El Escorial

Entry requirements depend on your passport. Check your specific requirements on the Spain page at Yoogo.

Spain uses the euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though some smaller bars, markets, and rural businesses prefer cash. ATMs are plentiful in cities and towns. It is worth carrying a small amount of cash for tapas bars, taxis, and tips.

Spain is generally a safe destination. The main risk for travellers is petty theft, particularly pickpocketing in busy tourist areas, on public transport, and near major attractions. Keep bags in front of you in crowds and avoid leaving valuables visible in hire cars. The emergency number for all services is 112.

Spain has an excellent rail network. High-speed AVE trains connect Madrid with Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, and other major cities quickly and comfortably. Renfe operates the national rail service. Long-distance buses are the most economical option for many routes. Rental cars are useful for exploring rural areas and the coast, though parking in city centres is expensive and challenging. Spain drives on the right.

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for most of the country. Summer is peak tourist season and can be intensely hot, particularly in Andalusia and central Spain. The north and northwest have a cooler, wetter Atlantic climate year-round. Winter is mild in the south and ideal for visiting cities such as Seville, Malaga, and Granada.

Spanish (Castilian) is the official national language. Catalan is co-official in Catalonia and the Balearic Islands, Basque in the Basque Country and Navarre, and Galician in Galicia. Regional identities are strongly felt, and locals in these areas appreciate acknowledgement of their language. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and major cities, but basic Spanish phrases go a long way outside these zones.

No vaccinations are required to enter Spain. Routine immunisations should be up to date. Spain has a reliable public healthcare system. EU and EEA citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can access public healthcare. All other visitors should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical costs.

Tipping is not mandatory in Spain, but it is appreciated. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros for good service is customary. For longer meals or larger groups, 5–10% is common. Taxi drivers are often tipped by rounding up the fare. Bar staff are not routinely tipped for drinks, though leaving small change is appreciated.