Getting There
Visiting Spain is an amazing experience, and getting there is relatively easy. Travelers can get to the country quickly and efficiently with flights from all over the world into the main international airports of Madrid, Barcelona, and Malaga. There are also various train options, buses, and even ferries that can take you to the mainland or the many Spanish Islands.
Let’s take a look at some of the different ways to get to Spain:
Flights
When planning your trip to Spain, the most convenient and cost-effective way to reach your destination is by air. Flights between countries, cities, and holiday resorts in Spain generally take no longer than two hours and are surprisingly inexpensive when booked in advance.
Most major international airlines offer direct flights to Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona. In contrast, budget airlines often offer low-cost deals on routes within the country, such as flights between Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. While it is possible to book a one-way ticket, round-trip tickets are usually considerably cheaper than two individual tickets.
When looking for the best deal on your flight ticket, it’s important to research the various airlines offering flights from your origin airport as well as look into different airports in the country that may provide more competitively priced tickets – for instance, flying into Reus Airport outside of Barcelona can often be much cheaper thanif a flight originated from Barcelona’s El Prat Airport. Additionally, check if any fees may apply for certain airline bookings or baggage allowances – failing this can leave you with unexpected extra costs that weren’t included in the final price quoted!
Finally, have patience when booking – prices often fluctuate throughout each day so keep a close eye out if you create a price alert, so you don’t miss out on the cheapest option!
Trains
Train travel is a great way to get around Spain. The country’s extensive railway network makes accessing even the most remote spots easy. The high-speed train system, AVE, is one of Europe’s fastest, safest, and most efficient services. It connects all the main Spanish cities to significant towns and cities across Europe.
The Spanish National Railways (RENFE) operates out of Madrid’s Estación de Chamartin Station. It offers both long-distance and regional services, including:
- Intercity routes with stops at major towns and cities across Spain.
- Regional Express trains with stops at small towns along the way.
- Local trains run slower between nearby cities or villages.
RENFE tickets can be purchased in advance online or at ticketing machines located throughout the station (cash payments are not accepted). Customers can also book first and second-class tickets online or by phone at their local RENFE offices. Tickets may also be purchased from staffed ticket counters on each platform, where staff can provide insights on rail routes schedules and other helpful tips in English or Spanish.
For travelers seeking an alternative to rail transport options include buses, rental cars, taxis, and rideshares like UBER. However, for those seeking a more relaxed journey through beautiful landscapes, then train travel is often considered one of the more enjoyable ways to get around Spain quickly and economically.
Buses
When planning your travels in Spain, buses are a great way to get around the country. Most of the cities and major tourist destinations in Spain have highly efficient and cheap public transportation systems, making it easy for visitors to reach their goals.
Several types of buses in Spain – regular urban or intercity buses run by large companies like Avanza and small family businesses offering regional service. Prices vary from region to region, and you will also find longer-distance services offered by Eurolines, which connect most big cities with various regular options throughout the year.
When traveling on a bus, make sure you allow enough time to get to your destination since there may be unexpected traffic delays or other problems that can cause delays. In addition, it’s always a good idea to carry extra water onboard and prepare for any contingency, just in case.
Most ticket prices are displayed on digital screens at each bus stop. Still, it is also recommended that you closely study the detailed schedules when planning your travels – especially if you want specific departure times and arrive at your destination as expected.
Accommodation
If you are traveling to Spain, you may need to consider where you will stay. Spain offers various accommodation options, from luxurious beachfront resorts to quaint city apartments.
In this section of our guide, we will look at some of the different types of accommodation available, as well as tips on finding the best deals:
Hotels
Hotels in Spain range from budget-friendly hostels to large resorts, but all are affordable compared to other western European countries. Many of the waterfront towns of the Mediterranean and Balearic Islands have high-class 5-star hotel chains, while inland villages often offer cheaper, more local fares, such as boutique hotels.
When booking a trip to Spain, many travelers opt for a combination of accommodations. Hotels are usually reserved for most of your vacation and then supplemented with shorter stays in hostels or private rooms. It can be a great way to experience a wide variety of Spanish cultures at an affordable cost.
