10 expert tips for traveling Spain like a local
Here, through the lense of Bo Saldaña, Ronda's iconic Puente Nuevo stands tall in its magnificence
Planning a visit to Spain? The land of sangria, fiesta, and matadors is a dream destination for many travelers. Whether you're a first-timer eager to cross Spain off your bucket list or a seasoned traveler seeking unique experiences, Spain has something to offer no matter how many times you visit.
When spending time in a foreign country, experts recommend familiarizing yourself with the local culture and traditions. Even if your stay is just for a few days or weeks, learning the local ways is a sign of respect. To help you unlock authentic Spain, we've gathered 10 expert tips for traveling like a local.
See authentic Spain
It’s easy to make the most of whichever city you stay during your time in Spain since every corner of this land is a treasure to explore. But what about all the towns, villages, and places in between your destinations that are left unnoticed as you pass them by? Spain’s colors, tastes, and authenticity are better explored on the road, with stops you take leisurely, just for the sake of exploring.
Hopping on a car ride with Daytrip is one of the easiest and most fun ways to have your own private tour around Spain. You won’t only get from one place to another in the smoothest possible way but also get to see so many wonderful places in between.
Let’s say you’re traveling from Seville to Granada. These Andalusian cities are at the top of most must-see lists, but the villages and natural wonders in between are too spectacular to miss. Ronda is one, and you’ll get why it shouldn’t be missed once you cross the stone bridge that spans a deep ravine. Bonus points if you can name the Ernest Hemingway novel this famously features in, and double bonus points if you can name another notable midcentury visitor who’s known for his work on Citizen Kane…
If you travel in another direction from Granada to Madrid, the Islamic castle that has stood strong against time, Castillo de Bury Al-Hammam, will be there to greet you. So, too, will Consuegra and its giant windmills: they inspired Cervantes to write Don Quixote, and hopefully, they’ll inspire you, too. On the way from Granada to Malaga, the magnificent rock formations of El Torcal de Antequera will serve as a quick transport to prehistoric times.
2. Know the lingo
While it's not expected for you to become fluent in the local language, having a few key phrases up your sleeve in Spanish, Catalan, or even Basque can make a world of difference. Simple greetings like hola (hello), por favor (please), and gracias (thank you) can create a friendly connection. Other useful phrases in Spanish include:
¿Cuánto cuesta? (How much does it cost?)
Perdón (Sorry)
¿Habla inglés? (Do you speak English?)
These easy phrases are more than just words: they hold the power to bridge cultural gaps and create meaningful connections.
3. Indulge in local cuisine
Treat yourself with this famous Spanish dish called paella, and @lapaelleria_elcotillo is great at making them.
Eating in Spain is an experience in itself. It is helpful to know that restaurants and cafes often follow a specific schedule. Breakfast lasts from around 8 AM to noon, lunch from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM (some may open at 1:00 PM), and dinner from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Keep in mind that the Spanish tend to start their meals later. If you're an early bird, you might not find many locals eating out at that hour.
For an authentic culinary experience, try the local specialties and seasonal dishes, and local markets are a great place to start. When it's your turn to order, point at the items you want instead of picking fruits or vegetables yourself unless you’re handed a bag.
Be aware that some establishments may charge extra for dining on their terraces. Don’t feel like paying a few extra euros for the view? Simply check with the waiter if you’ll be charged extra for eating outside.
If you're dining with a group of Spanish people, it's common to split the bill equally, even if someone ordered less than others. Eating out in Spain is foremost a bonding experience, so the money business comes second.
4. Drink your way through Spain
If you are in Madrid, enjoy a drink at the Plaza Mayor through the eyes of Deniz Demirci
You are probably eager to try sangria, and we don’t blame you! Locals, however, often tend to go for tinto de verano instead, which is a refreshing and less sugary wine spritzer. For mixed drinks, ask for a copa—a simple blend of one type of alcohol with soda or tonic water. And don't miss out on the opportunity to try vermouth, sherry, or local wines, which are both affordable and delicious.
In some bars and restaurants in southern Spain, ordering a drink may even get you a free tapa. Seek out these establishments, that’s where all the locals are hiding!
5. Mind the holidays
August is the holiday season in Spain, and many businesses may adjust their opening hours or close for a few weeks. Similarly, during the Christmas period, most establishments close as it's considered a family holiday. Of course, most hotels, especially bigger ones, will stay open throughout August and December. Still, keep this information in mind and check for holidays when planning your activities.
6. To tip or not to tip
The tipping culture in Spain is not big, so some visitors from North America can’t help but feel guilty about not leaving big tips. While it's not obligatory to tip, leaving a small token of appreciation won’t do any harm, and 5% is sufficient. But don't feel forced to tip, especially if the service charge is already included in the bill.
For tipping and paying in cash in general, remember to carry smaller change and bills. Some places, especially smaller establishments, may not accept bills larger than €20.
7. Meet and greet
When meeting locals in an informal setting, it's common for Spaniards to greet each other with a kiss on each cheek. In more formal situations, a handshake will do. If you're unsure, follow the lead of the person you're interacting with. If they lean in, they’re going for a kiss!
Also, make sure to greet the staff when entering an establishment: a friendly "hola" or "buenos días" will suffice.
8. Spend time with locals
One of the best ways to truly experience a culture is by spending time with locals. Fortunately, the Spanish people are known for their warm hospitality and love for socializing. To enhance your travel experience when traveling between cities, consider hiring a local driver through services like Daytrip. Daytrip’s English-speaking drivers are always eager to share their local knowledge and take you on an adventure. With a wide range of routes and sightseeing options, even a simple transfer can become an exciting journey filled with local insights.
9. Embrace the art of slowing down
Spaniards are renowned for their relaxed pace of life. Embrace the concept of mañana and take your time to enjoy each moment. Slow down, savor your meals, and take pleasure in exploring and absorbing the rich culture around you. In many parts of Spain, particularly in smaller towns and villages, shops and businesses close for a few hours in the afternoon for a siesta. Use this time to relax, take a leisurely stroll, or simply unwind and soak in the local atmosphere.
10. Celebrate life at local festivals
The festival of San Fermín is a week-long fiesta celebrated in Pamplona.
Spain is famous for its vibrant festivals and celebrations that showcase the country's cultural heritage. When planning your visit, check if there are any local festivities happening during your stay and join in the fun. From the exhilarating La Tomatina tomato fight in Buñol to the iconic Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, there's always something exciting happening throughout the year. Participating in these events will allow you to connect with the local traditions and create unforgettable memories.
We hope that these 10 expert tips for traveling like a local will help you unlock authentic Spain. Remember, traveling like a local is not about blending in perfectly but rather appreciating and honoring the incredible country that Spain is.
Do you have any other tips to share? Let us know in the comments below!