The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Spain: Tips, Insights and Staying Connected
From sun-soaked Mediterranean beaches to Moorish palaces, tapas bars to flamenco beats, Spain is a destination that captures the hearts of travellers from all walks of life. Whether you’re wandering the cobbled streets of Seville, gazing at Gaudí’s surreal architecture in Barcelona, or hiking through the Pyrenees, Spain offers an unmatched mix of culture, cuisine, and charisma. Planning a trip to this vibrant country? Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Spanish adventure — including how to stay seamlessly connected with an eSIM from Runway.
When to Visit Spain
Spain is a year-round destination, but timing your trip can significantly enhance your experience:
- Spring (March to May): Ideal for mild temperatures and fewer tourists. Great for exploring cities like Granada, Valencia, and Madrid.
- Summer (June to August): Expect hot weather and buzzing beach towns. Perfect for coastal destinations like Costa del Sol, Ibiza and the Canary Islands.
- Autumn (September to November): Another sweet spot with pleasant weather, grape harvest festivals, and cheaper accommodation.
- Winter (December to February): Head to the Sierra Nevada for skiing or enjoy quieter cities. Southern regions like Andalusia remain relatively warm.
Top Destinations Not to Miss
Spain’s diversity means there’s something for every type of traveller:
- Barcelona: A blend of Gothic quarters, modernist landmarks like Sagrada Familia, and a beachy city vibe.
- Madrid: Spain's capital is a cultural powerhouse with world-class art museums, elegant boulevards, and a thriving nightlife.
- Seville: The soul of Andalusia, known for flamenco, orange-blossomed streets, and the majestic Alcázar.
- San Sebastián: A foodie paradise in the Basque Country, famed for its pintxos and picturesque bay.
- Granada: Home to the Alhambra, a Moorish masterpiece nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Spain Travel Tips for First-Timers
- Mind the Siesta: Many shops and smaller businesses close in the early afternoon, particularly in southern regions. Plan accordingly.
- Dining Culture: Spanish mealtimes are later than you might be used to. Lunch is usually between 2-4pm and dinner rarely starts before 8:30pm.
- Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated. A small tip (5-10%) in restaurants and rounding up in taxis is common.
- Transport: Spain has an excellent train network, especially the high-speed AVE trains connecting major cities. Local buses and metros are reliable, too.
Staying Connected in Spain
Whether you’re navigating the streets of Barcelona, booking a last-minute Alhambra ticket, or uploading beach snaps to Instagram, staying connected in Spain is essential. Relying on hotel Wi-Fi or hunting down a local SIM card can be a hassle.
This is where eSIMs come in — and why thousands of savvy travellers are switching to digital connectivity.
With an eSIM from Runway, you can:
- Skip the queues: No need to visit a store or handle physical SIM cards.
- Get instant access: Activate your data as soon as you land.
- Cost savings: Save a fortune in roaming charges and expensive Wi-Fi
- Stay flexible: Choose from data plans that suit short getaways or longer stays.
Money and Safety
- Currency: Spain uses the Euro. Card payments are widely accepted, but carry some cash for markets and small towns.
- ATMs: Easy to find, but watch out for fees. Opt for machines run by major banks when possible.
- Safety: Spain is generally safe, though pickpocketing can be an issue in crowded tourist areas. Stay alert in places like Las Ramblas in Barcelona or busy train stations.
Cultural Etiquette
- Greet people with a friendly "Hola" and don’t be surprised if locals go in for two cheek kisses.
- Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.
- Be punctual for tours and transport, but understand that casual meetups often run on "Spanish time".
Must-Try Foods
- Tapas: Try local bites like patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo, and jamón ibérico.
- Paella: Best enjoyed in Valencia, the dish's birthplace.
- Churros con Chocolate: A sweet treat, perfect for breakfast or late-night snack.
- Tortilla Española: A hearty potato and egg omelette found across the country.
Pack Like a Pro
Spain’s varied geography means you should pack for different climates depending on your itinerary:
- Lightweight clothing for the coast.
- Layers for the mountains or spring/autumn travel.
- A universal adaptor (Spain uses type C and F plugs).
- Good walking shoes for all the urban exploring.
- A refillable water bottle — tap water is safe to drink.
Travelling through Spain is a feast for the senses. From the hum of late-night plazas to the smell of paella simmering on an open flame, it’s a country that invites you to slow down and savour every moment. And with a Runway eSIM, you can do it all without missing a beat — maps, bookings, messages and memories, all at your fingertips.
So whether you’re planning a romantic escape to Seville or a beach-hopping summer in Mallorca, let Runway keep you connected every step of the way.
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