Spain uses the Euro (EUR), symbol: €. Capital city: Madrid. Region: Southern Europe. Primary language: Spanish.
Government & practicalities: Head of state: King Felipe VI (Monarch). Government type: Constitutional Monarchy with Parliamentary Democracy. International calling code: +34. Drives on the Right. Power outlets: Type C/F, 230V. Internet domain: .es.
What $100 USD typically buys in Spain
🥘 8–12 tapas bar meals
☕ Around 46 café cortados
🍷 23 glasses of house wine
🚇 61 Madrid metro rides
🎟 Admission to 6 museums
Daily travel budgets in Spain
Budget travelers: €50–80/day (hostels, tapas, public transport). Mid-range travelers: €100–180/day (mid hotels, restaurants). Luxury travelers: €300+/day (boutique hotels, fine dining).
Typical local prices in EUR
Café con leche: €1.50–2.50
Tapas dish: €3–8
Menú del día (3 courses): €10–15
Metro ride: €1.50–2
Prado Museum entry: €15
Budget hostel/night: €20–40
Mid-range hotel/night: €80–150
Cultural tips for visitors to Spain
💋 Greet with two kisses on the cheeks (left first) — even among new acquaintances.
🕐 Spaniards eat late — lunch at 2–3pm, dinner at 9–11pm.
😴 Many smaller shops close 2–5pm for siesta.
📢 Loud animated conversation is normal and friendly.
Tipping customs in Spain
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Rounding up or leaving €1–2 is common. 10% is generous for restaurants.
Useful phrases in Spanish
Hola (Oh-lah) — Hello
Gracias (Grah-see-as) — Thank you
¿Cuánto cuesta? (Kwan-toh kwes-tah) — How much?
La cuenta, por favor (Lah kwen-tah por fah-vor) — The bill, please
Ayuda (Ah-yoo-dah) — Help!
Traditional foods to try in Spain
Paella
Tapas
Jamón ibérico
Gazpacho
Churros con chocolate
Tortilla española
Patatas bravas
Major landmarks and attractions in Spain
Sagrada Família (Barcelona)
Alhambra (Granada)
Park Güell
Prado Museum (Madrid)
Plaza Mayor
Royal Palace of Madrid
Costa del Sol beaches
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain
Alhambra
Sagrada Família
Old Town of Segovia
Altamira Caves
Safety information for Spain
Spain is generally very safe. Pickpocketing is the main concern in tourist areas like Las Ramblas and Puerta del Sol.
Visa information for Spain
EU/EEA citizens need only an ID. US, UK, Canadian, Australian citizens can visit visa-free for 90 days. Part of the Schengen Area.
Emergency numbers in Spain
police: 091, ambulance: 112, fire: 080
Disclaimer: Prices are approximate and vary by city, season, and travel style. Exchange rates and costs are for informational purposes only. Always verify visa requirements and safety conditions with official sources before travel. Information current as of 2026.