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Planning a trip to Spain? You’re in for a treat!
The Cities of Spain have their own rhythms, expect late-night dinners, sunlit plazas, centuries-old cathedrals, royal palaces, and more.
But like any dream vacation destination, Spain comes with its own quirks and traditions, and knowing what to expect can help make your vacation a much smoother experience.
After living in Europe and traveling through Spain with our little kids, we’ve learned a few things —some the easy way, and some the extraordinarily difficult way.
Whether your Spain itinerary includes the bigger cities like Barcelona or Seville, or exploring some of the quaint gems like Málaga or Alicante, these Spain travel tips will help you travel with a little more confidence, and hopefully, an even better experience!
Spain Travel Tips For Your First Trip
1. Know where to go in Spain- and when
While planning your Spain bucket list, don’t just consider where you want to go – think about when.
The season you choose can truly shape your experience.
Here’s the truth: Summer in Southern Spain gets really hot! Cordoba and Valencia average in the high 90s, sometimes reaching the 100s.
Honestly, when we took our two-week vacation to Spain, it was already toasty in late April (in fairness, we had been living in Germany). We were already feeling the heat.
Spain Travel Tip: If your Spain trip falls during the peak summer months, consider breezier coastal spots like Mallorca, Tenerife (in the Canary Islands), Barcelona, or other cities in northern Spain.
Malaga and Alicante are both coastal gems, but if you want to hike up to the palace and castles, I would advise against it in the hotter months.
Let the season help guide your destinations.
2. Check for City Festivals and Holidays
This is something that’s 100% worth researching—and honestly, it should be a factor in deciding when and where you go in Spain.
Holidays can be a fantastic way to experience Spanish culture—if you time it right. Think parades, music, traditional outfits, late-night energy… it can feel like the whole city is alive.
But if you land during a holiday when everything is closed and the streets are shut down, it can also feel a little frustrating, especially if you’re not expecting it.
This has happened to us more than once during our travels through Europe.
We happened to be in Spain during Semana Santa (Holy Week, the period leading up to Easter), and it was a full-on spectacle. Massive parades moved through the streets, with people carrying towering, ornate floats—some of them looked impossibly heavy.
Others wore traditional robes and tall, pointed hoods (yes, those—they can be a bit jarring if you’re not familiar with the history).
Tip: When we arrived in Malaga, we didn’t realize a parade was happening that evening. The street to our Airbnb was completely blocked, so we had to park farther away and haul our bags through crowds of people. Not exactly the welcome we were hoping for.
Check the Local Calendars
Similar to Germany, Spain observes regional holidays in addition to national ones. And often, stores and attractions can be closed.
Spain Travel Tip: Plan ahead if your Spain vacation lines up with major holidays. Accommodations book up fast!
3. Don’t Expect Restaurants to Have AC
This is something I’ve been slowly getting used to while living in Germany, but I couldn’t imagine it in the hotter months in Spanish cities like Cordoba or Seville.
You don’t realize how much you need to escape the heat… until you look around and realize there’s no place to escape to.
No icy blast of AC (like the South in the USA). No cool indoor haven. Just fans, open windows, and the hope of a breeze.
In bigger cities like Seville or Madrid, you might find more restaurants or cafés with air conditioning, but I wouldn’t count on it. Especially in smaller towns or more traditional spots, it’s common to dine in the heat, often on a shaded patio or terrace.
If you can find a restaurant with that perfect shaded courtyard and a breeze, that’s a win!
Tip: If you’re visiting during the hotter months, try to plan your main meal earlier in the day or later in the evening, when the heat isn’t quite so intense—and don’t be afraid to linger in a museum or a mall for a little midday reprieve. Trust me, your body will thank you.
4. Know Where You Want to Book Accommodations
Where you stay can shape your entire experience, so it’s worth giving a little thought to what kind of neighborhood you want to come home to after a long day of sightseeing.