Hotel Categories in Spain:
- Hoteles de 1 estrella (1-star hotels): These are basic hotels, often used by business travelers visiting other cities on short trips or families visiting near relatives. These usually don’t offer luxuries such as ensuite bathrooms, television, or room service; but tend to have functional features, including an elevator and decent linens.
- Hoteles de 2 estrellas (2-star hotels): This category offers more amenities than 1-star hotels but still lacks a certain amount of comfort and glamour that travelers often value when traveling abroad. It would commonly include simple furnishings and access to basics such as bar/cafe/restaurant and reception services, with most offering breakfast in their inclusive packages.
- Hoteles de 3 estrellas (3-star hotels): Generally recommended if you want something between budget and luxury during your stay in Spain; these establishments will include all necessary services plus amenities like television, room service, and sometimes even an outdoor pool or spa facilities on-site at reasonable prices.
- Hoteles de 4 estrellas (4-star hotels): Ideal for those seeking higher standard accommodation with added conveniences such as daily housekeeping services, better room security systems, Wi-Fi access in all public spaces within the premises, etc., 4-star rated establishments usually provide areas for relaxation or leisure uses such as bars and fitness centers with extra services like massage centers also available occasionally throughout larger organizations.
- Hoteles de 5 estrellas (5-star hotels): For ultimate luxury experiences during your stay abroad, sometimes nothing else will do than one of these excellent establishments; perfect for family vacations looking to maximize safety & comfort levels while still immersed in Spanish culture, they offer state of the art technology used extensively throughout the building’s design architecture plus top class amenities like concierge & bellboy services when requested by guests helping them achieve that next level vacation status unfettered by ordinary problems associated with budget-oriented accommodation previously reserved exclusively for tourists within smaller economies before experiencing vast globalism now available through discerning price ranges across multiple luxury platforms enabling their perfect getaway planned perfectly without worry nor effort making The Costal Visayas genuinely unique!
Hostels
Hostels are an increasingly popular option for many travelers in Spain. Generally, hostels provide clean and comfortable lodging and offer amenities, including communal kitchens, Wi-Fi access, and recreational activities for a relatively low cost. Hostels may also be a great way to meet like-minded travelers with similar interests.
Many hostels in Spain are part of larger chains, such as St. Christopher’s Inn or Hostelworld, which offer their members discounts, loyalty programs, and other perks. However, there are still plenty of independent hostels, so check out your options! Depending on the location and availability of apartments within the area, private accommodation can often cost more than staying in a hostel, as well as additional cleaning fees or security deposits.
Before booking your stay in a Spanish hostel, online reviews can be quite helpful in gauging what type of atmosphere it offers: if you’re looking for an active social scene or prefer something more tranquil to rest after a day of sightseeing— ensure that you do thorough research beforehand so that you know exactly what type of accommodation suits you best!
Airbnb
Airbnb is a rapidly growing and increasingly popular resource for travelers looking for accommodations in Spain, whether it’s an apartment rental or vacation home rental. This peer-to-peer home-sharing service allows users to rent out space in their own homes or offer their entire residence for rent.
Offering generally lower prices than hotels and more options for amenities and location, Airbnb is becoming more and more of an ideal choice for travelers worldwide. In Spain, Airbnb offers a variety of options ranging from modern apartments near trendy hot spots to rustic villas in countryside retreats. Prices vary greatly depending on the region and type of residence but generally remain affordable.
There are numerous benefits to using Airbnb – such as having a local contact who can help with your stay – but there are some potential drawbacks due to the lack of standardization within the service. Renters should always research their accommodations before making a reservation and read reviews from previous guests when possible. Additionally, travelers must take extra care when choosing an accommodation – not all locations are vetted by Airbnb, meaning there is the potential for abuse from renters or unreliable services provided by hosts.
Sightseeing
Spain is a country full of wonders and breathtaking sights. From the white hills of Andalusia to the Costa del Sol beaches and Barcelona’s captivating architecture, there are plenty of amazing sights to explore. Whether traveling with family, friends, or solo, there is something for everyone.
