Things to Do in Spain

About Spain

Spain moves to its own clock—siestas, late dinners, conversations that stretch past midnight over wine and tapas. Time works differently here. Moorish palaces sit next to Gothic cathedrals, while Gaudí's wild designs stand alongside Roman aqueducts that have carried water for two thousand years. You'll see what makes Spain distinct in small moments. A flamenco dancer's heel hits the floor. Mediterranean waves break against Costa del Sol beaches, and pilgrims walk quietly along the Camino de Santiago, each step deliberate. The country spans extremes. Snow covers the Pyrenees while Andalusia grows endless rows of olive trees, and Basque fishing villages couldn't look more different from Madrid's wide boulevards. Every region speaks its own dialect, cooks its own food, follows its own customs. But they all share something. Spaniards welcome outsiders like extended family, and that warmth isn't just about the weather.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book AVE high-speed trains in advance for 60% savings on intercity routes like Madrid-Barcelona (2.5 hours). In cities, purchase 10-ride metro cards for 40% discounts. Avoid driving in historic centers; use park-and-ride facilities on city outskirts instead.

Money: Always carry cash; many small establishments don't accept cards under €10. ATMs charge €3-5 fees, so withdraw larger amounts. Tipping isn't mandatory—round up for good service or leave 5-10% at upscale restaurants only.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting churches (covered shoulders/knees required). Don't expect dinner before 9 PM—restaurants often don't open until 8:30 PM. Greet with two air kisses starting with the right cheek, even for business meetings.

Food Safety: Avoid seafood at inland mountain restaurants; stick to jamón and cheese instead. At coastal areas, choose busy marisquerías where seafood turns over quickly. Tapas bars with discarded napkins/shells on floors often indicate authentic, well-frequented establishments.

When to Visit

Spain's diverse climate rewards strategic timing. Spring (April-May) brings perfect weather nationwide with temperatures of 15-25°C, minimal rainfall (2-4 days monthly), and 20-30% lower prices than peak season. Witness Easter processions in Seville (March/April) and enjoy uncrowded attractions. Summer (June-August) sees scorching inland temperatures (35-40°C) but perfect beaches, with accommodation prices peaking 50-70% above shoulder seasons. Major festivals include San Fermín in Pamplona (July 6-14) and La Tomatina in Buñol (last Wednesday in August). Autumn (September-October) offers Spain's sweet spot: warm weather (20-28°C), harvest festivals, and 25-35% savings. Madrid and Barcelona shine with cultural events and comfortable sightseeing weather. Winter (November-March) brings rain to the north (8-12 days monthly) and cool temperatures (8-15°C), but offers 40-50% accommodation savings. Skip northern regions unless visiting Christmas markets, but enjoy mild southern weather in Andalusia (12-18°C) and the Canary Islands (18-24°C year-round). Budget travelers should target November-March, while families prefer May-June for optimal weather without extreme crowds.