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Essential Planning Information

Essential Planning Information

Spain

Best Times to Visit

High Season July-August

  • Warmest weather for beaches and outdoor activities.
  • Accommodation and flight prices will be higher.
  • Expect larger crowds at popular sites and beaches.
  • Inland areas can experience intense heat.

Shoulder Season May-June, September-October

  • Pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds than high season.
  • Accommodation prices are lower.
  • Landscapes are lush; good for hiking and cultural exploration.
  • Weather can be more unpredictable, with a greater chance of rain.

Special Weather Considerations

The Costa Verde earns its "Green Spain" moniker due to consistent rainfall. Prepare for rain, even in summer. Fog is common, especially in coastal valleys and mountain areas, potentially reducing visibility.

Sudden weather changes may occur, especially in mountainous areas like the Picos de Europa. Conditions can shift rapidly from sun to cloud, rain, or even snow, even during summer months.

High Season

July-August

Best for Beaches

Warmest weather and all services fully operational.

Crowds & Costs

Highest prices and larger crowds at popular sites.

Shoulder Season

May-June, Sep-Oct

Ideal Balance

Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Lush landscapes for hiking.

Unpredictable Weather

Increased chance of rain. Some coastal activities may have limited hours later in the season.

Low Season

Nov-April

Budget Friendly

Significantly lower prices and very few tourists. Good for cultural exploration.

Cold & Rain

Colder temperatures, frequent rain, and shorter daylight hours. Limited outdoor activities.

Ideal Timing for Activities

Beach & Surf

July-August provide the warmest water and air. September-October offer good surf with fewer crowds.

Hiking in Picos

Late June to early October delivers a higher chance of clear weather and snow-free trails.

City & Culture

  • Shoulder Seasons

    May-June, September-October present pleasant walking weather and fewer crowds.

  • Low Season

    Also suitable for indoor attractions and cultural pursuits.

  • Food & Wine

    Enjoyable year-round, but shoulder seasons allow comfortable outdoor dining.

  • Cider Season

    Asturian cider season begins in spring.

  • General Advice

    Pack layers and a waterproof jacket regardless of season.

Travel Insurance & Safety Reminders

  • A comprehensive travel insurance policy will cover medical emergencies, hospitalization, and evacuation.
  • Trip cancellation, interruption, or delay coverage is advisable.
  • Lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal belongings should have coverage.

Smart Packing for the Costa Verde

Always check the local weather forecast a few days before your trip. Pack layers, including a Waterproof jacket regardless of the season.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Spain is a member of the Schengen Area, impacting visa requirements for travelers.

Visa Types & Processes

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens not having a visa-free travel agreement with the Schengen Area need a Schengen Visa. This short-stay visa allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Apply at the Spanish embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

Visa-Free Entry & ETIAS

  • Citizens of many countries (US, Canada, Australia, NZ, UK) can enter Spain (Schengen Area) for tourism or business up to 90 days without a visa.
  • ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) begins mid-2025. Visa-exempt non-EU nationals will need ETIAS authorization.
  • This is a pre-travel authorization, not a visa. It will be valid for three years or until your passport expires.
  • Visit IVisa or VisaHQ for application services.

Required Documentation

Have these documents ready for your trip:

Essential Documents

  • Passport: Valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from Schengen Area. Issued within the last 10 years.
  • Proof of Onward/Return Travel: Airlines may require this for boarding.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Show bookings for the duration of your stay.
  • Sufficient Funds: Demonstrate adequate money to cover your stay.

ETIAS Update & Travel Services

ETIAS Authorization

Expected to begin in mid-2025, visa-exempt non-EU nationals will need an ETIAS authorization before their trip to the Schengen Area. This is a pre-travel authorization, not a visa.

Purpose

It will be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, for tourism or business stays up to 90 days.

Visa & Travel Services

  • Visa Applications

    IVisa and VisaHQ assist with consumer visa applications directly.

  • Flight Delays

    AirHelp helps with compensation for delayed or canceled flights.

  • Travel Insurance

    World Nomads and SafetyWing are top choices.

  • US Visitor Insurance

    Insubuy provides medical and travel coverage for foreigners visiting the US.

  • Security Gear

    Pacsafe offers anti-theft bags and travel security products.

Vaccination Overview

  • Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Varicella, Polio) should be current.
  • Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended for most travelers.
  • Rabies is a consideration for extended outdoor time, especially in rural areas with animal contact.

Consult Health Provider

Consult a healthcare provider before travel for personalized advice on vaccinations and health precautions.

Budgeting & Costs

Prices vary based on your travel style and preferences.

Budget Traveler

Accommodation: €25-40 (hostels, budget guesthouses). Food: €20-35 (supermarket, picnic, "menu del día"). Transportation: €5-15 (public transport, walking). Activities: €0-15 (free attractions). Total: €50-105 per day.

Smart Savings

  • Embrace the "Menu del Día": Fixed-price lunch menus deliver excellent value.
  • Enjoy Pintxos/Tapas Culture: Affordable way to eat in Basque Country, Asturias, and Cantabria.
  • Utilize Public Transport: Buses and regional trains deliver cost-effective intercity travel.
  • Walk Often: Many cities and towns are walkable, saving transport costs and revealing hidden gems.

Mid-Range Traveler

Accommodation: €60-120 (3-star hotels, apartments). Food: €40-70 (mix of casual/seated restaurant meals). Transportation: €15-30 (public transport, occasional taxi, car rental). Activities: €15-40 (museums, tours). Total: €130-260 per day.

Budget Balance

  • Cook Your Own Meals: Accommodations with kitchens mean buying fresh produce locally is very economical.
  • Visit Free Attractions: Many churches, parks, and old towns are free. Some museums offer free entry days.
  • Drink Sidra (Cider) in Asturias: Often cheaper than wine or beer and delivers an unique cultural experience.
  • Travel in Shoulder Season: May-June and September-October offer better prices for accommodation and flights.

Daily Spend Estimates

Accommodation

  • Hostel Dorm€25-40
  • Budget Double Room€40-70
  • Mid-range Hotel€70-120
  • Luxury Hotel€150-500+

Meals

  • Coffee€1.50-2.50
  • "Menu del Día"€12-20
  • Pintxo/Tapa€2.50-5
  • Mid-range Dinner€20-40 per person

Transport Costs

  • Local Bus/Metro Ticket€1.50-2.50
  • Intercity Bus€8-20
  • Train (e.g., Oviedo to Gijón)€3-6
  • Car Rental (economy)€30-80 per day

Attraction Entry

  • Museum Entry€8-18
  • Cathedral Entry€5-10
  • National Park activitiesOften free
  • Covadonga Bus (Picos)Varies

Tipping Culture

Restaurants5-10% for good service (optional)
Bars/CafesRound up to €1
TaxisRound up to nearest Euro
Hotels (porters/housekeepers)€1-2
Tour Guides€5-10 per person for good service
GeneralNot as customary as North America; a bonus, not an expectation.

Health & Safety Overview

  • Spain generally has a high standard of health services and is a safe destination.
  • For non-EU citizens, travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation.
  • Pharmacies (Farmacias) are identifiable by a green cross sign and provide advice and OTC medications.
  • Emergency Services: Dial 112 for all emergencies (ambulance, police, fire). Operators often speak English.
  • Tap water is generally safe to drink throughout the Costa Verde.