There’s something so nice about staying in or near the city center. Being able to walk out your door and immediately be surrounded by historic architecture, plazas, cafés—it just makes exploring feel effortless.
That said, sometimes the heart of the city can also come with crowds, noise, and late-night energy that’s not exactly nap-friendly.
When we travel, especially with our family, we look for family-friendly neighborhoods just outside the busiest areas. They’re usually quieter, have more space, and offer a calmer vibe while still being walkable to everything we want to see.
And an extra bonus: these areas often have great little bakeries, local parks, and a slower pace that feels like a breath of fresh air. For breakfast, we would stop at a bakery and eat while the kids played on the neighborhood playground.
Insightful Spain Travel Tips for Accommodations:
- Consider the walk time to the main sights – you don’t need to stay in the city center to feel immersed.
- Research the vibe of the neighborhood (is it quiet, trendy, or full of nightlife?) to ensure it matches your energy.
- Book your accommodations near a metro stop.
Although we typically book Airbnb’s, we will often look at Booking.com for rates to keep our options open.
5. Pack Light
If I could give just one piece of advice for traveling through Europe (especially with kids in tow), it’s this: pack light.
After living in Germany and taking multiple trips—including a two-week adventure through Italy and another through Spain with two small kids—we’ve basically become semi-professional packers.
And let me tell you, packing light is a skill worth developing.
If you’re road-tripping through Spain or hopping between cities by train, the last thing you want is to be dragging a giant suitcase up metro stairs or over cobblestone streets.
It gets exhausting so fast, and suddenly this dream vacation has turned into a logistical workout.
A Few Tried-and-True Packing Tips:
- Stick to the essentials. You really don’t need as much as you think you do.
- Choose mix-and-match outfits. Neutrals, layers, and pieces that work in multiple combinations will make your life easier.
- Plan to do laundry. Whether it’s a quick sink wash or using the Airbnb machine, washing as you go gives you so much more flexibility. It’s typical for Airbnb’s to only have washers, so give yourself enough time to let your clothes air dry.
- Skip the workout clothes—unless you know you’ll use them. Otherwise, they take up space and rarely leave the suitcase.
- Wear your bulkiest items on travel days (like sneakers or jackets), and keep the rest light and breathable.
Related Post: The Ultimate Packing list for Baby and Toddlers
Packing light not only makes travel more manageable—it also gives you room to breathe, move, and even pick up a souvenir or two without needing a second suitcase.
6. Be Mindful of Dress Codes, Especially at Religious Sites
Something that’s easy to overlook when packing for Spain is that many religious sites have dress codes, especially churches, cathedrals, and monasteries. Generally, this means no short shorts, and shoulders must be covered.
In the heat of summer, this can feel a little tricky to navigate. You’re trying to stay cool while also being respectful of the space and local customs.
Travel Tip: Bring a lightweight shawl or two. One you can drape over your shoulders when needed, and another that can double as a waist wrap or skirt if you’re wearing shorter shorts or a dress.
They take up almost no space in your bag and can save you from being turned away at the entrance.
Breathable fabrics are your friend. A flowy midi dress, linen pants, or a loose tee with covered shoulders can keep you cool and covered.
7. Don’t Assume your Apartment has an Elevator (also, the ground floor isn’t floor 1)
Here’s something that catches many travelers off guard: many apartments in Spain (and across Europe) lack elevators. So if you’re booking a charming little flat in the historic center, be prepared to haul your luggage—and yourself—up several flights of stairs.
Honestly, my husband and I get genuinely excited when we find out a place has an elevator. It feels like a luxury. But even then, don’t get too attached—elevators in older buildings are often tiny. Like, barely-big-enough-for-your-suitcase tiny.
If you’re traveling with kids, bags, or groceries… get ready for some creative maneuvering.
A quick note for numbers:
This can be confusing if you’re used to the U.S. system—the “first floor” in Spain is actually the second level.
- The ground floor is considered level 0.
- So if your apartment is listed as being on the 4th floor, you’re walking up five flights of stairs. Yes, five!
