10:33 pm
+1h from you
Weather in Spain
Spain
14°
Overcast
Sun
6
14
Mon
8
18
Tue
7
17
Wed
10
17
Thu
7
15
SPF level in Spain
Recommended: SPF 50
Spring
SPF 30
Summer
SPF 50
Autumn
SPF 30
Winter
SPF 15
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Transportation in Spain
Languages in Spain
Tipping in Spain
Tipping is customary in Spain for good service, but it is not obligatory. Locals usually only leave small tips.
Restaurant
10-15% for exceptional service. For average service, consider rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros.
Bar/Café
Round up the bill or leave small change (e.g., €0.20-€1 per drink) for good service.
Taxi
Round up the fare or leave 5-10% for good service or help with luggage.
Hotel Porter
€1-€2 per bag is customary if they assist with your luggage.
Hotel Housekeeper
€1-€2 per night of stay, left at the end of your stay. Not always expected, but appreciated for good service.
Tour Guide
€5-€10 per person for a good tour.
Safety & security in Spain
Tips for British travellers
Spain is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Always carry photo ID with you, as police officers can hold you at a station until your identity is confirmed.
Keep a close watch on your drinks in bars to avoid them being spiked, and remember that drinks in Spain are often stronger than those in the UK.
Avoid drinking alcohol in the street as it is illegal in some areas and you could receive an on-the-spot fine.
Be aware that wearing only a bikini or swimming shorts on seafront promenades or adjacent streets is illegal in some parts of Spain and you could be fined.
Lock your accommodation's doors and windows and ensure adequate security, speaking to your travel operator if you have concerns.
Bonus tips:
Never leave your passport at a hotel reception to collect later; wait until staff have registered or copied your details.
Be cautious of thieves using distraction techniques, especially in airports or when arranging car hire, and keep valuables secure.
Driving in Spain
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
120 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.05%
Remember: Spain drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Spain
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type F
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Cards & payments
High, especially in cities and tourist areas. Smaller establishments may prefer cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1096
ATMs in Spain
High
Local name
Cajero automático
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. You'll likely need a chip and PIN to withdraw cash. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or markets. Be aware of potential fees from your bank and the local ATM provider.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, the guarantee of free EU roaming for UK mobile users no longer applies. Check with your mobile provider about roaming charges in Spain. Some providers may still offer inclusive roaming packages, but it is not guaranteed. Otherwise, you will be subject to international roaming rates, which can be expensive for data usage. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for cost-effective data access.
Local SIM data package
20 GB for 20 EUR (~£17)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Movistar, Vodafone, Orange
WiFi & internet
Cafes, hotels, and public spaces
Average speed
50 Mbps
Wi-Fi is readily available in most cafes, restaurants, hotels, and public spaces, especially in urban and tourist areas. Internet speeds are generally good. Many hotels offer free Wi-Fi, but the quality can vary. Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured, so using a VPN is recommended for sensitive online activities.
Health & vaccinations
As a UK resident, you can use a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for state healthcare in Spain. However, it's still recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance for medical emergencies, repatriation, and other unforeseen events.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Generally, Spain has good standards of health care. No specific vaccinations are required for entry. However, it's always a good idea to check with your GP or travel clinic to ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available if preferred.
Calling Spain
Country code
+34
To call Spain from the UK, dial 00 34 followed by the Spanish phone number (9 digits, starts with 6, 8, or 9).
To call a Madrid number 912 345 678 from the UK: 00 34 912 345 678.
The country code for Spain is 34. The UK exit code is 00. Spanish phone numbers are 9 digits long.
UK Embassy in Spain
British Embassy Madrid
Torre Espacio, Paseo de la Castellana, 259D, 28046 Madrid, Spain
Airports in Spain
Frequently asked questions about Spain
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.