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
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Your Spain questions, answered
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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.
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