A sandy cove and whitewashed village on the Costa Brava

Spain · Planning

Spain FAQs

Entry rules, meal times, trains, tipping and more. Everything you’ve wondered about planning a trip to Spain, answered by our Spain specialists.

  • Euro currency
  • 230V type C & F plugs
  • 90 days visa-free for U.S. citizens

Hassle-Free Dream Travel!

Google ★★★★★ 5.0 · 601 reviews
Stewart Logan
★★★★★
Mikaila from The Travel Byrds put together a fantastic trip for us to Vancouver. Everything was arranged to fit our preferences including experiences I would never have known how to navigate myself. What a great way to travel, no stress, all fun — because a professional does the hard part for you.
Karen Terry
★★★★★
Amazing family vacation to Italy * can't wait to go back!
Brandie Penrose
★★★★★
We used CeCe as our travel advisor for our European trip, and she was amazing! She was able to work with a very tight deadline, listened to all of the things we asked for, and executed the trip perfectly. It was exactly what we were looking for. Highly recommend her services for anyone looking to plan a trip!
Loida Martinez
★★★★★
I cannot speak highly enough about my experience with Christina Gaspari and The Travel Byrds! She made sure to ask plenty of questions at the beginning, kept in touch while planning to make sure the things she was going to book for us were what we wanted, and made sure we had all info we might need and more before our trip. The trip itself was incredible thanks to her! Not having to worry about anything and having a full itinerary ready full of amazing experiences and even relax time accounted for was wonderful! She really put in so much work for our trip which was to multiple countries! Thanks Christina! <3
Steven Alsip
★★★★★
We have traveled with Travel Byrds 5 times and we love their service, last trip to Costa Rica was amazing. Our every concern was addressed/ all needs were met. Our agent's advice and expertise are much appreciated and we will not travel again without them!
Stephanie Fitzgerald
★★★★★
Paige planned my week-long trip to Greece. From my very first call with her to discuss my vacation “must-haves”, I was impressed with both her knowledge and her enthusiasm. She listened to my wants, made suggestions based on our discussion and then perfectly planned my trip… from the islands we visited to the hotels to the excursions. As my trip got closer, she brought in another team member to do any final bookings and modifications. It was so reassuring to know that she and her team had everything covered. I worried about NOTHING. I cannot recommend her enough.
Alexa johnson
★★★★★
If I could give Sylvie more than 5 stars, I would! Planning our honeymoon to Paros, Greece and Rome and Florence, Italy felt a little overwhelming at first, but Sylvie made the entire process so easy and stress-free. She truly thought of every single detail, and I honestly couldn’t have dreamed up a better trip or a more perfect way to start our marriage. Every hotel, transfer, flight, and excursion was seamless. On top of that, the travel app she created for us was incredible. It had every piece of information we could possibly need all in one place, so even traveling somewhere completely new felt easy and organized. We never had to wonder what was next or worry about missing anything because she had already thought of it. Not only is Sylvie incredibly organized and knowledgeable, but she genuinely cares about creating an unforgettable experience for her clients. Our honeymoon exceeded every expectation, and we made memories we’ll cherish for the rest of our lives. I cannot recommend Sylvie enough. If you’re thinking about booking a trip, do yourself a favor and let her handle it. It was hands down one of the best decisions we made, and we’re already looking forward to planning our next adventure with her!
Todd Brydges
★★★★★
Our trip to the Rockies and National Parks was the second adventure Sylvie planned for us, and once again she knocked it out of the PARK! 🙂 Her recommendations and family excursions were spot-on and perfectly matched our interests and family dynamic. She handled all the details, taking the stress and anxiety out of the planning process. We highly recommend reaching out to Sylvie for your next trip—she’ll make sure you have an amazing experience.
Stewart Logan
★★★★★
Mikaila from The Travel Byrds put together a fantastic trip for us to Vancouver. Everything was arranged to fit our preferences including experiences I would never have known how to navigate myself. What a great way to travel, no stress, all fun — because a professional does the hard part for you.
Karen Terry
★★★★★
Amazing family vacation to Italy * can't wait to go back!
Brandie Penrose
★★★★★
We used CeCe as our travel advisor for our European trip, and she was amazing! She was able to work with a very tight deadline, listened to all of the things we asked for, and executed the trip perfectly. It was exactly what we were looking for. Highly recommend her services for anyone looking to plan a trip!
Loida Martinez
★★★★★
I cannot speak highly enough about my experience with Christina Gaspari and The Travel Byrds! She made sure to ask plenty of questions at the beginning, kept in touch while planning to make sure the things she was going to book for us were what we wanted, and made sure we had all info we might need and more before our trip. The trip itself was incredible thanks to her! Not having to worry about anything and having a full itinerary ready full of amazing experiences and even relax time accounted for was wonderful! She really put in so much work for our trip which was to multiple countries! Thanks Christina! <3
Steven Alsip
★★★★★
We have traveled with Travel Byrds 5 times and we love their service, last trip to Costa Rica was amazing. Our every concern was addressed/ all needs were met. Our agent's advice and expertise are much appreciated and we will not travel again without them!
Stephanie Fitzgerald
★★★★★
Paige planned my week-long trip to Greece. From my very first call with her to discuss my vacation “must-haves”, I was impressed with both her knowledge and her enthusiasm. She listened to my wants, made suggestions based on our discussion and then perfectly planned my trip… from the islands we visited to the hotels to the excursions. As my trip got closer, she brought in another team member to do any final bookings and modifications. It was so reassuring to know that she and her team had everything covered. I worried about NOTHING. I cannot recommend her enough.
Alexa johnson
★★★★★
If I could give Sylvie more than 5 stars, I would! Planning our honeymoon to Paros, Greece and Rome and Florence, Italy felt a little overwhelming at first, but Sylvie made the entire process so easy and stress-free. She truly thought of every single detail, and I honestly couldn’t have dreamed up a better trip or a more perfect way to start our marriage. Every hotel, transfer, flight, and excursion was seamless. On top of that, the travel app she created for us was incredible. It had every piece of information we could possibly need all in one place, so even traveling somewhere completely new felt easy and organized. We never had to wonder what was next or worry about missing anything because she had already thought of it. Not only is Sylvie incredibly organized and knowledgeable, but she genuinely cares about creating an unforgettable experience for her clients. Our honeymoon exceeded every expectation, and we made memories we’ll cherish for the rest of our lives. I cannot recommend Sylvie enough. If you’re thinking about booking a trip, do yourself a favor and let her handle it. It was hands down one of the best decisions we made, and we’re already looking forward to planning our next adventure with her!
Todd Brydges
★★★★★
Our trip to the Rockies and National Parks was the second adventure Sylvie planned for us, and once again she knocked it out of the PARK! 🙂 Her recommendations and family excursions were spot-on and perfectly matched our interests and family dynamic. She handled all the details, taking the stress and anxiety out of the planning process. We highly recommend reaching out to Sylvie for your next trip—she’ll make sure you have an amazing experience.