8. Don’t Forget about Persianas (they’re a game-changer)
Okay, confession: I did this wrong for way too long. I had no idea that these Persianas—those outdoor-style blinds you’ll find on most Spanish apartments—were even a thing.
They’re not just for looks. These built-in shutters block out everything. Light, heat, noise… they’re magic, especially if you’re trying to get little ones to sleep while it’s still bright outside (and let’s be honest—in summer, it feels like it stays light forever).
Tip: You don’t even have to open the window to close them. Most apartments have a little strap or cord to pull them down manually. Some fancier places might have a wall switch for automatic ones—yes, they feel like you’re lowering a medieval drawbridge, and yes, that makes them even more fun.
If your kids are like mine and need it pitch-black by 7:00 p.m., these blinds will save your evenings (and your sanity)
If you remember to lower them before you leave during the day, it will help keep the place cooler with the outdoor high temperatures.
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9. Book Experiences and Tours Ahead of Time (trust me on this)
This one really depends on the season, but if you’re traveling to Spain during peak months (think spring break, summer, or holidays), do yourself a favor and book your tickets and tours ahead of time. Especially for the big, can’t-miss sights.
At the very least, grab skip-the-line or timed entry tickets for major attractions.
When we visited Seville in April, we thought we could just show up and buy tickets for the Royal Alcázar… spoiler: we waited four hours in line. Four.
Thankfully, there was a nice shaded courtyard where it was safe enough for the kids to run around and play.
- Sagrada Família (Barcelona) – always busy, even on weekdays.
- Royal Palace Alcázar (Seville) – stunning, but plan ahead.
- Park Güell – The first time we purchased tickets ahead of time, but the second time we tried to buy them at the last minute, they were unavailable.
- Mezquita-Catedral – worth booking timed tickets if possible.
And if there’s a special experience you’re excited about—such as a flamenco show, a tapas tour, or a cooking class—be sure to reserve it well in advance. You’ll have better options, better times, and way less stress.
We love booking through GetYourGuide and Viator. The sites are so easy to navigate.
10. Don’t Overplan- Leave Space to Slow Down
One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned while traveling—especially after our two-week trip through Italy—is this: you need to build in time to rest.
We packed that trip to the brim, trying to see everything, and by the end? We felt every bit of it. It was beautiful, but exhausting.
The reality is, you’re not going to see it all, and trying to cram too much into each day will burn you out fast. Especially in Spain, where part of the magic is in slowing down and letting the rhythm of the place guide you.
So leave space to wander the narrow streets. Sip sangria in a shady courtyard. Linger on a bench at golden hour. Relax on the beach without checking your watch. That’s just as much a part of the experience as any cathedral or palace.
This is especially crucial if you’re traveling with kids
Pacing is everything. Sightseeing fatigue is real—little legs (and grown-up patience) have limits. Give yourself buffer days, slower mornings, and time to be somewhere, not just move through it.
The kids need time for themselves. This means playgrounds, aquariums, and fun interactive exhibits.
You don’t have to choose between meaningful experiences and rest. The best trips have both.
Related Post: Borderline Easy Travel with Kids Tips, You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
11. Siestas are Real- Plan Around Them.
Yes—siestas are very much a real thing in Spain. This isn’t just a charming stereotype. One of our tour guides explained that, especially in the hotter regions, people head home to rest during the high temperatures of the afternoon, and social gatherings don’t resume until early evening.
Because of that, many stores, restaurants, and even some attractions close for several hours in the afternoon, usually between 2:00 and 5:00 p.m. (though it can vary).
So if you’re planning a busy day out, be sure to factor this into your schedule.
Tip: Eat lunch on the earlier side, rest, and enjoy a later dinner.
Spain is a late-night culture, so the slower afternoons are part of how they make it all work. If you plan ahead just a little, siesta hours can actually become a welcome break in your day, not an inconvenience.
