Tours in Spain

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the best time of year to visit Spain?

   Shoulder season, the months of April, May, September and October, is the best time of year to visit Spain. The summer months can bring uncomfortably hot temperatures – particularly in the southern part of the country. The Balearic and Canary Islands both enjoy good weather during these months, too.

2. What’s the climate like?

   Spain’s Mediterranean climate means it enjoys sunshine for most of the year, with mild winters. Central and Southern Spain have hot, dry summers, while the northern and coastal areas have cooler temperatures – expect regular rain during winter. The mountainous regions, such as the Pyrenees, will see snow during the winter months.

3. Is Spain expensive to visit?

   No, Spain isn’t an especially expensive destination to visit. In fact, prices here tend to be cheaper than in most of the countries further north in western Europe. That said, it is still a major European country, so expect to pay between €10 and €20 for a meal, or €70 a night for a hotel. The cost of a tour of Spain can be adapted to your budget, from a cost-cutting $1,000 weeklong tour to longer, more extensive trips that can cost upwards of $4,000.

4. What’s the currency in Spain?

   Euro

5. What language is spoken in Spain?

   Spanish, although Catalan is widely spoken in Barcelona and around Catalonia. Other regions of northern Spain speak a fair bit of Basque and Galician, while other regional dialects are lesser spoken but still very much part of the cultural fabric.

6. What is the time difference in Spain?

   Mainland Spain, as well as the Balearic Islands, are on Central European Time (UTC+1), which is one hour ahead of London, 6 ahead of New York and 9 ahead of LA. The Canary Islands are one hour behind and stick to Western European Time (UTC+0), which is in the same time zone as London.

7. Major Airports in Spain:

   • Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD)
   • Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN)
   • Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP)
   • Palma De Mallorca Airport (PMI)
   • Gran Canaria Airport (LPA)

8. What are the top five cities to visit in Spain?

   • Barcelona – home to majestic Gaudí architecture and world-class art
   • Madrid – the capital of Spain and its largest city, full of history and culture
   • San Sebastian – a coastal town boasting a globally renowned food scene
   • Seville – beautiful Unesco sites and the birthplace of flamenco dancing
   • Granada – to see the magnificent Alhambra palace, a reminder of the city’s Moorish past

9. What are the top five Spanish dishes to try?

   • Paella – the country’s best-known dish, saffron-cooked rice mixed with meat, seafood and vegetables
   • Patatas bravas – very popular tapas dish, cubed fried potatoes served with a spicy sauce
   • Tortilla Española – the Spanish omelette, made of egg, potato and onion
   • Churros – tasty fried dough, usually dipped in a type of sauce, like chocolate
   • Gazpacho – a cold vegetable soup, typically made of tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers