What NOT to Do in Spain: Avoid These 19 Tourist Mistakes

2. Don’t Only Visit the Tourist Spots

Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville are incredible, but if that’s all you see, you’re missing out on what really makes Spain special.

Some of my favorite moments happened far from the big cities, like hiking along the stunning coast from Sitges to Vilanova i a Geltrú.

Smaller towns and spots in nature show you a different side of Spain, slower, more authentic, and far less crowded. If you only stick to the highlights, you’re missing half the story.

3. Don’t Stay in Holiday Apartments

Short-term rentals are a major issue in Spanish cities like Barcelona and Malaga, driving up rent and making life unaffordable for locals. It’s even led to anti-tourism protests.

I once housesat in a quiet area of Barcelona and saw “tourists go home” spray-painted on the door of the house next to ours. That’s when it really hit me how strongly some locals feel.

Staying in hotels or guesthouses supports licensed businesses and keeps you out of residential areas where tensions run high. It’s a small way to travel more respectfully.

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4. Don’t Wear Beachwear Away from the Beach

Walking around town in swimwear might be normal in some countries, but not in Spain. Even in coastal areas, locals usually cover up once they leave the beach.

You don’t need to dress up, but avoid wearing just bikinis, or swimming shorts without a top, in cities, shops, or restaurants. It’s considered disrespectful, especially in smaller towns.

5. Don’t Assume All Spaniards Are the Same

Spain is made up of distinct regions, and many people don’t even identify as “Spanish”. In Catalonia or the Basque Country for example, regional identity runs deep, with different languages, customs, and political views.

It’s one of the things to know before visiting Spain, so you can read up on it.

Being aware of these differences shows respect and helps you avoid awkward moments.

6. Don’t Expect Dinner Too Early

Dinner in Spain doesn’t really start until late. Most restaurants won’t even open until 8pm, and even then, you’ll likely be the only one there.

Countless times we waited outside vegan restaurant in Barcelona until it opened, ate alone, and only saw locals start to arrive as we were finishing up around 9ish.

Try to embracing the local rhythm and just have a small snack in the afternoon.

7. Don’t Eat in Touristy Restaurants

If the menu has pictures, is in five languages, and the place is open all day without a break, chances are, it’s a tourist trap. These spots are usually overpriced, watered-down versions of local cuisine, and you won’t find many Spaniards eating there.

If you’re after a more authentic local vibe, skip the photo-menus and find a spot that closes for siesta and fills up after 9pm.

8. Don’t Expect Tap Water Automatically

In Spain, people usually don’t drink tap water, especially in restaurants. If you ask for it, you might get a weird look, as it’s not something locals typically order with a meal.

Technically, tap water is drinkable in most of the country, but the taste can be pretty bad. It varies a lot by region, personally, the tap water in Almería was the worst I’ve ever had, even though it was safe to drink.

If you’re sensitive to taste or want to avoid the awkward exchange, just go with bottled water when eating out.

9. Don’t Forget to Dress Modestly for Churches

If you’re visiting a church or religious site in Spain, it’s important to cover your shoulders and knees, regardless of the weather.

Even in touristy cities, dress codes are taken seriously at active places of worship. I always bring a light shirt or scarf with me in may bag on day trips so I can quickly cover up if needed.

It’s a simple way to show respect and avoid being turned away at the door.

10. Don’t Assume Shops Will Be Open All Day

While bigger stores in major cities often stay open all day, many smaller shops still close in the afternoon for siesta, yes, even in big cities. I was surprised that during my day trip to Zaragoza, almost everything shut down in the afternoon, including some museums.

Also, keep in mind that many shops stay closed on Sundays, especially outside tourist zones.

Plan your sightseeing and shopping accordingly so you don’t end up in front of closed doors.

11. Don’t Wait for the Waiter to Come Over

In many Spanish restaurants, waiters won’t come over unless you signal them. It’s not bad service, it’s just the local style and it actually makes for a more relaxed dining experience.

