Category: Spain

Madrid Travel guide

Madrid Travel Guide: What NOT to Do in Madrid

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do on your Madrid vacation. I’ve been to Madrid many times and always enjoy returning to Spain’s capital city. While many travel blogs will tell you all the fun things to do in Madrid, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do when you plan a Madrid vacation.

Madrid tourism information

Don’t Expect a Lot of English

Even though Madrid is a very popular tourist destination, not everyone here speaks English. Even in tourism. Of course, you can hire English-speaking guides, but it’s very helpful to learn a little bit of Spanish before you go. Even if you just learn hello, please, and thank you, it will go a long way with the locals.

Ten Shocks to Expect When Visiting Spain

Don’t Expect an Ancient City

In European terms, Madrid is a relatively new city. Compared to the US, the buildings are historic and seem pretty old, but Madrid was developed to get the government away from the Catholic Church. At the time, Madrid was kind of a backwater town, and it was then built up so it definitely feels more modern than other parts of Spain.

Don’t Miss the Top 10 Sites in Madrid

Of course, there are more than ten fun things to do in Madrid, but sometimes you have to narrow it down. After many, many trips to Madrid, these are my favorite things to do in Madrid.

  • Museo del Prado (Prado Museum) is one of my favorite museums in the world, and probably one of the top 3 art museums in the world.
  • Plaza Mayor is one of the best and busiest public squares in Madrid.
  • Puerta del Sol is another fun square in Madrid to visit and it’s within walking distance to Plaza Mayor so you can visit both in the same trip. Don’t miss the famous statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree.
  •  The Palacio Real has guided tours of the palace, and the surrounding outdoors is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Madrid
  • Parque del Buen Retiro is the “good, relaxing” park. It’s behind the Prado Museum and it’s full of fun activities like paddle boats, bike rentals, buskers, food vendors, and music.
  • Reina Sofia Museum contains an art collection from more recent artists like Picasso and Dali.
  • Madrid’s nightlife is world-famous. They don’t even eat dinner in Madrid until 10 pm, so the partying doesn’t get started until after midnight! Don’t feel bad if you can’t keep up with the locals!
  • Madrid is also well known for its tapas bars. If you can’t stay out late enough for the nightlife, then head to a tapas bar and you’ll have drinks and tapas and conversation.
  • Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum is the result of a huge private collection that the city of Madrid agreed to house. The other two Madrid art museums are either modern or classic, while this one has a little bit of everything.
  • Explore the different Madrid neighborhoods. Get out of the city center and explore some of the other parks and plazas. You’ll see many different types of architecture.

Don’t Miss out on Spanish Food in Madrid

Of course, you might just be visiting Madrid for the Spanish food, and we wouldn’t blame you! Like any major city, you’ll get the most authentic food if you leave the main squares and go off the beaten path a little bit. You don’t have to go far, but there are a few rules to follow when eating in Madrid.

  • Don’t order paella from tourist restaurants; it won’t be fresh. If a restaurant serves several different types of paella, it’s most likely being reheated. (this applies to Flan, too!)
    • Arroz Caldoso is a rice dish with meat and a safer bet than paella if you are eating in the tourist area.
  • Sangria is probably going to be watered down in the touristy restaurants too. I recommend trying the Tinta Verano instead as it’s easier to make so it will be fresh and fruity no matter which Madrid restaurant you’re visiting.
  • Don’t be stingy with your tapas! It’s meant to be shared, so everyone orders different things and you get little samples of everything.
  • Don’t plan on an early dinner! Everything in Spain is a bit later than the rest of the world. So, lunch is usually around 1:00 or later, and dinner often doesn’t start until 9:00. It’s not uncommon to see families with children dining out past 10 pm!
  • Don’t confuse raciones with tapas.
    • Tapas are small plates of food served with beer or wine; it’s meant to be a light snack to enjoy while you are drinking. Sometimes, they are complimentary, sometimes, they cost a few Euros.
    • Raciones are larger portions that are comparable to an entree on the menu. If you don’t specify tapas, you might end up with raciones, and you’ll definitely pay more for them.
  • Don’t miss the “menu of the day” if you see it. Many restaurants will have a daily special that is a 3-course meal for a very affordable price. This is a great way to have a filling meal mid-day and you’ll save money at the same time!

Lastly, it’s OK to drink tap water in Madrid, so you don’t have to buy bottled water. You can get tap water for free when dining, and bring a refillable water bottle to use when you are walking around Madrid. You’ll save money and help reduce plastic waste!

Day trips from madrid

Don’t Miss These Day Trips from Madrid

While there are so many cool things to see in Madrid, there are just as many amazing day trips! So be sure to set aside time in your Spain itinerary for some day trips from Madrid.

  • Segovia is about 90 minutes by bus or 30 minutes by high-speed train from Madrid.  The ancient Roman aqueduct in Segovia has more than 160 arches. The Alcázar de Segovia and Segovia Cathedral are other Segovia attractions.  (If the Alcazar looks familiar, it’s because it was the inspiration for one of Walt Disney’s castles.)
  • Toledo was the capital of Spain for a long time and is the seat of the Catholic Church in Spain, so there’s a lot of history there. Of course, the cathedral in Toledo is fantastic. Toledo also has an Alcazar, which contains an Army museum. This is a great city for just walking around, and it’s only about an hour from Madrid.
  • El Escorial is a royal retreat located in the mountains about an hour from Madrid. From the outside, it doesn’t look super amazing, but once you go inside, it’s actually super cool. You’ll see the royal palaces and apartments, and you’ll really see the importance of this site in the history of Spain.
  • Avila is a city with huge walls surrounding it, and you can walk up on the walls around town. It’s a beautiful site and just under two hours from Madrid.

Remember, there are two main train stations in Madrid. Madrid Atocha is in the south part of the city, and Madrid Chamartín is in the north.

Don’t Be Afraid of Public Transport

The public transport system in Madrid is pretty good, so I highly recommend using it to get around. It goes to most major locations you’ll be visiting, and it’s very affordable. You can get a week-long ticket for around 30 Euros. Do keep in mind, though, that the trains are pretty small, so if you have a lot of luggage you’re toting around, consider taking a taxi to the airport rather than the train.

Don’t Forget to Pack for the Weather

Spain is known for beautiful beaches and tropical islands, but Madrid actually has seasons. It gets cold in the winter and super hot in the summer. It can even snow in Madrid sometimes! In August, the city empties out as everyone goes to the coast or the mountains because it’s way too hot in Madrid. Make sure you do your research and come prepared for Madrid weather.

Ten Shocks of Visiting Madrid

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

If you need directions or help to get where you are going, don’t worry! The police and the locals are very friendly. But pay attention to their hands when they are giving you directions; there will be a lot of non-verbal cues as to how far you need to go! (While the police are friendly, don’t take their photo)

Don’t Let Your Guard Down

We’re not saying Madrid is dangerous, but many tourists have been pickpocketed here. Use the same travel smarts you would in any city, and keep a hand on your wallet or purse at all times. It’s not quite as notorious as Barcelona is for theft, but you still should take precautions because it’s a hassle to lose your wallet or your phone.

If you do get pickpocketed, don’t freak out! First, retrace your steps to where you have been. Many times, the thief is just looking for cash. Often, they will pull the cash out and toss the wallet on the ground, so there is a chance of finding your wallet and credit cards.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

I’ve visited Madrid so many times and I just keep coming back. The culture of Madrid is so enticing and entertaining, you can’t help but want to see more.  Between the food, the people, and the nightlife, a Madrid vacation is so much FUN! Need more travel tips for visiting Spain? Check out these blog posts!

Visit Andorra

What NOT to Do When Visiting Andorra

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Andorra. This micro-nation is sandwiched between Spain and France and is often overlooked by travelers. It’s about three hours by bus from Toulouse or Barcelona, and we think it’s worth checking out. Before you go, make sure you know what NOT to do when you visit Andorra!

What to do in Andorra

Don’t Miss Out on the Best Things to Do in Andorra

For a small country, Andorra has a lot of fun things to do.

  • Skiing in Andorra is fantastic and much more affordable than skiing in Switzerland and France.
  • Summer hiking is also a favorite pastime here; there are some great trails around. If you are scared of heights, you should choose your hike carefully. The Tibetan Bridge is probably not for you!
  • Shopping brings a lot of travelers to Andorra because of the low taxes. This means there are a LOT of shops and it can look overwhelming, but it’s a shopping destination! The prices in Andorra are quite reasonable, as well.

When planning your trip to Andorra, make sure you pack the right gear for the things you want to do. Of course, you can buy ski clothes, but you want to make sure you are prepared for whatever activities you are planning. Remember, Andorra is at a high elevation in the Pyrenees Mountains, so it can be chilly in the summer. Make sure you have layers packed for any kind of weather!

Don’t Forget to Plan a Spa Day

Thermal spas are also a big draw to Andorra and should be on your Andorra itinerary. Caldea is the main spa in town, and you can’t miss the unique building that looks like the Shard in London. There are spas all over Andorra, though, and some people just hit the spas day after day.

Don’t Miss Andorra Museums

Since Andorra is so small, you can really see a lot. Andorra has some fun museums to check out, including the National Automobile Museum and the Museum of Miniature. There’s also the

Postal Museum, which is funny as the mail from Andorra goes through France or Spain; they don’t have their own post. For a more historic attraction, Casa de la Vall is the original Parliament building of Andorra and was built in the late 16th century.

Don’t Miss the Photo Spots

There are two photo opportunities to see when you visit Andorra. One is the view from the bridge over the river that goes through town. The other famous photo to get in Andorra is the Salvador Dali melting clock sculpture, The Nobility of Time. Since you will rarely get a passport stamp entering or leaving, this is your “proof” of visiting Andorra!

Don’t Try to Arrive by Train or Plane

Unless you are driving, the only way to get to Andorra is by bus. There is no train line or airport here. If you are prone to motion sickness, make sure you have your Dramamine because Andorra is surrounded by mountains and winding roads.

