Spain Travel Guide
Spain is located in the most southwestern part of Europe with a population of more than 46 million. The country has renowned sandy beaches, one of a kind historic structures and insanely good cuisine.
The Iberian Peninsula is one of the most multicultural regions of Europe so that the country has always held a unique position throughout the history of the continent. Now, Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world thanks to its remarkable cultural heritage.
General Information
| Language | Spanish |
| Capital of Spain | Madrid |
| Continent | Europe |
| Time Zone | GMT+2 |
| Currency | Euro |
| Socket Type | C,F – 230V |
| Annual Average Temperature | 17,4°C |
| Climate | Mediterranean, Oceanic and Continental Climate |
| Area | 505.990 km² |
| Political System | Parliamentary Democracy |
| Vegetation | Steppe and Forest |
| Main Economic Activities | Industrial Production, Tourism and Agribusiness |
| Telephone Code | +34 |
Language
Although the only official language of Spain is Spanish, there are many other languages spoken in certain regions of the country such as Basque, Galician, and Catalan.
Common Phrases in Spanish
- Muchas gracias – Thanks a lot!
- ¿Cómo estás? – How are you?
- ¿Cuál es su nombre? – What is your name?
- Hola, mi nombre es …- My name is …
- Yo no hablo español – I don’t speak Spanish.
Capital of Spain
Madrid is the capital city of Spain and located in the central part of the country. Madrid is also a prominent cultural, economic and historic center of Spain.
Time Zone
Spain has only 1 time zone. The country follows the Greenwich Mean Time GMT +2.
Currency
The currency used in Spain is Euro (EUR) as in most other European Union countries. There are many currency exchange vendors and banks in city centers.
Main Economic Activities
Spain is ranked as 14th richest country in the world in terms of GDP per capita (nominal), therefore a high standard of living is experienced by its citizens. Spain has a versatile economy and is one of the most prominent countries regarding economic activities such as tourism, automotive industry, and agribusiness.
Where is Spain?
Spain is located in the southwestern part of the Europe, in the Iberian Peninsula. The country has access to both the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Its neighbors are Portugal, Morocco, and France.
Best Time to Visit Spain
Although Spain has a warm and welcoming climate in all seasons except for the mountainous northern part, it is recommended for you to visit Spain during late spring or summer. In these seasons, there is a lesser chance to rain and the country becomes much more vibrant.
How to Get to Spain?
There are many direct flights to Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suarez Airport and Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport from İstanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport.
The flight duration to Madrid from İstanbul is 4 hour and 30 minutes.
The flight duration to Barcelona from İstanbul is 3 hour and 45 minutes.
Public Transportation in Spain
Spain has an extensive and convenient public transport system. You can use buses, trams, subway, and taxis to get around in cities. Almost in every region, you need to buy a rechargeable card to use public transport. The cards are available in stations, stops and kiosks.
For detailed information about fares and timetables in Madrid please visit the official site from here. The site is available in English.
For detailed information about fares and timetables in Barcelona please visit the official site from here. The site is available in English.
Transportation from Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suarez Airport to Madrid City Center
Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport is located 15 kilometers away from the city center. You can get to the city center with bus, train, metro, and taxi.
200, Express 203, N27 Express, and 101 bus lines will take you to the Madrid city center with different routes. They are available every day of the week from 6.00 to 23.30.
Trains to the city center are available from 5.56 to 22.25. The trip costs 2.60 Euros and takes approximately 40 minutes.
Metro is available from 6.05 AM (morning) to 1.30 AM (night). The trip costs 3 Euros and takes approximately 20 minutes.
There are also many taxis available in the airport 24/7. The trip to the city center takes approximately costs 30 Euros.
Transportation from Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport to Barcelona City Center
Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport is located 14 kilometers away from the city center. You can get to the city center with public bus, direct bus, metro, and taxi.
L46 day line and N17 night line connect the airport to the city center departing from Terminal 1. L46 is available every 15 minutes during the day and N17 is available for every hour at night.
Direct buses are available from 5.35 AM (morning) to 01.05 AM (night) departing from Terminal 1. The trip costs 5.90 Euros and takes approximately 35 minutes.
Metro Line L9 connects the airport to the city center. Metro is available from 5.00 to 24.00 from Monday to Thursday, to 02.00 on Fridays, continuous service on Saturdays, and until 24.00 on Sundays. The trip costs 4.60 Euros.
There are also many taxis available in the airport 24/7. The trip to the city center takes approximately costs 30 Euros.
Places to Visit in Spain
Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world with its countless historic landmarks, one of a kind cultural heritage and natural wonders.
