Every year, more than 75 million people visit the beautiful country of Spain, which ranks as the second most visited state worldwide. A diverse nation, home to multiple cultures and traditions, Spain comprises 17 regions. Its culture is worth appreciating, and its customs are so unique. Many people come to this beautiful country to see the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens in Granada, witness the iconic Sagrada Familia and Gaudi sites in Barcelona, check the Great Mosque of Cordoba, behold the majesty of the Prado and Paseo del Artes in Madrid, visit Seville Cathedral and Alcazar, and witness other iconic Spanish landmarks and attractions.
However, people visiting Spain must familiarize themselves with the country’s customs and learn about the etiquette to know what to do and what not to do in this fantastic and unique spot of the world.
Here’s What To Do To Have The Most Authentic Experience In Spain
The first step to experiencing most of Spain is to learn some local lingo, which Spaniards will highly appreciate. For instance, it is worth learning some key phrases related to food, greetings, and directions. Moreover, it is worth noting that Spanish is not the only language spoken inside the country. Some autonomous regions have other official languages. Basque is spoken in Basque Country and Catalan in Catalonia. This is why it is better to greet locals in their dialect.
Many foreigners don’t know that the midday break from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm is an essential part of Spanish culture. For instance, Spanish people eat lunch with their friends, family, or colleagues during that time in big cities. This is the time for resting before continuing the remainder of the day.
- Recommended: Because most shops close between 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm in Spain, people must do their shopping before or after the siesta. However, those who insist on doing some activities during the siesta can take a guided tour with YMT Vacations.
Tapas is a way of eating in Spain and is one of the most popular customs in the country. It consists of small portions of several traditional local dishes, such as cured ham, cheese, patatas bravas, olives, croquettes, and Calamari.
- Recommended: People are advised to try Tapas at various bars so that they can taste multiple versions of their favorite dishes.
This Is What To Expect About Eating Times In Spain
Visitors to Spain must expect to eat late in the country. This is because Spanish people prefer to have their lunch between 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm, unlike people in other countries who have their meal much earlier. Moreover, Spaniards have their dinner after 9:00 pm, with several restaurants not opening for dinner before 8:30 pm.
- Recommended: People looking for a local dining experience in Spain with a lively atmosphere must have their dinner after 9:00 pm. Moreover, they should consume some snacks during the day to keep them satisfied until dinner comes.
Another thing that people visiting Spain for the first time must do is greet locals properly, that is, with a handshake or a kiss on each cheek.
- Information: Usually, Spanish females greet each other with a first kiss on the left cheek and the other on the right. Males greet females with kisses, while they greet other males with handshakes. Moreover, some locals might feel offended if people visiting their country didn’t participate in this greeting tradition.
This Is What To Avoid When Visiting Spain For The First Time
People visiting Spain for the first time must avoid ignoring regional differences. This is because each region of Spain has its own identity, local language, culture, and tradition. Visitors must respect those, understand them, and note that misinformed comments will be offensive.
- Example: People visiting Basque must use the term Pintxos instead of Tapas. Others visiting Barcelona must know that the most spoken language is not Spanish.
People visiting Spain must not feel pressured to leave a tip in the country’s restaurants. This is because waiters do not rely on tips there. However, if one thinks they received exceptional service, they can leave a couple of extra euros as tips.
Spaniards are not punctual when it comes to social events. For instance, if an event is scheduled at 9:00 pm, one must not expect it to start before 9:30 pm. This is why visitors to the country must not feel upset if they reach an event on time and must not expect punctuality in Spain.
When visiting Spain, people are expected to wear appropriate attire that respects Spanish culture and customs. This is why people must avoid walking in non-beach areas wearing a swimsuit or shirtless because they will offend locals. Moreover, people who wear beachwear in town are known to be tourists, thus attracting pickpockets.