Social Habits That Surprise Newcomers to Spain

Spanish social life is warm and relaxed, but it has its own rhythm. A few habits help you make a good impression and feel at home faster.

Greetings and the two-kiss hello

Say “buenos días” before about 2 pm and “buenas tardes” after when you walk into a shop, a lift or a waiting room, and “hasta luego” as you leave. Friends and new acquaintances greet with two kisses on the cheek, starting with the right; in business, a handshake is normal. Most people switch to the informal tú quickly, but use usted with older people and in formal settings until invited otherwise.

Queues and ordering

To join a queue at a market stall or a waiting room, ask “¿quién es el último?” and follow that person. Ordering directly, such as “ponme un café con leche, gracias”, is polite enough, not rude.

Meals and the bill

Lunch and dinner are later than in most countries, and long. Lingering at the table after eating, the sobremesa, is part of the meal. The bill won’t come until you ask for it, and friends often take turns paying. Tipping is appreciated but not expected: rounding up or a euro or two for good service is plenty.

At home and in your community

Keep noise down late at night; many towns set quiet hours from around 10 or 11 pm, and your building will have its own community rules. When you’re invited to someone’s home, bring wine, dessert or flowers, and don’t arrive early. And join in local fiestas: they’re one of the easiest ways to meet your neighbours.

Keep our Spanish etiquette basics checklist handy, and read about Spanish meal times and timetables.