The full guide
Greetings
Spaniards greet everyone. When you walk into a small shop, a lift, a doctor’s waiting room or a bar, say “buenos días” (until lunch, around 2 pm) or “buenas tardes” (afternoon and evening). When you leave, say “hasta luego”, even if you’ll never see them again. It sounds small, but skipping it comes across as cold.
| Situation | Usual greeting |
|---|---|
| Friends and friends of friends | Two kisses, right cheek first |
| Two men who know each other | Handshake or a hug |
| Business meeting | Handshake |
| Neighbours in the lift | “Buenos días”, a nod and a smile |
Queues and service
At markets, pharmacies and bakeries there’s often no visible line. Ask “¿quién es el último?” (who’s last?), and when someone answers, you go after them. Then the next person to arrive will ask you.
Ordering is direct: “ponme un café con leche”, “me pones una caña”. It isn’t rude. Add “por favor” or “gracias” and you’re fine.
Eating out
Meals are social and unhurried. Waiters won’t bring the bill until you ask: catch their eye and say “la cuenta, por favor” or “¿me cobras?”. Among friends, people often take turns paying, or split the bill (pagar a medias). Tipping isn’t expected; rounding up or leaving a euro or two is generous.
Meal times are later than in northern Europe; see Spanish timetables and meal times.
Tú or usted?
Spain is informal. Most people use tú with colleagues, neighbours and shop staff of a similar age. Use usted with older people, in official offices and in formal letters, until they suggest otherwise with “puedes tutearme”.
At home and in the neighbourhood
Most people live in flats, so noise matters. Avoid moving furniture or loud music late at night; many towns set quiet hours from around 10 or 11 pm. Community rules (normas de la comunidad) may limit things like hanging washing from front balconies. Some coastal towns also fine people for walking around in swimwear away from the beach.
When you’re invited
Bring a bottle of wine, a dessert from a good bakery, or flowers. Arriving exactly on time or a little late is normal for social occasions; arriving early isn’t. For work meetings and official appointments, be on time.
Frequently asked questions
Is it rude not to speak Spanish?
No, but trying a few words goes a long way. A greeting in Spanish, or in Catalan in Barcelona, is always appreciated.
Are there topics to avoid?
Regional politics and independence can be sensitive. Let your Spanish friends raise them.
