Salamanca Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Mobile & Internet Access

Spain's main mobile providers are Movistar, Vodafone, and Orange. Purchase a prepaid SIM card (tarjeta prepago) with data and calls. A passport is needed for registration. Prices typically start around €10-€20 for a basic plan. Alternatively, consider an eSIM for Europe. An eSIM offers convenience, allowing activation of a local data plan on compatible phones without a physical SIM card. This can be done before you arrive. Explore eSIM options on Airalo.

Connectivity Options

Prepaid SIM cards available with passport registration. Fares typically start around €10-€20.
Most hotels and cafes offer free Wi-Fi. Mobile data through local SIM or eSIM offers consistent connectivity.
For reliable portable Wi-Fi, consider a device from Solis Wi-Fi.

Language & Postal Services

Spanish (Castellano) is the main language. English appears in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Spanish phrases is appreciated.

Essential Services

English is spoken in tourist areas. Learning basic Spanish phrases is appreciated. Rosetta Stone can assist.
Correos is the national postal service. Stamps (sellos) are available from a post office or tobacconists (estancos).
The Google Translate app with offline language packs proves invaluable for immediate translations of menus or signs.

Important Phrases

Common Greetings

Hello: Hola (OH-lah)
Goodbye: Adiós (ah-dee-OHS)
Please: Por favor (por fah-VOR)
Thank you: Gracias (GRAH-see-ahs)

Useful Questions

Yes/No: Sí/No (SEE/NOH)
Excuse me/Sorry: Perdón (per-DOHN)
Can you speak English?: ¿Habla inglés? (AH-blah een-GLEHS?)
I do not understand: No entiendo (NOH en-tee-EN-doh)

Helpful Tip

Practice a few basic Spanish phrases before your trip. Even a small effort to speak Spanish makes a positive impression on locals.

Daily Operations & Services

Understand the rhythm of local life and accessible services.

Retail & Shopping

Shops generally open 10:00 AM-2:00 PM and 5:00 PM-8:00/9:00 PM (Monday-Saturday), observing a "siesta." Large stores open continuously 9:00/10:00 AM-9:00/10:00 PM.

Dining Times

Lunch service usually begins around 1:30/2:00 PM. Dinner service starts later, from 8:00/8:30 PM. Tapas bars open earlier for both.

Museums & Banks

Museums are typically opens AT 10:00 AM-6:00/7:00 PM, often closed On mondays. Banks operate 8:30 AM-2:00/2:30 PM (Mon-Fri). ATMs are widely available 24/7.

Public Holidays

Be aware of the country's, regional, and local holidays, as many services and shops may close or reduce hours.

Holiday Impact

Federal Holidays include New Year's Day, Epiphany, Labour Day, and Christmas.
Regional holidays for Castilla y León Day (April 23) and local Salamanca Fiestas (September).
Some smaller businesses may close for summer holidays during The month of august. Check beforehand for particular places.

Airport Services

Enhance your travel comfort and rights related to airport experiences.

Traveler Benefits

Priority Pass offers independent airport lounge access globally. Learn more about Priority Pass.
Compensair helps passengers claim compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or refused entry onto the plane. Check your flight compensation with Compensair.
Plan accordingly during holidays and always confirm specific venue hours.

Useful Information

General Tips

Keep your phone charged for navigation.
Carry some cash for smaller purchases.
Download offline maps before venturing out.

Emergency Contacts

Emergency (General): 112
Police: 091
Medical Emergencies: 112

Timetable Reminder

Always confirm specific opening and closing hours for attractions, restaurants, and services, as these can vary.

Etiquette & Inclusivity

Navigating local customs respectfully enriches your travel experience.

Greeting Customs

Spanish salutations are warm and customary.

Social Norms

A handshake for formal introductions or business settings.
Women greeting women or men typically involve one kiss on each cheek (starting with the right).
Always say "Hola" when entering a shop or restaurant, and "Adiós" or "Gracias" when leaving.

Appropriate Attire

The kingdom of spain is generally fashion-conscious; dressing neatly shows respect.

Dress Guidelines

Dress neatly when out, notably in the evenings.
For religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees as a gesture of respect.
Comfortable shoes are suggested for exploring cobblestone streets.

Dining & Tipping

Eating late is common in Spain; restaurants may seem empty before 8:30 PM.

Mealtime Manners

Lively conversations and a generally higher noise level are normal in restaurants and bars.
Tipping is not as common as in a number of countries; a small amount for good service is appreciated but not mandatory.
Enjoy "ir de tapas" for a societal and culinary experience.

Photography Ethics

Be respectful when capturing images, especially of individuals.

Visual Respect

Generally acceptable to photograph public places and outdoor landmarks.
Always ask permission before photographing individuals, particularly for kids.
Photography inside some churches or museums may be restricted; look for "No Fotos" signs.

Sensitive Topics

Discussion Points

Avoid politics, regional independence, religion, or bullfighting unless well-informed.
These topics can be thoughtful for locals.
Engage in respectful dialogue if conversing with close acquaintances.

Cultural Awareness

Spain is generally a progressive and tolerant country.
LGBTQ+ rights are protected, and major cities like Salamanca are welcoming.
Public displays of affection are common for all couples.

Cultural Appreciation

Learning Local Phrases

Even a few words of Spanish make a positive impression.
Local people appreciate the effort to speak their language.
Consider downloading a Spanish phrasebook for quick reference.

Engaging Respectfully

Show gratitude for local hospitality.
Observe local customs and adjust your behavior.
Be mindful of noise levels in residential areas.

Accessibility & Resources

Salamanca's historic nature signifies accessibility can be varied. Plan ahead to ensure a comfortable trip for all travelers.

Mobility Challenges

The historic center has unique considerations for mobility.

Navigating the City

Cobblestone streets, narrow passages, and older buildings may lack ramps or elevators.
Some areas are pedestrian-only, requiring navigation with specific considerations.
Many newer or renovated hotels offer accessible rooms; confirm directly when booking.

Accessible Attractions

Certain sites offer easier access for all visitors.

Inclusive Sights

Plaza Mayor is fully accessible with smooth paving in most areas.
The main floor of the New Cathedral is generally accessible, though upper levels may pose difficulties.
Casa Lis is known for good accessibility, featuring ramps and elevators throughout its collections.

Public Transportation

Modern public transport options are becoming more inclusive.

Getting Around

Modern public buses are increasingly equipped with ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs.
Accessible taxis may be available upon request, inquire with local services.
Train travel to/from Salamanca may offer accessible carriages; confirm in advance.

Sensory Impairments

Specialized services for visual or hearing impairments are limited.

Support & Information

Some museums might offer audio guides, though not always specifically for the visually impaired.
Tactile exhibits are rare but inquire directly with attractions.
It is best to inquire directly with attractions about specific accommodations for visual or hearing needs.

Salamanca Travel Tips