The full guide
Hours and timing
Spain eats late: lunch is usually 2 to 4 pm and dinner from 9 pm. Many small shops close from about 2 to 5 pm, and most close on Sundays, though malls, chains and tourist areas keep longer hours. Museums often close one day a week, frequently Monday. See Spanish timetables and meal times.
Money and tipping
Cards and phone payments are accepted almost everywhere. When a card machine or ATM offers to charge you in your home currency, choose euros: the conversion rate offered is usually poor. Carry a little cash for small bars, markets and villages.
Tipping isn’t expected. Rounding up, or leaving a euro or two for good service at a sit-down meal, is plenty. Service isn’t added to the bill.
Staying safe
Violent crime against tourists is rare, but pickpocketing is common in busy places: Las Ramblas and the metro in Barcelona, Puerta del Sol and the metro in Madrid, and crowded beaches and markets everywhere.
| Watch out for | What to do |
|---|---|
| Phones on café tables | Keep them in a front pocket or bag |
| Distraction tricks | Someone points at a stain or “dropped” item while another takes your bag. Walk away |
| Petition signers | Ignore people pushing clipboards at you |
| Flat tyre on the motorway | If someone signals a problem, drive on to a busy service station before stopping |
| Rosemary sprigs | In some cities people offer “a gift” then demand money. Say no and keep walking |
Tourist taxes and local rules
Catalonia and the Balearic Islands charge a tourist tax per person per night, collected by your accommodation. Barcelona adds a city surcharge. Smoking is banned inside bars and restaurants. Many cities fine drinking alcohol in the street, and some coastal towns fine walking around in swimwear away from the beach.
Health and emergencies
Call 112 for any emergency. EU visitors should bring an EHIC, and UK visitors a GHIC or EHIC, for necessary public healthcare. Everyone should have travel insurance. Pharmacies give good advice for minor problems, and a duty pharmacy is always open at night. See medical emergency essentials.
Getting around
High-speed trains connect the main cities quickly, with Renfe, Ouigo and Iryo competing on several routes. City metros are cheap and efficient. If you hire a car, check renting a car in Spain for the rules on low-emission zones.
Frequently asked questions
Is tap water safe?
Yes, across Spain. It tastes better in some places than others.
Do I need to carry my passport?
Police can ask for ID. Many visitors keep the passport in the hotel safe and carry a copy, but the original is the official document.