Visit Andorra Tourism

Don’t Listen for French or Spanish

The official language of Andorra is Catalan. It is not French or Spanish. You will still hear a lot of French and Spanish spoken around town, as well as English, especially in the tourism industry.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Catalunya Spain

Don’t Worry About Safety

Andorra is one of the safest countries in the world, so safety should not be a major concern for your trip. In fact, there are some pretty strict laws in Andorra, so you can’t beg in the street, sleep in the street, play music in the street, or upset your neighbors. All of these rules make for a pretty safe environment.

Don’t Miss Out on Local Food

Before Andorra became a tax haven and financial center, it was very agricultural. They still have a lot of local meats, including rabbit and chicken. My favorite meal in Andorra was trout with a ham sauce. The desserts are good too, especially the local version of creme brulee.

Don’t Forget You’re Not in the EU

Andorra is not part of the European Union, nor is it part of France or Spain. It’s an independent nation, although they do use the Euro as their official currency. This means it’s also not always covered under European roaming plans, so you might get a shock from your cell phone bill. Check with your carrier before you leave!

Don’t Annoy the Locals

Andorra has some interesting laws and rules that travelers should take into account. For example, you cannot beg for money, you cannot annoy your neighbor (they have an organization to help with neighbor issues), you probably will need to get permission to do any busking as well, also on a side note, best to know that you will be using either the French or Spanish post due to Andorra not having their own mail system.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

Andorra is a fun little micronation to visit between France and Spain. Whether you are into shopping, skiing, or spas, you’ll find something to do when you visit Andorra. Visiting Andorra is a nice change of pace from other more touristy destinations in Europe. Need more travel tips for visiting this part of Europe? Check out these blog posts!

Spain & Portugal Itinerary: Two Weeks in Iberia

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about how to build a travel itinerary to the Iberian countries of Spain and Portugal. Sometimes the most difficult part of travel is deciding where to go and building out a travel itinerary. There are so many cool places to visit in Spain and Portugal that it can be hard to narrow them down. Since most Americans get a two-week vacation at the most, we’re going to share our recommendations for a two-week Portugal and Spain trip.

Spain and Portugal Vacation Overview

The best option for this Spain and Portugal itinerary is to buy a multi-city ticket so you can make the most of your travel time. Before we get into the details, here’s an outline of this Spain and Portugal trip planner. We recommend spending 2-3 days in each of these locations, adding more day trips as you see fit.

  • Fly to Barcelona
  • Train to Madrid
  • Train to Seville
  • Bus to the Algarve
  • Train from the Algarve to Lisbon
  • Train from Lisbon to Porto
  • Fly home from Porto
Spain and portugal trip
Your budget will like this trip too.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a great place to start your Spain and Portugal itinerary. Experience the Catalan culture of Barcelona and see some of the highlights of the city:

  • Explore the Gothic neighborhood of Barcelona
  • Visit the Sagrada Familia
  • Go to Park Güell to see more of Gaudi’s work
  • Hit the Barcelona beaches and beach bars (and clubs if you can stay up late enough!)
  • Visit Barcelona Museums, including Museum Nacional Catalunya, and the Picasso Museum

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Barcelona

Madrid, Spain

From Barcelona, you can reach Madrid by train in under three hours. Spain’s capital city has some of the best museums in the world. Some of the best things to see in Madrid include:

  • The Prado Museum, one of my favorite museums in the world
  • Reina Sofia Museum, featuring Picasso’s Guernica
  • Thyssen Art Museum
  • The Royal Palace and Cathedral
  • Plaza Mayor

Ten Things That Will Shock You in Madrid

There are also some good day trips from Madrid if you have some extra time:

  • Segovia is a World Heritage City, just 30 minutes from Madrid by train. It’s best known for the castle and the Roman aqueduct.
  • Toledo was the capital of Spain before it moved to Madrid. Just one hour from Madrid by train, Toledo is still the home of the Catholic Church in Spain and has some pretty amazing architecture.
Iberia travel ideas
just hanging around Iberia

Seville, Spain

From Madrid, make your way south to the city of Seville. The train from Madrid to Seville is about 2 ½ hours and you’ll find yourself in a stereotypical Spanish village. Enjoy paella and flamenco, attend a bullfight, or visit the cathedral and gardens. An easy day trip from Seville is to visit Cordoba for the afternoon. There, you’ll see the Mezquita-Catedral, which is a church built inside of a 7th-century mosque.

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Seville, Spain

Algarve, Portugal

From Seville, take a bus to the Algarve region of Portugal in under three hours. The Algarve is the beach resort region of Portugal, and you’ll be pleased to find prices in Portugal much cheaper than in Spain, which is already very affordable. Spend as much time as you’d like to explore the various beaches of the Algarve before continuing your Portugal and Spain trip in Lisbon.

