Flags are sourced from free platforms like flagpedia.net
Spain
Spain is famed for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and delectable cuisine. From the sunny beaches of the Costa del Sol to iconic landmarks like the Sagrada Familia, it offers a wealth of experiences. Visitors can savor tapas, explore charming towns, and soak up the lively atmosphere of cities, making it perfect for culture and food lovers.
Photos without credits are sourced from free platforms like Unsplash and Pexels
Summary
Overview
Months
04. April, 08. August, 12. December, 02. February, 01. January, 07. July, 06. June, 03. March, 05. May, 11. November, 10. October, 09. September
Vacation type
Beach, Couple, Family, Nature, Party, Sightseeing, Hiking, Skiing, Mountains
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€, <100€
Temperature
20-25°C, 25-30°C, Over 30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm, 50-100mm
Safety
Safe
Continent
Europe
Currency
Euro
Languages
Spanish
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Spain depends on the region you plan to explore:
- Madrid and Central Spain: The ideal time is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when temperatures are mild and pleasant.
- Summer (July to August) can be very hot, particularly in the interior.
- Barcelona and the Mediterranean Coast: The best time is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Summer (July to August) is also popular, with warm temperatures ideal for beach activities, though it can be crowded.
- Andalusia (Seville, Granada, Córdoba): The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are milder.
- Summers (June to August) can be extremely hot.
- Northern Spain (San Sebastián, Bilbao): The best time is during the summer (June to August) when the weather is warm and suitable for exploring the coastline.
- Spring and autumn also offer mild temperatures but with a higher chance of rain.
- The Canary Islands: The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November, offering mild temperatures and less crowding. The weather is generally pleasant year-round due to their subtropical climate.
- Winter (December to February) can be a good time for visiting if you prefer fewer tourists, though temperatures vary significantly by region.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: June-August (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($40-90/day)
Accommodation: $20-40/night (budget hotels, hostels).
Food: $10-20/day (local tapas, street food).
Activities: $10-20/day (sightseeing, beach time).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, small shopping).
Mid-Range Vacation ($90-250/day)
Accommodation: $40-100/night (mid-range hotels, guesthouses).
Food: $20-40/day (restaurants, cafes).
Activities: $20-50/day (sightseeing tours, museums).
Transportation: $10-20/day (taxis, car rental).
Other Costs: $10-20/day (souvenirs, experiences).
Luxury Vacation ($250+/day)
Accommodation: $100+/night (luxury hotels, boutique stays).
Food: $30+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $50+/day (private tours, exclusive experiences).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $20+/day (luxury shopping, experiences).
Off-Peak Season: September-May (Spring & Fall)
Budget Vacation ($30-70/day)
Accommodation: $15-30/night (budget stays, hostels).
Food: $5-15/day (local eateries, street food).
Activities: $5-15/day (parks, free attractions).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($70-180/day)
Accommodation: $25-70/night (mid-range hotels, boutique stays).
Food: $10-30/day (cafes, local restaurants).
Activities: $10-30/day (museums, cultural experiences).
Transportation: $5-15/day (public transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($180+/day)
Accommodation: $60+/night (luxury resorts, boutique hotels).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $25+/day (private tours, exclusive events).
Transportation: $15+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping, experiences).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Barcelona
- Known for its stunning architecture by Antoni Gaudí, including the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, as well as its lively beach scene, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife.
2. Madrid
- The capital city offers world-class museums such as the Prado and Reina Sofia, beautiful parks like Retiro Park, and a thriving cultural scene.
3. Seville
- Famous for its historic sites including the Alcázar palace and the Seville Cathedral, as well as its lively flamenco dancing and annual Feria de Abril festival.
4. Valencia
- Known for its futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, beautiful beaches, and the annual Las Fallas festival, which features impressive fireworks and large sculptures.
5. Granada
- Home to the Alhambra, a stunning Moorish palace and fortress, as well as charming streets in the Albaicín district and a lively tapas scene.
6. Bilbao
- Renowned for the Guggenheim Museum, its revitalized waterfront, and its blend of traditional Basque culture with modern attractions.
7. San Sebastián
- Famous for its beautiful beaches, world-class dining, and the annual San Sebastián International Film Festival.
8. Malaga
- Known for its historic Alcazaba fortress, Picasso Museum, and as the gateway to the Costa del Sol with its beautiful beaches.
Barcelona
Islands
1. Mallorca
- The largest of the Balearic Islands, known for its stunning beaches, scenic mountains, and vibrant cities like Palma. It also offers historic sites and a rich cultural heritage.
2. Ibiza
- Famous for its lively nightlife, beautiful beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Ibiza also has charming villages and serene countryside for a more relaxed experience.
3. Formentera
- Known for its pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters, it is the smallest of the Balearic Islands and a great destination for a peaceful retreat.
4. Tenerife
- The largest of the Canary Islands, known for its diverse landscapes including Mount Teide, beaches, and vibrant towns like Santa Cruz and Puerto de la Cruz.
5. Gran Canaria
- Features a mix of stunning beaches, sand dunes, and mountains. Its capital, Las Palmas, offers a lively urban experience along with beautiful natural surroundings.
6. Lanzarote
- Known for its unique volcanic landscapes, Timanfaya National Park, and artistic influence of César Manrique, who helped shape its distinctive architecture.
