.

16. Check out the mealtimes

Mealtimes in Spain are completely different from other European countries, which can be a cultural shock for many travellers.

Breakfast is anytime between 8 am and 10 am, lunch is between 2 pm and 3 pm, merienda (afternoon snack) is between 5 and 6 pm, and dinner is anytime from 9 pm. These times may slightly change from place to place and season. For example, locals have dinner later during the summer months.

When you visit Spain for a few days and even weeks, you don’t have to adapt to their mealtimes. However, you need to be aware of them as restaurants and bars will serve food at their normal times, different from yours.

The truth is that many restaurants in cities like Malaga and Barcelona accommodate their times to tourists, but these places aren’t the type of food places where you’ll get authentic Spanish dishes.

17. Watch for pickpockets in popular destinations

Pickpocketing is common in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona , and you just need to keep an eye on your belongings, especially on crowded streets.

Although I haven’t experienced pickpocketing in Spain, I know other travellers have, and you don’t want to be in that situation.

The best way to avoid pickpocketing is by not taking valuable objects and lots of money with you. If your hotel has a safe, lock your belongings there.

If there isn’t a safe or you need to take important things with you, it’s worth looking at some items to prevent pickpocketings, such as pickpocket clips, a security belt or even an anti-theft bag .

If your hobby or job is photography related, it’s completely fine to take your camera with you. The only advice is if you’re travelling solo, don’t use a tripod to take your photos in a busy area. Otherwise, you’ll be a target for pickpockets.

18. Flights can be cheaper than train

Travelling around Spain will allow you to see how diverse the country is. Despite Spain being an affordable country to visit in comparison to other countries, moving around Spain isn’t always cheap.

Let’s say you want to go from the south of Spain to Madrid. You can go there by many ways of transport – car, coach, train or plane.

If you don’t drive, a coach is often an economical option, but you spend lots of hours on the road, and you may want to arrive in Madrid as soon as possible to make the most of it, or maybe you don’t like long bus rides.

A train may sound like a great idea, but it’s worth knowing that train tickets are often more expensive than flights, so before booking your train tickets, have a look at cheap flights with airlines like Ryanair or Vueling.

19. Drive on the right side of the road

If you come from the US, you won’t have any issues driving in Spain. However, if you come from countries like the UK or Ireland, you’ll have to get used to driving on the right side of the road.

Going on a road trip around Andalucia or other parts of Spain is a great opportunity to explore cities at your own pace, but also to access remote towns, beaches or mountains which you may not be able to visit if you use public transport.

Other important things to know if you’re renting a car are seatbelts are required for all passengers, you can’t use your phone while driving, and you never park on a yellow line (these are only for residents, and they may call the tow truck.)

However, traveling through Spain isn’t complicated.

20. Don’t forget to go island hopping in Spain

Ibiza is the most popular island in Spain, and other nearby islands are forgotten or less visited by international travellers.

Island hopping around the Balearic Islands is a unique experience. There are a total of 4 main islands: Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca and Formentera, and it’s completely possible to travel between them.

Each island has something to offer, but all of them will guarantee you pristine beaches like Playa De Alcudia and Cala Agulla.

Another alternative is to visit the beautiful Canary Islands. There are plenty of hidden gems and incredible natural landscapes there too.

21. Pack sun cream

You can’t forget to add sun cream to your suitcase regardless of the season you visit Spain. It’s very important to use sun cream for your skincare all year round.

However, it’s even more important in summer when the sun is really strong, and you can end up with sunburns and be in pain for several days.

Another good reason to buy it before travelling to Spain is to save money, but in case you forget to pack it, don’t get your sun cream from a convenience store near the beach area because you’ll pay double the price. Instead, go to a supermarket where you’ll have more selection and better prices.

22. Have cash with you

Many supermarkets and restaurants have become cashless, and you need to pay with your card. However, there are still small shops and even public transport that requires cash.

I remember when I visited Santander, and I was about to take the bus from the city centre to the airport, and the bus driver told me I couldn’t pay by card, so I had to rush to a cash machine to get some money out.

To avoid any situation like this, make sure to have some cash with you, even if it’s 10 euros.

23. Explore the countryside

Beaches in Spain are incredible, but many travellers don’t know how beautiful the Spanish countryside is. Depending on the region you visit, you’ll see different types of landscapes and wildlife.

If you love outdoor activities like hiking, have a look at AllTrails to find hiking routes near the city you visit. You’ll be amazed by all the options you find. One of the most famous hiking trails in Spain is Camino de Santiago.

In addition to this, did you know you can also ski in Spain? Sierra Nevada, located in the province of Granada , has the highest point in the country, and you can ski there from November to May.

24. Expect things and people to be late

Although many people love the laid-back culture, it’s also negative. If you make friends in Spain, there’s always someone late, and that isn’t great. They’ll come up with a silly excuse (blaming someone else) on why they’re late.

Similarly, when you go to a restaurant or bar, your food sometimes can take ages, especially if it’s busy.

In the case that you move to Spain , it’s also important to know that bureaucracy is very slow, so if you need to get important documents, don’t leave it for the last minute, book an appointment to sort out your documents as soon as possible.

25. Greet like a local

If you’re travelling to Spain for the first time, you may not know that locals greet each other with two kisses on the cheeks. This only happens between woman and man, and woman and woman (men give hugs to each other or shake hands.)

This can be a cultural shock because you may be wondering why two strangers kiss each other, right? In your culture, this may sound a bit crazy, but it’s the norm in Spain, so don’t be surprised if they greet you like this.

Conclusion on Spain travel tips for first-time visitors

I hope this Spain travel guide has helped you learn more about Spain and be aware of a few things to make the most of your time in my country.

If you have any questions about visiting Spain or planning a trip to Spain, you can always reach me via email or Instagram. I’m happy to help!

Did you enjoy reading these top tips for travelling in Spain for the first time? Do you know any other Spain tips? Let me know in the comments.

Safe adventures!

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Things to do before visiting Spain

• Are you looking for places to visit in Spain? Have a look at this travel guide about the best city breaks in Spain.
• Find and book cheap flights to Spain here .
• Book the best accommodation for you with Booking.com .
• Rent a car to travel with ease around Spain if you’re making a road trip.
• Book travel insurance. This is a must for any trip! SafetyWing offers affordable and flexible health and travel insurance.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Spain for the first time

When is the best time to travel to spain.

It depends on the activities you want to do during your time in Spain. No matter when you go to Spain, every season has something to offer!

If you want to sightsee, late spring and early autumn are perfect because temperatures are pleasant.

If you want to swim in the sea, go in July and August as these are the warmest months, but be aware that it’s peak season, so expect crowds and higher prices for accommodation and flights.

Winter is a great option if you travel on a budget because you’ll find cheap flights and accommodation. Also, you’ll find fewer crowds, and although you may experience rain and cloudy days, some areas of Spain have a mild winter, which means pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and swimming for those who are brave.

Examples of warm places in Spain during winter are the Canary Islands, Malaga and Cartagena.

What shouldn’t I do in Spain?

Some of the things you shouldn’t do in Spain are:

• Assume everyone knows English.
• Don’t wear swimming wear outside the beach.
• Don’t be surprised if you’re greeted with two kisses.
• Get involved in difficult conversations such as politics, bullfighting, etc. Some people are very passionate about these topics and won’t stop trying to convince you about their point of view, which can be annoying! I know this from experience as a local.
• Not keeping an eye on your belongings in busy areas.
• Don’t generalise about Spain.
• Not researching for places to avoid in Spain or a specific city. You don’t want to stay in a conflicting neighbourhood. Most cities have a few areas to avoid.

Is getting around Spain easy?

Yes! Public transport is often modern, safe and well-connected. Many cities are walkable, which means you won’t need to use public transport; however, if you need to use it, you’ll find cheap buses and underground fares.

If you want to explore off-the-beaten-path places in Spain, you’ll need to rent a car. You can find many convenient rent a car places outside large airports and big cities, but if you want to save some money, have a look online to compare prices.

How do you plan a trip to Spain on a budget?

– Travel off-season to get the best flight and accommodation deals. – Be flexible with your travel dates. – Eat in bars rather than restaurants. – Check for free attractions. For some museums and art galleries, you often need to pay, offer free admission dates, and have a look at their website to find out when these dates are.

Other travel guides about Spain

• The Best Places to Visit in Spain for First Timers
• Best City Breaks in Spain You Should Add to Your List
• 50 Bucket List Experiences in Spain You Won’t Forget
• 35+ Hidden Gems in Spain You Need to See
• The Most Romantic Places in Spain
• Beautiful Landscapes in Spain
• Incredible Reasons To Visit Andalucia
• 9 Reasons to Visit the North of Spain

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Hola, I’m Cristina, the founder and writer of My Little World of Travelling. I was born and raised in Malaga (Costa del Sol), and I’m passionate about showing you my hometown and other beautiful Andalusian destinations. I help other travellers plan their trips to Spain by providing local advice and unique insights.

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Best places to visit in spain.

Spain's dynamic metropolises, breathtaking beaches and cultural offerings are second to none, making the country an undisputed stop on many travelers' European vacation itineraries. With so many varied destinations, each with its own celebrated sites and unique hidden gems, it may be hard deciding which cities are worth visiting. U.S. News factored in sights, culture, seasonality and expert opinion to come up with the best places to visit in Spain for all types of travelers – from city slickers to beach bums to outdoorsy types. Have an opinion? Vote below to influence next year's ranking.

Santiago de Compostela

Costa brava, san sebastian, canary islands.

In addition to being one of Europe's top travel destinations , Barcelona is without a doubt Spain's cultural capital. The Catalonian city's urban sprawl is dotted with Antoni Gaudí's whimsical architecture, including Basílica de la Sagrada Família and Park Güell, as well as museums carrying world-renowned artists, such as the Picasso Museum. You can also explore centuries-old neighborhoods like Barri Gòtic, which dates back to the Roman Empire. Don't forget to take advantage of the city's equally magnificent outdoor offerings, too, including La Barceloneta beach.

The final stop on an ancient pilgrimage route called Camino de Santiago (or Saint James' Way), this medieval city in northwestern Spain attracts hundreds of thousands of travelers every year. With centuries-old architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, Santiago de Compostela is an ideal destination for history buffs and culture hounds. First up on your to-do list should be a tour of the awe-inspiring Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, a massive Romanesque structure said to house the remains of Saint James the apostle. Then, take advantage of the city's number of beautiful parks, museums, restaurants and nightlife.

You won't want to skip this romantic Spanish city about 55 miles northwest of Madrid on your next trip to Spain. See for yourself what makes Segovia special while you stroll through the enchanting Plaza Mayor, home to a mix of restaurants and shops, or soar high above the city on a hot air balloon ride. Can't-miss sights include the two-tiered Aqueduct of Segovia, one of the world's best-preserved Roman aqueducts, and Alcázar De Segovia, a massive, fairy-tale fortress dating back to the 12th century.

