Spain Travel Guide

Spain is renowned for its rich history, lively culture, stunning beaches and picturesque cities. But with so many beautiful destinations and attractions to explore amongst its 52 different provinces, it can be challenging to know where to begin.

To help you decide what to include on your Spanish itinerary, here are a few favourites that are definitely worth considering.

● Take in the sights and sounds of Barcelona – Immerse yourself in the unique blend of Gothic and modernist architecture, marvel at Gaudí’s masterpieces like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, stroll down the vibrant La Rambla, and explore the historic Barri Gòtic. The city’s lively arts scene, bustling markets and delicious Catalan cuisine ensure there’s never a dull moment.

● Stroll the bustling streets of Madrid – Experience the dynamic energy of Spain’s capital by wandering through its bustling streets. Visit world-class museums such as the Prado and Reina Sofía, enjoy a leisurely afternoon in Retiro Park, and indulge in the city’s renowned tapas scene. Madrid’s grand boulevards, lively plazas and vibrant nightlife make it a must-visit destination.

● Enjoy the sun-soaked shores of Costa del Sol – Bask in the Mediterranean sunshine along the Costa del Sol, home to some of Spain’s most beautiful

beaches. Relax on the golden sands of Marbella, explore the charming old town of Málaga, or partake in water sports in the crystal-clear waters. This coastal paradise offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

● Embrace the thrill of the Running of The Bulls in Pamplona – Join the excitement of the world-famous San Fermín festival in Pamplona, where the adrenaline-pumping running of the bulls takes place. This historic event which is held every July, attracts thrill-seekers and spectators from around the globe. Beyond the run, enjoy lively parades, traditional music and the festive atmosphere that engulfs the city.

● Discover the Enchanting Alhambra in Granada – Step back in time and explore the breathtaking Alhambra in Granada, a masterpiece of Moorish architecture and one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks. Wander through the intricate palaces, lush gardens and ancient courtyards of this UNESCO World Heritage site. As you take in the stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the city of Granada below, you’ll understand why the Alhambra is a must-see for any visitor to Spain.

Climate

Spain’s climate varies from Mediterranean in the south to oceanic in the north.

The summer months (from June to August) offer plenty of sunshine and very warm temperatures which make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. However, these months can be very crowded, especially in popular tourist destinations.

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are generally considered the best times to visit Spain as they offer milder weather and fewer crowds. These seasons can be ideal if you want to go sightseeing, enjoy outdoor activities and explore cities without the intense heat of summer.

Winter (December to February) can also be a great time to visit cities like Madrid or Granada for cultural experiences, as well as for skiing in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

While the weather is cooler, you may still strike it lucky and enjoy some sunny days, especially in the southern regions.

Culture and language

Spanish (Castilian) is the official language spoken throughout Spain, however, numerous regional languages and dialects such as Catalan, Galician and Basque are also spoken in various locations.

While English is not as widely spoken as in some other European countries, it generally isn’t too difficult to get by in most popular tourist areas. It can be helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or have a translation app handy.

Spanish culture is vibrant, diverse and deeply rooted in history and tradition, with family, food and fiestas playing central roles in Spanish life. Spaniards are known for their warmth and hospitality, and the culture is characterised by a relaxed pace of life known as “la vida española,” where enjoying good food, good company and embracing life’s pleasures are cherished values.

Spanish people take pride in their rich cultural heritage, evident in their architecture, art, music and dance. Bullfighting, flamenco and soccer are integral parts of Spanish culture, and traditional festivals such as Semana Santa (Holy Week) and La Tomatina (the world’s largest food fight) celebrate the country’s religious and secular traditions.

Siesta is also a cultural tradition in Spain, where people typically take a break from work or other activities in the early afternoon, usually between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. During this time, shops and businesses may close for a few hours, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

Getting around

Major cities like Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia have extensive public transportation systems including buses, trains and trams which provide a convenient way to get around in metro areas. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available in urban areas.

Spain also has a reliable network of long-distance trains (RENFE) and buses (ALSA) that connect major cities and regions, allowing you to explore different parts of the

country with ease. Alternatively, numerous airlines also operate between major hubs like Madrid and Barcelona.

Renting a car is another good option that allows you to explore the more regional and rural areas of Spain. While driving and parking can be challenging in city centres, the roads are generally in good condition and relatively easy to navigate once out of the major cities. If you decide to hire a vehicle, just make sure it comes with adequate vehicle insurance in case you have an accident.

Accommodation

You’ll find a wide variety of accommodation options throughout Spain including hotels, villas, serviced apartments, bed and breakfasts, private holiday home rentals, backpacker hostels, guest houses and beach resorts. For something extra special, you may even want to book a stay in a impressive historic building such as a castle, monastery or convent!

Accommodation can be expensive in some locations during peak tourism season, so it’s worthwhile doing your research to find the most suitable option/s.

Entry requirements

Spain forms part of the Schengen Area, a group of European countries which allows Australians to travel freely for tourism purposes without a visa for up to 90 days.

It’s always a good idea to visit the Australian government’s Smartraveller website before your trip for the latest information and updates about travelling to Spain.

All set for your trip to Spain?

Make sure you’ve ticked these items off your checklist before you head off:

● Check your passport is valid with at least 6 months of validity left from the date you plan to depart Spain

● Ensure you meet the visitor entry requirements for Spain

● Speak to your doctor to find out if you require any travel vaccinations

● Arrange a travel currency card or another method of payment to cover expenses while you’re away. It’s also a good idea to take some Euro (EUR) with you as many places prefer payment with cash

● Notify your financial institution of your plans to travel

● Contact your phone provider to ensure your phone plan will cover you while you’re away or purchase a pre-paid international sim card

● Arrange accommodation for each location you plan to stay in

● Consider booking any tours or activities you want to do in advance. Tickets for major attractions like the Alhambra in Granada can sell out well in advance during peak season. Pre-purchasing tickets for attractions such as the Sagrada Família, Park Güell and Picasso Museums in Barcelona can also be helpful if you want to skip long lines

● Provide details of your travel plans to a family member or close friend not travelling with you so you can be contacted in case of an emergency

● Save the details of how to access emergency consular assistance in case you need it

● Organise your travel insurance with PassportCard.