About Place
- "A country of contrasts, where ancient history blends seamlessly with modern culture."
- "A place where every corner reveals a story, from the bustling streets of Madrid to the serene beaches of Costa Brava."
- "A culinary paradise offering a diverse array of flavors, from tapas in Granada to paella in Valencia."
Reasons to Visit
Rich Cultural Heritage :
- Spain is a mosaic of Roman, Moorish, and medieval influences with cities like Toledo, Segovia, and Córdoba acting as living museums.
- Iconic architectural marvels such as the Alhambra in Granada and Gaudí's masterpieces in Barcelona highlight its historical depth.
Diverse Natural Landscapes :
- The country offers a wide range of natural beauty, from the pristine beaches of the Balearic Islands to the rugged Pyrenees mountains and the verdant countryside of Galicia.
- This diversity allows for a variety of outdoor activities, catering to all types of travelers.
Vibrant Cultural Traditions :
- Spain is famous for its passionate festivals like La Tomatina, Running of the Bulls, and traditional flamenco shows, reflecting the spirited nature of its people.
- The world-renowned culinary scene, featuring tapas, paella, and regional specialties, engages all the senses and offers a taste of the local culture.
Visa
European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland : No visa required for any length of stay.
United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many Latin American countries : Visa-free for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Countries not under the visa-free regime (e.g., India, China, Russia) : Must obtain a Schengen visa prior to travel.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from destination :
- Round-trip flights from a major metro city to Madrid : $1,200 per person.
- Domestic flights and trains within Spain : $200 per person.
- Total for a couple : $2,800.
- Hotel cost:
- Average hotel cost per night in Madrid : $150.
- Total for 2 nights : $300.
- Average hotel cost per night in Seville : $120.
- Total for 1 night : $120.
- Total hotel cost for a couple : $420.
- Food cost :
- Average meal cost per person per day : $50.
- Total for 3 days for a couple : $300.
- Activity cost :
- Entry fees for museums and attractions : $100 per person.
- Total for a couple : $200.
- Near destination travel cost :
- Car rental and local transport : $150.
- Total for a couple : $150.
Total Estimated Travel Expense : $3,870
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Madrid
Arrive in Madrid in the morning and check into your hotel. Start your day by visiting the Royal Palace (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM), exploring its opulent rooms and gardens. For lunch, try traditional Spanish dishes at Sobrino de Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world. In the afternoon, stroll through Retiro Park (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM) and visit the Prado Museum (4:30 PM - 7:00 PM) to see masterpieces by Velázquez and Goya. For dinner, enjoy modern Spanish cuisine at DiverXO, followed by a night out in the lively Chueca neighborhood, famous for its vibrant nightlife.
Day 2 : Toledo
Take a morning train to Toledo, arriving around 9:00 AM. Spend the day exploring this medieval city, starting with the Toledo Cathedral (9:30 AM - 12:00 PM), a stunning example of Gothic architecture. For lunch, dine at Adolfo, offering local specialties with panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, visit the Alcázar of Toledo (1:30 PM - 3:30 PM) and the El Greco Museum (4:00 PM - 5:30 PM). Return to Madrid in the evening and have dinner at Casa Lucio, famous for its huevos rotos. Enjoy a relaxed evening walk through the illuminated streets of Gran Vía.
Day 3 : Seville
Fly to Seville in the morning and check into your hotel. Start with a visit to the Seville Cathedral and La Giralda (10:00 AM - 12:30 PM), followed by a stroll through the Alcázar's lush gardens (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM). Have lunch at El Rinconcillo, one of Seville's oldest tapas bars. In the afternoon, wander through the charming Barrio Santa Cruz (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) and visit Plaza de España (6:30 PM - 8:00 PM). For dinner, enjoy Andalusian cuisine at Abantal, and in the evening, experience a traditional flamenco show at El Arenal.
Safety Tips
- Keep your valuables secure and avoid carrying large sums of cash.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
- Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
- Learn basic Spanish phrases for emergencies.
- Keep a copy of important documents like your passport and visa.
- Use hotel safes for valuable items.
- Follow local customs and respect cultural norms.
- Be cautious of scams and pickpockets, especially in busy areas.
- Have travel insurance that covers health and travel disruptions.
Flights
- From New York to Madrid : Iberia, approximately 7 hours, $600 per person.
- From London to Madrid : British Airways, approximately 2.5 hours, $150 per person.
- From Sydney to Madrid : Qantas, approximately 24 hours with layovers, $1,200 per person.
Hotels
- Madrid : Hotel Preciados, Room Mate Oscar, Catalonia Atocha, NH Collection Madrid Paseo del Prado, ME Madrid Reina Victoria.
- Toledo : Hotel San Juan de los Reyes, Eugenia de Montijo, Sercotel Pintor El Greco, Parador de Toledo, Hotel Carlos V.
- Seville : Hotel Alfonso XIII, EME Catedral Hotel, Las Casas de la Judería, Hotel Amadeus, Hotel Becquer.
