Essential travel info for Aussies
Travelling to Spain is an exciting experience full of rich culture, delicious food, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’ve fallen in love with the country before, here’s what you need to know before you go.
Currency & Payments
Spain uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted across the country — especially in cities and tourist areas — but it’s always handy to carry some cash for small purchases, local markets or rural towns. ATMs (cajeros) are easy to find, and most accept international cards.
Tipping isn’t compulsory in Spain, but rounding up the bill or leaving a few coins in cafés or restaurants is appreciated.
Weather & Best time to Visit
Spain has a diverse climate depending on the region:
Southern Spain (e.g. Andalusia) enjoys long, very hot summers and mild winters.
Northern Spain (e.g. Galicia, Basque Country) is greener and cooler, with more rainfall.
Central Spain (e.g. Madrid, Castilla) has hot summers and chilly winters.
The islands (Balearic & Canary Islands) offer sunshine nearly all year round.
The best time to visit depends on what you’re after. For pleasant weather, fewer crowds and great festivals, spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal. If you’re chasing sunshine and beach vibes, summer is perfect — just be ready for the heat!
Time Zone
Spain is in Central European Time (CET), which is generally 8–10 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time, depending on the time of year and daylight saving changes.
Language
Spanish (Castellano) is the official language throughout the country, but you may also hear regional languages like Catalan, Basque or Galician, especially in places like Barcelona or Bilbao.
English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, though learning a few basic Spanish phrases will always be appreciated!
- Thank you – Gracias
- Good morning – Buenos días
- Please – Por favor
Getting there & around
There are no direct flights from Australia to Spain, but most travellers fly via major hubs such as Dubai, Doha, Singapore, or London.
Once in Spain, getting around is easy. The country has a modern, fast train network (Renfe), domestic flights, reliable buses, and car hire options. In cities, public transport is cheap, safe and efficient.
Internet & Connectivity
Spain has excellent mobile coverage and Wi-Fi access in most hotels, cafés and public spaces. If you’re staying for more than a few days, you can grab a local SIM card or eSIM with data at a good price.
Safety & Travel Tips
Spain is considered a very safe country for travellers, but as in any popular destination, watch your belongings in crowded areas, especially in tourist hotspots like Barcelona and Madrid.
Aussie passport holders can stay in Spain visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period (part of the Schengen Zone). Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
A Few Cultural Notes from Spain
Spaniards eat late — lunch is usually between 2–3pm and dinner after 9pm.
Many shops, especially in smaller towns, still observe siesta hours in the afternoon. So they close from 13:30 to 16:30h
Embrace the social culture — meals are unhurried, and conversation is key.
Festivals and holidays are big — don’t be surprised if entire cities shut down for a celebration!
Ready to explore Spain?
Spain is a country that offers something for every kind of traveller — whether you’re into history, hiking, beaches, food, or art. With a bit of planning and an open mind, you’re in for an unforgettable journey.
Let us help you design your perfect Spanish escape — tailored to your pace, style, and interests.