Frequently asked

Your Spain questions, answered

Pick a topic to narrow the list, then tap a question to open it.

Before you goDo I need a visa to visit Spain?

U.S. citizens can visit Spain visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area. Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure. The EU is introducing new entry systems, including the upcoming ETIAS travel authorization, so we always confirm current requirements before you travel.

Before you goHow many days do I need in Spain?

Ten to twelve days is ideal for Madrid, Barcelona and Andalusia at a relaxed pace. With a week, we suggest focusing on two regions, such as Madrid and Andalusia, or Barcelona and the islands.

Before you goWhat is the best time to visit Spain?

April to June and September to October are best almost everywhere. See our best time to visit Spain guide for each region.

Before you goDo I need travel insurance?

Yes, we strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance, including medical cover and trip cancellation.

Getting aroundHow do I get around Spain?

Spain has one of the world’s largest high-speed rail networks. Madrid to Barcelona takes about two and a half hours, and Madrid to Seville about the same. We add private drivers for countryside and wine regions, and short flights for the islands.

Getting aroundShould I rent a car?

For cities, no: trains and private drivers are easier. For the white villages or wine country, a car or driver is ideal. U.S. drivers should carry an International Driving Permit along with their license.

Getting aroundWhich airports should I fly into?

Madrid and Barcelona have the most nonstop flights from the U.S. Many travelers fly into one and out of the other, linking them by train.

Food & cultureWhat time do people eat in Spain?

Later than you might expect. Lunch is usually from 2 pm to 4 pm and dinner from around 9 pm. Tapas in the early evening help bridge the gap.

Food & cultureDo I need to speak Spanish?

English is widely spoken in hotels and tourist areas. Catalan, Basque and Galician are also official in their regions. A few words of Spanish are always appreciated.

Food & cultureIs there still a siesta?

Some smaller shops close in the afternoon, especially in the south and in summer, but museums, big stores and restaurants in cities stay open.

Money & practicalWhat currency is used in Spain?

The euro. Credit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payment is common. Carry a little cash for small bars and markets.

Money & practicalHow much should I tip in Spain?

Tipping is appreciated but not expected the way it is in the U.S. Rounding up or leaving 5 to 10% for good restaurant service is plenty. Guides and drivers appreciate tips too, and we’ll give you a simple guide.

Money & practicalWhat plugs and voltage does Spain use?

Spain uses 230V with type C and F sockets. Bring a European adapter, and check that your devices support 230V.

Money & practicalIs Spain safe to visit?

Spain is one of Europe’s safest destinations. Pickpockets do work busy tourist areas, so keep valuables close. Traveling with private transfers and trusted guides makes it easy and worry-free.

Money & practicalCan I drink the tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe to drink throughout most of Spain, though many people prefer bottled water for its taste.

Work with One of Our Travel Experts

The average person takes over 11 hours researching their vacation. Take that time back and let us handle the nitty gritty of reading reviews, asking questions, comparing hotels and more.

The Alhambra palace in Granada at sunset with the Sierra Nevada behind

After a true deep dive into your requests, your travel agent will come back with a variety of suggested hotels, activities, and surprise experiences. You tell us which ones fit you best and we'll work through the logistics!

Barcelona’s rooftops stretching to the sea, framed by the spires of the Sagrada Família

You'll be equipped with an itinerary complete with the details of your trip. If anything happens along the way, you can relax knowing your travel agent will take care of everything!

Sailboats anchored in the turquoise water of Cala Macarella, Menorca

Your Dream Spain Getaway

Have a question that isn’t here? Tell us about the trip you’re dreaming of, and one of our Spain specialists will get back to you.

  • A tailor-made itinerary, designed around you
  • Tickets, guides and transfers handled
  • Hand-picked hotels with exclusive perks

Start Planning Your Tailor-Made Trip by Contacting One of Our Spain Specialists

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