Spain: Practical info for travelers, expats and curious readers

Spain grabs attention fast — great food, lively streets, and varied landscapes from beaches to mountains. Whether you’re planning a short trip, thinking about moving, or just want clear updates, this page gives straightforward, useful facts without the fluff. Read on for quick tips on visas, money, transport, and what life actually feels like across Spanish cities.

Travel & Visas

If you’re a tourist from the EU, you can enter Spain with just an ID. Visitors from many other countries need a Schengen visa for stays up to 90 days within 180 days. For longer stays — study, work, or family reasons — apply for the appropriate national visa through a Spanish consulate before arrival. Carry copies of your passport, travel insurance, proof of funds, and accommodation details when applying or crossing borders.

Getting around Spain is easy. High-speed trains (AVE) link major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia. Regional trains and buses cover smaller towns. For short trips inside a city, metros and buses are cheap and efficient; rideshare apps work well in big cities too. Tip: book AVE tickets early for the best prices.

Living, Work and Culture

Costs vary widely. Madrid and Barcelona are the priciest for rent, while smaller cities or towns in Andalusia and Galicia are more affordable. Expect utilities, groceries, and public transport to be reasonably priced compared with other Western European countries. Healthcare is strong: public healthcare is available to residents, and private insurance is common among newcomers.

Workwise, Spain has a mix of opportunities. Tech, tourism, and education (especially English teaching) are common entry points for expats. Permanent jobs often require a good level of Spanish. Remote work is growing, and several cities offer coworking spaces and digital nomad communities.

Culture is relaxed but social. Meals are late compared to many countries — lunch around 2pm, dinner after 9pm in many places. Siesta culture still exists in smaller towns, though big cities follow business hours closely. Festivals are frequent and vibrant: Semana Santa and regional fiestas bring streets to life. Learning basic Spanish helps a lot — locals appreciate the effort and it opens more opportunities.

Safety is generally good, but pickpocketing happens in crowded tourist areas, so keep an eye on belongings. Weather changes by region: the south is hot and dry in summer, the north is cooler and wetter, and central Spain gets cold in winter.

This tag page collects short, practical takes on Spain — travel rules, living costs, culture, and everyday tips to help you plan smart trips or a move. Check back for fresh posts and updates to rules or trends as they change.