What to Know Before Traveling to Spain

Spain is a dream destination for many travelers, thanks to its rich culture, stunning landscapes, iconic architecture, delicious cuisine, and warm Mediterranean charm. Whether you're headed to vibrant cities like Madrid and Barcelona or exploring charming Andalusian villages or sun-soaked beaches in the Balearic Islands, being well-prepared can enhance your trip significantly. In this comprehensive guide for first-time visitors, we’ll cover essential things to know before you go, along with tips related to flying with Ryanair, one of the most popular budget airlines in Europe.

1. Entry Requirements and Travel Documents

Before heading to Spain, make sure your travel documents are in order. For most tourists:

Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure date from the Schengen area.

Visa Requirements: EU/EEA citizens don’t need a visa. U.S., Canadian, Australian, and many other nationals can enter Spain visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

ETIAS (Starting 2025): Visitors from visa-free countries will soon need to apply for ETIAS, a travel authorization for the Schengen zone.

2. Best Time to Visit

Spain offers a different experience year-round:

• Spring (April–June): Pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Summer (July–August): Busy tourist season, especially on the coast; prepare for high temperatures.
• Fall (September–October): Ideal weather and cultural events.
• Winter (November–February): Great for visiting southern Spain and cities like Seville and Granada, with fewer tourists and milder weather.

3. Language and Communication

• Language: Spanish (Castilian) is the official language. Catalan, Basque, and Galician are also spoken in specific regions.
• Translation Apps: Handy if you don’t speak Spanish. Locals appreciate even basic attempts to speak their language.
• Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for emergencies.

4. Currency and Payment

• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Card vs. Cash: Credit/debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s wise to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas.
• ATMs: Easy to find, but check with your bank about international fees.

5. Transportation in Spain

Spain has a well-developed transportation system:

• Metro and Bus: Affordable and efficient in major cities.
• Train: The AVE high-speed train connects Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and other cities.
• Car Rental: Ideal for exploring rural areas or road trips.

If you're flying with Ryanair, know that they service many Spanish cities, making it easy to hop between regions. Before your flight, ensure you know how to contact Ryanair check-in services to click on teléfono ryanair gratuito and know how to avoid last-minute issues. Online check-in usually opens 24 to 48 hours before departure.

6. Flying Ryanair to or Within Spain

Ryanair is a go-to airline for many travelers due to its low-cost fares. But it comes with its own set of rules:

How to Contact Ryanair for Check-in or Support

If you're confused about the check-in process or face technical issues, it's essential to know how to contact Ryanair check-in support. You can:

• Use the live chat feature on their on website Ryanair.
• Call Ryanair directly (local contact numbers vary).

Call Ryanair from Madrid or Barcelona

While in Spain, you might need to reach Ryanair by phone for urgent issues like flight changes or missing documents:

• To call teléfono ryanair madrid, use the official Ryanair Spain contact number.
• To call telefono ryanair barcelona, the same applies; check Ryanair’s Spain contact page for the latest numbers.

Having these numbers handy can save you a lot of stress, especially during time-sensitive travel changes.

7. Ryanair Luggage and Baggage Rules

Ryanair has strict luggage policies. Here’s what you need to know:

• Cabin Bag: One small bag (40x20x25 cm) included in standard fare.
• Priority Boarding: Includes an extra cabin bag (55x40x20 cm).
• Checked Bags: Must be purchased separately, with weight limits (10 kg or 20 kg).

Review Ryanair's luggage and baggage policies read more information "se puede llevar bolso y equipaje de mano ryanair" before packing to avoid costly airport fees.

8. Accommodations: Where to Stay

From luxury hotels to hostels and vacation rentals, Spain offers a wide range:

• Madrid: Stay in central neighborhoods like Malasaña, Sol, or Gran Vía.
• Barcelona: The Gothic Quarter, Eixample, and El Born are top picks.
• Rural Escapes: Consider "casas rurales" for a local, immersive experience.

9. Spanish Etiquette and Cultural Tips

• Dining: Meals are later than in many countries. Lunch around 2–3 PM, dinner after 9 PM.
• Tipping: Not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% is appreciated.
• Siesta Culture: Some small shops may close in the afternoon.
• Dress: Spaniards dress well. Even casual wear tends to be stylish.

10. Safety and Health

• Spain is Safe: But beware of pickpockets, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Las Ramblas in Barcelona or Puerta del Sol in Madrid.
• Travel Insurance: Always a good idea.
• Healthcare: EU citizens can use the EHIC card. Non-EU visitors should have insurance.

11. Internet and Connectivity

• SIM Cards: Easily available at airports and stores. Vodafone, Orange, and Movistar are popular providers.
• Free Wi-Fi: Common in hotels, cafes, and public places.

12. Budgeting for Your Trip

Spain is affordable compared to other Western European countries. Here’s a rough daily budget:

• Budget Traveler: €40–€70/day
• Mid-Range: €70–€150/day
• Luxury: €150+/day

Conclusion

Spain is a captivating country that offers something for everyone. Whether you're savoring tapas in Seville, marveling at Gaudí’s architecture in Barcelona, or hiking in the Pyrenees, being prepared will help you enjoy your trip to the fullest.

And don’t forget to plan ahead if you're flying Ryanair. Be clear on how to contact Ryanair check-in, ¿Cómo cancelar un vuelo de ryanair? flight if needed, review luggage and baggage policies, and know how to call Ryanair from Madrid or call Ryanair from Barcelona for local help.

With the right information and a spirit of adventure, your first trip to Spain can be the start of a lifelong love affair with this magical country. Bon viaje!