How to Tour Spain: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners
Introduction
This is our Spain travel guide on how to tour Spain. Spain is an adventure lover’s haven, a history enthusiast’s happening place, or the ideal spot for travel with a dash of scintillating landscapes and plentiful dishes. This guide will help you with the important considerations you’ve got to take should you opt for a scheduled journey journey to Spain; transferring! and lodging and Favourite spots, as effectively as cultural suggestions! Let’s get started!
1. Transportation
If you are going to Spain on tour, you must think about best mode of transportation according to your need and choice. Here are some options:
1.1. Flights
Flying into one of Spain’s major airports is a convenient way of traveling in if you’re traveling abroad. There are excellent connections to many international destinations in Madrid or Barcelona airports.
1.2. Trains
A good way to explore the country is by train in Spain, with an extensive and reliable network. The national train operator is Renfe and they run high speed AVE trains between, for example Madrid, Barcelona, Sevilla, and Valencia.
1.3. Buses
If you’re budgeting, then buses are cheaper way to get around Spain. Companies that offer comfortable, long distance trips between cities and other tourist attractions include ALSA and Avanza.
1.4. Car Rental
It is a good option for those who are willing to rent a car in order to enjoy more flexibility and independence. It permits you to discover the out of the beaten track destinations and the picturesque countryside. All you need to be aware of is the local traffic regulations and the parking regulations.
2. Accommodation
There is a huge range of accommodation in Spain to suit all budgets and tastes. You can choose from:
2.1. Hotels
Accommodation in Spain is usually in the form of hotels. Every major city has a luxurious resort as well as cheap hotel that you are able to find and also in tourist hot spots you have a chance of finding a hotel that will suit your needs.
2.2. Hostels
If you are budget traveler / traveller or just looking to meet more adventure adventurers, then hostels are a great option. Dormitory style rooms and communal spaces; they offer more social experience.
2.3. Vacation Rentals
Families or people wishing to stay for a longer period of time are well off renting an apartment or villa. There is a wide selection of options available on platforms like Airbnb and HomeAway with different ammenities and location.
2.4. Paradores
Staying in a Parador makes for a very unique and memorable experience. These luxury hotels are in fact converted historic buildings like castles or monasteries, which give you a view of Spain’s rich heritage.
3. Popular Destinations
There is so much to see in Spain, it’s a country with many exciting and interesting places. Some of the top places are as follows:
3.1. Barcelona
Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and other stunning architecture define the city that is Barcelona. Visit the Gothic Quarter, hire a paella lesson, suck down a sangria down to your bootstraps and meander along La Rambla.
3.2. Madrid
Madrid is the capital city and as such, the mix of historical attractions and modern tourists spots is appealing. Go to the Royal Palace, tour top class art museums such as the Prado, or go out in the city’s clubbing.
3.3. Seville
Of course, the cultural soul of Andalusia is in Seville, the place famed for its flamenco, fascinating festivals and remarkable Moorish architecture. Don’t avoid seeing the magnificent Alcázar palace and the famous Plaza de España.
3.4. Valencia
Paella and Valencia’s traditional dish, beaches, and the City of Arts and Sciences that is futuristic; all of these are known about Valencia. Explore stunning historic city center, visit Oceanografic, enjoy the vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere.
4. Cultural Tips
In Spain visiting are necessary to know the local customs and traditions.
4.1. Siesta
During the hottest hours of the day, Spanish people tend to have a siesta (afternoon nap). Some shops or businesses may close temporarily in the afternoon.
4.2. Meal Times
Spanish mealtimes are very different from other countries’ mealtimes. Lunch is between 1 PM to 3 PM, and dinner is between 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM. Being adjusted to these times will allow you to get a full experience of local culture.
4.3. Language
English is spoken in many tourist areas; although Spanish is the official language. Yet learning a few basic Spanish canals will do a lot and your interactions with people native to the area will be even more pleasant.
4.4. Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Spain as it is elsewhere. In restaurants, however, it is appreciated to round up the bill or for excellent service, to leave a small tip of about 5-10%.
4.5. Bullfighting
The bullfight is a traditional and controversial spectacle in Spain. If you don’t like the idea, there are other things you can do to visit a local market, local museums, go to flamenco shows.
Conclusion
A trip to Spain is an unforgettable affair filled with history, beautiful nature and a rich culture. If you are considering the transportation options, choosing suitable accommodation, trying to see the popular places and remember the cultural tips, you’re going to be ready to start your Spanish adventure.
So, to wrap things up, always plan your itinerary, know what to expect from the local customs, most importantly, have fun throughout your trip to Spain!
Table of Contents