12. Find Restaurants Away from the Busier Main Attractions
One thing we’ve noticed consistently across most European countries we’ve visited is that restaurants located near major attractions are usually more expensive—and, honestly, not of the best quality.
They tend to offer broader, tourist-friendly menus, and the hours are usually more flexible, which can be a perk, especially if you’re traveling with little kids who need to eat before 8:00 p.m.
However, if you’re looking for something more local, more flavorful, and often more affordable, consider venturing just a few blocks away.
Some of our absolute favorite meals in Spain were found while wandering quiet side streets or stumbling into a tucked-away courtyard. Those smaller, family-run places? Total hidden gems
Spain Travel Tip: Look for places with a smaller, focused menu- it usually means the quality of the food is good.
13. Water Isn’t Free (and Sometimes More Expensive Than Beer)
When we first moved to Germany, it was a bit of a culture shock—no free water, no drink refills, and suddenly, you’re paying more for a bottle of water than for a glass of wine or beer.
It’s such a shift from what we’re used to in the U.S., and Spain follows a similar rhythm.
If you sit down at a restaurant in Spain and order agua con gas (sparkling) or agua sin gas (still), you’ll be served bottled water—and no, you won’t get free refills. You might even need to pace yourself if you’re really thirsty, because a second bottle adds up fast.
And yes, some places may even charge for tap water (if they offer it at all). So, don’t be surprised if you ask for water and it still appears on the bill.
Tip: If you really want tap water, you can ask for “agua del grifo”, but some places may politely say no or still charge a small service fee. Leave the meals for sipping sangria, wine, and hydrating while exploring.
14. When in Doubt, Make Dinner Reservations
One thing we’ve noticed across most European countries we’ve visited is that restaurant culture is different, and Spain is no exception.
Even if a restaurant looks nearly empty when you walk in, the host will likely ask, “Do you have a reservation?”
At first, it feels confusing—you look around and think, but there are so many tables open. But here’s the thing: they reserve specific tables for people who booked in advance and plan their night around those time slots. They’re not being difficult—it’s just how things work.
Sometimes, if you ask politely and promise you’ll be quick, they might seat you.
However, if you have your heart set on a specific place—or are traveling during peak season or on weekend evenings—just go ahead and make a reservation. It’ll save you from wandering the streets at 8:30 p.m. with hungry kids and no dinner plan. (Ask me how I know.)
15. You’ll Need to Ask for the Check
One of the things I love about dining in Spain—and something that might catch you off guard—is that servers don’t rush you out the door. It’s not that they’ve forgotten you… It’s that they’re giving you space to linger, talk, and enjoy your meal at your own pace.
However, that also means you could easily sit there for a long time if you’re waiting for the check.
So when you’re ready to pay, just wave politely and say:
“La cuenta, por favor.” (The check, please.)
It’s the same when you’re ready to order. If you’re still holding the menu and scanning the options, the server may assume you’re not quite ready yet.
I’ve found that this is similar to Germany as well—you kind of have to signal that you’re ready to move things along.
Tip: Don’t expect the server to check in every few minutes, as they might in the U.S. You’re in control of the pace, and that’s actually kind of lovely once you get used to it.
16. Tipping in Spain: What You Need to Know
Tipping in Spain is simple and low-pressure. You don’t need to calculate percentages or pull out a tip calculator at the table. Most locals don’t tip much—if at all.
That said, a small gesture is always appreciated, especially when it’s accompanied by good service.
If you’re at a sit-down restaurant and the service was great, rounding up a few euros or leaving 5–10% is more than enough.
Because we are traveling with two small kids, we tend to leave a little extra tip for the special accommodations.
17. Don’t Skip the Smaller Gem Cities
Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville absolutely deserve the spotlight—they’re iconic for a reason, each packed with culture, architecture, and energy that feels uniquely Spanish in its own way.
But here’s the thing: some of Spain’s most memorable moments happen in its smaller cities.
