Spain Travel Guide

With its Mediterranean climate, rich cultural heritage, and world-renowned cuisine, Spain captivates every traveller. Flamenco in Seville, golden beaches along the Costa del Sol, tapas, Gaudí’s mosaics in Barcelona, Madrid museums, and the scenic coastline of the Basque Country—every region offers a journey full of discovery.

Useful information

Official language(s)

Spanish (Castilian) 

English is well understood in major cities and tourist areas, including hotels and restaurants. However, it remains limited in smaller towns and villages.

Flight duration

Direct flight: Approximately 7h30
Connecting flight: 9h to 12h (depending on connection times)

Time zone difference

Spain time zone: UTC+1 (winter), UTC+2 (summer)
6h ahead of Quebec (EST)
5h ahead of Quebec (EDT)

Currency

Euro (EUR) 

Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in Spain. Still, it is recommended to carry some euros for small expenses—markets, tips, parking, or visits to small villages.

Tips

In bars and restaurants, service is included, but it is customary to leave a 5%–10% tip (propina). For taxis, rounding up the fare is recommended.

Safety

In Spain, stay alert in crowded areas, because pickpocketing is common. Scammers may pose as plainclothes police officers, people in distress, or beggars. Always ask to see official identification before handing over your documents. 

Before any foreign trip, visit the Government of Canada’s Spain Travel Advice page to find out about the current situation in the country.

  • Mild and sunny climate, with an average of 300 days of sunshine per year.
  • Home to 50 UNESCO World Heritage sites.
  • Birthplace of world-renowned masters such as Gaudí, Picasso, and Dalí.

Keep in mind

  • Some regions and seaside resorts can be very crowded during peak tourist season.
  • In restaurants, it is common for bread (pan) to be charged even if it is served without being requested.
  • In the afternoon, many stores close for the Spanish siesta.
Top pick

“The Costa del Sol is an absolute favourite! It is a wonderful place to live, and you can easily imagine spending an entire year there. This slice of paradise combines a beach getaway with historical discoveries. A little further north, El Caminito Del Rey allowed me to enjoy one of the most beautiful hikes of my life.”

Geneviève DomingueTravel Counsellor, Saguenay Travel Centre (Chicoutimi)

Sunny Andalusian Gazpacho

With the addition of spicy croutons and manchego cheese, this gazpacho is anything but boring. A colorful and fragrant recipe to impress your guests at your next dinner party! (Video in French only)

Good to know

  • Spain moves at its own pace: meals are taken later in the day, with lunch around 2p.m. and dinner typically after 9p.m.
  • Car rentals are affordable nationwide.
  • High-speed trains offer fast, convenient travel between city centres.

Frequently asked questions

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons to visit Spain, offering pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists. 

Summer (June to August) tends to be very hot and crowded but is perfect for those looking to enjoy the country’s beautiful beaches to the fullest.

The AVE high-speed train is the most efficient way to travel between Spain’s main cities. In urban areas, public transport networks—including the metro, buses, and trams—are convenient and affordable. To explore rural landscapes, the countryside, and beaches, renting a car is the best option. It provides flexibility and access to less-visited areas. Remember to bring an international driver’s licence and verify that your rental includes insurance.

10 to 14 days. 

This duration is the perfect amount of time to experience Spain’s diversity, combining visits to its great cities, natural parks, and beaches.

  • La Tomatina: From late August to Buñol, a massive tomato fight brings together thousands of participants from around the world.  
  • San Fermín Festival: From July 6 to 14 in Pamplona, daring runners, dressed in white and red, sprint through the streets ahead of charging bulls.
  • April Fair: In Seville, a week of music, dance, horse parades, and Andalusian cuisine celebrates the vibrant culture of southern Spain.