Here are a 15 surprising facts about Spain that many people find useful and interesting. Please let us know what you think.
- Spain has a whopping 50 UNESCO sites and traditions that belong to UNESCO World Heritage offering a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks to explore, from the Alhambra in Granada, Seville’s Alcazar, Merida’s Roman Heritage, Flamenco guitar & dance or the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona to name a few.
- Spain has one of the world’s highest life expectancy rates and is predicted by some to be the country with the highest life expectancy by 2040.
- More olive oil than Italy?... yes because Spain is 1.7X larger than Italy and Mediterranean olive oil is a major export of Spain. The total area of olive groves is also the highest in the word!
- Spain is the world’s second most popular tourist destination as per data from the UNWTO,
- Wine heritage ?…. Spain has been making wine for an estimated 3000+ years, with over 500 grape varieties + has the largest total area of vineyards.
- Spanish is the 2nd most widely spoken language in the world, so if you want to practice to improve your Spanish skills, great idea.
- Spanish is not the only language spoken in Spain: While Spanish (Castilian) is the official language, Spain boasts four other co-official languages: Catalan, Galician, Basque, and Valencian. Each region has its own unique culture and identity reflected in its language.
- Paella isn’t the national dish: Though widely associated with Spain, paella is actually a regional dish from Valencia. Each region has its own specialties, so be adventurous and try different local cuisines!
- Nudity is legal on some beaches: While not all beaches allow it, designated naturist areas exist in various regions like the Canary Islands and Andalusia.
- Later traditional meals lunch & dinner: Don’t be surprised if restaurant kitchens only open for lunch around 1 pm and dinner starts later (around 8:30 pm). You will see it is daylight until near 10pm in Summer so it is not as strange as it sounds
- Tipping is not mandatory: Unlike in some countries, tipping in Spain is optional. While a token of appreciation is welcome, it’s not expected.
- Siesta is still a thing: While not as widespread as in the past, some shops and businesses still close during the afternoon heat for a siesta break. Plan your errands accordingly especially in smaller towns!
- Spain is a hiker’s paradise: From the Pyrenees mountains to Sierras of Andalucia or the ancient Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, Spain offers diverse hiking trails for all levels.
- Festivals galore: Spain celebrates countless festivals throughout the year, from La Tomatina tomato fight to Las Fallas fire festival. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture!
- Beyond the beach: While Spain’s coastline is stunning, don’t miss the rich cultural offerings of inland cities like Toledo, Salamanca, and Segovia.
- These are just a few surprising facts to pique your curiosity about Spain. With its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Spain has something to offer every traveler. So pack your bags, embrace the unexpected, and get ready for an unforgettable private Spain luxury trip of your dreams!
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We hope you enjoyed these 15 surprising facts about Spain 🙂