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OFF THE BEATEN PATH: EXPERT TIPS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR TRIP TO SPAIN

Penny O'Connor

Barcelona

By Kristin Espinar

www.mustseespain.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mustseespain/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/MustSeeSpain/


Introduction

I've had a lifelong passion for traveling and experiencing new cultures.  In my 20’s I moved to Madrid to teach English, and I ended up spending 7 years there.  I finished my degree at an American university in Madrid.  I also met my husband, and got married while I was there. From my experiences, I was and still am enthralled by the history, art, architecture, food, and overall energy of the country.

After moving back to the USA, I've returned to Spain with my family many times, exploring all the major cities and diverse regions. During my travels, I've stayed in hotels, hostels, and even the unique Paradores hotels.

After living there for so many years, I’ve learned all  the insider tips and off-the-beaten path destinations in many of the main destinations in Spain. Over the years, I've become bilingual in Spanish and English, allowing me to connect more deeply with people and culture.

With my extensive first-hand experience, I'm delighted to share my knowledge and passion for Spain with fellow travelers. I want to provide helpful advice so you can plan your ideal trip, appreciating Spain's magic just as I have. Whether you're a first-timer or seasoned visitor, I hope these insights give you inspiration to fully immerse yourself in Spain's richness.

Best Time to Visit Spain

The best time to visit Spain depends on your preferences and interests.

Generally, spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) have better weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing. The temperatures are mild, ranging from the mid 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit, and popular sites are less crowded. This allows you to explore at a leisurely pace and avoid long lines. Most people travel between June-August, though, so don’t be afraid to hit peak tourist season.  You’ll still have an amazing time. 

If you're interested in beach activities, summer (June to August) is perfect for visiting coastal regions like Costa Brava, Costa del Sol, and the islands. The Mediterranean temperatures can reach up to 90°F. Just be prepared for bigger crowds and higher prices during the peak season.

Most Spaniards actually travel to the north of Spain in July and August to escape the intense heat in the central and southern parts of the country. Cities like Madrid and Seville can be uncomfortably hot during the summer.  Madrid is manageable, but Seville can get to unbearable temperatures in July and August. 

The winters (December to February) are relatively mild in most of Spain, though temperatures dip lower inland and at higher elevations. If you plan to ski, winter can be a good time to visit the mountains.

So in summary, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall balance good weather with fewer tourists, while summer brings beach weather but bigger crowds. Winters are mild but can be rainy. The best time depends on the experiences you want to prioritize.

Budget Tips for Spain Travel

Spain can be affordable for travelers, especially if you use budget-saving measures such as staying in hostels or budget hotels, taking advantage of public transportation, dining at local tapas bars, and visiting free or low-cost attractions. I recommend eating a menu del dia during the week for a healthy and affordable meal. 

Staying in hostels is a great way to save money on accommodation in Spain. Hostels provide basic dorm-style rooms and shared bathrooms, with beds starting around €20-30 per night. Many also have private rooms if you want more privacy. Hostels allow you to meet other travelers and often organize social activities.

Make the most of Spain's extensive public transportation systems to get around affordably between destinations. Purchase multi-ride metro and bus passes which offer discounted rates. Or consider Spain's high-speed and long-distance trains like the AVE to travel cheaply between major cities.  You can purchase tickets directly on the Renfe site or use other sites like Trainline or Rome2Rio.

Indulge in Spain's famous tapas culture for an inexpensive way to sample local cuisine. Tapas bars serve small shared plates or appetizer-sized portions, allowing you to taste a variety of dishes. Granada is a great city for free tapas when you buy a drink!

Lastly, visit the many free or low-cost attractions across Spain. Marvel at architectural icons like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona and Seville Cathedral by visiting their exterior facades and going inside during free entry hours. Explore free museums like the Prado on certain evenings and Sundays.

Here are some additional budget tips here.

Madrid

Recommended Spain Itinerary

For a first-time traveler, an ideal itinerary could include the major cities of Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville, as they represent Spain's diverse culture, history, and experiences.

Madrid - Spain's capital city is a must-visit, with iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace and Prado Museum. Explore the vibrant neighborhoods like Sol and Malasaña. Consider a day trip to nearby Toledo to see the Alcázar and cathedral or Segovia to visit the ancient Roman aqueduct.

