Discover Spain: Culture & Travel

Travel Expert Guide

Overview Destinations Culture Food Travel Tips

Spain

/speɪn/
Country Southern Europe

Basic Info: Constitutional monarchy in southwestern Europe

Capital: Madrid

📍 Top Destinations

Barcelona

Famous for Gaudí architecture and Mediterranean beaches

Barcelona is home to the Sagrada Família.
Must-see: Park Güell and La Rambla.
Architecture

Madrid

Spain's vibrant capital with world-class museums

The Prado Museum houses masterpieces.
Don't miss: Retiro Park and Royal Palace.
Art

Seville

Heart of Andalusian culture and flamenco

Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic church.
Experience: Traditional tapas bars.
Culture

Spain offers diverse regions from Basque Country to Andalusia. Each area has unique traditions, cuisine, and landscapes worth exploring.

🗺️ Regional Highlights

Northern Spain

Green landscapes and Basque culture

Famous for: Santiago de Compostela

Must-try: Pintxos in San Sebastián

Southern Spain

White villages and Moorish heritage

Famous for: Alhambra Palace

Must-try: Gazpacho in Córdoba

🎭 Spanish Culture

Traditions
Flamenco & Bullfighting

Iconic cultural expressions

Festivals
La Tomatina & Running of the Bulls

World-famous celebrations

Cultural Highlights:

Etiquette Tips

  • Greet with two kisses (cheek to cheek)
  • Don't rush meals - dining is social
  • Learn basic Spanish phrases

🍽️ Spanish Cuisine

Tapas

Small savory dishes for sharing

Patatas bravas
Fried potatoes with spicy sauce
Starter

Paella

Iconic rice dish from Valencia

Seafood paella
With shrimp, mussels and squid
Main Course

Churros

Fried dough pastry with chocolate

Churros con chocolate
Traditional breakfast or snack
Dessert

Dining Customs

Lunch: 2-4pm (main meal)
Dinner: 9-11pm (lighter)

🍷 Drinks

Must-Try Beverages:

Sangria (fruit wine punch)

Tinto de verano (summer red wine)

Horchata (tiger nut drink)

Sherry from Jerez region

💡 Travel Tips

Planning Your Trip

1. Best time: Spring (April-June) or Fall (Sept-Oct)
2. Transportation: High-speed trains between major cities
3. Budget: Affordable compared to Western Europe

1. Avoid August - many locals vacation and businesses close

2. Renfe trains efficient for city connections

3. Meal deals (menú del día) offer great value

Essential Phrases

• Hola (Hello)
• Gracias (Thank you)
• ¿Dónde está...? (Where is...?)
• La cuenta, por favor (The bill, please)

Common Mistakes

Avoid these errors:

1. Eating dinner at 6pm
2. Not trying local specialties
3. Rushing through attractions

1. Adapt to Spanish meal times

2. Sample regional dishes

3. Slow down and enjoy the pace