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Best Times to Visit

Best Times to Visit

Spain

Climate Patterns

Spring (April-May): Temperatures stay mild, ranging from 15-22°C (59-72°F). Rainfall keeps moderate, and humidity levels stay low. This period presents pleasant weather for sightseeing, walking, and exploring the natural surroundings. Days are long enough for activities, and evenings turn cool, suggesting a Light jacket.

Summer (June-August): This is the warmest period, with temperatures typically between 25-30°C (77-86°F), often rising higher during heatwaves. Rainfall stays low, leading to consistently sunny days. Humidity remains moderate, and coastal breezes often ease the heat. This season suits beach activities, swimming, and lively atmospheres. Nights stay warm, inviting strolls and outdoor dining.

Seasonal Considerations

  • Autumn (September-October): Temperatures remain mild, usually between 18-25°C (64-77°F). Moderate rainfall returns, and humidity begins to lessen. The sea retains warmth enough for swimming into early October. This period suits outdoor activities, presenting comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds than summer. The changing light enhances striking photography.
  • Winter (November-March): Temperatures stay cool, ranging from 10-15°C (50-59°F). Rainfall keeps moderate, and humidity becomes higher. While quieter, this season presents an authentic local experience, with many businesses open for residents. Some tourist-focused establishments may close.
  • Summer Heat Advisory: Periods of intense heat can occur, though coastal breezes often refresh. Staying hydrated and using Sun protection remain wise.
  • Rainfall Patterns: Generally low, but showers can occur, often short and intense rather than prolonged.

Optimal Visit Times

Choosing the shoulder season (April-May, September-October) often yields the best value and experience for Tossa de Mar, balancing agreeable weather with manageable crowds and reasonable prices.

For beach and swimming, July-August offers the warmest sea temperatures. Hiking and cycling suit April-May and September-October. Sightseeing and exploration prove comfortable during April-May and September-October with fewer people. Summer months host numerous local festivals.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Spain is a member of the Schengen Area, which simplifies travel for many nationalities.

Visa-Exempt Entry

Many nationalities, Schengen Area

Travel Authorization

Entry for tourism or business purposes without a visa. Stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period across the entire Schengen Area.

Future Requirement

Beginning mid-2025, visa-exempt non-EU citizens need an ETIAS authorization for Schengen Area travel.

ETIAS Authorization

European Travel Information and Authorisation System

Streamlined Pre-Screening

An online application. Fee €7. Authorization typically valid for three years or until passport expiry. A pre-travel screening measure.

New Mandate

Mandatory for visa-exempt non-EU citizens for security beginning mid-2025.

Schengen Visa

For citizens requiring a visa

Application Process

Apply at the Spanish embassy or consulate in your country of residence prior to travel. Process can take several weeks.

Document Intensive

Requires a completed application form, passport, photos, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, and proof of financial means.

Required Documentation

Entry Details for Travelers

Visa-exempt citizens from numerous countries enter Spain for tourism or business without a visa for up to 90 days. From mid-2025, an ETIAS authorization will be a pre-travel screening measure for visa-exempt non-EU citizens. Citizens from countries not part of the visa-exempt agreements must apply for a Schengen visa at their Spanish embassy or consulate before travel.

On-Arrival Procedures

Spain does not have general entry fees for tourists. Upon arrival at a Spanish airport or land border, standard immigration procedures apply. Present your passport to a border control officer, who may ask about your visit's purpose, length of stay, and accommodation details. The process usually proceeds quickly for travelers with valid documentation. Generally, no special permits are needed for tourism activities in Tossa de Mar.

Travel Documents

  • Passport Validity

    Passport valid for at least three months beyond your intended Schengen Area departure. Issued within the last 10 years.

  • Proof of Travel

    Airlines or border control may request proof of onward or return travel.

  • Sufficient Funds

    Demonstrate adequate financial means for your stay (bank statements, credit cards).

  • Travel Insurance

    Mandatory for Schengen visa applicants (€30,000 minimum coverage). World Nomads, SafetyWing, Insubuy all offer policies.

  • Accommodation Proof

    Confirmation of hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host.

Health-Related Entry and Permits

  • Spain has no specific health-related entry requirements. Consultation with a doctor for recommended vaccinations remains wise before international travel.
  • No special permits are typically needed for tourism activities in Tossa de Mar or the wider Costa Brava region.
  • Standard access rules apply to museums, historical sites, and natural parks, without unique permit requirements.

Pre-Travel Check

Review all entry requirements well in advance of your trip. Services like IVisa and VisaHQ can assist with visa applications.

Budgeting & Costs

Costs fluctuate depending on your travel style and preferences.

Budget Traveler

A budget of €40-€70 daily typically includes accommodation in a hostel dorm or a very basic guesthouse. Meals involve self-catering from supermarkets or inexpensive eateries.

