In 2026, Spain remains one of the world´s most popular travel destinations. With package holidays to Spain at the top of the summer holiday wishlist for many travellers.
However, the tourist experience in the country is gradually shifting towards deeper cultural immersion for a more meaningful trip. Whether you’re wandering the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona or soaking up the sun in Andalusia, understanding the local rhythms and culture are key to making the most of your stay.
1. Understand the Daily Routines
In Spain, you’ll find that time has a more fluid quality than it does here in the UK. Nowhere is this more apparent than at the dinner table. If you head out for your evening meal at 6pm as you might at home, you’ll most likely find Spanish restaurants closed or eerily empty!
Lunch is the main event for most Spanish families and this is usually served between 2pm and 4pm in the afternoon. So dinner rarely starts before 8.30pm or 9pm in the evening, and can stretch on past midnight in the summer months!
You’ll no doubt have heard of the Spanish term for an afternoon nap, ‘Siesta’, in which everything grinds to a halt mid-afternoon. In reality, this traditional midday sleep is less common in big cities, however, it’s still observed in most towns and villages. You’ll find that many independent shops and eateries still close between 2pm and 5pm. Use this time to enjoy a long lunch or rest before a lively evening of food
and flamenco.
2. Go Beyond Paella
While Paella is iconic and synonymous with its birthplace of Valencia. Spanish cuisine is wonderfully varied across different regions. Be prepared to sample local delights you may not have heard of before. Such as regional specialties like Pulpo a la Gallega – octopus with paprika in the North of Spain, Salmorejo -a thicker, creamier cousin of Gazpacho in Cordoba, or Pintxos – small snacks on
skewers in San Sebastián.
Unlike other parts of the world, such as the US, tipping in Spain is modest and discretionary. Rounding your bill up to the nearest Euro or leaving 5–10% for excellent restaurant service is considered plenty here.
3. Dress Smart-Casual to Blend In
On the whole, you’ll find Spanish locals dress more formally than tourists. So if you want to blend in, it’s a good idea to include a few smarter items in your suitcase.
In Spain, swimwear and flip-flops are strictly for the beach. If you’re heading out for lunch or dinner after a swim or a sunbathe, be prepared to go back to your accommodation to change first. Bear in mind that walking through a city centre in a bikini or shirtless can actually result in fines in cities like Barcelona and Palma. So don’t get caught out!
4. Language: Effort Over Fluency
While English is widely spoken in most of Spain’s tourist hotspots. Making an effort to speak a little Spanish during your stay (or a regional language such as Catalan or Basque) is always appreciated by locals and can make your stay smoother. Brush up on a few key phrases before you travel, like:
- ‘Hola’ (‘Hello’),
- ‘Gracias’(‘Thank you’),
- ‘¿La cuenta, por favor?’ (‘The bill, please’).
Spanish people tend to be more direct than British people. Don´t be offended if someone skips the preambles – they’re not being rude, just efficient!
5. Stay Aware to Stay Safe
Spain is generally considered very safe for visiting tourists. However petty theft in crowded tourist areas such as Madrid’s Puerta del Sol or Barcelona’s Las Ramblas remains a challenge in 2026. Use a zipped cross-body bag to carry essentials with you. Never keep your phone or wallet in your back pocket.
Be aware that Spanish law requires you to carry a photo ID with you at all times. To avoid having to carry your passport with you, and risk losing it, make a photocopy and keep the original in your hotel safe.
