Tips for your first trip to Spain

Spain is one of my absolute favorite countries in Europe. On my first visit to Spain, I was told it was the number one re-visited European country and I understand why. It is easy. It is relaxing. We all know one or two words of Spanish. No one is in a hurry. It’s beachy, tropical and fun. If you are not planning a trip to Spain, save this page for later because you need to plan your trip. It’s such a fun country. If you are planning your first trip to Spain, hopefully you will find these tips helpful for knowing what to expect once you get there!

Meals are really late

Lunch is often eaten around 2:00. Dinner in Spain is not until 8:00 or 9:00. Unless you are somewhere very touristy, restaurants will not open for dinner until 7:30 or later. You can find Tapas earlier because people will eat those as a snack after work with their drinks, but to find a proper meal expect to eat late!

Tapas make a great meal

A meal of Tapas is a lot of fun. Tapas are small plates. Some are smaller than others, but they are a great way to try different things. Depending on where you are many of them are very cheap so try things you are not sure if you will like. It’s worth a couple of Euros to get something to try for the table!

A mid-day siesta is a real thing

And when I say it is a real thing, I say that because you really have to plan your time around it. When I was in Madrid, there were multiple places we never had the opportunity to go to because when we arrived it was in the noon-3:00 siesta time window and they were closed. Our schedule did not allow us to go back and experience them at a later time. We wished we had planned for the siesta a little better instead of being disappointed that we missed certain places.

Closed for a siesta from 2 until 4 because nobody should be working then!

Learn a few words of Spanish

Many people will speak English, but a few words in Spanish can really go a long way. There will always be people, even in touristy areas, that don’t speak English!

Pickpockets can be a problem, but violent crime is not

This is one of the travel tips about Spain you see everywhere. Everyone discussing a trip to Spain warns of pickpockets. Just be aware. Wear a money belt. Have a bag that zips. Do not ever sit your purse down, not even when you are eating. Be aware of your surroundings.

In general, violent crime is not a problem in Europe, but be aware of where your wallet, phone, keys, etc. are.

Spain is very regionalized

Spain is very different depending on where you go. Food and activities we think of as traditionally “Spanish” aren’t actually traditional everywhere.

For example, Flamenco and Paella are both only traditional in Southern Spain. If you go to a Flamenco show outside of Southern Spain, it is only for tourists. Paella in northern Spain probably came out of the freezer – it’s not a local dish.

You need to know the local traditions for the particular area you are in to make sure you are getting the most authentic experience!

Expect to buy water

Tap water and especially ice water is not something that comes standard with meals. You can request tap water, but it may be a challenge to actually get it. And ice is also something you have to specifically request. (They will give it to you, but they won’t be very happy about it.) It’s often easier just to assimilate into the local culture and expect to buy bottled water at restaurants.

Don’t get your coffee to go

When you have been walking around and touring for way to long, take a break at a coffee shop and actually sit. If they have sidewalk seating, sit there. Enjoy the weather. Watch the locals.

Do not get your coffee to go. That is not a thing in Europe, plus you probably need that break. Take the break and enjoy it!

It is hot in the summer

Summer in Spain is hot. Do not expect air conditioning like in the US. This is the reason for the midday siesta. Most Spaniards just take a break during the hottest part of the day. Just join in the tradition and you will be much happier!

Expect to walk

European cities are made for walking. There are definitely times when a taxi can be helpful, but a lot of the time in Spanish cities you can get around just fine with walking and riding the metro. Besides, part of the reason you are here is to explore the city! Put on your comfortable shoes and go at your own speed.

Spain is one of my favorite countries in Europe – it is the European country I have been to the most – and I highly recommend adding it to your list of countries to visit. Spain has such a relaxed atmosphere. It has mountains and beaches. There is something there for everyone!

Think about these tips to make that first trip to Spain an easy trip!