Read on for our guide to the best places to visit for sightseeing in Spain:
Top Attractions
Spain offers various tourist attractions and beautiful highlights, each region boasting notable points. From iconic buildings and ancient ruins to beautiful beaches, stunning mountain ranges, and vibrant cities, there is something in Spain for everyone! However, the top attractions generally center around cultural heritage, historical buildings, and stunning landscapes.
Some of the most renowned places to visit include:
- Alhambra in Granada: Possibly the most impressive piece of Islamic architecture in the world.
- Sagrada Família in Barcelona: This awe-inspiring church designed by Antoni Gaudí stands as one of Barcelona’s architectural wonders.
- Mezquita de Córdoba: The site of a former mosque, this visually stunning building is now a Catholic Cathedral with influences from both religions.
- Alcázar de Segovia: An impressive fortress from the 13th century with panoramic views over the city.
- La Concha Beach in San Sebastian: Popular for a good reason – it is one of Spain’s most picturesque beaches.
- Picos de Europa National Park: Offering unparalleled beauty, it will take your breath away with its vast range of wildlife and majestic mountain views.
Museums
Spain boasts some of the best museums in the world. Spain’s diverse museum options allow you to explore the country’s culture and heritage. Most cities have distinct offerings and exhibits, such as El Prado in Madrid or Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. Visiting one of Spain’s many museums is a great way to learn more about the fascinating past, vivid culture, and incredible architecture that make this destination unique.
Explore major works of Renaissance art at Madrid’s El Prado or enjoy modern Spanish art at Barcelona’s Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. Immerse yourself in maritime heritage at Museum Naval de Madrid or learn about fine wines and brandies at Jerez’s Wine Museum. Spanish-speaking visitors might also like to check out the Poetry Library in Córdoba for its collection of works from some of Spain’s most renowned writers and poets. Spain has something for everyone, no matter what kind of museum experience you want.
Common Museums:
- El Prado (Madrid)
- Guggenheim Museum (Bilbao)
- Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía (Barcelona)
- Museum Naval de Madrid (Madrid)
- Wine Museum (Jerez)
- Poetry Library (Cordoba)
Parks
Visiting any of Spain’s many parks is an excellent way to take in the country’s natural beauty. There are plenty of options, ranging from lush and green forests to deserts. Which one is perfect for you depends on what you’re looking for and what region you’re visiting.
- Parque de Senderismo – This park features several hiking trails that span the entire region, allowing hikers to experience the diverse terrain found in Spain. You can find meadows full of wildflowers, rocky outcroppings with spectacular views, and even small villages that offer a glimpse into Spanish culture.
- Parque Natural De Los Montes De Malaga – Located in Andalusia, this park encompasses nearly 20,000 acres of lush pine forests and unspoiled nature reserves. The terrain ranges from flat lands and plains to high mountaintops with spectacular views overlooking nearby villages.
- Parque National de Ordesa y Monte Perdido – Spanning nearly 30 kilometers along the border between France and Spain, this vast natural park is known for its towering peaks and crystal clear lakes reflecting pools for photographers! Its unique biodiversity includes vast glaciers, alpine meadows full of wildflowers, deep canyons, and cascading waterfalls pushing through the sedimentary rock since ancient times.
- Parque Nacional de Picos de Europa – This national park spans three distinct mountain ranges – the Cantabrian Mountains, Picos de Europa Mountains, and Galicia Massifs – all filled with dramatic scenery that offers some amazing hikes! From glacier-capped peaks down to colorful valleys filled with wildlife such as wolves, bears, and chamois goats – this breathtakingly beautiful area will leave visitors wanting more!
- Parque Natural Saja-Besaya – A great place to escape modern life while relaxing amongst a stunning landscape perfect for bird watchers or nature enthusiasts! Located within Northern Spain’s Cantabrian Mountains are wooded areas with lush meadows teeming with wildlife, rivers where trout can be spotted quickly enough if you switch off your noise-making devices during your walk… It’s also incredibly peaceful here, so make sure you don’t forget your camera; plenty of backdrops are worthy of capturing!