Lisbon, Portugal

I lived in Lisbon for five years, so it’s near and dear to my heart. There are so many cool things to do in Portugal’s capital city. Some of my favorite things to do in Lisbon include:

  • Experience the amazing nightlife in the Barrio Alto
  • Visit the castle on the hill for amazing views of Lisbon
  • Visit the Jerónimos Monastery
  • Tour Belém Tower, a 16th-century fortress that marks the entrance to the city
  • Try the custard tart at Pasteis de Belém
  • Visit the Gulbenkian Museum, a once-private collection of art and antiques
  • Visit the local beaches near Lisbon
  • Take the city train out to Sintra to see the palace

Five Things You Will Love & Hate About Lisbon

Porto bridge
getting some exercise in Porto

Porto, Portugal

Lastly, you will wrap up your itinerary in Porto, Portugal. Porto has much more of an “old-world” feeling to it, and it’s a great city to explore. Porto is most famous for port wine, and visiting the wine caves to sample port wine is one of the most popular things to do in Porto. Other things to see in Porto include:

  • Explore the food and drink of the Ribeira district
  • Visit the Porto Cathedral, one of the oldest monuments in the city
  • Go inside the São Bento train station to see the Azulejos blue tiles
  • Eat a francesinha, which is like a “drowned sandwich” and they are so good!

From Porto, you can fly back home to end your Spain and Portugal vacation.

Grab Some Wolters World Travel Gear!

While I do recommend spending as much time in each of these cities as you can, realistically most of us have limited vacation time. This Spain and Portugal itinerary is meant to help you make the most of your time on your first trip to the Iberian Peninsula while giving you the chance to experience two unique countries and cultures. Looking for more tips on travel in Europe? Check out these other blog posts:

Five Things You Will Love & Hate in Catalunya Spain

Posted on by admin

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Catalonia, Spain! In my opinion, Catalonia is the best part of Spain. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate when you visit Catalonia Spain.

Love #1: Afternoon Drinks & Hanging Out

This is called “pica pica” and it happens in the afternoon. It’s time in the afternoon to go and sit outside, enjoy a cava or a beer with some olives or snacks, relaxing and enjoying the atmosphere with your friends. It’s sort of like happy hour in the States, but a much more frequent experience when you are in Catalonia.

Hate #1: Tourist Crowds

People come to Barcelona and Catalonia beaches from all over the world, so it can feel really crowded in the summer. If you can, try to visit in the off-season because the weather is great year-round and you can avoid some of the crowds if you visit in spring or fall.

Love #2: Catalan Culture

Technically, Catalonia is part of Spain, but when you visit the Catalan region, you feel the independent culture almost immediately. The culture is very independent of Spanish culture, and this shows up in Catalonia food, the music, the people and the museums. There’s a very different vibe in Catalonia.

Hate #2: Driving in Catalonia

Driving in Catalonia is crazy. It’s said that there’s a car accident every 19 seconds. There are just a lot of crazy drivers, so you have to pay attention. Whether you’re on the highway or in the city, and whether you are a driver or a pedestrian, always be on high alert. Parking is also hard to come by, and expensive. I do recommend renting a car so you can explore the countryside, but be prepared to pay more for parking while you are in Barcelona. 

Love #3: Catalonia Destinations

If you travel throughout the region, you’ll discover many cool Catalonia cities and towns. Most travelers experience Catalonia through Barcelona, but there are many more Catalonia cities to explore. Girona is a beautiful city, or you can visit all of the monasteries along La Ruta del Cister. And then there are the beach towns of Catalonia. Barcelona is fantastic, but try to experience more of Catalonia outside of the capital city.

Hate #3: Catalan vs Spanish

You probably think you’re going to Spain so the little bit of Spanish you know will come in handy. But surprise! They speak Catalan in Catalonia, not Spanish. Nobody outside of Catalonia is taught this language. Catalan is a mixture of Spanish and French and other languages. Fortunately, most people also speak Spanish, so you can get by without too much trouble. However, if you speak a few words of Catalan, that will really impress the locals.

Love #4: Catalonia Outdoors

They have some of the best beaches and mountains in Europe. If you love outdoor adventure travel, then Catalonia is the perfect destination for you. From hiking to deep-sea fishing, Catalonia has some of the best natural beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities. You don’t have to spend your entire trip exploring cities, but you can really get out and enjoy nature in Catalonia.

Hate #4: Service in Catalan

The people in Catalonia are fantastic, but this doesn’t always transfer over to the service industry. If you speak a bit of Spanish or Catalan, you will get better service. If you don’t speak Spanish or Catalan, be prepared to wait a bit longer to get your food and drink, and don’t expect stellar service.

Love #5: Catalan People

It does take time to get to know the Catalan people, but once you do, you have friends for life. They are really great people and very welcoming. If you get invited to an “abuela’s” home, don’t pass it up; it might be the best food you’ll ever have.

How to Piss Off a Catalan

Hate #5: Pickpockets

This issue is largely only an issue in Barcelona, but pickpockets are a real issue here. They mostly hang out in the Gothic area and along La Rambla, but you should be extra careful anywhere in Barcelona. It’s not just pickpockets, there are also scam artists who will approach you and try to distract you. The local police are pretty apathetic to it, so if something does happen to you, don’t expect a lot of help from the police.

How to Avoid Travel Scams & Rip-Offs

Catalonia is one of the best places to visit and/or work, so I highly recommend it. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to visit Catalonia. Want more tips for planning a Spain vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

5 Things You Will Love & Hate about Sevilla, Spain

Posted on by admin

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re in Seville, Spain! This is one of the coolest cities in Spain and it’s definitely worth traveling all the way to the south of Spain. Here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new country. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate, about Seville travel.

Hate #1: Seville Weather

Spain is known for having amazing weather, but Seville weather can be too hot. It gets super hot in the summer and even the locals clear out in August to find cooler destinations. If you decide to visit Seville in the summer be prepared. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and bring a hat or umbrella.

Hate #2: Seville Pickpockets

Spain seems to have more than it’s fair share of pickpockets and Seville is no exception. My Spanish friends all warned me, and even the hotels will warn you; keep your valuables locked up (or leave them at home) and wear a money belt to keep pickpockets from getting to your wallet.

Read: How to Avoid Travel Scams & Rip-Offs

Hate #3: Driving in Seville

Driving in Seville is insane. There are so many one-way streets and crazy roads, that only a native to Seville can really know their way around. Expect to get lost while driving. Have a map and GPS, you’ll still get lost, but at least you can find your way back. There’s also a serious lack of parking in Seville. If your hotel or rental apartment tells you there is on-street parking, plan to spend a lot of time looking for it.

Hate #4: Seville Tourists

Word has gotten out on how awesome Seville is, so loads of tourists want to come to see for themselves. It can get pretty crowded, and with tourists come the long lines and higher prices and noise, so be prepared and know you aren’t going to have a quiet Spanish holiday to yourselves.

Hate #5: Seville Prices

Seville is a bit more expensive than some of the other cities in Spain. In some areas, Spain is still a good value destination compared to the rest of Europe, but you’ll find higher prices in Seville. Tapas, beer, and accommodation are all higher than elsewhere in Spain. If you visit during Holy Week in April, the prices are extra high.

Love #1: Things to Do in Seville

There are so many things to do in Seville. There’s the Plaza de Espana, cathedrals, the tomb of Columbus, Old Town and so much more. You will not run out of things to do in Seville because it’s such an interesting city and there’s always something going on. You will love it, but you might also hate it because you will want to stay forever to see all the sights.

Love #2: Seville Accommodation

Finding a place to stay in Seville is not a problem at all. They hosted the World Expo in 1992, so there are tons of hotels plus apartment rentals and hostels. Yes, it’s a bit more expensive than other areas of Spain, but finding a place to stay in Seville, for any budget or travel style, will be relatively easy.

Love #3: Seville Nightlife

Whether you want to relax at a bar and enjoy tapas, hit up the nightclubs, or check out the theater, there are tons of nightlife options in Seville. Everything in Spain operates on a later timeline, so dinner is later and the nightlife definitely goes into the wee hours, if you can handle it.

Love #4: Day Trips from Seville

While Seville is fantastic, it’s also in a prime location in Andalusia, one of Spain’s best regions. Seville is just 45 minutes from Cordoba, less than two hours from Cadiz, two hours to the beaches of Malaga and less than two hours from Ronda. Even Granada is doable as a day trip from Seville. If you like to stay in one place and not move hotels all the time, Seville is a great home base for exploring Andalusia.

Read: Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Spain

Love #5: Seville Historic District

You will fall in love with the Santa Cruz neighborhood. The atmosphere is so much fun, it makes you feel like you are Spanish, and you’ll want to just sit and soak it all in for a while. Everywhere you go in Seville, just walking around is a fun experience. Make sure you leave some slack in your schedule to just slow down and enjoy life in Seville.

Obviously, we love Seville and can’t recommend it highly enough! The “hates” are really just a few things to keep a head’s up on rather than a reason not to take a trip to Seville. Want to know more about travel in Spain? Check out some of our other blog posts!

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate on a Barcelona Vacation

Posted on by admin

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Barcelona, one of my favorite cities to visit in Europe.

Even though Barcelona is a great city, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new place. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate, about Barcelona travel.

Hate #1: Barcelona Pickpockets

There are a lot of pickpockets and bag snatchers in Barcelona, especially in the touristy areas, so you really have to pay attention at all times. Hide your wallet and leave your passport at the hotel in the safe so you lessen your chances of being robbed.

Read: How to Avoid Travel Scams & Rip-Offs

Hate #2: Barcelona Tourists

Yes, you will hate yourself a bit when you see all the hordes of tourists in Barcelona, especially in the summer. Over one million tourists visit Barcelona each year and you will feel overwhelmed by tourists at popular sites like Sagrada Familia. Just be prepared: book attractions online, arrive early, book your hotels in advance and go with the flow. You can also visit in the off-season and avoid a lot of the crowds.

Hate #3: Barcelona Sites are Spread Out

There are so many things to see in Barcelona, but the sites are spread pretty far apart from each other. The Metro is great, though. Make sure you have a strategic plan for visiting the Barcelona sites so you can be efficient with your time, and get to know the subway system.

Hate #4: Language in Barcelona

If you speak Spanish and are excited to use it, you will be disappointed to learn that they speak Catalan in Barcelona, not Spanish. The language of Catalunya is a mix between French and Spanish, so you can probably get by. Most people will also speak Spanish, but if you hear a language you don’t understand, it’s Catalan.

Read: How to Piss off a Catalan

Hate #5: Barcelona Traffic

Traffic in Barcelona is crazy; there’s an accident every 19 seconds here! Even if you aren’t driving but just walking around, be really careful around traffic, especially when crossing the street.

Love #1: Barcelona Sites

Strolling along La Rambla and through the Gothic Quarter is one of the best things to do in Barcelona. From the cathedral to the Picasso Museum, you really feel like you’re in Europe when you hang out just wander the streets, people watch and visit the attractions.

Love #2: Barcelona Architecture

Most people know about Gaudi and some of his crazy designs and buildings, but there’s much more to Barcelona architecture. The historic churches and palaces are amazing and if you can arrange an architecture tour, I highly recommend it.

Love #3:  Barcelona Culture

Barcelona is a melting pot of culture. With Catalan, Spanish and international cultures blended together, Barcelona is a very worldly city.  There is fantastic art, including Picasso, opera, festivals, and live music.

Love #4: Barcelona Beaches

Barcelona is one of the best beach cities in the world. What’s crazy is that the beaches of Barcelona were all developed after 1992, and it’s brought a whole new culture to Barcelona. Now there are promenades and beach-side restaurants where you can sip cava on the beach. Beyond the beaches, there are tons of parks and green spaces in Barcelona so you can really enjoy time spent outdoors.

Love #5: The Nightlife

Barcelona has the best nightlife in Europe. They have some of the best nightclubs in the world, but it’s also other aspects of nightlife. Going out to eat, going to shows or the opera. There are evening activities for kids, young adults, and seniors so everyone can enjoy the nightlife of Barcelona.

Obviously, I love Barcelona and can’t recommend it highly enough! The “hates” are really just a few things to keep a head’s up on rather than a reason not to visit Barcelona. Want to know more about travel in Spain? Check out some of our other blog posts!

The Best (and worst) Parts of Visiting Spain

Posted on by Mark Wolters

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate On a Spain Vacation

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re in Spain, one of my favorite places to visit in Europe. A trip to Spain is always a good time, whether you visit Seville, Madrid, Barcelona or elsewhere, Spain is awesome! Here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new country. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate, on a Spain vacation.

Hate #1: The Weather

A lot of people come to Spain for the great weather because it’s supposed to be sunny and warm all the time. However, if you visit southern Spain in the summer, it’s oppressively hot, so you should stick to beach destinations in Spain at that time of year. In the winter, northern Spain can be cold and even snowy, so it’s not always sunny and warm in Spain.

Hate #2: Foreign Languages are Not a Priority

In much of Europe, foreign languages are heavily emphasized in primary school so that you can often find someone who speaks English, French or Italian nearby. In Spain, that’s not always the case. It is super helpful to learn a bit of Spanish before you visit Spain.

Read: Seven Tips for Learning a Foreign Language

Hate #3: Siestas and Sundays

What’s wrong with siestas, you ask? Who doesn’t love an afternoon nap? Well, siesta in Spain can be super frustrating if you happen to need something like aspirin at 2:00 in the afternoon. Stores, banks, pharmacies all close up during the afternoon siesta, and it’s even the law in some smaller towns. Keep this in mind when planning your day and don’t find yourself caught off guard needing something during siesta. The same goes for Sundays; pretty much everything, including grocery stores, is closed on Sundays, so you have to plan ahead!

Hate #4: Tourist Scams

As a traveler or a tourist, you will be taken for a fool in many places in Spain. Taxis, bars, and restaurants are known to take advantage of tourists, so pay attention to prices and review your bills before paying them. Have a good idea in advance how much a taxi should cost; you can easily ask at the hotel for an estimate so you know when you’re not getting ripped off. At a tapas bar, don’t fall for the “full portion” swap where you order a small plate and get the full-size dinner.

Hate #5: Pickpockets

Everyone warned me before visiting Spain to watch out for the pickpockets. It’s no surprise that Barcelona has been named the “Pickpocket Capital of the World” by TripAdvisor, with Madrid not too much farther down the list. It’s not just picking your pockets, it’s bag slashers and bag snatchers and a whole host of other ways to get robbed in Spain. Always be on your toes!

Read: The Most Common Pickpocket Techniques

Love #1: Regionality

One of the coolest things about Spain is that everywhere you go in Spain is completely different from the next region. Andalusia, Catalunya, Galicia, and Madrid are all so different and interesting. The cultures and cuisines vary from region to region, and much like the United States, there are so many unique places in Spain that you really have to visit more than just one big city to get a feel for the “real Spain.”

Read: How to Piss Off a Catalan

Love #2: Spanish Tapas Bars

No matter how much of a tourist you are, there’s something about sitting in a tapas bar, enjoying wine and good food that will make you feel like you are Spanish. It’s just such a part of the culture, and something Spaniards really do, so you can interact with locals and learn about the culture, all while filling up your belly with amazing food and drink.

Love #3: Spain Tourist Attractions

Spain is popular with tourists for a reason; the sights here are incredible. There are tons of museums and the Prado in Madrid is one of the top art museums in the world. On top of museums, there are fantastic cathedrals, forts, and towers. Not only does Spain have enough history and culture to fill several vacations, but there’s also a ton of natural beauty! You can hike in the Pyrenees, find remote beaches and so much more! You are going to fall in love with all of the Spain attractions.

Love #4: Nightlife in Spain

No matter where you are from, I challenge you to try and keep up with the Spanish and their nightlife. They can party all night long, every night. If you are looking for a nightlife destination, you can’t beat the nightclubs of Spain. (Don’t worry if nightlife isn’t your scene, you’ll still have a great time in Spain!)

Love #5: People of Spain

No matter where you travel in Spain, the people are what make this country so special. It seems counterintuitive that so many tourists get ripped off because when you actually meet Spanish people, they are so kind and welcoming. Even if you don’t speak Spanish, they will try to help you and make you feel welcome.

Obviously, we love Spain and can’t recommend it highly enough! The “hates” are really just a few things to keep a head’s up on rather than a reason not to take a trip to Spain. Want to know more about travel in Spain? Check out some of our other blog posts!

How to Piss Off Catalans

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Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re in Barcelona, Spain or Barcelona Catalonia. In case you aren’t aware, Catalonia is a separate region in Spain and although it’s been a part of Spain for centuries. However, a separate culture and language remains in this area which includes Barcelona, Girona, Lleida and Tarragona. Since we’re here, I thought it would be a good time to talk about the five ways you can piss off a Catalan. Of course, this is a bit tongue-in-cheek, but hopefully it will help you see a few of the differences from Spanish to Catalan culture.

#1 Call a Catalan Spanish

If you really want to insult Catalan culture, call a Catalan Spanish. Despite all being part of the same country technically, the Catalan people are proud of their heritage and embrace the differences from Catalan to Spanish culture.

#2 Tell them Moritz Beer is German

To assum Moritz Beer is German is an honest mistake, as a lot of Europe beer comes from Germany and Spain isn’t generally known for beer. However, the Moritz beer you’ll see all over Barcelona and elsewhere is not from Germany, it’s from Molins de Rei, just outside Barcelona. This Catalan beer is supposedly the only beer in the world with labels written entirely in the Catalan language.

#3 Imply that Madrid Nightlife is Better than Barcelona

Nightlife in Spain is practically a religion, so naturally there is a strong rivalry between Spanish cities for the best nightlife. Spaniards, and Catalans, have the uncanny ability to stay out well past sunrise at nightclubs and beach parties, but if you prefer Madrid nightlife over Barcelona nightlife, you might want to keep that opinion to yourself. At least until you are safely out of Catalonia!

Watch: The Don’ts of Visiting Barcelona

#4 Comment on their Spanish Skills

You may hear a Catalan speaking a poor version of Spanish and make a comment, not realizing that they are actually speaking Catalan, not Spanish! It’s similar, but Catalan is actually closer to French and Italian than Spanish.

Read: Seven Tips for Learning a Foreign Language

#5 Predict that Real Will Win the Clásico

While nightlife is almost a religion in Spain, football is a religion in Spain and Catalonia. The majority of Catalans root for FC Barcelona. El Clásico refers to any football match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. So, to suggest to a Catalan that Real is going to win El Clásico will not be received kindly.

Hopefully you don’t take this post too seriously, but if you do find yourself in Barcelona or Catalonia, maybe you’ll understand Catalan culture a bit better. For more travel tips and destinations, check out these blog posts and videos:

10 Things That SHOCK Tourists When They Visit Madrid

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Hey there, fellow travelers! Today we’re posting from Madrid. We love to help travelers prepare for their vacations, and other than telling you the best things to do, we love to share the things that will shock you upon arriving in a new destination. Today we’re sharing the top ten travel shocks of your Madrid vacation.

Madrid Culture Shock #1: Late Night Culture of Madrid

Whether you are coming from Northern Europe, or the US, you will be shocked at how late things get going in Madrid. Nightlife starts really late, and if you get home at 3 or 4 in the morning, that means you bailed early on the party. The late culture of Madrid also extends to eating hours. Lunch doesn’t usually start until 1:00 and many restaurants don’t start serving dinner until 9pm!

#2: Constant Snacking in Madrid

Another shock of Madrid travel is how often the locals seem to snack, yet remain thin! There’s a saying that they have a meal for every finger: breakfast, 2nd breakfast, lunch, merienda, then dinner. So, if you are worried about eating lunch and dinner so late, don’t worry, there is always food around.

#3: Smoking in Madrid

It seems that nearly everyone in Madrid smokes, so you’ll smell a lot of smoke around Madrid, and not just from cigarettes. Don’t be surprised if your clothes smell like cigarettes at the end of the night; it’s just part of traveling in Madrid.

#4: Low Quality Tourist Restaurants

Most travelers to Spain look forward to enjoying sangria and paella during their Madrid visit. If you visit the touristy restaurants in the city center around Sol, don’t be surprised if the sangria is watered down and the paella is just not that good. A good way to tell the quality of paella is to see how many varieties are offered. If a restaurant has ten different types of paella, it’s not going to be the freshest, and will likely be microwaved for you.

#5: Good Deals in Madrid

You can get great deals on food and drink in Madrid. Many bars have 1 Euro specials, and the lunch menu or menu of the day, offers great value. You will get a drink, bread, a starter, a main dish and dessert or coffee, all for 10-13 Euros. If you are a budget traveler in Madrid, you can save a ton of money by having your main meal at lunch and taking advantage of the specials. Shopping at the markets instead of stores is another good way to save money in Madrid.

Read: How to Eat Cheap & Well While Traveling

#6: The Two-Price System

When you visit a bar in Madrid, you will notice two prices. There is one price at the bar, and a slightly higher price if you sit down. This is why you’ll see more people at the bar having a drink or some tapas, instead of sitting down. So, eating and drinking at the bar, rather than sitting down, is another way to save money in Madrid.

#7: Friendly Police Officers

Almost everyone in Spain is very friendly, but the police officers in Madrid are exceptionally tourist-friendly. If you are lost or need help, feel free to ask them. Even if you don’t speak Spanish, if you have a map, they will point you in the right direction. Second only to the cops in London, I’ve found Madrid police to be very kind.

#8: August Heat & Mass Exodus from Madrid

Madrid is unbearably hot in late July and August. It’s not a coincidence that most people in Spain have their vacation in August and the city empties out that month as residents go somewhere cooler for vacation. So if you visit Madrid in August, be prepared for very hot weather, and know that most of the people left in the city are your fellow tourists.

#9: Winter in Madrid

Travelers are also shocked to learn that Madrid gets cold in the winter. People often think of Madrid as having warm, enjoyable weather. It can get chilly in the winter, especially once the sun goes down. There are a lot of fun day trips from Madrid, but some of them, like Segovia, are to higher elevations where it’s even colder. So if you are visiting Madrid in the winter, make sure you pack extra layers.

Watch: Madrid Day Trips

#10: Pickpockets in Metro Stations

As you use the Metro around Madrid, you will notice a lot of pickpockets, especially around the center of town. If you notice that your wallet is missing, immediately retrace your steps, looking on the ground and in the trash cans. Pickpockets are usually just looking for cash, so once they get it, they often discard the wallet and cards inside. Bonus shock of Madrid Metro: you will be shocked at how low some of the ceilings are! If you’re over six feet tall, watch your head as you walk around!

We hope these ten tips help you prepare to visit Madrid, and lessen the shocks you have upon arrival. Have you been to Madrid? We’d love to hear what shocked you; just leave a comment below! For more Wolters World travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

5 Things Tourists Should NEVER Do in Barcelona

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The Don’ts of Visiting Barcelona

Greetings from Barcelona, Spain! Today we’re sharing the five quick “don’ts” on visiting Barcelona.

Barcelona tip #1: Don’t Eat on Las Ramblas

 

Yes, Las Ramblas is the most popular tourist street in Barcelona, and everyone wants to take a stroll there. However, the restaurants along Las Ramblas are over-priced and underwhelming compared to authentic local cuisine.

 

Barcelona tip #2: Don’t Underestimate the Pickpockets

 

Barcelona is the number one pickpocket capital of Europe, and one of the top pickpocket locations in the world. The police will not be any help for tourists who’ve been pickpocketed. To avoid being pickpocketed, tourists should keep wallets in a front pocket, and keep an eye on any valuables (or better yet, leave them at home.) Don’t think it won’t happen to you, and don’t let your guard down.

 

Barcelona tip #3: Don’t Be Surprised by the Line at the Sagrada Familia (so grab a ticket beforehand)

 

The Sagrada Familia is on everyone’s Barcelona itinerary. For good reason; it’s one of the most recognized buildings in Spain. Don’t be surprised, though, if the line to get in is one or two hours long. For anyone who hasn’t pre-purchased tickets online, then the best bet is to go first thing in the morning and get in line.

Barcelona tip #4: Don’t Expect to Eat Before Noon at a Restaurant

 

The restaurants in Barcelona don’t open before noon, and even then, they might not serve meals until closer to 1:00. Don’t expect to enjoy a big breakfast or brunch anywhere in Barcelona. It’s best to choose a hotel that includes breakfast, otherwise travelers may be out of luck, unless scrounging up a convenience store sandwich.

 

Barcelona tip #5: Don’t Be Surprised if the Locals Out-Party You

 

There’s a saying in the U.S. about partying until dawn. In Barcelona, that’s nothing. Grannies might party until dawn, but the club-goers just keep on going right past dawn. Don’t feel bad about calling it a night at 4 a.m. Barcelona is very much a late-night culture, whether it’s late dinners, or late nights at the bars and clubs. (Which may explain why nobody is up to serve you breakfast in the morning!)

Now that you’re prepped on the “dont’s” of Barcelona, check out some of these other blog posts about traveling in Spain and Europe.