Spain is in Europe. Its capital is Madrid. It ranks #2 among the world's most-visited countries. It draws about 93.8 million visitors a year. Below: top cities, experiences, seasons, food and entry rules.
Every figure links to its source.
| Detail | Figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Capital | Madrid | Wikipedia |
| Population | 49.1 million (2025) | INE |
| Currency | Euro (EUR, €) | Wikipedia |
| Official language | Spanish (Castilian) | Wikipedia |
| Area | 505,990 km² | Wikipedia |
| Region | Europe | UN Tourism / Wikipedia |
| Annual visitors | 93.8 million (2024) | UN Tourism |
Spain is the world's second most-visited country. It is famous for flamenco, beaches and fiestas. Moorish, Roman and Catholic heritage layer its cities. Food and siesta culture shape daily life.
Spain sits in Europe, with Madrid as its capital. It suits first-time visitors and repeat travellers alike. You can mix famous sights with quieter corners. This guide covers cities, experiences, seasons, food and visas.
A quick framework before the details.
Start by choosing your season and trip length. Most first trips run about one to two weeks. Base yourself in Barcelona first, then branch out. Add Madrid and Seville for variety and contrast. Book flights and any visa well ahead. Leave slow days to simply wander and rest.
The best places to base a trip.
Beyond the cities — the sights worth planning around.
These sights anchor most Spain itineraries. Pick a few and build your route around them.
Where the country's variety lies.
| Region | Known for |
|---|---|
| Catalonia | Barcelona, beaches and Gaudí. |
| Andalusia | Moorish palaces and flamenco. |
| Balearic Islands | Ibiza, Mallorca and Menorca. |
| Canary Islands | Volcanic, year-round sun. |
Each region has its own scenery, food and pace. Mixing two or three gives the fullest picture.
Easy routes built from the cities above.
Adjust nights to your pace and interests. Fewer stops usually means a richer trip.
Visit spring or autumn for mild weather. Summer brings intense heat and crowds.
| Season | Typically | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring | Mild, fewer crowds | Often a sweet spot |
| ☀️ Summer | Peak & warmest | Busy and pricier |
| 🍂 Autumn | Cooler, colourful | Great value shoulder |
| ❄️ Winter | Coldest / off-peak | Quiet; some sights close |
Tourism data: UN Tourism.
Trains, transit and the open road.
Cities usually have metros, buses or trams. Trains link many regions comfortably and scenically. Domestic flights save time over long distances. Car hire opens up the countryside and small towns.
Dishes worth seeking out.
Food is a highlight of any Spain trip. Try local markets, cafes and family-run spots.
| Dish | What it is |
|---|---|
| Paella | Saffron rice with seafood or meat. |
| Jamón ibérico | Cured acorn-fed ham. |
| Tapas | Small shared plates. |
| Tortilla española | A potato-and-egg omelette. |
| Churros con chocolate | Fried dough with thick chocolate. |
Time a trip around these.
| Festival | When | About |
|---|---|---|
| San Fermín | July | Pamplona's running of the bulls. |
| La Tomatina | August | A giant tomato fight. |
| Feria de Abril | April | Seville's flamenco fair. |
Festivals book out hotels early. Plan and reserve well in advance.
Small courtesies that go a long way.
A friendly greeting is always appreciated. Dress modestly at temples, churches and shrines. Learn a few words of Spanish (Castilian) before you go. Tipping norms vary, so check locally.
Most visitors arrive by air. Confirm visa rules before booking.
🛂 For Indian passport holders: Indian passport holders need a Schengen visa in advance. See the official source: BLS Spain Visa.
Also check the IATA Travel Centre.
Base yourself in Barcelona, Madrid or Seville. Each has stays from hostels to five-star hotels. A mid-range hotel runs about $45–75 a night. Book early in peak season and near the main sights.
Search hotels in Barcelona, Madrid, Seville. Browse all stays on Booking.com or Airbnb.
Approximate daily costs per person, excluding flights.
| Style | Approx. per day | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| 🎒 Budget | $40–55 | Hostels, street food, public transport |
| 🧳 Mid-range | $80–130 | Comfortable hotels, cafes, some taxis |
| 🛎️ Luxury | $130–220 / night+ | Five-star hotels, fine dining, private guides |
A comfortable mid-range hotel runs about $45–75 a night. Meals add around $25–40 a day. Cities cost more than towns and villages. Travelling off-peak stretches your budget further.
Souvenirs and local specialities.
Little things that smooth a trip.
| Topic | What to know |
|---|---|
| 💵 Money | The currency is Euro (EUR, €). |
| 📱 Connectivity | Buy a local or eSIM on arrival. |
| 🔌 Power | Carry a universal travel adapter. |
| 🩺 Health | Check vaccines and travel insurance. |
| 🗣️ Language | The main language is Spanish (Castilian). |
Leave places better than you find them.
A little Spanish (Castilian) goes a long way.
The main language is Spanish (Castilian). English is common in tourist areas and hotels. Learn hello, please and thank you first. A translation app helps with menus and signs.
Cards, cash and everyday spending.
The currency is Euro (EUR, €). Cards work widely in cities and hotels. Carry some cash for markets and small vendors. ATMs are easy to find in towns. Tell your bank before you travel abroad.
A mid-range hotel costs about $45–75 a night. Five-star stays run roughly $130–220. Food adds around $25–40 a day. Budget days cost about $40–55; mid-range about $80–130.
What to bring for Spain's climate and culture.
Bring layers and a light waterproof jacket. Bring swimwear and sandals for the beach. Add comfortable walking shoes and a travel adapter. Bring personal medicines. Carry copies of your passport and visa.
Odds and ends worth knowing.
A little extra background.
Spain rewards a region-by-region trip. Fast AVE trains link the big cities. Each region has its own food and character. Lunch and dinner run late here. The siesta quietens towns each afternoon. Tapas-hopping is a local ritual. Beaches and cities pair well. Spring and autumn dodge the summer heat.
Spain is in Europe. Its capital is Madrid.
Visit spring or autumn for mild weather. Summer brings intense heat and crowds.
A mid-range hotel costs about $45–75 a night. Five-star stays run roughly $130–220. Meals add around $25–40 a day. Backpackers manage on about $40–55 daily. A mid-range trip costs about $80–130 a day. That excludes international flights.
Plan about 10-14 days for Spain. That covers the highlights without rushing. Add more days for a slower pace.
Bring layers and a light waterproof jacket. Bring swimwear and sandals for the beach. Add comfortable walking shoes and a travel adapter. Bring personal medicines. Carry copies of your passport and visa.
The top cities are Barcelona, Madrid, Seville. Base yourself in Barcelona first. Then branch out to the others.
Indian passport holders need a Schengen visa in advance.
Buses and domestic flights link the main regions. Trains help in some countries. Hire cars suit rural areas. City taxis cover short trips. Ride-hailing apps work in big cities.
Spain uses the Euro (EUR, €). Carry some cash; cards work in cities and hotels.
The official language is Spanish (Castilian). English is common in tourist areas and hotels.
About 93.8 million (2024) international visitors.
Try Paella, Jamón ibérico and Tapas. Street stalls and family-run spots are the best value.
Yes. Spain is welcoming and easy for first-time visitors. Especially in tourist areas.
Another top spot in Europe.
Another top spot in Europe.
Another top spot in Europe.
Browse the full list of destinations.
Our deepest country guide.