Contacts
- Nearest Indian Embassy : Embassy of India, Madrid, Tel: +34-91-309-8811
- Police : 112 (Emergency), 091 (National Police)
- Ambulance : 112
- Firefighters : 112
Country
Closet Airport
Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD)
Nearest City
Madrid
Heritage Sites
Alhambra in Granada
Sagrada Família in Barcelona
Historic Centre of Toledo
Airlines
Iberia
British Airways
Ryanair
Air Europa
Lufthansa
American Airlines
Delta
Currency
Euro (€)
Languages Spoken
Spanish (Castilian)
Catalan
Galician
Basque
Real Story
The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) : One of the most significant historical events in modern Spanish history is the Spanish Civil War, which took place from 1936 to 1939. This brutal conflict was fought between the Republicans, who were loyal to the democratic Second Spanish Republic, and the Nationalists, a rebel group led by General Francisco Franco. The war began after a coup attempt by a group of generals against the elected government, leading to a division of the country into two opposing factions.
The Republicans were a coalition of left-wing groups, including communists, socialists, anarchists, and liberal democrats, while the Nationalists were made up of conservatives, monarchists, fascists, and supporters of the Catholic Church. The war saw significant international involvement, with Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy providing support to the Nationalists, while the Soviet Union and international brigades of volunteers supported the Republicans.
The conflict was marked by brutal violence, atrocities, and repression on both sides. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Guernica became battlegrounds, with Guernica suffering a devastating bombing by German and Italian forces, an event famously depicted in Pablo Picasso's painting "Guernica."
The Nationalists ultimately emerged victorious in 1939, establishing a dictatorial regime under Franco that lasted until his death in 1975. The war had a profound impact on Spain, resulting in significant loss of life, economic devastation, and a deep political and social divide that took decades to heal. The legacy of the Spanish Civil War continues to influence Spanish society and politics to this day.
Cuisine
Spanish cuisine is known for its diversity, regional specialties, and rich flavors. It’s a reflection of the country’s history and its varied landscapes. Some of the most unique and popular dishes include :
- Paella : Originating from Valencia, this is a rice dish traditionally cooked with saffron, seafood, chicken, and rabbit, although vegetarian versions are also popular.
- Tapas : These are small dishes that can range from simple olives or cheese to elaborate creations like patatas bravas (fried potatoes with a spicy sauce) and gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp).
- Gazpacho : A cold tomato soup from Andalusia, perfect for hot summer days, made with tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, garlic, and onions, blended until smooth and served chilled.
- Jamón Ibérico : A type of cured ham produced in Spain, made from the Black Iberian pig, known for its rich flavor and often served thinly sliced.
- Churros : A popular breakfast or snack, churros are deep-fried dough pastries, often enjoyed with a thick, hot chocolate for dipping.
Culture and History
Spain’s culture is a rich tapestry woven from its diverse history, geographical diversity, and the various peoples who have inhabited its lands. Its culture reflects a blend of Roman, Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences, resulting in a unique and vibrant cultural heritage.
Historical Influences : The Romans brought with them roads, aqueducts, and cities, which laid the foundations for modern Spain. You can still see Roman ruins in places like Segovia and Mérida. The Moors, who ruled large parts of Spain from the 8th to the 15th centuries, left an indelible mark on Spanish architecture, language, and culture. The Alhambra in Granada and the Great Mosque of Córdoba are testaments to this period.
Language and Religion : Spain is predominantly Catholic, which is evident in its many grand cathedrals and religious festivals like Semana Santa (Holy Week). The Spanish language, or Castilian, is the official language, but there are several regional languages like Catalan, Galician, and Basque, reflecting the country’s regional diversity.
Festivals and Traditions : Spain is known for its vibrant festivals, which are a crucial part of its cultural identity. La Tomatina, a tomato-throwing festival in Buñol, and the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona are internationally renowned. Flamenco, a passionate dance and music genre originating from Andalusia, is an iconic symbol of Spanish culture.
Cuisine : Spanish cuisine is diverse and regional. Tapas, small dishes served with drinks, are a quintessential part of Spanish dining culture. Each region has its specialties: paella from Valencia, gazpacho from Andalusia, and pintxos from the Basque Country. Spanish wines, particularly Rioja and Sherry, are world-famous.
Arts and Literature : Spain has produced many renowned artists and writers. The country is the birthplace of famous painters like Diego Velázquez, Francisco Goya, and Pablo Picasso. Spanish literature boasts figures like Miguel de Cervantes, whose "Don Quixote" is considered one of the greatest works of fiction ever written.
Modern Culture : Today, Spain is a modern European country with a thriving economy and vibrant contemporary culture. Cities like Madrid and Barcelona are cultural hubs with world-class museums, theaters, and music venues. Spanish fashion, cinema, and sports, particularly football, are also significant aspects of contemporary culture.