Stretching from the idyllic resort town of Blanes all the way to the French border, this coastal region in northeastern Spain offers miles of shoreline along the Mediterranean Sea. After spending the day with your toes in the sand at one of Costa Brava's gorgeous cove beaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the region's many seaside restaurants. But Costa Brava is not just for beach bums. Whether you're touring the unique Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres or exploring the Santa Clotilde Gardens in Lloret de Mar, Costa Brava is a can't-miss destination on any Spain itinerary.

The UNESCO-listed historic center of Cordoba is the stuff of Spanish dreams. Its winding, compact cobblestone streets are lined with whitewashed inns, shops, restaurants and homes that feature stunning Andalusian accents, including wrought-iron balconies, bright blue planters and painted archways. Visitors can also enjoy all of the city's famous historical sites, such as the Castle of the Christian Monarchs and the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, commonly referred to as the Great Mosque, which is one of the best-preserved structures in Spain.

Mallorca's smaller sister island is a solid option for travelers wanting to visit the Balearic Islands without the crowds of Ibiza and Mallorca. Menorca offers the same kind of jaw-dropping beaches (think: white sands overlooking clear turquoise waters) you'd expect to find on other Balearic Islands – travelers say Cala Mitjana, Cala Macarelleta, Cala Turqueta and Cala Pregonda are some of the island’s most popular shorelines. You'll also discover several architectural marvels throughout Menorca. Head to Ciutadella (the island's original capital) to see old-world structures like the Catedral de Menorca and the Convent of Sant Agusti, which houses the Diocesan Museum.

Travelers who want to experience small-town Spain without venturing far from a big city will love visiting Toledo. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, which sits 45 miles southwest of Madrid, is breathtaking thanks to its location on a hilltop overlooking the Tagus River and its historical architecture. For the best views, visit Mirador del Valle, a scenic overlook boasting breathtaking panoramic vistas. Then, get a sense of Toledo's rich history by checking out attractions like Catedral Primada and San Juan de los Reyes Monasterio. Don't forget to try some of the city's famous marzipan before you leave.

Of all the cities in Spain, Madrid is the one that knows how to show travelers the best time. The city's party-hard reputation is really all it's cracked up to be, but that's not all Spain's capital has going for it. Madrid is filled with varied, vibrant neighborhoods, plus stunning parks, enviable shopping and some of the best art institutions in Europe, including the world-renowned Prado Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. Not to mention, the city’s grandiose architecture – showcased by structures like the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor – makes the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.

Mallorca is easily one of Spain's greatest assets. This dreamy island getaway features sun-kissed beaches, picturesque small towns and outdoor pursuits that draw tourists and lovebirds in droves. Revel in the see-through blue waters of Playa de Muro and Cala Llombards, then hop in a car and drive around the striking mountains that make up Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure you spend your downtime taking leisurely strolls along the darling streets of Alcúdia's old town and by the water to admire the awe-inspiring Palma Cathedral (La Seu).

This beautiful Andalusian city in southern Spain is awash with romantic allure. During the day, you'll find outdoor cafes along cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages meandering through pastel-colored plazas. And when night falls, flamenco dancing comes out in full force. Seville is the kind of place you should allow yourself to get lost in, but don’t forget to carve out time for must-see sites such as the Plaza de España, the Real Alcázar and the Catedral de Sevilla, the largest Gothic cathedral of its kind in the world.

Situated along Spain’s northern coast in Basque Country, San Sebastian is one of the most underrated destinations in Spain. Locals understand its majesty and every summer flock to this beach destination for its breathtaking shorelines, hiker-friendly mountains and unmatched foodie scene. For a quintessentially Basque experience, travelers suggest pintxo bar hopping in San Sebastian’s city center, Parte Vieja, or signing up for a pintxos (Basque tapas) food tour. Don’t leave without taste testing San Sebastian’s world-famous anchovies and txuleta, a specialty steak that is made from aged grass-fed beef.

Granada's Arabic influence makes this destination different from the rest of Spain. Thanks to its history as part of the Moorish Empire, Granada is home to tapas bars and flamenco venues that rub elbows with Moroccan tea cafes and Arab bathhouses. This confluence allows you to experience two cultures simultaneously. And you must make time to behold the breathtaking local treasures, including the Alhambra, the white-washed caves of the Sacromonte district and the snow-capped mountains of Sierra Nevada National Park.

A popular daytrip destination for travelers visiting Barcelona, Girona stands out for its medieval architecture and wealth of attractions. From the magnificent Girona Cathedral to the city's famous 12th century Arab baths, travelers are sure to find something to suit their interests in this Spanish city. Spend some time in La Devesa Park, one of the largest green spaces in Catalonia. Don't forget to pack your walking shoes – whether you're exploring the winding, cobblestone streets of Girona's Jewish Quarter or strolling the Passeig de la Muralla path atop Girona's ancient city walls, the best way to enjoy this historic city is on foot.

Rioja is Spain's wine country. Like France's Champagne, winemakers can't label a wine "Rioja" unless it is produced and distributed from the Spanish region of La Rioja. As such, you'll want to sample plenty of vino while you visit, which will be pretty easy to do since there are more than 500 wineries plus many restaurants that serve large selections of Rioja wine. If you're looking for other things to do, take advantage of Rioja's Michelin-starred restaurants and lively tapas bars when you're not hiking or skiing its surrounding mountains.

This northern city in Spain’s Basque Country sits in the middle of a beautiful valley, affording incredible views of the city and its rolling hills. Visit Casco Viejo (the city's old town) for authentic pintxos and to explore Parque Etxebarria, where you'll find some of Bilbao's best vistas. Or, ride the Funicular de Artxanda for even more spectacular panoramas. No visit would be complete without checking out the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and other local cultural institutions, such as the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao.

Plan a trip to this small Andalusian town if you enjoy visiting destinations with unique geography and stunning architecture. Ronda sits atop a striking gorge that separates the town. To cross the gorge, walk across the Puente Nuevo, a beautiful bridge built in the 18th century. Below, you'll get an eyeful of El Tajo canyon and the Guadalevín River. After admiring your surroundings from the Puente Nuevo, visit the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, the historic old town and the Baños Árabes, well-preserved 13th- and 14th-century Arab baths.

Spain’s third-largest city stands out for offering a little taste of both the old and the new. You'll get to experience classic architecture at the Gothic-style Valencia Cathedral and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, as well as modern sites like the City of Arts and Sciences and the Valencia Institute of Modern Art. After you've gotten your fill of city life, take a detour to breathe in some fresh air at the Albufera Natural Park or unwind at nearby beaches. What's more, with plenty of free attractions to choose from, Valencia is one of Europe's most affordable travel destinations . 

If you live to party, Ibiza is a great place to dust off your dancing shoes. This Spanish island is known worldwide for its nightlife scene, so much so that people often say you must visit during the peak summer months. However, one look at Ibiza's natural offerings and you'll understand how this island stands on its own outside of its party-hardy reputation. Beaches here are so clear that you can see your feet touch the sand as they enter the ocean. Plus, the historical charm found in Dalt Vila, Ibiza's old town, will certainly stop you in your tracks.

This cluster of Spanish islands located off the northwestern coast of Africa is one of Spain's premier beach destinations. In addition to picturesque shorelines, the Canary Islands are also teeming with outdoor attractions that will make any adventurer swoon, including four national parks. In between hiking and relaxing on the beach, take some time to stroll the neighborhoods of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, located on the largest of the Canary Islands, or Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the archipelago's most populated city, to get a taste of local life.

Situated in southwestern Spain, Cádiz is one of the country's most underrated travel destinations. As one of the oldest inhabited cities in Europe, travelers can expect a bevy of historic attractions, from the Torre Tavira watchtower to the grandiose Cádiz Cathedral. Plus, there are several beautiful outdoor spaces to explore, including Genovés Park and the laid-back beaches of La Victoria and La Caleta. When you want to wind down, Plaza de España and Plaza de San Juan de Dios are excellent places to people-watch.

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Getting around Spain

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We offer you useful information on distances and connections between the main Spanish cities so you can organise a trip around the whole country on your next visit. Domestic flights take less than two hours (except to the Canary islands), there are around 16,000 kilometres of fast roads and high speed trains (AVE) connecting major destinations such as Barcelona, Seville or Valencia with Madrid in three hours, or less. Ready to travel?

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The Best Time to Visit Spain for Great Weather and Famous Festivals

Start planning your trip to Spain now.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Here's some good news for all of you out there wondering when the best time to visit Spain really is: any time is a good time.

Spain is a nation filled with history, a delightful food scene, and a varied landscape that's ideal for those looking for a city escape, a mountain getaway, or a beach adventure unlike any other. Ready for your ideal vacation? You can narrow down when to visit Spain by considering the following tourist seasons.

• High Season: June to August
• Shoulder Seasons: March to May and September to October
• Low Season: November to February

Here's everything you need to know about finding the best time to go to Spain based on the weather, your fellow tourists, and more.

Best Times to Visit Spain for Small Crowds

Spain is one of the world's most popular countries to visit, regularly drawing more than 70 million annual visitors before the pandemic. Many of these are northern Europeans seeking sunny escapes, so it's little surprise that Spain's busiest season is summer. Spain's attractions , beaches , and hotels swell with visitors at this time of year, meaning crowd-averse travelers should plan to visit at other times.

Winter in Spain — from November through February — is the best season for visitors hoping for smaller crowds. Many beach resorts close down for the winter months, but Spain's interior offers plenty of off-season treasures, from scenic cities and towns to under-the-radar ski resorts . If you want beach-friendly weather without peak-season crowds, try late spring or, especially, early fall, which lacks the mass appeal of summer as well as the spring-break and Easter holidays that draw millions to Spain in March and April.

Best Times to Visit Spain for Good Weather

Spain covers a large area and varied ecosystems, but according to the Spanish tourism bureau , no matter where or when you visit, you'll likely see at least some sun. "Spain is a sunny country with around 3,000 hours of sunshine every year," the bureau explains on its website. "The temperatures are mild, but there are still differences depending on the seasons and areas of the country."

Spring — from March to June — brings the country's most temperate weather. Again, Spain is sizable, but for the sake of this guide, we'll use Madrid as the basis for some stats. Early spring in the capital can be cool, with high temperatures around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, but by mid-June, temperatures reach into the 80s. April and May are rainier than some other times of year, but with an average monthly rainfall of just 1.3 inches, any showers should be manageable. If your goal is to avoid rain at all costs, though, July and August may be the months for you — they're the driest of the year in both Madrid and the country at large.

One place where the climate can vary significantly from the above is in the far-flung Canary Islands. This Spanish-held archipelago lies off Morocco's west coast, and it almost never sees temperatures below 60. Summer is arguably the nicest season in the Canaries, with cloudless skies and high temperatures usually in the upper 70s.

Best Times to Visit Spain for Lower Prices

Spain's most inexpensive season usually runs from December to March, which (not coincidentally) are the country's coldest months. If you don't mind forgoing balmy beaches, great deals can be found by traveling at this off-peak time.

You might want to avoid the weeks immediately surrounding Christmas, since they're a busy travel period for Spanish locals and other Europeans — but visiting in early December can give you access to Spain's lovely Christmas markets .

If you'd like an affordable trip with slightly warmer weather, try visiting in the fall. This shoulder season is less expensive than spring (though pricier than winter), and it's a great time to see the Spanish wine country , since harvest typically happens in September.

The Best Time to Visit Barcelona 

With dazzling Gothic architecture, exciting events, and a lively waterfront, Barcelona is the top destination in Spain’s Catalonia region. Visit the city in early summer to hit the beaches before it gets too humid, or in the fall for sightseeing amid manageable crowds. June sees good weather and festivals like Nit de Sant Joan , Primavera Sound , Sónar , and El Grec Barcelona .

The Best Time to Visit Madrid 

Head to Spain’s capital city in the spring or fall for the best weather and fewer crowds. In the springtime, Madrid holds celebrations like Dos de Mayo and the Fiesta de San Isidro . But the big event happens once the weather cools off a bit. The Autumn Festival (or Feria del Otoño) is a huge arts festival held in October or November each year, drawing acts from all over the world. Performances range from opera and ballet to theater and indie music.

Best Times to Visit Spain for Festivals

There's one more thing to consider when planning a trip to Spain: picking the coolest festival you can. The nation seems to have a celebration every day of the year, but some of its most famous festivals include Semana Santa or Holy Week (the week preceding Easter, typically in March or April); San Fermin (featuring the Pamplona Bull Run ) in July; and the Tomatina tomato fight , celebrated near Valencia each year on the last Wednesday in August. If events and festivals are your top priority, the Spanish tourism bureau publishes a yearly calendar that can help you pick your ideal dates.

Worst Times to Visit Spain

While there are fun festivals in the summer months and seasonal businesses are near-certain to be open, 100-degree days are becoming increasingly common . In some spots, like Madrid and the Balearic Islands, even the average temperatures can climb into the 90s.

Despite this, the season remains by far the busiest among tourists, primarily since Spain is such an easy getaway for Brits, Germans, and other Europeans whose schools are out for the summer. This high demand also drives prices to their annual peak, creating another good reason for the average visitor to try another season.

For the most favorable prices, crowds, and weather, time your trip for Spain's beautifully temperate spring.

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Transportation in Spain: We Compare the Best Ways to Get Around

Transportation in Spain offers plenty of great options for travelers, from fast high speed trains to discount airlines to shockingly affordable bus routes and convenient car rentals.

What’s the best transportation in Spain for your trip? That really depends on your needs.

If you have plenty of time, then taking the bus may be the most affordable option. If you’re in a rush, flying may be the fastest way to see the country. If you’re looking for speed and scenery, but with a slightly bigger budget, Spain’s high speed trains may be just your ticket.

Best Options for Transportation in Spain

Spain is one of Europe’s most popular tourist and TEFL destinations , and it’s easy to see why. From the sun dappled beaches of Andalucía, to the quaintly cobbled streets of busy Madrid, to the affordable tapas and drinks in Granada there’s plenty to keep travelers occupied.

Tourists wondering how to get around Spain have plenty of options. Now that we’ve listed a few, lets compare the major modes of transportation in Spain.

Traveling by train is one of the most popular types of transportation in Spain, and for good reason. Spain trains and routes are generally efficient, easily available, and affordable.

Trains travel extensively within Spain however they also connect to other countries.

The high-speed train or AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) runs between Spain’s major cities. Operated by Renfe (Red Nacional de los Ferrocarriles Españoles), the AVE system is the longest HSR system in Europe , and second only to China worldwide. Trains in Spain reach speeds of 300 plus kilometers per hour (186 miles per hour).

Trains offer many types of tickets, including 1st class (Preferente) and 2nd class (Turista) cabins and some offer cafe-bar facilities. You can book most train tickets via the Renfe website, Rail Europe or a 3rd party site like Rail.Ninja.

Round trip train fares are generally cheaper in Spain than getting two, separate, one-way tickets.

International connections from Spain

Spanish trains have good connections to France and Portugal.

There is no direct rail line to the country of Andorra, which doesn’t have a rail service in the country. To reach Andorra, take a train from Barcelona to L’Hospitalet-près-l’Andorre (France), and then switch to a bus from France to Andorra la Vella in Andorra.

Similarly, there is no direct train connection to Gibraltar, which has no rail service. However, you can take a train to the Spanish side of the border with Gibraltar), and then take a bus further into Gibraltar proper.

There’s talk of an undersea tunnel connecting Spain and Morocco, but for now there’s no train service from Spain to Morocco.

Local rail networks in Spain

In addition to the high speed network, there are also smaller regional train services in Spain, which operate a largely commuter services. They include FGC in Catalonia (including Barcelona), Cercanias RENFE (which operates many suburban rail networks), FEVE (Northern Spain), Euskotren (Bilbao, San Sabastian and a few smaller towns).

Like elsewhere in Europe, it takes a little thinking to figure out if a rail pass is worth it for you. There are three types of rail passes in Spain.

• Spain only. Spain only passes come as the Renfe Spain Pass, or the Eurail Spain Pass.
• Two country passes. You can use the Eurail Select Pass to pair Spain with Portugal, France, or Italy.
• Multiple country passes. The Eurail Global Pass lets you travel on four adjacent countries by train.

It always takes a bit of number crunching to figure out if a pass is more affordable than buying individual tickets, or more affordable than doing a combo like flying, renting a car, and taking the bus however if you love seeing the countryside by ground and prefer trains over buses or cars, then getting a train pass in Spain definitely makes sense.

Driving in Spain – Car

As Canadians, we’re used to driving everywhere. Canada’s an enormous country, and long distance public transportation is definitely lacking here.

Happily, the public transportation system in Spain, like most European countries, is excellent. During our time in Spain, we did rent a car for our road trip through Spain and Portugal , but most of the time we relied on public transportation to get around,

In Spain, you drive on the right hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left side of the vehicle. Coming from Canada, this was familiar to us, making driving easier, but if you come from the UK or Australia, where you drive on the left side the road, it may be more of a challenge to get adjusted.

The driving age in Spain is 18, and you’ll need both a valid driver’s license and an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) .

Freeways (autovias in Spanish) are plentiful and well maintained throughout Spain. We found the highways we traveled in Southern Spain to be smoothly paved, with lines recently painted. We did find plenty of roundabouts on the roads in Spain, including large, busy roundabouts in Madrid.

As North Americans, we’re used to wide roads with plenty of parking. It was definitely a challenge to adjust to driving in Spain through the narrow, winding roads of historic city centers like Avila, Spain , where roads were originally designed for pedestrian or horse traffic.

Parking in Spain

Parking in large cities like Seville and Madrid was incredibly difficult, and even smaller centers like Avila’s city center didn’t have a lot of readily available parking. On street parking is often in small, tight spaces, which may be a challenge if your parallel parking skills aren’t on point however there are parking lots and even parking garages around some of the major tourist areas around the country.

Spain’s toll system

We found Spain’s road toll system to be much less complicated and confusing than toll roads in Portugal .

You can pay Spanish tolls with a credit card or cash manually, or electronically, via the Via-T system.

For manual tolls, you grab a ticket from a booth when you enter the motorway, and then pay the toll at another booth as you exit, in either the credit card or cash lane.

Some motorways allow electronic payments, but you’ll need a special VIA-T device. Look for the Telepeaje, VIA-T or T sign on the motorway. You must use one of the lanes with the VIA-T sign if you’re using a device and the device automatically registers the amount of the toll. These devices are available, for a small fee, from many banks in Spain however you’ll need an account at the bank to get one.

Toll costs vary depending on the road and the prices vary from region to region. You can find Spain’s toll costs on numerous sites however this one from Sixt (just click on Spain) is quick and simple.

Pros of Renting a Car in Spain

Renting a car in Spain let us visit small towns and villages in Spain and Portugal that would have been very difficult to see without a vehicle. It was also the most cost effective option for our family of four and allowed us to spend as much or as little time at each destination without worrying about tight timelines.

Cons of Renting a Car in Spain

One of the major hassles of renting a car in Spain was the renting a car hassle factor. We had to figure out insurance for the car, tolls on the motorways, and deal with sometimes confusing directions. The worst was probably having to find parking, especially in city centers, where parking was hard to find and often expensive.

While Spain has a good train system, buses pick up where trains aren’t available. Buses also run on many routes that are also served by trains, and we often found the bus fares to be more affordable than train fares. However, bus routes often took much longer than train routes.

We found bus transportation in Spain generally very affordable. Most smaller centers, like Nerja, Spain, are well served by public long distance bus routes.

In recent years, ALSA has bought out many smaller bus companies, giving it a more consistent feeling and more options when booking online.

Buses can be booked via Movelia, Alsa, or Avanza websites.

Advantages of Taking the Bus in Spain

One of the best things about taking the bus in Spain is that buses serve almost every small town in Spain. Sure, there are some remote parts without bus service, but most towns have good bus connections. Plus, buses are generally clean and comfortable, and run on a reasonable schedule.

Cons of Traveling by Bus in Spain

While buses are affordable in Spain, one of the main disadvantages of taking the bus is that it’s much slower than high speed trains, flying, or even driving by car. This is especially annoying on non-direct bus routes that have multiple stops. If time if of the essence, then definitely opt for the more expensive direct buses with minimal stops.

Ferries aren’t the first thing most people think of when it comes to transportation in Spain.

That said, around 20 ferry companies operate in Spain. They operate to and from:

• the Canary Islands
• the Balearic Islands of Ibiza, Formentera, Mallorca and Menorca (most depart from Barcelona, but some route via Dénia and Valencia.)
• Spain to Morocco
• the UK, Italy and other countries, including North Africa and Morocco.
• between islands in Spain (for example, from Fuerteventura to Lanzarote)

We took the ferry from the extreme south of Spain in the town of Tarifa to the Moroccan city of Tangier, across the Gibraltar Strait. There are two companies that run the route, FRS and Inter Shipping.

The crossing is relatively short, at only about an hour and the ferries often have food and entertainment onboard.

Tip: If the water’s choppy, the crossing from Tarifa to Tangier by ferry can be pretty nausea inducing.

You can also take a ferry directly from Barcelona to either Tanger Med (on GNV ferries) or Nador (on Grimaldi Lines) . Ferry sailings from Barcelona to Tanger Med are operated by the ferry companies GNV and Grimaldi Lines. Both crossings take about 30 hours.

