Spain is a diverse country with varied climates, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. Summer (July to August) is ideal for beachgoers but can be very hot, especially inland.

• Currency and payment methods: Spain uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas, but carrying some cash is advisable, particularly in little villages or for small purchases.
• Power plugs and voltage: Spain uses Type C (two round pins) and Type F (two round pins with two earth clips on the side) plugs, with a standard voltage of 230 V and a frequency of 50 Hz. A travel adapter is necessary if your devices use a different plug type.
• Tipping culture: Tipping is not required in Spain but is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common. For small services like taxis or cafes, leaving the change is usual.

• Accommodation: Budget hotels range from €40-€90 per night, while mid-range hotels cost between €90-€150. Luxury hotels typically start at €150 per night.
• Dining: A simple meal at a local restaurant or tapas bar can cost €10-€20, while dining at a mid-range restaurant usually ranges from €20-€40 per person.
• Drinks: In Spain, a cup of coffee generally costs between €1.00 and €2.50. A glass of local wine is typically priced around €2.50 to €5. Beer (cerveza) usually ranges from €2.50 to €4, while a Coke/Pepsi costs about €1.80 to €3. Sangria, a popular and refreshing choice, typically costs between €3 and €6 per glass.
• Car rental:  Renting a car usually starts at €25 per day.
• Attractions: Entrance fees for museums and historic sites generally range from €5-€15, with discounts often available for students and seniors.

Spain has an extensive and efficient transportation network:

• High-speed trains: The AVE trains connect major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville quickly and comfortably.
• Regional trains and buses: Perfect for exploring smaller towns and regions. Renfe operates most train services, while Alsa is a major bus company.
• Car rentals: Renting a car is a great option for exploring rural areas and coastal regions. Be aware of parking restrictions in city centres.
• Commuting apps: Moovit and Google Maps are widely used for public transport information. For train schedules, the Renfe app is essential.

Citizens of the EU, U.S., Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter Spain without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date. If you require a visa, apply at your nearest Spanish consulate well in advance.

• Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required for Spain, but ensure routine vaccines are up to date. Hepatitis A and B vaccines are recommended for some travellers.
• Health & safety: Spain is generally very safe, but be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas. The emergency number is 112. Pharmacies (Farmacia) are easily accessible for any medical needs.
• Is it safe to drink tap water? Tap water is safe to drink across most of Spain. Tap water in Spain can have a chlorine taste, but bottled water is widely available. In cities like Madrid, the tap water is particularly renowned for its quality.

Spain is a culinary paradise, with each region offering its own specialties. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Tapas: Small plates served in bars across Spain, including classics like “Patatas Bravas” (spicy potatoes) and “Tortilla Española” (Spanish omelette).
• Paella: A saffron-flavored rice dish originally from Valencia, often made with seafood, chicken, or rabbit.
• Gazpacho and salmorejo: Cold tomato-based soups from Andalusia, perfect for hot summer days.
• Jamón Ibérico: Cured ham, considered a delicacy, especially when from acorn-fed Iberian pigs.
• Churros: Fried dough pastries typically dipped in thick hot chocolate, popular for breakfast or as a snack.
• Wine: Spain is renowned for its wines, particularly from regions like Rioja and Ribera del Duero. Don’t miss out on trying a glass of “Cava” (Spanish sparkling wine) or “Sherry” from Andalusia.

• Greetings: Spaniards greet with a handshake or, among friends, two kisses on the cheeks. It’s polite to greet with “Hola” (hello) or “Buenos días” (good morning).
• Dress code: Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites, covering shoulders and knees.
• Dining: Spaniards dine late, with lunch typically served between 2-4 PM and dinner from 9-11 PM. Tapas are a must-try, and sharing is common.
• Public holidays: Spain has numerous public holidays, including major ones like Christmas, Easter (Semana Santa), and National Day (12th October). During these times, some businesses may close or operate on reduced hours.

• Siesta: The famous Spanish “siesta” is a midday break, especially in smaller towns, where shops and businesses may close for a few hours in the afternoon.
• Oldest restaurant: Madrid is home to the world’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, Sobrino de Botín, established in 1725.
• Largest Gothic cathedral: Seville’s Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world.