Spain
Europe · Madrid · ES
Spain occupies the majority of the Iberian Peninsula and extends to island chains in both the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, a country whose regional diversity rivals that of entire continents. The Moorish south retains palaces and gardens that speak of centuries of Islamic rule, while the green, rainy north echoes Celtic musical traditions more closely associated with Ireland. Barcelona's skyline bristles with Gaudí's surreal constructions, and Seville's streets pulse with flamenco's percussive energy deep into the warm nights. Spain operates on a later clock than most of Europe, with dinner often beginning after nine and social life continuing well past midnight. Coastal areas range from the volcanic black sands of the Canary Islands to the pine-scented coves of Costa Brava. The country's reverence for regional identity means that traveling from Galicia to Catalonia is not merely a change of scenery but a shift in language, cuisine, and cultural reference points.
Overview
Spain is a country in Europe. Its capital is Madrid and the international dialling code is +34. Languages commonly used in everyday life here include Spanish. Local currency is the Euro (EUR). Our guide covers 4 airports, including Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport, Barcelona–El Prat Airport, Seville Airport. We also list 4 cities in Spain: Madrid, Barcelona and Seville and more.
Getting around Spain
Spain has one of Europe's best high-speed rail networks: AVE trains link Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia and Málaga in two to four hours, and the AVE to Paris and the fast GdC to the Costa del Sol help. Regional RENFE and the private Iryo/AVE cover more corridors. In cities, the metro (Madrid, Barcelona) and local buses are efficient, and taxi and ride-hailing apps are common.
Driving is on the right, motorways (autopistas) are tolled on some stretches (avoid the AP-7 along the Mediterranean if you want to save money) and the road network is excellent. The Balearics and Canaries are best reached by short flights or ferries.
When to visit Spain
Spring (March–June) and autumn (September–October) are the sweet spot for most of the country: warm, lively, and less crowded than summer. July and August are the peak — hot in the interior (Madrid, Seville) and packed on the coasts; the Canary Islands enjoy a mild climate year-round. The famous Feria de Abril in Seville and the running of the bulls in Pamplona are summer highlights.
December brings Christmas markets and warm winter sun to the south, and the ski resorts of the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada are open from December to April. For beaches the Mediterranean is best in June and September.
Eating and drinking
Spanish food is about tapas, time, and the market: jamón ibérico, tortilla (Spanish omelette), paella by the coast, gazpacho in the heat, and churros with chocolate at breakfast. The "menu del día" (set lunch) is the best-value way to eat in Spain — including several courses and a drink.
Wine is central: Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Albariño, and the sherry of Jerez. Meals run late (lunch around 14:00, dinner from 21:00), and the afternoon "siesta" closes some shops briefly. A 5–10% tip in restaurants is appreciated but never obligatory.
Money and local customs
Spain uses the euro, and card payment is now widespread; still, cash is handy in small bars and village markets and is essential for some rural areas.
The Spanish are warm and friendly; "hola" and "buenos días" open every conversation. Personal space is smaller than in the north and conversations can be animated — that is simply the warmth. "Perdona" (excuse me) goes a long way in busy queues. Keep your passport with you, as accommodation registers guests, and be aware that in beach resorts some areas are cash-oriented in the evenings.
Compare hotels, cover your trip and stay connected.
- Capital
- Madrid
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)
- Languages
- Spanish
- Calling code
- +34
- Internet TLD
- es
Entry requirements
Check who can enter →See which passports travel visa-free or need a visa to enter Spain.
Which nationalities can enter Spain?
Current visa status for tourism for the origins we cover, with links to the detailed requirements.
Airports (4)
All airports →Cities (4)
All cities →Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit Spain?
For the origins we track, travellers from Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina and Australia currently enter Spain visa-free for tourism. Entry rules depend on your passport and the purpose of your trip, so check the current requirements for your own nationality with our entry requirements tool.
What is the capital of Spain?
Madrid is the capital of Spain, and the country sits in Europe.
What currency is used in Spain?
You pay with Euro (EUR) in Spain. Exchange rates move day to day, so check the current rate before you change money or use your card abroad.
Which languages do people speak in Spain?
The languages we list for Spain are Spanish. A couple of greetings in the local language go a long way when you travel, even in cities where another language is widely used.
What is the international dialling code for Spain?
The dialling code for Spain is +34 — keep the plus sign when you save the number.
Which airports serve Spain?
We cover 4 airports for Spain, including Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN), Seville Airport (SVQ) — and 1 more.
Which cities in Spain do you cover?
Our guide lists 4 cities for Spain: Madrid (capital), Barcelona, Seville and Valencia.