Spain is a country that deserves to be visited by tourists for many reasons, including its beautiful coasts, rocky inland areas, and rich cultural heritage. Spain continues to break records for the number of tourists visiting the country each year, most of whom hail from Great Britain.
The 17 autonomous regions of Spain, known as Comunidades Autónomas, contribute to its appeal by reflecting its rich cultural diversity.
There are fifty distinct provinces in the country, known as provincias. Many people try to slake their thirst for, say, Andalusian folk music, Galician cuisine, or Catalan art by returning year after year to the same sunny destinations. Travelling to only one location won’t be enough to fulfill your wanderlust.
So, let’s read ahead to complete all the necessary paperwork and must-visit places in spain!
Checklist of Required Paperwork for Spain
Necessary supporting documents that correspond to your occupation and the purpose of your visit
If you are Employed
If you are employed and planning to take a leave, make sure to gather the necessary documents including a certified leave certificate with the official company seal and signature, and your salary slips from the last three months, in order to obtain leave approval from your employer.
If You are Self-Employed
To successfully register, we must receive the following documents: a registration license, MOA or partnership deed, the company’s bank statement for the past 6 months (updated), and the company’s income tax returns for the past 3 years.
If You Are Retired
If you are retired, it’s important to keep documents that provide evidence of your retirement, such as a pension book or statement.
If You Are A Student
If you are a student, it is important to always carry your identification card issued by your school, college, or institute, along with a bonafide certificate confirming your status as a student..
If You Are A Minor
If you are a minor, you will need to provide a birth certificate and a No Objection Certificate from your parents or non-accompanying parent on Rs 100/- stamp paper, along with an ID proof of your parent such as a passport or PAN card.
If you plan to pay a visit to a friend or family member
When visiting a friend or relative, it’s important to bring an invitation letter along with the inviter’s ID proof, such as their passport or resident permit, as well as an address proof like an electricity bill or utility bill, to ensure a smooth and hassle-free visit.
If Your Trip is Sponsored
If your trip is sponsored, you will need to provide a sponsorship letter, along with the sponsor’s national ID proof such as passport, PAN card or resident permit, an updated bank statement for the last 6 months, and income tax returns of the last 3 years as supporting documents.
For Your Business Visa
In order to obtain your business visa, you will need to provide an invitation letter from the host company detailing the purpose of your trip and business details, as well as a covering letter from the Indian company on their official letterhead.
Budget and typical costs in Spain
Daily allowance per person – You will spend around 110 EUR (USD 120.57).
Meals – For meals, 32 EUR (USD 35.07).
Transport – Local transportation costs around 23 EUR (USD 25.21).
Hotel – For one person, it is around 53 EUR (USD 58.09).
Notable Spain Cities/Towns
Barcelona
The vibrant Catalan metropolis is home to some of Spain’s most visited landmarks, including the iconic Sagrada Familia and Casa Batllo by Antoni Gaudi. It’s a busy coastal town with plenty of exciting entertainment and retail opportunities.
Madrid
Madrid is the capital of Spain. Be wary of being swept up in the city’s famous nightlife and spending the night dancing in the streets.
Granada
Granada, at the base of the Sierra Nevada in southern Spain, is often cited as one of the most attractive Spanish cities due to its legendary fortress and the nearby Alhambra Palace. There’s no wrong in taking advantage of Spain’s free tapas and exciting nightlife.
Segovia
It is said that Noah’s son, or Hercules himself, founded this lovely city north of Madrid. Whether or not the fairy tale is true, the city inspired the castle in Sleeping Beauty.
Must do and see in Spain
Camp Nou Stadium
Visit the world-famous football stadium in Barcelona while you’re already there admiring Gaudi’s architecture. Whether or not you’re a soccer lover, taking in a game at this stunning arena is among the top things to do in Barcelona, Spain.
Empuriabrava
One of the best skydiving locations in the world, Empuriabrava Adventure is a must for every visitor to Spain. Although Seville, Spain boasts the best weather in Europe for this particular sport, it is only in Empuriabrava where you can truly immerse yourself in the excitement of the ZNMD-style experience.
Ibiza
Ibiza is a paradise for those who live to party. Look no further if you’re looking for a club in Europe to let your hair down and shake a leg. This city is well worth a trip with your pals or significant other because it is known worldwide for hosting the hottest parties.
Mount Sierra
The Sierra Nevada mountain range near Granada, Andalusia, is an excellent spot to get into ski shape. The ski resort here is not only the best in Europe but is known all across the globe.
Bunol
Thousands of people fill the streets of Bunol every year for a festival that begins with a Paella dinner and ends with everyone carrying around tomato stompers and smiling broadly.
Spanish food that you must try
Gazpacho
Smooth and creamy gazpacho is made by blending ripe red tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, bread, peppers, and cucumber until everything is well combined. Wow, this is tasty and energizing. Andalusians in southern Spain drink it daily during the hot summer, and tapas establishments always have a jug on hand. Try Córdoba’s salmorejo, which is heartier and often topped with Ibérico ham chunks.
Paella
There are 365 ways to prepare rice in the Valencia region, but we’ll stick with the tried-and-true classic for now. Chicken or rabbit, saffron, green beans, and white beans (both runner and butter) are the main components of traditional Valencian paella. The bomba or Calasparra rice from Spain’s eastern coast is suitable because it can take on the full spectrum of tastes without becoming overpowered.
Transportation and ways to travel around Spain
Travelling by Train
RENFE, Spain’s national rail service, runs frequent high-speed, regular, and suburban services nationwide. Over the past few decades, there has been extensive modernization of the rail network, making it both efficient and reliable. There are also train connections with Portugal and France; however, it takes around 10 hours to travel from Paris to Madrid by train, so it’s not necessarily the most convenient method to enter the nation.
Travelling by Bus
One of the most cost-effective ways to travel in Spain is by taking the bus. However, its comfort may be compromised over longer journeys. It’s also a convenient option for getting to remote locations or places with little public transportation.
Travelling by Car
Finally, car renting is convenient because it lets you see Spain at your own pace and schedule. The autovias (with an A at the beginning of the road number) are a huge system of highways throughout the country. You’ll need a credit card or cash to pay the toll if you plan on driving on one of the ‘autopistas’ (toll roads) designated with the letters AP.
5 min read
Introduction Most people relate safaris to the great savannas of Africa, but a broad range of exciting safari experiences can be found across Europe and are well-suited for families. European
Read More5 min read
In today's rapid world, where stress and digital distractions are important compromising factors of rest, quality sleep has turned out to be a sought-after luxury. It is here that sleep
Read More5 min read
Cultural exchange programs have long been hailed as a method through which communities that may otherwise be disparate can connect and foster an international understanding. The immersive process for participants
Read MoreA Spain Schengen visa is a type of visa that enables you to explore all 26 Schengen countries, including Spain, for a maximum of 90 days.
The Schengen Visa is a passport sticker that allows you to visit the Schengen area of Europe and may stay for more than 90 days in any 180-day period.
The 90-day stay permitted by most Schengen visas is not mandatory. The Schengen visa can only be issued for the number of days that match the dates of your confirmed trip plans.
You are free to apply again for a Schengen Visa if your application has been refused earlier.
It is illegal and a crime to stay in Spain for longer than your short-stay visa allows, which you cannot do unless exceptional circumstances apply.