Traveling by Plane in Spain

Spain is well served by discount and regular fare airlines, and flying is often the quickest (and even cheapest) way of getting around the country. Spain is a large country (the second largest in Western Europe), so it can take a while to get from the north down to south or even from east to west.

It’s a whopping 529.5 kilometers (321 miles) from the major centers of Madrid to Seville, for example. The journey takes about two and a half hours by train, five and a half hours by car, and only one hour by plane.

If time permits, many tourists prefer to slow down and see the Spanish countryside by train, bus, or car.

Spain’s main airlines are Iberia, Iberia Express, Vueling, Air Europa, Wamos Air, and LEVEL. Plenty of other airlines operating in Spain, including Ryanair, EasyJet and Lufthansa.

Heads up! Laws banning short haul flights in Spain are under consideration in 2022, to help shrink the region’s carbon output. It’s a serious possibility, as France set a law in effect that banned short-haul domestic flights on routes where train journeys of two and a half hours or less existed as an alternative.

While most people think of major treks like the famous El Camino de Santiago, it is possible to get around most cities and towns just by walking.

So, while walking may not be feasible for long distances between cities in Spain, it’s a fantastic way to see many of the sites in town.

Walking is one of our favorite ways to see a new country, and wandering through the narrow streets of the city center showed us the best of Seville and the centro of Madrid . Walking the winding city centers is also one of the things we loved about Spain .

Taxis, Ubers and Other Ride Hailing Options

To get around locally, taxi services and Uber* (or local ride hailing services) are generally good options in Spain. While in city rates aren’t bad, long distance rates can get pretty high so other methods of transportation is advised.

* Uber is regulated in Spain and it doesn’t operate in every city, including Valencia. It just returned to Barcelona in 2021 after a two year absence.

The Best Ways to Get Around Spain

Whether you choose trains and airplanes to buses or car rentals, there’s no denying Spain is a large, beautiful country with plenty to see and lots to do. No matter which mode of transportation you choose, Spain has lots of options for you and you can’t really go wrong with any of them.

When planning a tour of the country, pay attention to not only your budget but also your timelines. Saving a few dollars can cost you hours that might be better spent visiting a beautiful destination in Spain or chomping down on some delicious tapas.

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Safe travels!

Top hacks for visiting Spain like a local

Perhaps this is your first visit to the sunny, welcoming country of Spain. Or maybe it's your eighth, eleventh or twentieth vacation there. Either way, Spanish culture is special, and if you'd like to have a more authentic and memorable time, there are a few hacks that are useful to know.

After 12 years of living in Spain, a master's degree in Castillian Spanish and marrying into a Spanish family, I've learned a thing or two about living, visiting and traveling in Spain like a local. To save you from making numerous faux pas (many that I have made myself) and help you avoid tourist prices, pickpockets and general discomfort/embarrassment, here are some key tips to enjoying Spain like a local, to enrich your trip and to help you immerse yourself in the wonderful culture, landscape and cuisine the country has to offer.

1. Choose your destination wisely

Spain is a country of beaches, mountains, islands, villages and urban hubs. Depending on the style of trip you want to have, choose your destination with care. While Barcelona, Marbella, Benidorm and Tenerife are some of the most popular hotspots for European travelers, get more in touch with the local culture by trying something a little different. Visiting cities or regions that fly more under the radar will ensure you avoid typical tourist price hikes, get a more traditional feel for the country and avoid being targets of travel scams or pickpocketing. This is by no means a comprehensive list, but here are some suggested alternatives.

• Want to visit Barcelona? Try Madrid
• Want to visit Marbella? Try Cádiz
• Want to visit Tenerife? Try La Palma
• Want to visit Mallorca? Try Menorca
• Want to visit Seville? Try Córdoba
• Want to visit San Sebastián? Try Santander
• Want to visit Malaga? Try Almería
• Want to visit Benidorm? Try Tarragona

2. Choose your neighborhood carefully

If you've chosen to visit Barcelona, Marbella or Tenerife, that's okay too. There are plenty of wonderful attractions to enjoy in all of those spots. But do some research to find the areas or neighborhoods you'd really love to spend time or dine in. Even if you do decide to make your base the more touristy Ramblas or Tenerife's all-inclusive hub of Playa de las Américas, seek out more local attractions within these areas. You'll save money avoiding touristy restaurants and discover new and interesting spots along the way. Seeing the main tourist attractions shouldn't necessarily be skipped, but you may find you enjoy some of the off-the-beaten-path spots even more.

3. Be an organized tourist

Traveling locally doesn't mean skipping the tourist attractions. It just means doing them in a savvier manner. Many of Spain's most popular attractions (think the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona or the Real Alcázar in Seville) have online ticketing systems. Plan to purchase tickets ahead so you skip the line when arriving. For attractions that require a timed entrance purchase, consider checking out Google's popular times feature. When you google the attraction and scroll down, you can see a graph with the most and least popular times, ensuring you may be able to select a time to see your chosen attraction during a less busy time of day.

If you're traveling on a budget, many museums have days or times where you can enter for free or for reduced entry. Although these times are typically more crowded, it may be worth it to save some extra money.

4. Do things later (and yes, take that siesta)

If there's one thing that will call you out as a tourist, it's waking and eating earlier than the locals. Lunch begins at 1 p.m., but is most commonly had between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. Find a spot with a set lunch menu, a Menu del Día. This fixed price menu that changes daily is usually a great deal: a drink (wine, beer or soft drink), starter, main course and dessert or coffee, usually priced between eight and 16 euro ($9 - $18).

Although restaurants open around 8:30 p.m., 10 p.m. is a much more normal time for dinner -- and even later on the weekends. When your crew rolls in at 8 p.m., you may get the tourist menu, meaning one with inflated prices. And you'll probably only be surrounded by other tourists, not getting a feel for what Spanish dinnertime is really like (hint: it's noisy and fun).

How can you possibly wait that long to eat dinner, one might ask? The key is the famous siesta. Napping after midday, especially in the intense heat of the summer when temperatures in many areas of Spain are nearing 100 degrees Fahrenheit will ensure you not only avoid the hottest part of the day but gives you more chance of staying awake long enough to eat dinner -- and maybe even go out for a copa afterwards. For more information on what a copa is, see my next point.

The other advantage of taking a siesta is to avoid all the shops being closed. Although many larger shops stay open all day, some of the smaller and more local businesses close midday for lunch and rest, usually re-opening again around 5 p.m.

5. Order like a pro (and in Spanish, if possible)

The Spanish are efficient when they order food and drinks. Saying things like, "ponme una caña" is completely normal, though in the US you'd never tell the barman to "give me a little beer". And what you're ordering is just as important:

• Skip sangria and order tinto de verano instead (this is a fresher, less sugary type of wine spritzer that's more commonly ordered by locals. When you try it, you'll see why).
• Skip the Guinness and order a caña, a small beer (in the heat of the summer, you'll see why this makes sense. By the time you're just about done, the beer is warm, and it's time to order another).
• Skip a margarita, daiquiri or mojito in lieu of a copa (a copa is a simple mixed drink with one type of alcohol mixed with soda or tonic water. The Spanish prepare these much better than fancy cocktails).
• Don't order paella in places where the menus show pictures of it.
• Try vermouth, sherry or local wines. These are cheap and delicious.
• Remember, you may get a free tapa with a drink order, especially at bars/restaurants in southern Spain. Seek these joints out, it's where the locals are.
• If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, triple confirm (have the information written in Spanish for serious allergies) with the waiter. Remember that in Spain, sometimes locals don't consider ham as meat, so if you're vegetarian or do not eat pork, confirm the dish you're order is both pork and beef free. Vegans will have a tougher time, but slowly, more options are becoming available in the larger cities for those restricted to a plant-based diet.

Learning just a little bit of Spanish -- even just easy words for food and booze can make your trip a lot easier -- and more fun. Locals will appreciate your effort, and you may even make a few friends as you stumble over forming a phrase or two.

6. Summer is hot -- so be prepared

While this may seem blatantly obvious, what's not as obvious is that air conditioning is very different in Spain. Some places don't have it at all, and some shops, hotels and restaurants won't have the same quality of air conditioning you'd find in other countries. If having AC is important to you or you tend to run hot, double check that your hotel or home rental has AC and keep your expectations under control. Or, avoid visiting during the hottest months of the year, July and August.

And of course, the telltale sign of a tourist is shockingly sunburned skin, so wear sunblock even if it seems cloudy. The Spanish sun can easily deliver a burn in no time at all, even in months like April or October.

A final tip is to use those handheld Spanish fans to beat the heat. They can come in handy, especially when on public transportation or to block the hot sun from hitting your face temporarily.

7. Be on alert for scams and pickpockets

Travel scams can happen to anyone -- even expert travelers. In fact, TPG Travel Editor Melanie Lieberman fell victim to a scam along the Costa Brava where all her belongings were stolen out of her rental car. TPG U.K. reader Bobby succumbed to a similar scam in the region, where he was tricked into thinking he had a flat tire. While he was distracted by the false flat fire, thieves stole his luggage. And you have to watch out for the trileros, or people involved with a common travel scam called trile, the cup game you should be watching out for in spots like Mallorca and Benidorm.

While you likely won't encounter violent crime in Spain, pickpocketing is extremely common, especially in crowded areas, tourist attractions or on public transportation, especially in Barcelona.

Staying alert, being aware of your surroundings and knowing about common scams and pickpockets are some of the best ways to prevent these things from happening to you. Leave your passport and back-up credit card at your hotel and have a backup copy of your passport or other important documents with you. Keep your belongings secure and never leave your purse/bags on the ground or on the back of your chair at a restaurant. Don't leave your mobile phone on the table either.

Travelers who have been the victim of a crime in Spain can call the authorities on 112, or call or e-mail SATE (Servicio de Atención al Turista Extranjero) for assistance with scams or any other precarious situations.

Bottom line

Armed with the aforementioned tips, you should be able to have a safe, fun and hopefully more local visit to Spain. Remember, there's absolutely nothing wrong with being a tourist either, just be a savvy one -- and keep an eye on your belongings.

Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Spain train guide – how to travel spain by train.

How to travel Spain by train — Tips for buying Spanish train tickets and advice for navigating Spain by rail.

Transportation

Spain is well-connected by rail so you can easily get just about anywhere quickly and fairly inexpensively. Luckily for travelers, Spain’s rail network has improved immensely over the past few years and its high-speed AVE trains now connect Spain’s major cities at speeds over 180mph. But, of course, it still has a few quirks. In this Spain Train Guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about taking the train in Spain—from navigating the system to buying train tickets in Spain for the cheapest price.

Electronic Train Tickets and High-Speed Data in Spain

Most train tickets in Spain (and much of Europe) are now electronic so you’ll want reliable high-speed data for your phone—personally, I wouldn’t rely on free wifi or your domestic provider’s international service as it’s often slow/unreliable.

