Spain awaits you with open arms, inviting you to explore every corner of its territory and discover the trails of the Camino de Santiago (where spirituality and nature blend perfectly),

Get ready to delight your senses with exquisite cuisine, lose yourself in charming towns, and let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of flamenco . In this travel guide , we share the must-sees of Spain to make your adventure a success. 

Why choose Spain

Spain is your next travel destination for many reasons. Here are the top ones :

History and heritage

Spain is a true open-air museum. Imagine exploring the remains of the Roman Empire in Mérida and Segovia , as well as discovering the grandeur of the Alhambra in Granada and the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. And much more!

Likewise, cities like Toledo and Córdoba are a testament to the coexistence of different cultures over time. Without a doubt, Spain is a country that offers impressive architecture that reflects centuries of history . 

Gastronomy and wines

Spanish cuisine is world-renowned for its variety and unique flavors. What other local dishes can you enjoy? Let's take a look:

• Spanish Tortilla : A classic of Spanish cuisine, made with eggs, potatoes, and onions. It's enjoyed both as a tapa and as a main course.
• Gazpacho : This is a cold Andalusian soup made with tomato, cucumber, pepper, and garlic. If you travel to Spain in the summer, you have to try it!
• Fabada Asturiana : This is a hearty stew of fabes (beans) with chorizo, blood sausage, and bacon. This Spanish dish is typical of the Asturias region.
• Padrón peppers : These are small fried peppers, some of which can be spicy, and are served as tapas in Galicia.
• Croquettes : These are fried foods filled with bechamel and various ingredients such as ham, chicken, fish or spinach.
• Pulpo a la Gallega : is a cooked octopus served with paprika, olive oil and coarse salt.
• Roast suckling pig : This is a traditional dish from Segovia, in which the pork is cooked very slowly. This ensures that it is truly tender and crispy.
• Churros with chocolate : These are a popular sweet treat, especially at breakfast, consisting of fried dough accompanied by thick chocolate for dipping.
• Santiago cake : it is a typical almond cake from Galicia, decorated with the cross of Santiago.
• Black rice : This is rice cooked with squid ink. That ink obviously gives it a dark color. But that's not just attractive; it also gives it a deep, delicious flavor.

Furthermore, Spain is one of the world's largest wine producers . Regions like La Rioja and Ribera del Duero offer unforgettable experiences in every sense.

Geographic diversity and climate

Spain has a diverse geography that adapts to all types of travelers, with: 

• Golden beaches of the Costa del Sol.
• Green landscapes of the north in Galicia and Asturias.
• You can ski in the Sierra Nevada, tour the vineyards of Castile and León, or enjoy the Mediterranean climate in the Balearic Islands.

Culture and nightlife

Spain is synonymous with culture and entertainment . Its festivals , like La Tomatina and the April Fair, are unforgettable experiences. Plus, Sónar Barcelona is coming soon —don't miss it!

And the nightlife? If you're someone who enjoys dining or dancing at night, cities like Madrid, Barcelona, ​​and Ibiza are the best for their bars, terraces, and nightclubs that never sleep.

What you should know before traveling to Spain

There are several key aspects to keep in mind to make the most of your experience. From the best time to visit the country to must-see destinations, here's all the information :

Art and museums

Are you an art lover? Or are you someone who loves visiting any museum you find in the city? In Spain, you'll find a true cultural gem. Imagine if this country has museums like the Prado in Madrid, the Picasso Museum in Malaga, and the Guggenheim in Bilbao .

These Spanish museums have some of the most important collections in the world . Plus, Spain has been the birthplace of legendary artists like Dalí, Goya, and Velázquez. What an incredible country!

Unmissable destinations and experiences

Spain is full of fascinating places , and choosing what to visit will depend on your interests. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Madrid : It's the country's capital and an incredible destination for art and culture lovers. Don't miss the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofía Museum, and the Royal Palace.
• Barcelona : Another city famous for Gaudí's architecture, with the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell as its emblems. It also has wonderful beaches where you can relax.
• Seville : a destination steeped in history. The Andalusian city is known for its majestic Plaza de España, the cathedral with the Giralda tower, and the Royal Alcázar.
• Granada : One of Europe's architectural gems and one of the most impressive sights you can enjoy on your trip to Spain. The city also has a vibrant university atmosphere and charming neighborhoods like the Albaicín.
• The Balearic and Canary Islands are the perfect places if you're looking for sun and sea. Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca are true paradises.