Countless times after finishing a meal or drink, we sat waiting for ages before realizing no one was coming unless we asked. Whether you want another round or the bill, you’ll need to make eye contact or raise your hand slightly to get their attention.

12. Don’t Be Impatient

Things move at a slower pace in Spain, especially when it comes to meals, service, or even just day-to-day life. Rushing or showing frustration won’t help and might even be considered rude in Spain.

I’ve learned to embrace the slower rhythm. Meals are meant to be savored, and no one’s in a hurry to turn over your table. Once you stop expecting everything to be quick, the whole experience becomes more enjoyable.

13. Don’t Drink Alcohol in Public Spaces

While sipping a drink in a park or on the beach might seem harmless, it’s actually illegal in many parts of Spain. Cities like Barcelona have strict rules about public drinking, and fines aren’t uncommon, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

If you want to enjoy a drink, stick to bars, terraces, or designated picnic areas where it’s allowed.

14. Don’t Get Stupid Drunk

Getting completely wasted is not a good look, especially when it crosses the line into loud or disrespectful behavior.

Benidorm is a prime example. It’s a beautiful city with plenty to do, but it’s been overrun by a certain type of tourist (mostly Brits) who treat it like a nonstop booze fest. The city now has more English breakfast spots and bars than any other place I’ve visited in Spain.

Enjoy a drink, sure, but don’t let it turn into a spectacle. You’ll have a better trip, and the locals will appreciate it too.

15. Don’t Underestimate the Heat

Spanish summers can be brutally hot. The sun is strong, the air is dry, and sightseeing in the middle of the day can feel like walking through an oven. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening, and take a siesta during the hottest hours.

Always wear sunscreen! Don’t be that tourist everyone spots from a mile away because of a painful-looking sunburn. In Spanish summer I also like to wear a hat, even though I’m usually not a hat person, but the sun just gets too much for my head otherwise.

16. Don’t Talk About the Civil War or Politics

Spain’s Civil War and Franco’s rule are still very sensitive topics, and people have very different opinions about them.

The same goes for politics in general, especially when it comes to regional identity and independence movements. These topics can get emotional fast, even among locals.

Unless you know the person well, it’s best to avoid these conversations.

17. Don’t Assume Flamenco and Paella Are Everywhere

Flamenco and paella might be iconic symbols of Spain, but they’re not found everywhere and certainly not with the same cultural weight across the country.

Flamenco comes from Andalusia in the south. You won’t find authentic performances in every city, and in many places, it’s put on just for tourists.

Paella originates from Valencia. Outside that region, it’s often overpriced, poorly made, and definitely not something locals eat regularly.

If you want to experience either one properly, head to where they’re actually from. Otherwise, skip the generic versions and enjoy what the local region does specialize in.

18. Don’t Drink Sangria

Sangria is what tourists drink. Locals? They’re more likely to order Tinto de Verano, a refreshing mix of red wine and lemon soda (or sometimes orange soda), served over ice.

It’s lighter, cheaper, and way more common among Spaniards, especially in summer. Honestly, once you try it, you might never go back to sangria.

19. Don’t Underestimate Pickpockets

Spain is generally very safe, but pickpocketing, especially in big cities like Barcelona, is a real issue. It happens most often in crowded tourist areas, public transport, and busy streets.

Keep your bag zipped and in front of you, avoid leaving your phone on the table, and don’t hang anything off the back of your chair. A little caution goes a long way.

What not to Miss in Spain

Now that you know the things not to do in Spain, you’re already ahead of the game. But what should you absolutely make time for?

Spain is home to some of the most stunning landmarks and natural wonders in the world. The best of the best were voted as the 12 Treasures of Spain. From world-famous sites like the Alhambra to the ancient Cave of Altamira, these sites capture the country’s spirit and history.

Ready to discover them? Head over to my guide to the 12 Treasures of Spain to plan your next must-see stops.

🗣️ Don’t forget to get your discount for Rosetta Stone!

Thanks again to Rosetta Stone for sponsoring this post.

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