Luckily, getting high-speed data in Spain is fairly simple and affordable. Here are a few articles I’ve written to help you get set up:

• Guide To Mobile Data Plans and Smartphone Phones in Europe
• How To Buy A SIM Card and Mobile Data Plans in Europe
• Guide To Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in  Spain

How To Buy Train Tickets in Spain

There are a number of ways to buy Spanish train tickets but it’s not always super straightforward. Keep reading and we’ll walk you through the process.

Let’s first take look at where and when to buy tickets for the best price…

Where To Buy Spain Train Tickets

Below are the various ways to buy train tickets for Spain and we’ve tried to call out the common quirks of each method.

Omio: Omio is a search engine that lets you compare and book trains (plus buses & flights) anywhere in Europe. It lets you easily book tickets with your credit card at essentially the same prices as Spain’s Railways website. Additionally, Omio searches routes for multiple rail services across Europe so it’s great for international trips (since it can easily combine rail journeys of multiple countries). Omio also gives you the option to print your own tickets or have eTickets sent to the Omio App.

TrainLine:   TrainLine is a third-party booking site that connects directly to Spain’s National Rail Network (renfe.com) and other European networks. Trainline also accepts international credit card payments and lets you print your own tickets or have eTickets sent to the Tranline App.

RENFE (Spanish Railways) : The National Spanish Railway system is called RENFE and anyone is allowed to buy tickets from renfe.com. Like most national rail sites, renfe.com suffers from weird translation issues and sometimes it won’t accept foreign credit cards. When I tried booking I found that the website was only partially translated into English and it would randomly switch to Spanish. Additionally, it’s confusing when you enter your billing address because it’s in the Spanish format. So, I suggest sticking to the other methods outlined above.

Types Of Train Tickets

There are three main types of ticket fares available — each ticket class is available for both first-class ( Turista Plus) and second-class ( Turista ) tickets. There is also a  Preferente class that’s first-class + a meal.

• Promo: Promo is the cheapest ticket available but it’s also non-refundable — so you’re out of luck if you miss your train or need to cancel your ticket.
• Promo+: Promo + is semi-flexible so it’s a bit more expensive but you’ll get a 70% refund if you need to cancel tickets.
• Flexible:   Flexible is the most expensive ticket but you get a 95% refund should you need to cancel.

Group (Mesa) Ticket Discount

AVE and long-distance trains often offer up to a 60% discount for groups who buy four seats together — this is called a Mesa fare ( Mesa means table in Spanish). You have to buy the entire set of four seats but this is usually even a good deal for groups of three since the group still saves money by purchasing the block of four seats.

HOW TO COLLECT YOUR TICKETS

Tickets purchased online can be collected in a few different ways. Most of the time you’re given multiple methods of collecting your tickets but double-check as things seem to randomly change.

• Print-At-Home Tickets:  You’ll often be sent a PDF that you print at home and show to the conductor on the train when he checks tickets.
• Smartphone: You can save the PDF ticket to your phone and they can scan it from there. We recommend saving it to your iPhone’s Passbook app.
• Pick Up At the Station:  Use your booking confirmation number to collect your tickets at the train station. This isn’t always an option.

DO I NEED TO BUY SPANISH TRAIN TICKETS IN ADVANCE?

Short answer — Yes. It’s best to book early if you want to save money on your train tickets. This mainly applies to Spain’s AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) high-speed trains and most medium/long-distance trains. You’re able to book tickets about two to three months before the departure date — it randomly fluctuates so check back in a few days if you’re not finding many/any results. The longer you wait the more you’ll pay—a ticket purchased on the day of travel will cost around 3x a ticket purchased two months early.

However, local/short-distance trains don’t need to be booked early as the prices are fixed.

Late Train Arrival Refunds

One interesting thing that Renfe offers is compensation for delayed/late arrivals on all high-speed and long-distance trains—and it doesn’t matter what caused the delay. Each train service has different refund policies but the high-speed AVE trains will refund 50% if the train is over 15 minutes late and 100% if the train is over 30 minutes late.

You can collect your refund at the train station or you can trade in your credit + receive a 20% bonus if you purchase a future ticket.

Using Your Spain Train Tickets

Unlike most of Europe, there is never a need to validate your Spanish train tickets — regardless of what kind of ticket it is. On  high-speed trains , your ticket is only good for the specific time printed on your ticket. You’ll also be given an assigned seat. On slower trains, you’ll just show the conductor your ticket when they check tickets on the train.

We recommend getting to the train station about 20 minutes before the train departs so you can find your platform. On high-speed trains, you’ll need to go through security but it should only add an extra few minutes to your journey.

Rail Passes for Spain

The cheapest way to travel via train in Spain is by purchasing advanced tickets. In virtually every situation this will be more cost-effective than using a Eurail pass .

However, tickets are expensive if you buy them only a few days in advance so it usually makes more sense, both financially and practically, to use a rail pass if you’re a spontaneous traveler—especially when using high-speed trains.

Check out Eurail.com to see their rail passes.

HOW TO MAKE RAIL PASS RESERVATIONS

High-speed and long-distance trains in Spain require a reservation when using a Eurail pass — the reservation will cost €10-€15/seat. Tip: Always look to see the price of a normal ticket costs because on some routes a normal ticket will cost less than the Eurail reservation fee.

Also, You must make the reservation before you get on the train and some routes limit the number of rail pass holders so it’s wise to book your reservation early. Most of the time you need to make the reservation a minimum of one hour before departure but we suggest doing it as early as you can.

There are a few ways to make reservations:

• RailEurope.com  lets you book your reservation online through their platform. Simply look for a button that says “I Have A Railpass” and follow the prompts.
• At The Train Station:  You can simply go to the train station and book your reservation from the customer service desk or self-service kiosks. You can book it weeks in advance or you can do it the day you depart. We suggest using the kiosks because the ticket window can take forever.

More Spain Train Travel Tips

• The Departures Board:  You’ll find your train platform via the departure board at the train station. Don’t worry if you don’t see your train because they often only display trains departing within the next 10-20 minutes.
• Security Screening: In Spain, all high-speed trains require you to screen your bags via X-ray. It normally only takes a few minutes.
• Self-Service Machines Are In English: Don’t worry if you don’t speak Spanish because the ticket machines (and train station signs) are all in English.
• Cheap Tickets Are Non-Refundable:  One downside to cheap tickets is that they’re non-refundable and they can’t be changed.
• Pack A Picnic:  You’re allowed to bring your own food and alcohol on trains. It’s great for those long train rides.
• Luggage:  There aren’t any weight limits on luggage and you can bring as much as you want (well, as much as you can carry). Simply bring it on and store it above your head, behind your seat, or in the luggage racks in each car.
• Making Connections: Your trip might require you to change trains along the journey. Don’t worry if there isn’t much time between trains as switching trains are usually fairly quick and easy (it’s not like flying).
• Get To The Train Station Early:  Train stations are usually fairly easy to navigate but they can be a little confusing.
• Know Train Station Names:  Most large cities have multiple train stations (Madrid and Barcelona both have two) so this often creates confusion. Double-check to make sure you have the right station — especially when booking your ticket.

More Spain Travel Tips from The Savvy Backpacker

• Barcelona Travel Guide : Tips for visiting Barcelona
• Best Hostels in Barcelona : Our favorite budget accommodation in Barcelona.
• Madrid Travel Guide : Tips for visiting Madrid.
• Best Hostels in Madrid : Our favorite budget accommodation in Madrid.
• How To Choose The Best Travel Insurance : Travel insurance will help cover those non-refundable train tickets if something goes wrong during your trip.
• Packing List For Europe Travel : Tips on packing light (which makes train travel much easier).
• Recent Posts
• Best Prepaid UK eSIM | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 21, 2024
• How to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe — Tips for Outsmarting the Thieves - April 19, 2024
• Best Prepaid eSIM For Italy | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 18, 2024

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• Destinations
• Travel Guides

The best ways to get around Spain

Linn Haglund

• Getting around Spain

Spain is easy to travel around with public transport like buses and trains, as well as ride-share options like BlaBlaCar. With the new speed trains, you can move quickly between major cities like Madrid and Seville or Malaga .

When travelling between smaller towns, the bus might be your only public transport option, but sometimes there are not many departures, and a rental car might be the easiest way to explore the lesser-visited sides of Spain. We will go through all the options here so that you know what to expect when you visit.

Public transport and ride-share options in Spain

Between cities, it is best to travel either by bus, train, or BlaBlaCar. You can also get a rental car which is a reliable source of transportation that gives you the opportunity of being flexible. However, within cities, you can find different modes of transport to be useful, like bus, metro, tram, and train.

It is not advisable to drive in the big cities. Due to traffic, it often takes more time to reach the other side of town, not to mention looking for a place to park, than it will take to travel by public transport. Most big cities have a good public transportation network, and the smaller cities are walkable. You might also rent e-scooters or bikes to get around the bigger cities.

To find accurate information about public transportation in different destinations, note that there is no central website for it in Spain. There are only local sites, and many of them are poorly updated or only available in Spanish. Your best bet is to ask at the local tourist information or your hotel.

Getting around Spain by bus

An easy and cost-effective way to travel between cities. Usually, the main bus stations are close to the city centre. Buses are comfortable and most of them have free Wi-Fi, and have toilets on board.

Getting around Spain by train

Trains in Spain are comfortable and a good option to travel fast between major cities. Smaller towns and villages might not have a train station, and the train lines do not cover all the touristy areas like western Costa del Sol.

Getting around by BlaBlaCar

BlaBlaCar is often the most affordable way to travel between cities. All you need to do is to download the app, register a user, and look for rides between your location and destination.

Getting around by metro/bus in the cities

While not always on time, the major cities in Spain have a frequent network of both metros and buses so most of the time you will be good by just showing up at the stop and wait.

There are also bus/metro cards you can get for either a day, week, or month, depending on how long you stay. Some places like Madrid and Barcelona, also have tourist passes for tourist attractions that include public transport.

E-scooters and bikes in the cities

Most cities in Spain have both e-scooters and bikes for rent on racks that you can find throughout the city. There are different companies within and across cities. You might have to download different apps during your trip, but it is fairly easy.

You basically just download the app, fill in your information, scan the QR code of the bike or e-scooter you want to rent and scoot off. This is one of the most sustainable ways to get around the cities in Spain besides walking.

Driving and parking in Spain

Driving in Spain is easy with mostly well-maintained roads, though smaller roads might have holes and bumps in them - though usually well signposted. Toll roads are common on fast roads, but there are always alternative non-pay roads you can take. Most toll roads take both cash and card.

Parking in the big cities is easiest in paid underground parking, as the roadside parking in the centre is always paid and the machines can be hard to understand. The white lines indicate free parking (unless other signs indicate otherwise.)