La Sagrada Familia
Although La Sagrada Familia is still on construction, it is one of the most magnificent churches in the world and listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The basilica is located in the heart of Barcelona.
Puerta del Sol
Puerta del Sol is the main public square of Madrid. There are amazing historic landmarks in and around the square from various eras of history.
Park Güell
Park Güell is a public park filled with gardens and unique landmarks, sculptures and buildings. Park Güell is walking distance away from Barcelona city center.
Where to Stay in Spain?
Madrid and Barcelona offer a variety of accommodation options for its visitors ranging from international backpacker hostels to luxury hotels.
It is recommended for you to stay in hotels around Malasaña district in Madrid since the district is home to many top-notch cafes, restaurants and bars. Malasaña is also walking distance away from the many popular attractions of the city.
Barcelona has various accommodations options to its visitors. Gothic Quarter in the city center would be the best choice for first comers since it is next to the sea and close to many popular attractions.
What to Eat in Spain?
Spain is an amazing country for culinary enthusiast visitors. Spain has a refined and rich cuisine with recipes mostly consists of vegetable, beef, spice, and pastry. There are also many top-notch restaurants that offer delicious traditional dishes as well as globally known dishes. Keep in mind that, Spanish kitchen varies greatly from region to region.
Tapas
Tapas is the renowned appetizers of Spain cuisine. Tapas vary greatly from cold to hot or spicy to sweet. “Txapela” in Barcelona offers a great range of traditional Tapas.
Paella
Paella is a Valencian rice dish made with onions, peppers, tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. “Tapa Tapa Barceloneta” is one of the best places to taste traditional Paella in Barcelona.
Tortilla
Tortilla is the Spanish way to make omelets. “Casa Dani” in Madrid offers one of the best Tortilla in the city as well as other traditional Spanish recipes.
Shopping in Spain: Best Souvenirs to Buy
Spain is home to incredible landmarks, beaches, history and culture, as well as many authentic souvenirs. In Spain, you can buy traditional flamenco clothing, Castañuelas instrument, Spanish fan (abanico), pottery, olive oil, cheese, and saffron. Most of these souvenirs are available around central tourism destinations such as Salamanca district in Madrid and Gothic Quarter in Barcelona.
Things to Know Before Visiting Spain
- You are not expected to give tips in local restaurants.
- It is smart to keep a couple of bottled water in your daily bag to stay hydrated.
- It is recommended for you to book online before visiting popular museums to avoid adversity.
- Spain’s cultural customs may vary greatly to region to region, especially in rural areas.
- It is more easy and fun to discover Spain with bicycles. They are available for a small fee in popular tourism destinations.
- In Barcelona, taxis operate with higher fares at night and in holidays.
Nightlife in Spain
Madrid and Barcelona offer a wide range of nightlife options to its visitors. There are many live music venues, pubs, dance clubs, and rock bars scattered around the city centers. While pubs and restaurants are usually closed before midnight, many bars and clubs are open until dawn.
Chueca district in Madrid and Las Ramblas district in Barcelona have the best nightlife in their respective cities.
Holidays in Spain
Although listed holidays are celebrated throughout the country, there are many other regional holidays such as regional community days or the Feast of St. John the Baptist. Also, some religious days are subject to change every year such as Easter Holiday or Eid Al Fitr (End of Ramadan).
- 1st of January – New Year’s Day
- 6th of January – Epiphany
- 19th of April – Good Friday
- 1st of May – Labour Day
- 15th of August – Assumption Day
- 12th of October – Hispanic Day
- 1st of November – All Saints’ Day
- 6th of December – Constitution Day
- 8th of December – Immaculate Conception Day
- 25th of December – Christmas Day
Festivals in Spain
- San Isidro Bullfighting Festival (May, Madrid)
- The Grec Arts and Music Festival (June, Barcelona)
- San Sebastián International Film Festival (September, San Sebastián)
- Spring Festival (April, Madrid)
Visa Requirements
Spain is one of the Schengen Area countries and mandates an application process to its visitors. The application of up-to 90 day visits is possible through private visa application companies which are endorsed by the national embassy of Spain. For further information, you can check the official site from here.
FAQ about Spain
Do people in Spain understand English?
Yes, most of the people in Spain understand English and they are more than happy to help you with directions, popular attractions, etc.
Is Spain an expensive country?
No, Spain is a budget-friendly country in comparison to other European countries.
Is tap water drinkable?
Yes, public tap water in Spain is safe to drink and tested every day.
Is Spain safe?
Yes, Spain is one of the safest countries in European Union. However, visitors should be cautious about pickpocketing in various means of public transport and in crowded areas.
