Spain

Spain

Spain is one of Europe's most popular destinations with good reason. There's more to this place than sandy beaches and great tapas. Spain's variety is criminally underrated. The Gothic alleys of Barcelona feel a world away from the stately streets of Madrid, the old Moorish towns of Andalucia, or the epic desert and mountain landscapes found when venturing further inland.

Places to Stay

Food & Drink

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Culture

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top 5 things to do in Spain?
It's hard to narrow it down but we think Gaudi's La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is an absolute must-visit. Another historical gem is the Moorish fortress of Alhambra in Granada. For a unique cultural experience, make sure you catch a Flamenco show in Seville, while foodies need to sample pintxos in San Sebastian. For something a little larger scale, head to the island of Tenerife to explore the volcanic slopes of Mount Teide.
Dos and don'ts in Spain?
Spain is a fairly relaxed country, so there aren't too many ways in which you can go wrong. Wearing swimwear anywhere but the beach can incur fines, as can late night noise in residential areas. Drinking on the streets is also illegal in many cities. In terms of dos? Allow yourself to adjust to the local rhythms of life. Take your time over lunch, embrace slow afternoons and stay out late for dinner with the locals.
What is the best month to go to Spain?
For the perfect balance in Spain, we recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons - May, June, September and October - when the weather is still nice but the crowds and costs are a little lower. Summer can get extremely hot in July and August, so think twice before booking any holiday that involves more than dozing on the beach.
What is a must-try food in Spain?
Where to begin!? You will invariably encounter delicious patatas bravas throughout your trip, while a lunchtime paella should obviously be on the cards. We love jam'on ib'erico - dry cured ham - and gambas al ajillo (prawns in garlic and chilli). The great thing about tapas is you can try so much in just one meal! And don't forget to embrace regional specialties, like snack-sized pintxos in the Basque Country.
What time is dinner typically eaten in Spain?
Traditionally, people in Spain sit down to eat at around 9-10pm which, to some visitors, is mind-blowingly late! We recommend embracing the tradition though, as you'll get a more authentic local experience wherever you eat at this time. Some restaurants don't open for evening service until around 8pm, but expect there to be plenty of options serving earlier if you're in a major city or a town used to welcoming tourists.
What are the siesta rules in Spain?
There are no rules! A siesta is a short afternoon break - that can involve napping if desired - usually taken sometime between 2-5pm. It derives from hot midday conditions and the natural post-lunch lull, and is very much not an entire country deciding to be lazy at once! The siesta is not as visible a phenomenon as people imagine but do expect things to slow down a little in the afternoon. Some businesses may close before reopening for evening service, while a little more consideration in residential areas is advised at this time too.
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