Virtual-Countries.com: Essential Information

Essential Spain Information - Know before you go

When to Go

With carnivals and festivals taking place throughout the year and varied climatic conditions across the country, any time of the year is a good time to visit Spain. However, many would agree that the best months to go to Spain are from April through to October.

Weather

The mid-summer months of July and August can be very hot and dry, especially inland. Spring and autumn are generally temperate seasons and therefore popular with tourists and holidaymakers. The rainiest month is November with an average rainfall of 74.4mm, while the month of July receives the least rain. Although most people think of Spain as hot and sunny, it can get very cold inland in winter, and certain areas can have quite a lot of rain.

Health and Safety

All cities, and most towns, have a 24 hour pharmacy should you need one. Pharmacies that are not open at night will display a sign on their door with the details of the nearest 24 hour pharmacy. In the summer months, be sure to drink lots of bottled water and stay out of the midday sun to avoid heat stroke. Also take precautions against sunburn by using a high factor sun block on your skin and wearing a wide-brimmed hat. Spain is generally a safe place to travel in. However, it may be wise to check with the establishment you are staying at as to whether there are any local places you should avoid.

Visas and Passports

Visitors to Spain from any other country must have a passport that is valid for the entire length of their stay. Visitors from European Union countries do not require a visa to enter Spain. Moreover there is no restriction on the length of time they remain in the country and they do not require a work permit for employment in Spain. Visitors from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States may remain in the Spain for a period of three months without a visa. Visitors with a Schengen visa may travel freely within the Schengen countries, including Spain. They must, however hold a return, or onward ticket, and enough funds to be self-sufficient during their stay.

Money and Currency

On 1 January 1999, in line with other European Union countries, the Euro became Spain’s official currency. It was only a few years later though that the Spanish peseta was removed from circulation, with the Euro then becoming the only currency used in Spain.