These places often feel more intimate, a little slower-paced, and sometimes even more magical because you’re not elbow-to-elbow with a hundred other tourists.
Whether it’s soaking in the Mediterranean views from Alicante, wandering through the Royal Palace in Málaga, or stepping into the otherworldly beauty of the Mezquita-Catedral in Córdoba, these spots offer a unique bucket-list experience, just with a little more breathing room.
18. Embrace Public Transportation
Spain boasts an incredible train system, and for our entire two-week vacation, we hopped from city to city by train and navigated urban landscapes by bus.
It was fast, convenient, and super easy to use!
For schedules and train purchases, check out OMNIO. It’s a third-party site, but it can be another great option.
19. Renting A Car- Go Small
If you decide to rent a car while traveling through Spain, think small. Many city and intercity roads are narrow, winding, and not exactly made for oversized vehicles.
Parking spaces (and garages) are often tight, and trust me, squeezing into a tiny underground spot is not something you want to attempt in a full-size SUV.
Smaller cars are not only easier to park, but they’re also more fuel-efficient and often cheaper to rent. And gas is more expensive in Europe!
Additional Spain Travel Tips for Cars:
- Manual transmissions are the norm, so you’ll need to request an automatic ahead of time.
- When booking your accommodations, be sure to see if they have parking.
- Tolls are common on the major highways.
20. Stay Aware of Pickpockets (Especially in the Larger Cities)
Thankfully, we didn’t encounter any issues with pickpockets during our trip. Still, we were warned by several of our Airbnb hosts to stay vigilant, especially in larger cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville.
Pickpocketing isn’t something to stress over, but it’s good to be aware. It tends to happen in crowded areas—think metro stations, tourist hotspots, and busy plazas—where distractions are easy and bags are close.
Tip: Keep bags zipped and worn in front when you’re in crowded areas, and avoid hanging bags on the backs of your chairs while seated in restaurants.
21. Always Respect the Culture
This probably goes without saying, but it’s still worth the reminder: always respect the culture.
Things might look, feel, or operate differently than what you’re used to—and that’s exactly the point. Experiencing a new culture is one of the most meaningful parts of travel. It’s about stepping into someone else’s rhythm, even if it feels unfamiliar at first.
22. Learn a Few Words and Phrases of the Local Language
Don’t expect everyone to speak English, especially outside the big cities. In places like Madrid or Barcelona, you’re more likely to find English-speaking locals, but it’s still not something to assume.
Learning a few basic Spanish phrases goes a long way. Not just practically, but in how you’re received. It shows respect, effort, and openness, which locals always seem to appreciate.
- Hola – Hello
- Buenos días – Good morning
- Gracias – Thank you
- Por favor – Please
- La cuenta, por favor – The check, please
- ¿Hablas inglés? – Do you speak English?
- Perdón / Lo siento – Excuse me / I’m sorry
A little effort goes a long way, and often leads to warmer smiles, better conversations, and a deeper connection to the place you’re exploring.
Check Out These Amazing Resources For Traveling Spain:
- The Perfect 10 Day Spain Itinerary: Fantastic for First Timers!
- Spending the Perfect One Day in Cordoba
- Three Amazing Days in Seville, Spain
- The Best Things To Do In Malaga, Spain
- How to Spend Two Incredible Days in Valencia- With Crucial Tips
- Amazing Things To Do in Alicante: A Trip of Culture & Charm
- A Fun Family-Friendly Guide to Traveling to Tenerife, Spain
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My Final Thoughts on These Spain Travel Tips
Spain is an incredible country! From the sun-drenched afternoons to the slow dinners that stretch through the sunset, consider Spain the perfect country that lets you slow down and enjoy the moment.
I hope these Spain travel tips help you feel more prepared—and a lot more excited for your upcoming trip to Spain!
Use this list as a guide! And remember, don’t forget to leave room for spontaneity! And make sure to slow down and soak it all in. The Wonder of Spain is filled with big and quiet moments!
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