10 travel tips for Spain you need to know before you go

Are you planning a trip to beautiful Spain soon? Then it’s worth taking some time to prepare for your journey. Before you leave, there are a few things that are useful to know in advance. Spain is so much more than just sun, sea, and beaches. From vibrant cities and charming villages to breathtaking landscapes and incredible cuisine, there is so much to discover. To help you make the most of your trip, I’ve put together 10 useful travel tips for Spain in this blog. Hopefully, these tips will help make your holiday smoother, more enjoyable, and above all, unforgettable.

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About Spain

Spain is one of the most diverse countries in Europe, and that is exactly what makes it such a fascinating travel destination. Located in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula, the country is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, and impressive mountain ranges such as the Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada. Thanks to this varied geography, no two regions in Spain feel the same.

From vibrant cities to breathtaking nature

From lively cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville to charming whitewashed villages, rugged natural landscapes, and idyllic islands like Mallorca and Tenerife, Spain has an incredible amount to offer. You’ll find endless beaches, lush mountain scenery, volcanic landscapes, semi-desert regions, and historic cities that take you on a journey through centuries of history.

Metropol Parasol -Las Setas de Sevilla, Seville, Spain

A country rich in culture and traditions

What I personally love most about Spain is the remarkable diversity between its regions. Every area has its own culture, gastronomy, traditions, and even its own language. Travelling through Andalusia feels completely different from exploring the Basque Country on a road trip or spending a holiday in the Balearic Islands.

This rich variety is closely linked to Spain’s fascinating history. Romans, Moors, and Catholic kingdoms have all left their mark on the country’s architecture, cuisine, and culture, influences that are still visible everywhere today.

Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza, Seville, Spain

Perfect for both relaxation and adventure

Spain is also a destination that offers the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. You can spend hours enjoying sunny terraces, wandering through atmospheric streets, or opt for scenic hikes in national parks, coastal road trips, and exciting outdoor adventures in the mountains.

Guadalest, Costa Blanca, Alicante, Spain

Why good preparation matters

Because Spain is such a large and diverse country, a little preparation can go a long way. That doesn’t mean you need to plan every minute of your trip, but it does help to think carefully about which regions you want to explore and how you plan to get around. Below, I’m sharing my most important travel tips for Spain to help you make the most of your holiday.

10 travel tips for Spain you should know before you go

1 – How to travel to Spain?

Spain is very easy to reach from Belgium, which is one of the reasons why it remains such a popular holiday destination. Whether you’re planning a city break, a beach holiday, or an epic road trip, there are plenty of ways to travel to Spain.

The fastest and most convenient option is, of course, flying. Spain has numerous international airports spread across the country, making it easy to reach different regions. Popular airports include Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Valencia, as well as those on the Spanish islands, such as Mallorca and Tenerife. From Belgium, direct flights depart daily from Brussels Airport, Charleroi Airport, and Ostend Airport.

Looking for a little more adventure? Spain is also easily accessible by car or campervan. For road trip lovers, this is a fantastic way to explore multiple regions along the way. Depending on your destination, the drive from Belgium to Spain usually takes between 12 and 20 hours.

You can also reach Spain by train or long-distance coach services such as FlixBus. Cities like Barcelona and Madrid are well connected through France, making rail travel a comfortable alternative to flying.

Whichever way you choose to travel, it’s worth thinking about your budget, travel time, and the type of holiday you want before making your plans.

2 – Passport, visa and vaccinations

Travelling to Spain? Fortunately, the entry requirements are fairly straightforward. Spain is part of the Schengen Area, allowing travellers from most European countries to move freely within the country.

If you are travelling from an EU country, such as Belgium or the Netherlands, a valid national ID card or passport is sufficient to enter Spain. No visa is required for a tourist stay. Travellers from outside the European Union will generally need a valid passport and, in some cases, a visa. Always check the requirements for your nationality well in advance of your trip.

For a typical holiday, there is usually very little paperwork involved. However, I always recommend checking before departure that your ID card or passport is still valid, especially if you are flying.

As for vaccinations, there are currently no mandatory vaccinations required for travel to Spain. The country has a high standard of healthcare and poses no significant health risks for most travellers. That said, it is always a good idea to ensure that routine vaccinations, such as tetanus, are up to date.

It is also advisable to have adequate travel and health insurance when visiting Spain. Before you leave, make sure your policy covers medical expenses abroad so you can travel with complete peace of mind.

Finally, be sure to check the latest travel advice and local regulations shortly before departure. This way, you’ll be fully prepared for your trip to Spain.

3 – What’s the best way to get around Spain?

Spain is a large and incredibly diverse country, so the best way to get around largely depends on the region you plan to explore. Fortunately, there are plenty of transportation options available.

For city breaks and larger cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, and Seville, public transport is often all you need. Spain has an extensive network of high-speed trains, regional rail services, and buses, making it relatively easy to travel between different cities. Within the cities themselves, metro systems and public transportation are generally efficient and easy to use.

When travelling, I often rely on Google Maps to plan routes and check schedules. If you’re visiting during the high season, I highly recommend booking tickets for popular train routes in advance, as they can sell out quickly.

If you want more freedom or plan to explore smaller villages and natural areas, renting a car is by far the best option. For regions such as Andalusia, the Basque Country, or coastal road trips, having your own vehicle gives you much greater flexibility. It also allows you to discover beautiful places that are often difficult to reach by public transport.

Spain is also a fantastic destination for active travellers. From hiking trails in the Pyrenees and scenic walks in the Canary Islands to famous pilgrimage routes such as the Camino de Santiago, there are endless opportunities to explore the country on foot.

4 – Driving in Spain

If you choose to explore Spain by car, you’re in for an unforgettable road trip. The country has an extensive network of well-maintained roads and motorways, making it easy to combine different regions into one journey.

One of the things I love most about driving in Spain is the incredible variety of landscapes along the way. One moment you’re cruising along the Mediterranean coast, and the next you’re surrounded by olive groves, mountains, or charming historic villages. Regions such as Andalusia, the Basque Country, and Northern Spain are particularly well suited for a road trip.

Planning to rent a car? For travellers from Belgium and the Netherlands, a valid national driving licence is all you need. An International Driving Permit is not required. Speed limits are similar to those in many other European countries: 120 km/h on motorways, 90 km/h on rural roads, and usually 30 or 50 km/h in urban areas.

Keep in mind that driving in major cities such as Barcelona and Madrid can be quite busy, especially during peak hours. Some cities also have low-emission zones with specific regulations, so it’s worth checking the requirements in advance if you’re travelling with your own vehicle.

You’ll also come across toll roads in certain parts of Spain. While there are often toll-free alternatives available, these routes usually take longer.

My biggest tip? Don’t underestimate the distances. Spain is much larger than many people expect. Allow plenty of time between destinations and plan regular stops along the way. Not only will the journey be more enjoyable, but you’ll often stumble upon some of the country’s most beautiful hidden gems.

5 – The best time to visit Spain

Spain is a destination that can be visited year-round. Thanks to its vast size and diverse climate zones, weather conditions vary significantly depending on the region and season. The best time to visit therefore largely depends on the type of holiday you’re planning.

July and August are the most popular months for a trip to Spain. Coastal regions and islands such as Mallorca and Ibiza attract large numbers of visitors during this period. You can expect plenty of sunshine and temperatures that often exceed 30°C (86°F). It’s the perfect time for a beach holiday, although cities like Seville and Madrid can become extremely hot. Keep in mind that the peak summer season also brings larger crowds and higher prices.

Personally, I think spring and autumn are the best times to travel to Spain. From April to June and from September to October, you’ll usually enjoy pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists, and excellent weather. These months are ideal for road trips, city breaks, and active holidays. Autumn is also a wonderful time to visit Spain’s famous wine regions, such as La Rioja, Priorat, and Ribera del Duero. During the grape harvest season, the vineyards are full of activity and the landscapes take on beautiful autumn colours.

Winter has its own charm too. Southern Spain, the Costa Blanca, and the Canary Islands all enjoy pleasantly mild temperatures during this season, making them perfect destinations if you want to escape the Belgian winter for a while. And if you prefer snow over sunshine, you can even go skiing in Spain’s mountain regions during the winter months.

My biggest tip? Choose your destination carefully, as the climate in Spain can vary dramatically depending on where you travel.

6 – Booking accommodation in Spain

Spain is an incredibly popular holiday destination, and you’ll notice that most during the high season. In summer, coastal towns, islands, and vibrant cities attract thousands of visitors, while spring and autumn are particularly popular for road trips, city breaks, and active holidays. If you want to secure the best accommodation within your budget, I highly recommend starting your search as early as possible.

I’ve often found that popular destinations such as Mallorca, Andalusia, and cities like Barcelona can book up quickly, especially if you’re looking for charming boutique hotels or accommodations in prime locations, such as a stay at the iconic La Muralla Roja. Prices can also rise significantly during school holidays and peak travel periods.

Staying at La Muralla Roja, worth it or not?

When planning a road trip through Spain, I usually book accommodations in strategic locations that allow me to explore as much as possible without spending hours on the road every day. At the same time, I like to keep my itinerary flexible, which is why I often choose accommodations with free cancellation. That way, it’s easy to make changes to your route if your plans evolve along the way.

Personally, I usually use Booking.com because its map feature makes it easy to compare accommodations across different regions. It’s a simple way to find places to stay in the right location for your itinerary and travel plans.

My biggest tip? Book popular destinations well in advance, especially if you’re travelling to Spain during the summer months or school holidays.

Below, you’ll find a Booking.com map where you can easily browse accommodations by location and discover the best places to stay throughout Spain.

7 – Paying in Spain and tipping etiquette

Spain is generally considered a fairly affordable holiday destination compared to some other Southern European countries, although costs can vary significantly depending on where you travel. Major cities such as Barcelona and popular islands like Mallorca and Ibiza tend to be more expensive than smaller towns or inland regions.

Paying by debit card, credit card, or smartphone is very easy in Spain, and most businesses accept cashless payments without any issues. That said, I always recommend carrying a small amount of cash with you. It can come in handy in smaller villages, local tapas bars, markets, or older family-run establishments where card payments may not always be accepted.