Blue, yellow, and other coloured lines are all paid parking Monday-Sunday or Monday to Saturday, or surfing certain hours of the day, eg. 08:00-21:00. This is always marked on signs, or the paying machines will indicate the paying hours.

If you park on smaller streets where there are no lines for parking, note that all 4 wheels must be completely outside the road, or you might get a fine, or even worst, towed away.

Here are some general things to know before driving in Spain:

The age limit for driving is 18

Drive on the right side of the road

The alcohol limit is 0.5

You can drive with most Schengen and EU driving licenses

Most other driving licenses require to be accompanied by an international driving license

The max speed limit for cars and motorbikes is 120 on the motorways, but speed limits are usually well marked

You are not allowed to use your phone while driving, not even with headphones

You are not allowed to drive in flip-flops

Renting a car in Spain

You can rent a car at every airport in Spain. There are also several local rental companies in the cities to choose from that might offer more budget-friendly options. However, it is highly recommended to get full insurance on the rental car.

Generally, people do not take much care of their cars in Spain, and even less of others’ cars. Do not be surprised if you park up and come back to scratches and dents in the rental car.

The price of rental cars varies a lot throughout the year. While you can get deals for small cars down to 5 euros/day + insurance in the low season, the same car can easily go up to over 100 euros/day in the high season. The key is to book as early as possible for the summer months.

Transport costs in Spain

While the travel costs in Spain will vary largely depending on the season and your choice of travel, you can get an idea of what to expect.

Driving costs

When driving in Spain, you must consider the price of the rental car and insurance (as mentioned above,) the cost of toll roads, and petrol.

Toll roads vary and are also more expensive in summer than the rest of the year. A typical toll crossing that costs 3.60 euros in winter might rise to 7.90 euros over the summer months.

Petrol prices are also fairly unstable after the Ukraine war but have, by May 2023, stabilized around 1.5 to 1.6 per litre for petrol and 1.4 to 1.5 per litre for Diesel. This is still more than before the war, so hopefully, it will go slightly down with time.

If you drive an EV in Spain, there are multiple charging points and the average charging price is 0.22 euros per kWh - Spain is one of the more costly countries to charge an EV in Europe.

Public transport costs

When travelling between cities, the bus is usually the most affordable, and a trip from Madrid to Seville might cost around 30 Euros. The train is faster but can cost 60-70 Euros unless you book early, then you might find low-cost deals.

Bus and metro tickets in the cities usually cost around 1.50 euros, give or take, dispending on city and distance. A 10-trip pass in Madrid will cost you 12.20 euros.

Renting e-scooters in the cities averages 0.15 euros per minute, which is roughly 9 euros an hour. E-bikes are usually around 2 euros an hour.

Accessible travel in Spain

Most public transport is wheelchair accessible. When taking a taxi, let them know in advance. While most taxis are accessible, it is better to en sure it upfront. There is also a helpful website that can be useful for accessible travel in Spain.

Planning a trip to Spain? Read our Spain travel guides

• Introduction
• Public transport and ride-share
• Driving and parking
• Transport costs
• Accessible travel

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Author - Linn Haglund

Originally from Norway, Linn is an avid traveller and freelance travel writer that has a passion for the outdoors, wildlife, and responsible travel. She is currently living the van life in southern Europe with her fiancé and their dog.

Having travelled in 50+ countries and lived in five countries, she has developed a fervour for helping people to travel more responsibly and leave a positive impact on their destinations through her blog, Brainy Backpackers.

Last Updated 28 June 2023

These are the 15 best places to visit in Spain

Beautiful landscapes, rich history, world-class cuisine, vibrant cities, and a golden coastline. Spain seems to have it all. From the architectural marvels of Barcelona and Mardrid, to the gastronomic paradise of San Sebastián, and the dreamy Andalusian streets of Seville, Córdoba and Costa del Sol, these are 15 of the best places to visit in Spain . 

Explore these destinations on: Best of Spain

1. Barcelona

The capital of Catalonia, Barcelona is one of the best places to visit in Spain, filled with architectural marvels, buzzing nightlife, and beachside bliss. The city is famed for the whimsical creations of Antoni Gaudí, like La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Stroll along Las Ramblas, a bustling street lined with shops and cafes, or explore the historic Gothic Quarter. Don’t miss out on experiencing the lively beach culture at Barceloneta. You can also soak up the lively culinary scene that includes everything from tapas bars to Micheline-starred restaurants. 

We think you’ll also like: How to spend 48 hours in Barcelona, Spain

Seville is the heart of Andalusian culture, flamenco dancing, and Moorish influenced architecture. It’s home to an array of architectural wonders, like the Real Alcázar, a stunning Mudéjar-style palace. There’s also the Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world where you can climb the Giralda tower for breathtaking views. Wander the narrow streets and bustling tapas bars of Seville’s charming old town. Or soak up the atmosphere of the city’s lively festivals like the famous Feria de Abril and the solemn yet spectacular Semana Santa.

With its elegant boulevards, manicured parks, and rich art galleries, Spain’s capital is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Spain. Visit the Golden Triangle of museums including the Prado Museum to see an impressive collection of European art with works by Goya, Velázquez, and other Spanish masters. Enjoy a walk through the lush Retiro Park and check out the magnificent Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor. The city also dishes up spectacular food markets like Mercado San Miguel and a vibrant nightlife. 

We think you’ll also like: Guide to visiting the golden triangle of art in Madrid

4. Balearic Islands

If you’re looking for white sand beaches and turquoise blue waters, the Balearic Islands are one of the best places to visit in Spain. This archipelago has multiple islands each offering unique experiences, from the tranquil beaches of Formentera to the world famous party scene of Ibiza. The islands of Mallorca and Menorca round out the 4 largest islands, all serving up beautiful beaches, coves, rugged cliffs and those iconic Balearic blues. Besides the beaches, there’s also historic fortified towns, ancient ruins and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to explore, along with charming beachside restaurants, and the pumping bars and clubs.

5. San Sebastián

Set on the Basque coast in northern Spain, San Sebastián is an extraordinary city. It’s a gastronomic haven, with more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than anywhere in the world. It’s home to spectacular white sand beaches and sapphire blue bays, like the Bay of Biscay and La Concha. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, explore the Belle Epoque architecture and winding streets of the old town, and duck into the delicious pintxos bars along the way. 

Lying at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains in Andalusia, Granada is a historic city of ancient fortresses and Moorish architecture. It’s home to the famous Alhambra, a sprawling hilltop fortress complex with royal palaces, tranquil gardens, mosaics and mirror-like pools from the Nasrid dynasty. The city’s Moorish architectural heritage is visible throughout, especially in the historic district of Albaicín, where you’ll find winding alleys, old bazaars and spectacular views of the Alhambra

We think you’ll also like: 5 jewels of Spanish architecture, by Travel Director Alex Rodrigues

7. Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is a dazzling coastal region in Catalonia in northeastern Spain. Stretching from the idyllic town of Blanes all the way to the French border, the region is one of the best places to visit in Spain for pristine beaches and seaside restaurants along the Mediterranean. Dip your toes into the sand in secluded coves, wander along cliff-top paths, explore quaint villages and indulge in seafood and traditional Catalan dishes. You can also visit the unique Salvador Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres and the Santa Clotilde Gardens in Lloret de Mar. Be sure to visit the city of Girona for its medieval architecture, walled Old Quarter, ancient Roman fortress, and 12th-century baths.

Once the capital of Spain until 1560, Toledo is a 2000-year-old walled city and UNESCO World Heritage Site. With Christian, Muslim and Jewish quarters and influences, it’s known as the “City of Three Cultures”, and you can see a unique mix of Gothic cathedrals, synagogues and mosques, along with ancient Roman ruins and Moorish architectural styles. Set on a hill above the plains of Castilla-La Mancha, and you can admire the views that inspired El Greco’s masterpieces, and visit the museums and galleries to see some of his works and other medieval art.

We think you’ll also like: 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to see in Spain

For a quintessential Andalusian experience, Córdoba is one of the best places to visit in Spain. The UNESCO-listed historic city center is a dream of cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings lined with wrought-iron balconies, bright blue pots and hot pink bougainvillaea. Visit in May to see the city’s private patios blooming in flowers during the Courtyards Festival. For more historic treasures, visit the Castle of the Christian Monarchs and the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, with some of the best-preserved architecture in Spain. You can also wander through the flower-lined streets of the Jewish Quarter and visit the ancient Roman bridge. 

10. Santiago de Compostela

As the capital of Galicia and the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, Santiago de Compostela is famed for its religious significance and stunning cathedral. The tradition of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage dates back over 1,000 years, and you’ll still see pilgrims from all over the world paying their respects at the Basilica of Santiago de Compostela, believed to be the resting place of St. James the Apostle. Even if you’re not a pilgrim, there is plenty to see in this city, from the old town filled with Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque buildings to the lively Plaza del Obradoiro. It’s here you’ll find the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, said to be the oldest hotel in the world. 

We think you’ll also like: Camino de Santiago: the ancient pilgrimage route of Spain

11. Valencia

As the third-largest city in Spain, Valencia offers a bit of everything, from ancient architecture to futuristic structures and golden beaches. It’s home to the City of Arts and Sciences, a dazzling cultural and architectural complex. Wander through the lush parks and you’ll make your way to the old town’s stunning Gothic and Renaissance buildings. Keep moving and you’ll find the city’s long stretches of golden beaches. It’s also the birthplace of paella, so there’s plenty of fantastic spots to taste this classic dish. 

12. Costa del Sol

The sun-kissed shores of Costa del Sol is one of the most beloved places in southern Spain. Famed for its year-round sunshine and beautiful beaches, the area is a haven of Andalusian villages, Mediterranean cuisine, and beach clubs. Head to the elegant town of Málaga, the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, home to the Moorish Gibralfaro fortress, ancient Roman theater, and sparkling harbor. Explore the luxurious marina of Marbella or take a day trip to nearby whitewashed Andalusian villages like Mijas and Ronda. 

We think you’ll also like: Brilliant places in Spain for a sunny winter getaway

Set in the heart of Basque Country in northern Spain, Bilbao is an industrial port city turned art hub. It’s most famed for the Guggenheim Museum , with its remarkable titanium-clad structure and spectacular sculptures by world-renowned artists. Visit the Casco Viejo (old town) and the vibrant riverfront for delicious pintxos and seafood, and explore Parque Etxebarria for beautiful views over the valley and rolling hills. 

14. Zaragoza

Set on the banks of the Ebro River, Zaragoza is a lesser-known gem with a rich history and culture. You’ll find impressive treasures like the baroque Nuestra Señora del Pilar basilica, a renowned pilgrimage site. There’s also the Aljafería, an 11th-century Moorish palace with a beautiful blend of Islamic and Gothic architecture, and the Cathedral of the Savior, dating back to the 12th century. The city’s delicious tapas scene and traditional festivals like Fiestas del Pilar makes Zaragoza one of the best places to visit in Spain. 

