Culture & Language
Why Spain Eats So Late: A Guide to Spanish Daily Rhythms
Spain’s daily rhythm surprises most newcomers. Once you adjust, it’s one of the best parts of living here. Here’s how a Spanish day runs.
By
How to Live in Spain
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2 min read
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Spain runs late. Lunch, the main meal of the day, is usually between 2 and 4 pm, and dinner between 9 and 11 pm. Turn up at a restaurant at 7 pm and you may find the kitchen closed.
Eating like a local
Shift your lunch later and try the menú del día, a fixed-price weekday lunch with two courses, bread and a drink. Restaurant kitchens often open for dinner around 8:30 pm, so plan to eat at 9 or later.
Shops and offices
Many small shops close from about 2 to 5 pm, while supermarkets, malls and chains usually stay open all day. Government offices and many bank counters work mornings only, so do official errands early. On Sundays many shops close, although bakeries and some supermarkets open in the morning.
Summer and holidays
In July and August many offices switch to morning-only hours, and in August some small businesses, clinics and even restaurants close for weeks. National, regional and local public holidays close shops and offices too, so mark them in your calendar.
Adjust faster with our Spanish timetables and meal times checklist.
Lunch is the main meal, from 2 to 4 pm
Dinner usually starts after 9 pm
Small shops often close from 2 to 5 pm
Do official errands in the morning
Many businesses change hours in July and August
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