Cost Examples

  • Hostel dorm: €25-€40
  • Self-catering/Bocadillos: €15-€25
  • Local transport (bus): €0-€5 (mostly walking)
  • Activities (free): Beaches, Vila Vella exterior

Mid-Range Traveler

A budget of €80-€150 daily provides for comfortable stays in 3-star hotels or mid-range guesthouses. Meals can be enjoyed at casual restaurants, including the popular "Menu del Día."

Cost Examples

  • Mid-range hotel: €90-€180
  • Dining (menu del día/casual): €30-€60
  • Occasional taxi/boat trip: €10-€30
  • Attraction entries: €5-€15

Daily Cost Breakdown

Luxury Traveler: €200+ daily

  • Accommodation: Boutique hotels, luxury resorts or villas.
  • Dining: Fine dining establishments.
  • Transport: Private transfers, guided tours.
  • Activities: Spa treatments, higher-end shopping.

Tipping Culture

  • Tipping in Spain is not a strict requirement but garners appreciation for good service.
  • Restaurants: Round up the bill or leave a few euros. For excellent service, 5-10% remains generous.
  • Taxis/Bars: Round up to the nearest euro.
  • Hotel Staff: €1-€2 for bellhops or housekeepers per service offers a polite gesture.

Money-Saving Strategies

  • Utilize the "Menu del Día": Fixed-price lunch menus offer excellent value.
  • Prepare some meals: Purchase groceries from local supermarkets.
  • Walk everywhere: Tossa de Mar is compact and pedestrian-friendly.
  • Visit free attractions: Beaches, Vila Vella exterior, Sa Roqueta quarter.

Currency & Exchange

The official currency of Spain is the Euro (€). ATMs (cajeros automáticos) are widely available. Major credit and debit cards, Visa and Mastercard, are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. American Express sees less widespread acceptance. Inform your bank of your travel plans beforehand. Consider a Travel money belt for security.

Financial Tips

  • Carry a mix of cash and cards.
  • Use ATMs for best exchange rates.
  • Decline dynamic currency conversion.
  • Set a travel budget for daily spending.

Cost Range Examples Daily

  • Breakfast (coffee + pastry): €3-€7
  • Lunch (menu del día): €12-€20
  • Dinner (mid-range): €20-€40
  • Museum entry: €3-€5

Smart Spending

Traveling during shoulder or low season significantly lowers accommodation and flight costs.

Health & Safety Considerations

Prior consultation with a healthcare professional remains a good practice.

Vaccinations & Prevention

  • Routine Vaccinations:

    Confirm all routine vaccinations are current (MMR, DTP, Varicella, Polio, annual flu shot).

  • Recommended Vaccinations:

    Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B often receive recommendation for travelers to Spain. Consult a healthcare professional 4-6 weeks pre-trip.

  • Common Concerns:

    Traveler's Diarrhea (drink Bottled water, practice hand hygiene, use Hand sanitizer), Sunburn/Heatstroke (use high-SPF Sunscreen, wear Wide-brimmed hats and Sunglasses), Jellyfish (check local flags).

Medical Services & Preparedness

Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)

The closest major hospital is Hospital de Blanes. Tossa de Mar has a local health center (CAP) for non-emergency needs. Pharmacies (Farmacia) are widely available. EU citizens use EHIC. Non-EU citizens strongly consider comprehensive Travel insurance.

Tossa de Mar remains a very safe destination, with low crime rates. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded spots in larger cities. Exercise standard precautions. No specific "no-go" neighborhoods exist in Tossa de Mar.

Natural hazards like heatwaves or rare flash floods can occur; stay informed of weather forecasts. Forest fire risk exists in dry periods in surrounding forested areas.

Travel Insurance Policy

  • 1
    Coverage Scope:

    A policy should cover medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation/interruption, personal liability, and theft/loss of belongings.

  • 2
    Activity Inclusions:

    If adventure sports are planned, verify your policy extends coverage to these specific activities.

  • 3
    Emergency Support:

    Keep the travel insurance emergency line readily accessible. Consider AirHelp for flight disruption compensation assistance.

Emergency Contacts

Save all emergency numbers and important contacts (including your accommodation and travel insurance provider) in your phone. Also, have them written down in a physical format.

Contacts

  • General Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 112
  • Local Police (Policia Local Tossa de Mar): +34 972 34 00 11
  • Your Country's Embassy/Consulate (in Madrid or Barcelona).

Additional Procedures

  • For lost passports or legal issues, contact your embassy.
  • Keep medical records handy if you have chronic conditions.
  • Inform trusted contacts of your itinerary.

Safety Affirmation

Tossa de Mar's low crime rates contribute to a relaxed travel experience. Vigilance for petty crime remains standard good practice.