We think you’ll also like: 14 useful Spanish phrases to learn before your trip

15. Peñíscola

This beautiful coastal town in eastern Spain is a delight to explore, with medieval history and beautiful beaches. The 13th-century Peñíscola Castle was once the residence of Pope Benedict XIII and has stunning views over the Mediterranean. The charming old town is lined with cobbled streets and whitewashed houses, while the Artillery Park is filled with lavendar and olive trees. Wander along the lively promenade or take a dip in the crystal sea. You can also visit Serra d’Irta Natural Park for lush woodlands and Torre Badúm watchtower.

What do you think are the best places to visit in Spain? Let us know in the comments below!

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These Are the 10 Best Cities You Need to See in Spain

V ibrant cities, sunwashed beaches , tasty tapas, lisp-y pronunciations—Spain offers all of it and more. Nestled on the Iberian Peninsula, España beckons with a myriad of experiences, from the bustle of Madrid and Barcelona to the pristine beaches along the Costa del Sol, and the majestic peaks of the Pyrenees. When seeking out the best places in Spain, there are no shortage of options—and they cater to every type of traveler.

Related: This High Desert Town Is the Southwest's Favorite New Getaway Spot

Visitors flock to Spain year round for its renowned culture, such as flamenco music and dance, or for traditional annual festivals like La Tomatina—the world’s largest food fight, near Valencia in Buñol, where residents hurl overripe tomatoes. Speaking of tomatoes, they’re a staple of Spain’s cuisine, which features delicious seafood-laden paella, shareable tapas, and delectable wines .

Whether you're exploring historic landmarks, lounging on sun-kissed beaches, or savoring the flavors of Spanish gastronomy, an adventure through Spain promises an unforgettable experience. With such a range, it’s the kind of place to visit with a plan in hand. That's where we come in, with top-notch recommendations for the best places in Spain worth building your trip around.

History buffs can learn here about exploring the bygone wonders of Cordoba, food enthusiasts might be enticed to savor tapas in Seville, and relaxation-seeking nature lovers will probably be drawn to the underrated island of Menorca— one of our top destinations for 2024 travel.  From top to bottom, mountain to sea, here are the 10 best places to visit in Spain this year.  

Best for Urban Explorers: Madrid

Madrid, Spain's vibrant political capital, is also its cultural and artistic hub, with world-class museums, including the renowned Prado Museum —home to masterpieces by artists like Goya and Velázquez. The Royal Palace, a stunning architectural marvel, and the iconic Puerta del Sol, a bustling central square, showcase the city's historical grandeur. For the real local experience, make sure to explore Madrid's lively neighborhoods, such as Malasaña and Chueca, which offer a taste of everyday life in the city with charming cafes, tapas bars, expansive food halls, and vibrant street art. Delicious hole-in-the-wall bars and restaurants are plentiful in Madrid, but the city also offers top-notch fine dining at spots like DiverXO , boasting three Michelin stars, thanks to boundary-pushing, avant-garde dishes crafted by chef David Muñoz.

Where to Stay: Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá

Located in the artistic and cultural heart of Madrid, the Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá is a luxurious boutique hotel housed in a 19th-century palace. Opulent rooms, a stunning garden with a swimming pool, and breathtaking views of the Royal Palace are all unique draws. Guests can dine at the Dos Cielos Madrid by Hermanos Torres, the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, and unwind in the exclusive Thai Room Wellness spa.

Best for Art and Architecture: Barcelona

Barcelona, on the northeast coast, is renowned for its architectural marvels, artistic treasures, and a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere. Antoni Gaudí's masterpieces, including the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, define the city's skyline and are must-see attractions. Make time to stroll down La Rambla, explore the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, and relax on the city's golden beaches. Barcelona’s art museums are also worth a visit, like MNAC (Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya) for a comprehensive journey through Catalan art, or the contemporary exhibits of MACBA (Museum of Contemporary Art Barcelona). A sunny afternoon spent on Barceloneta beach provides a relaxing escape, and the vibrant food scene , featuring delicious Catalan cuisine, will keep you happy and stuffed for the entirety of your stay.

Where to Stay: Mercer Hotel Barcelona

Situated in the Gothic Quarter, the Mercer Hotel Barcelona is a five-star boutique hotel housed in a medieval palace. This elegant hotel blends historic charm with contemporary design, offering luxurious rooms, a rooftop terrace with a swimming pool, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. With its prime location near the Barcelona Cathedral, guests can easily immerse themselves in the city's rich history.

Best for Hikers: Mallorca

Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, is a Mediterranean paradise known for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages. The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range offers breathtaking hiking trails, while the picturesque town of Valldemossa, with its cobblestone streets and historic monastery, is a cultural gem. Palma de Mallorca, the capital, boasts a beautiful cathedral and a vibrant old town, while the island's pristine beaches, such as Es Trenc, are a major draw and must-visit if you’re a sun-seeker. While in Palma de Mallorca, make sure to grab a beverage at Abaco , a cocktail bar housed in a historic 16th-century mansion, renowned for inventive tipples served in the mansion’s various opulent salons.

Where to Stay: Sant Francesc Hotel Singular

Located in the heart of Palma de Mallorca's historic center, Sant Francesc Hotel Singular is a five-star boutique gem set within a restored 19th-century mansion in Palma’s old town. The hotel exudes sophistication with its stylish decor, courtyard garden, and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city and a pool. Its proximity to landmarks like the Cathedral of Santa Maria and the Royal Palace of La Almudaina are also a plus.

Best for Andalusian Culture: Seville

Seville, in southern Spain, is a passionate city full of flamenco dancing and architectural marvels. The iconic Alcazar of Seville, a stunning palace with intricate Islamic architecture and lush gardens, is a must-visit, as is the Gothic Seville Cathedral—housing the Giralda tower. Wander through the historic Barrio Santa Cruz, with its narrow alleys and charming squares, to soak in the city's medieval charm. The Plaza de España, a grand square with a canal, is another architectural gem. Seville has a vibrant culinary scene, and a visit to El Rinconcillo , the city's oldest tapas bar, offers an authentic taste of Andalusian flavors. For a more modern twist, the Michelin-starred Abantal combines traditional ingredients with innovative techniques.

Where to Stay: Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel

The Hotel Alfonso XIII , part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection, is a historic property built in the style of a palace. Beautiful courtyards with Moorish-inspired architecture and a swimming pool surrounded by lush gardens make it a lovely place to kick back during your stay in Seville. Another plus is the hotel’s proximity to city landmarks, such as the Seville Cathedral and the Alcazar.

Best for Paella Fans: Valencia

Valencia, on the southeastern coast, combines medieval history with stunning modernity in its futuristic architecture. One of the 12 Treasures of Spain, the City of Arts and Sciences is a must-see, featuring the Hemisféric theater and the Oceanografic aquarium. The historic Valencia Cathedral and the Silk Exchange provide glimpses into the city's medieval past, while the Turia Gardens, a lush park created on a former riverbed, makes for a beautiful stroll. Foodies take note, you're in the homeland of paella here. The classic rice-saffron-chicken-seafood dish was developed in Valencia in the 19th century and remains a big part of the city's culinary cultural identity. For an authentic gastronomic experience, try the paella at La Pepica , a longstanding beachfront favorite, or savor inventive dishes that change daily at Ricard Camarena Restaurant .

Where to Stay: Caro Hotel

The Caro Hotel in Valencia is a monument boutique hotel, housed in a 19th-century palace and just a stone’s throw from the Valencia Cathedral. The walls of this avant-garde hotel are over two thousand years old, and feature an original mosaic from the founding of Valencia in the Roman era, 2nd century BC. Individually decorated rooms, a charming courtyard, and a rooftop terrace, as well as its central location in the heart of the old town, make it an ideal pick.

Best for Beaches and Offshore Nightlife: Ibiza

Ibiza might be primarily known for its vibrant and raucous nightlife, but it also boasts stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural scene. Beyond the clubs, the island offers tranquil beaches such as Cala Comte and Ses Salines. Dalt Vila, the fortified old town of Ibiza Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobbled streets and historic landmarks. Es Vedrà, an eye-catching rock formation off the coast, adds an element of mystery, while the Hippy Market in San Carlos provides a unique shopping experience. For those still wanting to party, make sure to pay a visit to the iconic cherry-adorned building of Pacha —a glamorous nightclub with top DJs—or Amnesia for its massive rooms and epic sound system that make it perfect for EDM sets.

Where to Stay: Ca Na Xica

Ca Na Xica , located in the peaceful countryside of Ibiza, is a luxury boutique hotel surrounded by lush gardens and scenic landscapes. This adults-only retreat offers elegantly designed rooms, a serene pool area, and a spa for relaxation. With its tranquil setting, Ca Na Xica provides a perfect escape from the vibrant nightlife of Ibiza while still being within reach of the island's beautiful beaches and attractions

Best for Moorish History: Granada

Granada, home to the iconic Alhambra, is a history lover’s dream. The city’s crown jewel, Alhambra, is a palace and fortress built in the mid-13th century by the Nasrid Dynasty, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site with intricate palaces, serene courtyards, and panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada. Another must in Granada is a stroll through the historic Albayzín neighborhood, a labyrinth of narrow streets and white-washed houses that preserves the city's Moorish past. The Granada Cathedral, with its impressive Renaissance architecture, is another landmark to add to your itinerary. For a taste of Andalusian cuisine, El Trillo , situated in the Albayzín, offers traditional dishes with a view, or you could indulge in tapas at Bodegas Castañeda , one of the oldest taverns in Granada.

Where to Stay: Palacio de Santa Paula, Autograph Collection

The Palacio de Santa Paula , part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, is a luxurious boutique hotel set in a 16th-century convent. This beautifully restored property blends historic charm with modern comforts, offering nice classic rooms, a courtyard garden, and a restaurant serving Andalusian cuisine.

Best for Foodies: San Sebastián

San Sebastián, nestled on the Bay of Biscay in northern Spain's Basque Country, is a city renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and culinary excellence—offering a perfect blend of relaxation and vibrant city life. Must-see stops include Monte Urgull for panoramic views of the city, the historic Old Town of Parte Vieja with its narrow streets and lively pintxos bars, and its picturesque stretch of shore at La Concha Beach. As a gastronomic haven, San Sebastian boasts an impressive two three-Michelin-starred restaurants: Arzak , known for its avant-garde Basque cuisine, and Martin Berasategui , offering a French-inspired dining experience in a gorgeous hillside setting.

Where to Stay: Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra

Overlooking La Concha Beach, the Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra is more than just a beachside hotel. Established in 1865, it features Belle Époque architecture, a charming lobby, comfortable rooms, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the bay. The spa is not located on-property, but a short walk away and still worth a visit, thanks to the hotel’s partnership with La Perla Spa, and a gorgeous Bella Époque era pool.

Best for Serenity Seekers: Menorca

Menorca, the quieter sibling of Mallorca, is a Balearic Island known for its unspoiled beauty, pristine beaches, and rich history. It’s also one of our top travel recommendations for 2024. The island's coastline is dotted with secluded coves and clear turquoise waters, making it a paradise for beach lovers. The historic Ciutadella, with its medieval streets and impressive architecture, is a gorgeous place to stroll and shop, and Menorca's biosphere reserves, such as S'Albufera des Grau, offer opportunities for nature lovers to explore diverse ecosystems. Make sure to grab dinner at Ses Voltes in Ciutadella, which offers Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, and to grab a cocktail at Sa Cova D’en Xoroi —a bar nestled in a natural cave overlooking the harbor.

Where to Stay: Villa Le Blanc, Gran Meliá

Villa Le Blanc , part of the Gran Meliá luxury collection, is a sustainable boutique hotel in Menorca, set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea on the island’s south coast. This exclusive property offers lavish accommodations, some with private balcony jacuzzis and breathtaking sea views. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean flavors at the hotel's fine dining restaurant, S'Amarador, relax in the spa, or walk a few steps off the property to the beach.

Best Historical Melting Pot: Cordoba

Cordoba, located in Andalusia, is a unique city that preserves a diverse heritage that spans Moorish, Christian, and Jewish influence. Mezquita, a breathtaking mosque-cathedral that seamlessly blends Islamic and Christian influences, features a mesmerizing forest of horseshoe arches. Stroll through the charming streets of the historic Jewish Quarter, called Judería, with its whitewashed buildings, flower-filled courtyards, and the Synagogue of Cordoba. The Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a medieval fortress with beautiful gardens, offers panoramic views of the city. To savor Cordoban cuisine, visit El Churrasco , renowned for its traditional Spanish dishes served in a historic setting. For a contemporary twist, try Noor , which offers a fusion of Andalusian and Moorish flavors.

Where to Stay: Hospes Palacio del Bailío

Hospes Palacio del Bailío is set in a 16th-century palace, boasting a blend of historic architecture and contemporary design, offering stylish rooms, a beautiful courtyard with a swimming pool, and a spa for relaxation. Swim around in their indoor Roman baths, or take a dip in an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by fragrant fruit trees. 

When to Visit Spain

The allure of Spain beckons throughout the year, but the best times to visit depend on your preferences. Spring, from around March to May, is a great shoulder season choice, as the countryside bursts into a kaleidoscope of wildflowers, and temperatures hover in the comfortable mid-60s to mid-70s. This season also allows you to explore historic cities like Barcelona and Seville without the intense summer crowds.

The summer months of June to August present the classic sun-soaked Spanish experience, with coastal regions, such as Costa del Sol, boasting blue skies and inviting beaches. Autumn, from September to November, offers a milder climate, making it an ideal time for cultural pursuits in Madrid or hiking the scenic trails of the Pyrenees. For a taste of Spanish winter charm, December to February sees festive lights adorning city streets, and skiing enthusiasts can hit the slopes in the Sierra Nevada.

Flights to Spain

One of the most popular countries in the world to visit, Spain was drawing more than 70 million visitors per year prior to the pandemic. Flights from anywhere in the U.S. to major city hubs like Madrid and Barcelona are plentiful, but those seeking more affordable options should consider an off-peak trip—essentially any time of year besides summer.

A winter trip, between November and February, will yield the cheapest flights, though you will likely have to forgo any beachside stints. Good flight deals are still to be found for shoulder season travel, in late spring from April to May, and early autumn from September to October, and will yield milder weather and relatively light crowds.

The Ultimate Guide to Study in Spain 2024

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Plan your Spain's Flight Now!

Yearning to immerse yourself in flamenco beats, mouthwatering tapas, and sunny beaches? Look no further than Spain! Explore our comprehensive 2024 guide to studying abroad in Spain. Get ready for an "muy increíble" experience with our insider tips!

Why Study in Spain?

In addition to its exceptional academic opportunities, Spain beckons students with its captivating heritage. Thousands of international scholars flock to its shores, drawn by its esteemed education and vibrant culture. Here's why studying in Spain is a top choice for students.

1. Affordable Tuition Fees: 

Studying in Spain can be quite cost-effective. The tuition fees are generally lower compared to other European countries, making it an attractive destination for international students.

2. Top-Ranked Universities: 

There are numerous best universities in Spain for international students. Universities like the University of Barcelona, Autonomous University of Madrid, and University of Navarra are renowned for being the top colleges in Spain.

3. Amazing Climate: 

Spain boasts a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. This makes it a great place to live and study, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

4. Relaxed and Enjoyable Spanish Lifestyle: 

The Spanish lifestyle is known for its relaxed pace. With a strong emphasis on family, food, and the famous festivals , students often find themselves immersed in the rich culture and traditions of Spain.

5. Chance to Learn Spanish:

 Studying in Spain provides an excellent opportunity to learn Spanish, the second most spoken language in the world. Being immersed in a new language can accelerate your learning and open up new cultural experiences.

6. Best Cuisine in Europe: 

If you plan to move to Spain , you would be delighted to see the amazing Spanish cuisine which is considered one of the best in Europe. From tapas to paella, the food is diverse and delicious. As a student, you’ll have the chance to explore this rich culinary tradition.

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Study in Spain: Key Highlights 

Sun, tapas, and top-ranked universities? ¡Sí, por favor! Studying abroad in Spain offers vibrant cities, a rich culture, and an amazing education. Here are the key highlights why you should study in Spain:

Education System and Academic Cycle in Spain

Spain universities for international students offer a structured education system. Bachelor's degrees typically span four years, requiring 240 ECTS credits. Graduates can pursue master's degrees lasting 1-2 years, followed by 3-5 years for a PhD. Spanning October to June, the academic year comprises two semesters. The Bologna Process shapes teaching methodologies, overseen by the Ministry of Education. It strives to maintain consistency in the standards and excellence of higher education credentials. 

Here are the academic cycles:

Documents Required for Spain Student Visa

When it comes to applying for a student visa in Spain, the documents you need may vary based on your home country. Typically, you'll need the following essentials:

1. Completed application forms

2. Valid passport and ID

3. Recent passport-sized photos

4. Letter of admission from your chosen university

5. Proof of health insurance and financial means

6. Bank statement

7. Scholarship award proof

8. Notarized parental letter

9. University/school correspondence

10. Fee payment evidence

11. Medical certificate

12. Criminal record certificate (within three months)

Average Tuition Fee Cost in Spain

Spain's average tuition fees are competitive, making it an attractive option for international students. With quality education and affordable prices, studying in Spain offers excellent value for money. Here are the details:

Top Courses to Study in Spain

Every year, countless international students embark on an exciting journey to study in Spain. They relish the flexibility and prestige of top universities in Spain. They offer diverse courses, promising bright futures and early career opportunities. Here's a glimpse of top universities in Spain for international students along with their courses:

Level-Wise Costs to Study in Spain

For budget-conscious students, Spain emerges as a top pick for studying abroad, thanks to its affordable tuition fees. Costs vary depending on factors like university, location, program type, and reputation. Here is detailed breakdown:

What is the Cost of Living in Spain?

When you're gearing up to study in Spain, securing the perfect place to call home becomes paramount. It's crucial to consider factors like proximity to campus, transportation, and access to essentials. Here is a detailed version of the cost of living:

1. Food and Groceries: €300-€400 per month

2. Electricity and Gas: €80- €100 per month

3. Transportation: €1.54 per trip

4. Internet: €20 per month

5. Miscellaneous: €800-€900 per year

Scholarships to Study in Spain

While tuition fees in Spain may not be high, some students might still struggle financially. To assist international students, the government and external organizations offer scholarships in Spain, loans, and grants, covering expenses like travel, tuition, and supplies. Here are some of the scholarships for studying abroad in Spain-

Post-Study Work Visa in Spain

In Spain, after finishing your studies, you're eligible for a post-study work visa allowing a one-year stay to seek employment. Apply for the visa at least 60 days before your student visa expires. Focus on job hunting during this period. Once employed, start the work permit process to begin working.

Required documents include:

1. Degree completion certificate

2. Financial proof

3. Health insurance

4. Fee payment confirmation

Types of Student Visas in Spain

Different types of visas are available for students planning to study in Spain, each with varying validity. There are also various short term visas for students. To apply, visit a Spanish embassy outside Spain with your offer letter and essential documents. Submit your visa application 2-3 months before your move for smoother processing. Here are the different types of visas available for Spain:

Admission Requirements to Study in Spain

When aiming to study, the admission criteria for international universities in Spain varies based on factors like university type, chosen program, and student nationality. Here are the typical requirements for study abroad in Spain that may need to be met for enrollment.

1. Bachelor’s Degree

For a Bachelor's degree, you must undergo a process called Homologación, which validates your school certificate for admission to a Spanish university. This is done at your home country's Spanish embassy, where you'll receive a 'Volante de Acreditación' certificate, enabling you to apply to institutes in Spain.

2. Master’s Degree

To pursue a Master’s degree, you need a relevant Bachelor’s or equivalent diploma. You may also need to provide translated transcripts, a copy of your passport or ID, and demonstrate language proficiency, either in English or Spanish, depending on your program's language of instruction. Additionally, universities may require a letter of motivation, resume, and letters of recommendation.

Education Loan for Studying in Spain

For many students, securing an education loan to study abroad in Spain is crucial for funding their university journey. These loans bridge the gap for those lacking the financial resources to cover tuition fees and living expenses while studying abroad in Spain. For students planning to study in Spain using an education loan, begin the process 7 to 8 months prior to your semester. Here's what to do:

1. Research banks offering international education loans and understand their requirements.

2. Determine your total fund needs and loan amount.

3. Secure admission to a Spanish university.

4. Compare loan options and choose the best fit.

5. Complete the loan application form once you've made your decision.

6. Prepare necessary documents like ID proof and academic records.

7. Await approval from the bank, which will issue a loan document upon acceptance.

8. Sign the loan agreement, and the bank will disburse the funds.

In conclusion, the chance to study in Spain remains irresistible for international students. Its rich culture, diverse programs, and friendly atmosphere offer a unique learning journey. Planning early, understanding visa requirements, and adapting to living costs are crucial steps highlighted. Till then ¡Buena suerte en tu viaje a España! (Good luck on your trip to Spain!)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need ielts to study in spain, is spain expensive for indian students, how much bank balance is required to study in spain, can i get a full scholarship in spain, how much can i earn in spain as a student, can i study in spain for free, can i stay in spain after graduation.

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