Barcelona - Take the high-speed train or a short flight to Barcelona next. Here you can marvel at the unique architecture of Antoni Gaudí, including the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Wander the atmospheric alleys of the Gothic Quarter and enjoy Barcelona's famous nightlife scene.

Seville - Travel south to Seville by train or plane. Immerse yourself in Andalusian culture, flamenco, and Moorish-influenced sights like the Alcázar palace complex and the cathedral with its iconic Giralda tower. Wander around the charming Santa Cruz neighborhood and its traditional tapas bars.

Learn about this Madrid to Barcelona recommended itinerary. 

With extra time, consider adding stops in other popular destinations like Granada to tour the Alhambra, Valencia for paella and arts, or the islands of Mallorca or Ibiza for sun and sea. The possibilities are endless for an unforgettable trip through Spain!

Highlights of Spain's Regions

Madrid

Madrid, Spain's capital and largest city, is a bustling metropolis with world-class museums, expansive parks, and vibrant nightlife. The city's historic center features grand plazas and opulent architecture like the Royal Palace. The Prado Museum houses an unparalleled collection of European art. Madrid's culture comes alive through flamenco bars and tapas restaurants where locals dine late into the night. The Malasaña and Chueca neighborhoods offer lively bars and boutique shops. Nearby day trips like Toledo and Segovia provide a taste of historic Spanish cities.  Learn more about Madrid here.

Barcelona

Barcelona is known for its one-of-a-kind architecture, from the iconic Sagrada Familia basilica to the whimsical creations of Antoni Gaudí found throughout the city. The tree-lined boulevards of the Eixample district, the pedestrian-friendly Gothic Quarter, and the seaside promenade of La Rambla offer plenty to explore. In addition to its architecture and beaches, Barcelona offers an exciting food scene with fresh seafood, innovative tapas, and classic dishes from the Catalonia region.  Learn more about Barcelona here.

Seville

The Andalusian capital of Seville charms visitors with its Moorish palaces, lively flamenco culture, and sunny plazas. The 15th-century Alcázar palace complex stands as one of the city's most magnificent sights. Seville's immense Gothic cathedral houses Christopher Columbus' tomb and the Giralda bell tower. The Santa Cruz neighborhood's charming alleys lead to traditional tapas bars and flamenco venues. The Plaza de España, with its half-moon of Romanesque revival arches, provides an elegant gathering space in the city.  Learn more about Seville here.

Planning a Multi-Country Trip

When planning a multi-country trip that includes Spain along with destinations like Italy, France or Portugal, transportation between countries is an important logistical consideration. Here are some tips:

  • Fly into one country and out of another to minimize backtracking. For example, you could fly into Madrid, make your way across Europe via train to Paris, and then fly out of France back home.

  • Set one city as your main hub and take budget flights from there to other countries. Madrid or Barcelona make excellent hubs, with plentiful cheap flights on carriers like RyanAir and Vueling to get around Europe.

  • Within each country, take advantage of high-speed rail networks like Spain's AVE trains, Italy's Frecciarossa, or France's TGV trains to swiftly travel between major cities.

  • For inter-country travel, consider budget airlines for quick connections or overnight trains to maximize your time while getting some rest. Useful routes include Paris to Barcelona, Rome to Madrid, Lisbon to Madrid.

  • When booking trains between countries, check Rail Europe or train company sites directly as fares can vary. Tickets typically need to be purchased in advance for best pricing.

  • Plan your itinerary wisely to optimize time in each destination while accounting for transportation. Leave buffer days between countries in case of delays. Checking visa requirements in advance is also wise.

With proper planning using a mix of flights, trains, and budget-friendly booking, you can comfortably fit Spain and other European countries into one memorable adventure!

Seville

Kid-Friendly Activities in Spain

Spain offers many exciting attractions and activities for families traveling with children. Here are some of the top kid-friendly options in the major cities:

Madrid

  • Warner Bros. Park Madrid - This theme park located in San Martin de la Vega has rides, shows, and attractions based on popular Warner Bros. characters like Bugs Bunny and Superman.

  • Faunia - At this wildlife park, kids can see animals from different ecosystems around the world, including a rainforest, polar region, and more. There are also rides, shows, and hands-on activities.

  • Madrid Rio Park - Rent a bike or scooter and ride along the Manzanares River. There's also a cable car, skatepark, and playgrounds throughout the large park area.

  • Check out more info on my Madrid with Kids blog post here.

Barcelona

Seville

  • Isla Mágica - Rides and attractions themed around the Age of Discovery, like the terrifying Dragon Khan rollercoaster.

  • Seville Aquarium - One of the largest aquariums in Europe, with different marine habitats and over 7,000 sea creatures.

  • Plaza de España - Rent a rowboat and paddle along the moat surrounding this picturesque plaza.

  • Flamenco Shows - Kid-friendly flamenco shows at venues like Museo del Baile Flamenco make this artform accessible.

  • Check out more info on my Seville with Kids blog post here.

    Fun Facts About Spain

Spain is a diverse country with a rich culture and history beyond what most visitors expect. Here are some interesting facts about Spain that travelers should know:

  • Spain has several official regional languages beyond Spanish, including Catalan, Galician, and Basque. While Spanish is universally spoken, learning a few words in the local language shows respect.

  • The Paradores hotel system allows you to stay in historic castles, monasteries, and other heritage sites. It's a unique way to experience Spain's culture. Some of the most popular Paradors are in Granada, Santiago de Compostela, and Mérida.  Check out my top 5 paradores here.

  • Spain has 44 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Alhambra palace complex in Granada and the Works of Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona. Exploring these sites provides insight into Spain's diverse history and architecture.

  • Spain has more bars per capita than any other country. Locals have a strong café culture, meeting friends and family at bars for leisurely chats over drinks and tapas.

  • Spaniards eat dinner very late, often not until 9 pm or later. Restaurants don't usually begin serving dinner until 8:30 pm. Adjusting to this schedule can take some getting used to!

  • Siestas are still practiced in Spain, with businesses closing for a few afternoon hours for the lunch break. Smaller towns are especially strict about closing for siesta.

  • Spain produces over 600 million liters of wine each year, more than any other country. Regions like Rioja and Ribera del Duero are renowned for wine production.

  • Spain has vibrant festivals year-round like Las Fallas in Valencia, La Tomatina in Buñol, and the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona. Experiencing a festival provides cultural immersion.

  • Flamenco music and dance originated in Andalusia in southern Spain. Seeing an authentic flamenco show is a highlight for many visitors.

Madrid

Spanish Cultural Nuances

When visiting Spain, it's helpful to understand some of the cultural norms and practices to get the most out of your experience. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Meal Times

Meals in Spain tend to happen later than in many other countries. Lunch is typically served between 1-3 pm, while dinner usually starts around 9 pm. Many restaurants won't even begin serving dinner until 8:30 or 9 pm. So adjust your eating schedule and make sure not to arrive too early for dinner!

Siesta Time

The tradition of an afternoon siesta is still alive in Spain, especially in smaller towns. Many businesses will close for a few hours in the early afternoon, often from around 2-5 pm. Plan your shopping and sightseeing accordingly.

Tipping

Tipping is not expected or required in Spain like it is in some countries. Most bills already include a service charge. However, if you received exceptional service, you can leave a little extra - rounding up the bill is appreciated. But there is no need to tip 15-20%.

Packing Tips and What to Avoid

When packing for Spain, focus on bringing lightweight, breathable clothing that can be easily layered as the weather changes. Temperatures are generally warm, but evenings can be chilly even in summer. Pack items like shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and sandals that you can mix and match. Bring a light sweater or jacket for the evenings.

Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes as you'll likely be exploring cities and sites on foot. Good shoes can make all the difference in avoiding sore feet. Pack at least one closed-toe shoe option if you plan to visit any churches or mosques that require more modest attire.

As Spain is prone to theft and pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas, pack a cross-body bag or anti-theft backpack to keep valuables secure and close to your body. Consider a bag with anti-slash fabric, hidden zippers, locking mechanisms, or RFID-blocking technology for an added layer of protection. Keep your wallet in your front pocket rather than your back. Distribute cash, cards, ID, and other essentials between your bag, pocket, purse, or money belt so all your belongings aren't in one place. Leave unnecessary valuables and jewelry at home.

Stay alert in crowded areas and metros, watching for groups creating distractions. Keep your phone secure and avoid "bump and grab" theft. With smart precautions, you can safely enjoy your Spanish adventure!

Here are some packing lists for both adults and kids: