Around 48 million people.
The official language is Spanish, with regional languages such as Catalan, Galician, and Basque also recognized.
Madrid (capital, economic and cultural hub), Barcelona (largest city on the Mediterranean, major tourist destination), Valencia (arts and sciences hub), Seville (historical city, known for Flamenco culture)
A mix of regional cultures, from Catalonia and Andalusia to the Basque Country. Flamenco, bullfighting, tapas culture, and vibrant festivals like La Tomatina define Spanish life.
As a member of the Eurozone, Spain uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency.
Paella, gazpacho, jamon iberico, and tapas like patatas bravas and croquetas.
Mediterranean climate in the south and east, oceanic in the north, and continental in the interior. Summers are hot, and winters vary by region.
Notable wildlife includes Iberian lynxes, wild boars, Iberian wolves, and various bird species such as flamingos and eagles.
Cultural Considerations
Respect for personal space: Spaniards are generally warm and social, but it�s important to respect personal space, especially when meeting strangers. Physical contact during greetings is common, but always wait for cues.
Public behavior: Public displays of affection are widely accepted in Spain, especially in urban areas, but it�s advisable to be more reserved in rural or traditional settings.
Punctuality: While Spaniards tend to be more relaxed about time, punctuality is still expected in business and formal settings.
Greetings: A handshake is common in formal settings, while friends often greet each other with a kiss on both cheeks. It�s polite to greet everyone in the room.
Late meals: Spanish people typically eat dinner much later than in many other countries�around 9 PM to midnight. Don�t be surprised if restaurants aren�t busy until late in the evening.
Siesta time: In some parts of Spain, especially in smaller towns, businesses may close for a few hours during the afternoon for a siesta (midday break). Make sure to check hours in advance if you need to shop or run errands.
Respect for bullfighting: Bullfighting is part of Spanish tradition, but opinions on it can be divisive. If attending a bullfight, be respectful and sensitive to local sentiments.
Find Flights and Travel Information Below!
Please note that travel advisories can change rapidly due to evolving situations. It's essential to consult the U.S. Department of State's official website or your local government's travel advisory resources for the most current information before planning any trips.
Search Possible Flights!
Checkout @TopTravelIndex on YouTube!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the visa requirements for U.S. travelers?
For up-to-date visa requirements, please visit our Visas & Entry Requirements page. You can use our interactive widget to easily check specific visa details, or find useful links and information related to entry requirements.
What are health and safety considerations for travelers?
Spain has an excellent healthcare system, with modern facilities and high standards of care. Tap water is safe to drink, and there are no significant health risks for travelers. Travelers should take general precautions against sun exposure, especially during the summer. Travel insurance is recommended, though health risks are minimal.