St. John's Day

📣 Traveler notes

Spain is known for its welcoming atmosphere, vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and rich history. It boasts a high number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offers a variety of cultural experiences ranging from traditional festivals to modern urban life.

• New Year's Eve (Nochevieja) tradition involves eating 12 grapes at midnight.
• The 'las campanadas' chimes from Puerta del Sol are broadcast nationwide to mark the new year.
• Fireworks typically follow the final chime of the New Year's bells.
• Punctuality is valued, especially during first meetings; a 10-minute grace period is common.
• In some regions like Catalonia, local languages may be preferred over Spanish.
• Bullfighting and regional politics are sensitive topics that should be approached with caution.
• Spaniards are generally friendly and expressive; physical contact during conversation is common. While social interactions can be informal—including occasional lighthearted insults among friends—it is best for travelers to remain polite. Respect local customs regarding family, religion (especially during Holy Week and Christmas), and regional sensitivities like Catalan or Basque independence. When dining, it is customary to wait until everyone is served before eating and to split the bill equally. In social settings, a gift or offer may be politely declined once or twice before being accepted.