Schedules and customs

Spaniards tend to have lunch late (between 2 and 3 p.m.) and dinner after 9 p.m. Additionally, many businesses close at midday for the famous siesta, especially in smaller towns.

Although the siesta is a custom deeply rooted in Spanish culture, its practice is declining , especially among young people and in large cities, due to changes in work habits.

Business hours vary, but stores are generally open from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm . In larger cities, many businesses have continuous hours.

Language

Although Spanish is the official language, other co-official languages ​​are spoken in regions such as Catalonia, Galicia and the Basque Country .

Best time to travel to Spain

The climate in Spain varies depending on the region you visit. So, if you're wondering what the best time to travel to Spain is, it will depend on the climate you prefer and the activities you plan to do (if you want to ski, what better way to go than in winter?). Let's take a look:

• Summer (June to August): This is the perfect time to enjoy the Mediterranean beaches and the Andalusian coast. However, in inland cities like Madrid, Seville, and Córdoba, temperatures can exceed 40°C. Keep this in mind due to the heat.
• Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons to explore the country, as the weather is milder and there are fewer tourists. This will allow you to explore cities and towns more comfortably, enjoy local festivals, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.
• Winter (December to February) : It can be bitterly cold in northern Spain and the Central Plateau. However, this is the best time to enjoy snow sports in resorts like the Sierra Nevada or the Pyrenees. December is also a special month for Christmas markets. If you love Christmas, why not enjoy it in Spain? A different kind of Christmas!

Transport

• High-speed trains (AVE) : If you plan to travel between Spanish cities, the AVE is a fast and comfortable option. To save a lot of money, choose to buy tickets in advance or look for promotional fares on the Renfe website .
• Renting a car to explore : This is a good idea if you want more freedom of movement and don't have to rely on someone else. Ideal if you want to discover charming towns like Ronda, Albarracín, or Cudillero.
• Public transport cards : You should purchase cards like the Bono Transporte or T-Casual, which offer unlimited rides for a fixed price and can be used on the metro, buses, and trains. Ideal for cities like Madrid and Barcelona.

Tips to make the most of your trip to Spain

To fully enjoy your adventure in Spain, it's essential to plan your budget, transportation, and activities carefully. Here are some helpful tips :

• Accommodation and gastronomy for all budgets :
• Accommodations for every traveler : Spain offers everything from luxurious five-star hotels to budget hostels and Airbnb options. If you're looking for an authentic experience, consider staying at a parador or a well-established hotel.
• Affordable and delicious cuisine : You can opt for daily menus, available at most local restaurants for prices ranging from 10 to 15 euros, which include a starter, main course, dessert, and a drink.
• Local markets : Visit markets like La Boquería in Barcelona or San Miguel in Madrid, where you can try fresh produce and local specialties without spending too much.
• How to save on attractions :
• Free admission days at museums and monuments : Many museums offer free admission on certain days of the week, such as the Prado or Reina Sofía in Madrid. Check these hours and plan your visit to save money and enjoy unique experiences.
• Free tours : You'll find free guided tours where you only pay the guide's tip in major cities.
• To enjoy without setbacks :
• Avoid peak hours at restaurants and attractions : If you prefer to avoid crowds, adjust your mealtimes, taking into account the mealtimes we mentioned earlier.
• Always carry some cash : Although most businesses accept cards and QR codes, you may need to pay in cash in small markets or remote towns.
• Download useful apps : Use apps like Moovit for public transportation, Google Maps for walking routes, and El Tenedor to find Spanish restaurants with great discounts that make a difference.

How to stay connected during your trip to Spain

You already know everything you can enjoy on your trip to Spain. Now, how do you stay connected to find a new restaurant, attractions, or post an Instagram story while traveling around the country? You need the Olysim eSIM for Spain!

With Olysim, you'll have high-speed internet access throughout Spain (5G). You can choose unlimited data plans or plans based on a specific GB amount . Forget about physical cards, additional roaming costs, and poor internet connection during your trip to Spain!