Spain Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Madrid
- Currency
- EUR (Euro)
- Best time to visit
- April–June and September–October.
Visa requirements
EU citizens travel freely. Non-EU can stay up to 90 days in Schengen zone without a visa.
Getting around
Spain's high-speed AVE trains link Madrid, Barcelona, Seville and Valencia in a few hours, with regional trains and extensive long-distance buses (ALSA) covering the rest. Cities have efficient metros, trams and buses on rechargeable cards, and taxis are metered with apps like Cabify, Uber and Bolt available in larger cities.
Safety
Spain is very safe. Barcelona has higher rates of petty theft — keep bags secure.
Tipping customs
Tipping is modest and optional, as service is generally included. Round up or leave a few euros (about 5–10%) in restaurants for good service, leave small change at bars and cafés, round up taxi fares, and a euro or two for hotel porters and housekeeping.
Travel tips
Embrace siesta culture — many shops close 2-5pm. Dinner is eaten late (9pm+). Tapas bars are social institutions.