7. La Palma
- Often called "La Isla Bonita" (The Pretty Island), it offers lush forests, steep ravines, and stunning vistas. It is a popular destination for hiking and nature lovers.
8. Menorca
- Known for its tranquil beaches, picturesque villages, and prehistoric monuments. It is less crowded than its neighboring islands and offers a more relaxed atmosphere.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Sierra Nevada
- Explore this mountain range in southern Spain, offering excellent skiing and snowboarding in winter, and hiking trails with stunning views in summer.
2. Teide National Park
- Visit this park on Tenerife in the Canary Islands, featuring Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, and unique volcanic landscapes, with opportunities for hiking and stargazing.
3. Picos de Europa
- Discover this rugged mountain range in northern Spain, known for its dramatic peaks, picturesque valleys, and excellent hiking and climbing routes.
4. Doñana National Park
- Experience this UNESCO World Heritage site in Andalusia, renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, dunes, and forests, and its rich birdlife.
5. Mallorca’s Serra de Tramuntana
- Hike through this stunning mountain range on Mallorca, characterized by rugged peaks, terraced fields, and charming villages.
6. Ronda
- Admire the dramatic cliffs and the Puente Nuevo bridge in this historic town, known for its breathtaking views and deep gorge.
Cultural Attractions
1. Sagrada Família
- Visit this iconic basilica in Barcelona, designed by Antoni Gaudí, renowned for its intricate architecture and ongoing construction that reflects a unique vision of modernist design.
2. Alhambra
- Explore this majestic palace and fortress complex in Granada, known for its exquisite Moorish architecture, beautiful gardens, and intricate tilework.
3. Prado Museum
- Discover Spain’s premier art museum in Madrid, featuring an extensive collection of European art, including masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco.
4. Park Güell
- Wander through this colorful park in Barcelona, also designed by Antoni Gaudí, known for its whimsical mosaics, architectural elements, and panoramic city views.
5. La Rambla
- Stroll along this vibrant street in Barcelona, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers, leading from Plaça de Catalunya to the waterfront.
6. El Escorial
- Visit this historical royal monastery near Madrid, featuring a grand architectural complex that served as a royal palace, monastery, and library.
How to get around
1. Trains
- Trains are a convenient way to travel between cities and regions. The Renfe network includes high-speed AVE trains connecting major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia. Regional trains and the Cercanías network cover suburban and local routes.
2. Domestic Flights
- Domestic flights are useful for covering long distances quickly. Airlines like Iberia, Vueling, and Air Europa connect major cities and islands, including Madrid, Barcelona, Gran Canaria, and Mallorca.
3. Car Rentals
- Renting a car provides flexibility for exploring Spain’s diverse regions, including the Costa del Sol, Catalonia, and Andalusia. It allows you to visit scenic routes, coastal areas, and remote attractions. Be mindful of local driving conditions and parking regulations.
4. Buses
- Long-distance buses are an economical option for traveling between cities and towns. Companies like ALSA, FlixBus, and Avanza offer services with various amenities. Local buses are also available within cities and towns.
5. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
- Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked via phone in cities. Ride-hailing apps like Uber, Cabify, and Bolt operate in major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, providing convenient and transparent pricing.
6. Metro
- Metro systems are available in major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. They are efficient for traveling within the city and provide easy access to key neighborhoods and attractions.
7. Trams
- Trams operate in cities like Barcelona and Valencia, offering a scenic and practical way to navigate urban areas. They complement the metro and bus networks.
8. Bike Rentals
- Bike rentals are available in many cities. Barcelona and Madrid have bike-sharing schemes like Bicing and BiciMAD, and there are dedicated bike lanes and paths for cycling around urban areas and parks.
9. Walking
- Walking is ideal for exploring city centers and historic districts. Cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville are pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants within walking distance.
For the best experience, use trains for efficient intercity travel, rent a car for flexibility and exploring remote areas, and rely on domestic flights for long distances. Buses and taxis are good for regional and local travel, while metro and tram systems are useful for urban transport. Bike rentals and walking are perfect for exploring city centers and enjoying local attractions.
What to eat
1. Paella
- A rice dish made with saffron, seafood, and vegetables, showcasing local flavors.
2. Tapas
- A variety of small dishes served as appetizers, highlighting diverse Spanish cuisine.
3. Gazpacho
- A cold tomato soup often enjoyed in summer.
4. Tortilla Española
- A Spanish omelette made with potatoes and onions, often served as a tapa.
5. Churros
- Fried dough pastries often served with chocolate for dipping, enjoyed as a dessert.
Paella
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €50 to €200.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $800.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $900.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $800 to $1,400.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $200 to $600.
- Cheapest Months: November to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business.
2. Schengen Visa
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply for a Schengen visa at a Spanish embassy or consulate before traveling.
3. Types of Visa
- Common visa types include a Short-Stay Visa (Type C): Valid for tourism or business for stays of up to 90 days.
4. Processing Time
- Visa processing typically takes 15 working days, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance.
5. Duration of Stay
- Visa-free visitors can stay for up to 90 days; visa holders should refer to their specific visa for duration.
6. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are generally required for entry, but travel insurance is recommended.
7. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug types C and F are used.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, usually around 5-10%.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Movistar and Vodafone.
6. Driving Side
- In Spain, people drive on the right side of the road.