Food & Drink
Spanish cuisine is one of the best in the world, with a wide range of delicious dishes and drinks to enjoy. Spain has much to offer for any food lover, from paella to tapas. And when it comes to drinks, expect to find everything from sangria to cerveza.
This guide will take an in-depth look at Spain’s culinary highlights and provide tips and suggestions for the best places to eat and drink.
Local Cuisine
Most people who visit Spain come to savor the country’s famous cuisine. However, the country has a diverse array of traditional, gourmet dishes rooted in the distinctive flavors of its various regions. From the seafood specialties of Galicia and the Catalan coast to succulent stews from Castilla-La Mancha, Spanish culinary traditions are world-renowned.
Perhaps the most well-known Spanish dish is paella, a rice-based entree comprised of various meats and vegetables. This dish can vary drastically depending on the region it’s made in – some use chicken and rabbit, while others combine seafood with pork or chorizo sausage. Other popular dishes include:
- Gazpacho (a cold tomato soup).
- Tapas (snack foods often served with drinks).
- Tortilla española (an omelet with potatoes).
Regional cuisines include traditional Basque cooking, which focuses on seafood and grilled meats; Andalusian cuisine from southern Spain that features succulent pork dishes; hearty manchego cheese from La Mancha; Galician octopus seasoned with paprika, garlic, oregano, and olive oil; Asturian bean soups served at brasseries called cebiches; as well as many other regional favorites. But, generally speaking, Spanish foods are characterized by robust flavors like garlic, cumin, olive oil, and saffron, making these dishes unique among international cuisines.
Restaurants
Regarding eating in Spain, the cuisine ranks among some of the best in the world. Spain is an innovative country when it comes to creating new, creative dishes and pushing boundaries with traditional cuisine. As a result, Spain can provide whatever your heart desires, whether you’re looking for a casual café lunch or a gourmet restaurant dinner.
When dining in Spain, you should know about tapas. Tapas are small plates usually shared between friends or loved ones over drinks – the perfect way to socialize and have dinner simultaneously! Most restaurants offer versions of traditional tapas and creative recipes based on local produce. Many cities also host nightly food markets that serve as both a celebration of local produce as well as offering some delicious traditional fare.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try restaurant hopping! A great way to experience multiple flavors at one time is by choosing several different restaurants within walking distance and ordering other small dishes before heading off to another eatery for more deliciousness. The mobile app’ The Fork’ also produces incredible discounts across many cities, making it an even easier option!
When dining in any Spanish restaurant, you’re likely to come across some traditional favorites such as jamón (cured ham), paella (rice dish), tortilla de patatas (potato omelet), and gazpacho (cold tomato soup). So buckle up your appetite and dig into some classic Spanish favorites!
Bars & Nightlife
Spain is well-known for its vibrant nightlife, with cities such as Barcelona and Madrid boasting an array of nightclubs, bars, and lounges to suit all tastes. So whether you’re looking for tapas bars to watch football games in or underground venues to dance the night away, Spain offers a wide variety of options.
Bars & Pubs: Spain is home to hundreds of quaint pubs, jazz clubs, beer taverns, and wine bars across the country. From traditional tapas-filled spots full of locals watching football games – like La Barceloneta in Barcelona – to stylish cocktail venues serving up unique creations and modern decor – like Suite 26 in Madrid – Spain’s nightlife truly has something for everyone.
Clubs & Discotecas: When it comes to clubbing and dancing the night away until the early morning hours, Spain does not disappoint! From big clubs such as Pacha Ibiza on the island of Mallorca (closing time: 8 am!) to small underground gems where some of the biggest DJ names can be found performing regularly (like Florida 135 in Fogars de Montmelo), there is no shortage of exciting places should you wish venture into this world.
Live Music: If you are seeking edgier music with a bit more culture behind it, Spain has plenty of live music venues that offer jazz concerts, international acts, and local bands throughout the year. You can find them on many websites catering to concert listings throughout Spain, such as TNT or Anywhere Festival, or check with local hostels who usually know well about what’s happening there!