When it comes to tipping, it is not mandatory in Spain, but it is appreciated if you are happy with the service. In restaurants, it is common to leave a small tip or simply round up the bill. For more elaborate meals or particularly good service, many people leave around 5–10%.

Small tips are also sometimes given in cafés, taxis, and hotels, although tipping culture is generally much more relaxed and informal than in countries such as the United States.

My tip? Don’t feel obliged to leave large tips everywhere you go. In Spain, tipping is mainly seen as a friendly gesture to show appreciation for good service.

8. Wi-Fi and mobile data in Spain

In general, Spain has excellent mobile coverage and reliable internet access. In cities, popular coastal destinations, and tourist areas, you’ll usually have no trouble accessing 4G or even 5G networks. Wi-Fi is also widely available and is standard in most hotels, restaurants, and cafés.

That said, connections can be less reliable in certain areas. In mountainous regions, natural parks, or remote villages, you may occasionally experience weaker coverage or lose your signal altogether. If you’re planning a road trip through the Spanish countryside or exploring more remote regions, it’s worth keeping this in mind.

Personally, I often rely on my phone while travelling for navigation, finding locations, or occasionally getting some work done on the go. That’s why I usually download maps offline through Google Maps before my trip. It can be incredibly useful when you suddenly find yourself without a connection.

If you regularly work online while travelling, make sure to check whether your accommodation offers Wi-Fi. While most hotels and apartments provide internet access these days, the speed and reliability can vary, especially in more remote areas or on some of the islands.

My tip? Always have a backup plan. Download important routes, tickets, and reservations in advance so you’re not completely dependent on an internet connection while travelling.

9 – Must-try specialties in Spain

Spanish cuisine is undoubtedly one of the main reasons why so many people fall in love with Spain. Food here is all about sharing, fresh ingredients, and long, leisurely meals enjoyed with family and friends. What makes it even more special is that the cuisine varies greatly from one region to another, making culinary discoveries an exciting part of travelling through Spain.

Here are some Spanish specialties you should definitely try during your trip:

Tapas – Perhaps the most famous part of Spanish cuisine, tapas are small dishes designed to be shared with friends and family. Popular options include patatas bravas, Spanish tortilla, croquettes, olives, and grilled vegetables. In cities such as Seville, enjoying tapas is an essential part of the local culture.

Paella – This iconic rice dish originated in Valencia and traditionally consists of rice, saffron, vegetables, and either meat or seafood. Over time, many regions have created their own variations of this beloved Spanish classic.

Jamón Ibérico – Spanish cured ham is considered a true delicacy. In particular, high-quality Jamón Ibérico is widely regarded as one of the finest cured hams in the world.

Churros con chocolate – A true Spanish classic, enjoyed as both a breakfast treat and a dessert. These crispy fried dough sticks are traditionally served with a thick, rich hot chocolate for dipping.

Local wines – Spain is home to some outstanding wine regions, including La Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Priorat. Wine tasting is especially rewarding in autumn, when the grape harvest is underway and the vineyards are at their most beautiful.

10 – Traces of history throughout Spain

Spain is a country where history is everywhere. Over the centuries, Romans, Moors, Catholic kingdoms, and regional cultures have all left their mark on the country’s architecture, traditions, and landscapes.

As you travel through Spain, you’ll encounter impressive landmarks, centuries-old streets, and iconic sights such as the Sagrada Família in Barcelona, the Royal Palace of Madrid, and the Alcázar of Seville.

What I love most is that history here isn’t limited to museums. It’s part of everyday life, whether you’re wandering through a medieval town, relaxing in a historic square, or discovering ancient ruins along the way.

In particular, the Moorish influence is still very visible in Andalusia. The famous Alhambra is perhaps the most beautiful example of this. But you’ll also find traces of history in smaller villages, ancient city walls, and charming historic squares throughout the region.

In addition, every region in Spain has its own traditions and unique identity. The atmosphere in the Basque Country feels completely different from that of Catalonia or Southern Spain. These cultural differences are one of the things that make travelling through Spain so fascinating.

Want to truly immerse yourself in Spanish culture? Try to experience some local festivals or traditional events during your trip. From flamenco in Andalusia to Les Falles in the Catalan Pyrenees, where locals carry burning torches down from the mountains into their villages, Spain is full of unique traditions that have often been passed down from generation to generation for centuries.

flamenco, Plaza de España, Seville, Spain

My tip? Don’t spend all your time ticking off the major attractions. Take the opportunity to wander through smaller streets and villages without a plan. More often than not, that’s where you’ll discover the most authentic and fascinating pieces of Spanish history.

Still wondering whether Spain is the right holiday destination for you? Trust me: Spain truly has everything you need for an unforgettable trip. From vibrant cities and charming villages to breathtaking landscapes, beautiful beaches, and incredible food, it is a destination that keeps drawing you back. And no matter how many times you visit, there is always something new to discover. Because Spain is such a large and diverse country, a little preparation can make a big difference. I hope these travel tips for Spain help you plan your trip more smoothly and make the most of your holiday.