Spain Travel Guide
Whether you seek relaxation in the Mediterranean sun, historical sights, impressive volcanic landscapes and delicious cuisine; Spain has it all.
The mainland of Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula and it also has other territories, such as the Canary Islands located off the coast of Africa. The country has a population of 47 million and its capital and largest city is Madrid. Spanish is widely spoken throughout its territories; other languages are also spoken in certain areas, such as Catalan, Galician, and Basque.
A heritage resulting from the intertwining of classic European Christian culture, Islamic culture brought over from North Africa and Jewish culture has created exuberant styles of art and architecture that make Spain the incredible destination it is today.
Sun worshipers have a countless choice of beaches, from the golden sands of Costa de la Luz on the mainland to the black volcanic shores of Puerto de la Cruz on the island of Tenerife. Throughout Spain, there are so many historical and cosmopolitan towns and cities offering incredible sights. In Barcelona, you’ll find architectural gems by Anton Gaudi dotted around the city, including Sagrada Familia. Seville claims to be the origin of Tapas and it’s home to the Alcázar, Europe's oldest royal palace, which is still in use today. Granada boasts possibly the most famous Moorish fortress, La Alhambra.
We've outlined some general information below that may be helpful to you when planning your next holiday to Spain.
Time Zone & Currency
The currency used in Spain is the Euro. Mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands are 1 hour ahead of Ireland and the UK. The time in the Canary Islands is the same as in Ireland and the UK.
Weather In Spain
The climate of Spain is varied due to the country's size. The weather is generally reflective of it's position in the Mediterranean, and is often warm and sunny in summer and temperate and rainy in winter. The closer you get to the centre of the country, the cooler the weather in autumn and winter, while cities on the coast generally stay warm year round.
Reading For Your Trip To Spain
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
Homage to Barcelona by Colm Toibin
The Hand of Fatima by Ildefonso Falcones
Best time to go to Spain
We believe the best time to visit Spain is either Spring (April to June) or in the Autumn (September to November) when it's less crowded and the weather is cooler.
Top Tourist Attractions In Spain
Sagrada Familia
One of the most intricate and interesting buildings in Europe, La Sagrada Familia is a Roman Catholic church in Barcelona designed by the Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi; one of his most iconic and ambitious creations. Construction began in 1892 and the completion date is expected to be 2026.
Mezquita of Cordoba
Cordoba was the capital of the Moorish kingdom of El-Andalus, and this was when the Great Mosque, or ‘Mezquita’ was created. When Cordoba was re-taken by the Christians in 1236, the new rulers were so awed by its beauty that they left it standing, building their cathedral in the midst of its arches and columns.
La Alhambra
Granada was the last Muslim city to fall to the Christians in 1492. Today it is still home to the greatest Moorish legacy in Europe - the jewel in Granada’s crown is the Alhambra, which stands at the foot of Spain's highest mountain range, the Sierra Nevada. The Islamic palaces of Alhambra were built during the Nasrid dynasty for the last Muslim Emirs of Spain.
Mount Teide
Mount Teide is the highest peak in Spain, and the epicentre of Teide National Park. As well as this impressive volcanic peak, the park is filled with unique geological features of many shapes and colours that are truly a sight to behold.
Plaza de España
Located in Seville, the Plaza was built by a local architect Aníbal González for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. It’s sometimes referred to as the ‘Venice of Seville’ as you can rent small boats to row in the canal. It’s a relaxing place to take a stroll and admire the beautiful mosaic and ceramic works.
Dali Museum
Salvador Dalí was born in Figueres, Spain. You can learn more about the surrealist artist by visiting the Dali Museum, which was designed by Dali himself and it houses the largest and most diverse collection of his works.
Top 5 reasons to visit Spain
Spain is rich in history and culture; it's a country full of breath-taking landscapes, historical monuments, vibrant cities and it's renowned for its delicious cuisine
Top regions in Spain to visit
Food and drink in Spain
Eating out is an experience that can enhance your holiday in Spain as you discover new and delicious flavours and soak up the local atmosphere. Spanish people tend to eat late in the evening. A popular way to curb hunger pangs is to nibble a few tapas (small snacks) with a drink. Many bars offer a free tapa with every drink ordered. Varying according to region, they can be anything from a slice of bread and cheese or jamón (cured ham),to a plate of olives or boquerones (anchovies). This Is an enjoyable way to take in local atmosphere, practice your Spanish, and discover new taste sensations! Accompany your tapas with a cool ‘caña’ (small glass of draught beer) or a glass of sherry.
Spain Travel Guide FAQs
Can you give a brief history of Spain?
Do I require a holiday visa to travel to Spain?
Is it safe to tour Spain?
Can I use my bank cards while holidaying in Spain?
What advice do you have for tipping in restaurants while in Spain?
What kind of plugs / sockets are used in Spain?
Useful Links
- For up-to-date information regarding entry into Spain please see: www.dfa.ie
- Official Spanish Tourism Board: www.spain.info