Shopping
Spain is a shopper’s paradise! From traditional markets to designer boutiques, the country has something for everyone. Shopping in Spain can be a great way to pick up souvenirs, gifts, and mementos for your trip. Whether you’re looking for affordable souvenirs, luxury brands, or one-of-a-kind items, Spain has various shopping options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Let’s explore some of the best places to shop in Spain:
Markets
Shops and markets in Spain are open from 9:00 am to 1:30 pm, close for a break (siesta) until 5:00 pm, and stay open until 8:30 pm or 9:00 pm, depending on the region. The siesta provides an opportunity to eat a typically large midday meal.
Most cities have traditional indoor markets (mercados) that vividly display all kinds of food products – they are a great spot to get your hands on freshly picked ingredients, eat some real-deal Spanish snacks like olives or chorizo, and practice both language skills and bartering! These markets also feature regional farmers selling fruits and vegetables in the morning.
On certain days of the week, a flea market may be set up outside with secondhand clothes and furniture.
Street fairs (ferias) sometimes occur several times a year, where vendors come out in full force, setting up temporary stands outdoors for things like books or crafts. Neighborhood street festivals also happen throughout the summer; during this time, families come out in droves for drinks, tapas, music, and dancing all night long!
Smaller towns often have nightly markets during their peak tourist season, typically late June through August; here, you might find clothing stalls or “puestos” selling wares like jamon iberico – cured hams of the highest quality!
Boutiques
When shopping in Spain, you’ll find a wide variety of stylish boutiques filled with designer clothing and merchandise. Many Spanish designers have stores throughout the country, and modern local fashions can be found in larger cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville.
Boutiques also carry a variety of accessories – from shoes to jewelry – and current trends can be custom-made for special occasions like proms or weddings.
Luxury designer stores on the streets of major cities offer the latest trends from global fashion houses such as Versace and Armani. Smaller boutiques feature contemporary pieces from local brands such as Rosa Clará and Massimo Dutti, specializing in classic Spanish designs. Other homeware boutiques are perfect for finding unique pieces for your home décor; some popular choices include El Guardalobos and Mövements Design Store in Madrid.
Prices for clothing vary depending on the type of store; large department stores have lower prices than boutique stores. For budget shoppers, discount outlets or secondhand stores offer affordable alternatives while allowing you to participate in Spain’s vibrant shopping scene. Many streets in cities like Madrid and Barcelona have numerous shops within walking distance offering everything from souvenirs to books to homewares. You’re sure to find something that strikes your fancy!
Shopping Malls
Head to one of the city’s many shopping malls for international luxury brands and a touch of modern convenience. The largest and most popular is Centro Comercial Las Rozas Village, located in Las Rozas de Madrid, 20 km from the center of the Spanish capital. With more than 120 luxury boutiques, including top labels like Prada, Gucci, and Tod’s, shoppers can expect something unique.
Other less expensive shopping malls in Madrid include:
- Gran Vía Máxima Mall: With exclusive retailers like Luis Vuitton and Armani Jeans, as well as restaurants by award-winning chefs, this is Madrid’s most luxurious mall. Located on Calle de Gran Vía in the city center, it offers tailored fashion experiences with on-site stylists to guide you through your visit with personal advice.
- Parquesur: Just outside Madrid at Leganés town hall is the massive outlet complex known as Parquesur. Home to over 100 famous brands such as Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, and Zara, Home selling clothes at discounted prices is an excellent alternative for those looking for bargains.
- Plaza Norte 2: With over 220 stores featuring leading international brands offering discount prices all year round and eateries serving meals from around the world at the Plaza Norte shopping mall just 15 minutes from downtown Madrid you have everything you could ever want under one roof.
- Moda Shopping Mall: Another option for fashion enthusiasts is Moda Shopping Mall near Barajas airport. As one of Europe’s most modern malls with an open plan construction combined bright pavilions with outdoor gardens where visitors can enjoy strolls, it’s a great place to find retail therapy without spending too much money!