Spain Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Exercise increased caution in Spain due to terrorism and unrest . Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Spain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning and target: Tourist locations Transportation centers like airports and train stations Markets and shopping malls Local government facilities Hotels, clubs, and restaurants Places of worship and educational institutions Parks Major sporting and cultural events Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to po...

✈️ Planning a Trip?

Despite advisories, many travelers visit Spain safely every year. Check our guides for practical tips:

🚨 Emergency Numbers

🏥 Healthcare Summary

Access: easy Hours: Most pharmacies open 9:30am-2pm and 5pm-9:30pm weekdays, with reduced hours on weekends. In large cities like Barcelona and Madrid, some pharmacies are open 24/7. Look for the green cross sign (Cruz Verde). Prescription rules: EU prescriptions (including UK prescriptions) are accepted in Spain. Non-EU prescriptions require validation from a Spanish doctor. Many medications widely available OTC elsewhere require prescriptions in Spain. 💡 Tips Pharmacies (farmacia) are widely available and pharmacists can advise on minor ailments. Many common medications require a prescription. Some OTC items available: basic painkillers, antiseptics, cold remedies. Pharmacists are helpful and knowledgeable.

Insurance: ⚠️ Strongly recommended Average cost: $35-60/week 💡 Tip Emergency care at public hospitals is available to all. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is recommended. Keep your insurance documents and emergency contact numbers accessible. 💡 Tip Emergency care at public hospitals is available to all. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is recommended. Keep your insurance documents and emergency contact numbers accessible.

💊 Medication Restrictions

Spain follows EU Schengen medication import rules. Non-EU travelers may bring up to 3 months' personal supply of prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's prescription or certificate. For controlled substances (opioids, stimulants, benzodiazepines), a Schengen certificate attested by your national health authority is required when arriving from outside the Schengen area. Keep all documentation readily accessible at customs.

• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) — RESTRICTED: Prescription-only controlled medications. EU/EEA travelers need a Schengen certificate for narcotics; non-EU travelers need a doctor's letter. Up to 3 months' supply for personal use.
• Adderall / amphetamines — RESTRICTED: Amphetamines are controlled narcotics. Adderall is not marketed in Spain but lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) is available. Travelers must have a Schengen certificate (EU) or medical attestation (non-EU). Strict documentation required.
• Cannabis / CBD — CAUTION: Personal private use is decriminalized. Cannabis social clubs operate in a legal gray area. CBD with <0.2% THC sold as 'aromatic' products. Public consumption is an administrative offense (fine). Medical cannabis not formally regulated. Do not import.
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) — RESTRICTED: Available by prescription (Schedule II psychotropic). Schengen certificate needed for EU travelers. Carry original packaging and prescription.
• Codeine / opioids — RESTRICTED: Codeine is prescription-only. Stronger opioids are strictly controlled narcotics. Carry prescription documentation and Schengen certificate if applicable.

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated. Leave €1-2 per person for restaurant meals or round up the bill. Cafes: 10-20 cents for coffee. Taxis: round up. Service charge is rarely included.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Eating dinner before 9pm (locals eat very late — lunch is the main meal)
• Ordering a cappuccino after lunch or dinner (only for breakfast)
• Visiting a restaurant expecting to eat immediately — things move slowly by design
• Loud or aggressive behavior in public
• Sunbathing topless outside of designated beaches (fines in many cities)

🎭 Tourist Scam Guides

Common scams to watch out for in Spain: