The top 10 tourist mistakes in Spain

Whether you're planning a trip to Spain or even thinking of moving to Spain, there are some faux pas that you need to avoid that will help you fit in like a local and not stand out as a tourist. From eating habits to what you wear, we're here to help you with some things not to do in Spain so you can avoid the most common tourist mistakes in Spain. 

Eating too early

One of the things that shocks tourists in Spain is just how late Spaniards eat lunch and dinner. Lunch is the main meal of the day in Spanish culture and often consists of more than one course. Lunch in Spain tends to be between 2 and 4pm.

You might be thinking that lunch in Spain is pretty late. Dinner, however, is even later and is usually between 9 and 10pm. Dinner in Spain is also usually a lighter meal compared to lunch and wouldn't be the appropriate time to order a paella, for example. When it comes to eating out, don't expect to find a Spanish restaurant open before 8pm. 

Find out how the time Spaniards eat dinner compares to other European countries. 

Not taking pickpocketing seriously

All things considered, Spain is a very safe country. In spite of this, you must be careful with your personal belongings, especially in larger Spanish cities such as Madrid and Barcelona. Tourist areas and public transport are pickpocketing hotspots, and generally, tourists are targeted in these areas. 

How to avoid being pickpocketed in Spain? To avoid Spain's pickpockets, don't leave your camera on the table in a restaurant, be vigilant on public transport (pay extra attention to your pockets and handbag or rucksack), and don't even think of keeping your phone in your back pocket on the underground. 

Not wearing a shirt outside

While in certain countries, such as the UK, removing your shirt at the first sight of sunshine is pretty acceptable for men, this isn't the case in Spain unless you're at the beach. Going shirtless will earn you some strange looks, and maybe even a fine in some parts of Spain. 

Expecting everyone to speak English

Travelling abroad means embracing a new culture, and in many cases this also means a new language. No matter where you're from, you might resort to English to communicate with the locals, but even if you're only travelling to Spain for a holiday, or to an area which has lots of expats, it is still a good idea to brush up on your Spanish before you go. 

English levels are definitely improving in Spain, although Spaniards notoriously struggle with English and getting a head start by learning some basic Spanish will go a long way and will be much appreciated by locals.

Going shopping on a Sunday 

Sunday is traditionally a day of rest in Spain which is spent with family. In most parts of Spain (with the exception of big cities such as Madrid), shops, supermarkets, banks and post offices are all closed on Sundays. On the other hand, tourist attractions and museums are generally open and in many cases, have free entry at certain times on Sundays, something which is certainly worth keeping in mind when planning your trip. 

Ordering sangria

One of the most obvious signs that someone is a tourist in Spain is if they order sangria. This well known drink is hardly ever ordered by Spaniards, who instead will opt for "tinto de verano". Tinto de verano literally means “summer wine” and is a much more refreshing drink made of red wine mixed lemonade or sparkling water. 

Leaving a generous tip

Tipping etiquette in Spain in pretty different compared to countries such as the USA. Tipping in Spain is entirely optional, and while you might see people leave a few coins behind in a bar, the majority of Spaniards don't leave a considerable tip in a restaurant and this isn't considered to be rude or offensive at all.

The same applies for travelling by taxi, and in general, most taxi drivers in Spain appreciate a tip but do not expect one.  

Overestimating the popularity of siestas

It's time to put the typical Spanish stereotype of having an afternoon nap to bed, as in the majority of cases, it's simply not true. While it's fairly common for shops to close in the afternoon, usually between 2 and 5pm, this is because it's lunchtime and not because the staff are having a siesta.

The only time Spaniards might have a siesta is on a Sunday afternoon after lunch, as the siesta tradition is something that stems from years ago when field workers had to shelter from the afternoon sun. 

Only going to restaurants in touristy areas

If you want a truly Spanish experience, you'll want to stay well clear of restaurants in the main tourist areas. These restaurants are aimed at tourists and take advantage with elevated prices and average food which is often cooked from frozen. 

You'll also be able to spot these restaurants instantly: they'll usually have menus in several languages on display on the street with pictures of the food, while the staff often wait around the door to lure tourists in. Instead, head off the beaten track to the back streets and you're sure to find some delicious Spanish food for a fraction of the price. 

Not ordering the menú del día for lunch

Staying on the topic of food and what to eat in Spain, at least once on your trip, you must order from the "menú del día". As lunch is the main meal of the day in Spain, the majority of restaurants offer a set menu for a very reasonable price. This menu normally includes 3 courses with a few options for each course and also includes bread and a glass of wine.

While asking for some tapas from the main menu isn't a crime, if a restaurant offers a "menú del día" at lunchtime, ordering from this menú will make you look like a real Spaniards and gives you a great opportunity to try some authentic Spanish food, usually for under 15 euros.