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A Guide to Spain

The latest travel Information on Spain, includes ideas on Things to See and Do, Local Events, Embassy Contacts and much more, all from a first-time visitors point of view.

Overview of Spain

Rich in history and natural beauty and with more than a fair share of sunshine Spain is a year-round, natural choice for many different kinds of holiday, from outdoor adventures to world-class museums and art galleries to an infinite variety of popular beaches and secluded coves. Not least the people are warm and welcoming - and they know how to party. The Spanish experience would be incomplete without joining in at least one of its famous fiestas.

Top Things To See in Spain

Madrid is a good place to explore, with a number of museums and galleries to choose from. Barcelona is also very scenic, with a number of historic al buildings for you to admire. Check out Santiago Calatrava's City of Arts and Science Park in Valencia. The Hemispheric, an amazing glass structure, houses a planetarium, IMAX dome and laserium. While in Valencia, visit the cathedral. It claims possession of the Holy Grail. Capture a whiff of ancient Rome among the stunning ruins of Merida. Other important Roman remains are to be found in Tarragona and in Italica, near Seville. Visit Seville, the palace-fortress in Granada, built by the Nasrid rulers in the 13th and 14th centuries. Rising majestically above the cathedral city of the conquering Christians, the Alhambra is Spain's popular tourist attraction.

Top Things To Do in Spain

You can see some amazing, traditional flamenco dances in Spain, particularly in Seville. There are many national parks in Spain that are perfect for enabling you to see the natural beauty and wildlife of the country. Walks, hiking trails and jeep excursions take visitors to marshes and wetlands, coastal dunes, isolated mountain peaks or Atlantic beaches. Conquer a summit - there are great opportunities for rock climbing in Spain's mountains. Well-known, challenging climbs include the Naranjo de Bulnes in the Picos de Europa and Monte Perdido in Ordesa National Park. Mountain biking is also becoming increasingly popular with more paths and tracks opening up. Swimming, waterskiing and windsurfing are very popular in Spain and most beaches have the facilities available for you to take part. Sailing is also a good activity to try, with plenty of harbours and sailing clubs available. Golf is especially popular, especially in the Costa del Sol and La Manga. In the winter months, there are natural ski runs in Spain for you to enjoy.

Spain Climate

Spain's climate varies from temperate in the north to dry and hot in the south. The best months are from April to October, although July and August can be excessively hot throughout the country except the coastal regions. Madrid is best in late spring or autumn. The central plateau can be bitterly cold in winter.

Public Holidays in Spain

2010: 1 Jan New Year's Day. 6 Jan * Epiphany. 19 Mar * San Jose. 1 Apr * Maundy Thursday. 2 Apr Good Friday. 1 May Labour Day. 15 Aug Assumption. 12 Oct National Day. 1 Nov All Saints' Day. 6 Dec Constitution Day. 8 Dec Immaculate Conception. 25 Dec Christmas Day. 2011: 1 Jan New Year's Day. 6 Jan * Epiphany. 19 Mar * San Jose. 21 Apr * Maundy Thursday. 22 Apr Good Friday. 1 May - 2 May Labour Day. 15 Aug Assumption. 12 Oct National Day. 1 Nov All Saints' Day. 6 Dec Constitution Day. 8 Dec Immaculate Conception. 25 Dec Christmas Day.

Spain Health

You will need an up to date Tetanus vaccination and you may also need a Hepatitis A vaccination. A European Health Insurance Card is a good idea for European travellers as it entitles you to free of reduced-cost treatment. Comprehensive travel insurance is otherwise advised.

Further Health Information

We strongly advise you to check health requirements for the country you are traveling to with your GP, practice nurse or travel health clinic as health requirements and vaccinations can change at short notice. See Staying safe and healthy on the FCO website for more information.

Spain Duty Free

From Spain to the UK you can bring back: 3200 cigarettes 400 cigarillos 200 cigars 3 kg of smoking tobacco 110 litres of beer 10 litres of spirits 90 litres of wine 20 litres of fortified wine i.e.: port or sherry

Spain Currency

The currency is the Euro.

Spain Passport & Visa Requirements

If you are British, Canadian, American, Australian or from another European country then you must have a passport. Your passport must also be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended length of your stay.

Spain Embassy/Consulate

Spanish Embassy in the UK 39 Chesham Place, London SW1X 8SB, UK Tel: (020) 7235 5555. Website: www.maec.es

Spain Travel Advice

Overall, travelling to Spain is easy and the stay is pleasant. However, for up to date information, you should check www.fco.gov.uk

Visit the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Website for the latest Spain information and travel advice For the latest travel advice on Spain please visit the Foreign & Commonwealth Travel website at http://fco.gov.uk/travel.

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We've tried to make the information on this site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. Verify critical information (like passport, visa, health, customs and transport requirements) with relevant authorities before you travel. Travel Guide © 2010 Flightline Essex Ltd. All Rights Reserved. E&OE.