…. There are always those unexpected things that catch you off guard a bit when you actually start living in a new country, no matter how much research you do… – and how well you are navigating the bureaucracy.
Just like every country, Spain also comes with a few “wait… what?” moments that can be unusual if you’re coming from a different culture.
Why is dinner so late – around 9PM? Why do shops just shut down in the middle of the day? And um… did that stranger just kiss me on both cheeks?!
Spain is amazing, no question – but it’s packed with little surprises that keep things interesting. 💃
So, here’s a list of the culture shocks that hit me when I first arrived…

Spanish daily routine

• Meal times can be strange at first
  In Spain, lunch is the biggest meal of the day between 2 and 3:30 pm.
  Don’t be surprised if a “quick lunch” turns into a 3-hour thing here with multiple courses and coffee after. Meals are social events here…
  Then, dinner doesn’t even start until 9 or 10 pm.
  In between, there’s often a merienda around 5 or 6 pm – like a coffee with a pastry or a little bite.
• Nightlife starts later than you think
  Going out at 8 pm? That’s early. People usually hit bars around 10 or 11, and clubs fill up after midnight and close like 6 – 7 in the morning.
• Siesta and Sundays are sacred
  Shops – … and even restaurants – are still closed for siesta every day (around 3 – 6 pm)
  … on Sundays??? Most shops and malls close on Sundays, BUT bars and restaurants stay open, so it’s a day to relax and enjoy time with others.
• Bureaucracy can be… a lot
  Things move slower than you might expect. Trying to get paperwork done in the afternoon? Good luck. Government offices, banks, and some medical clinics often close by 2 or 3 p.m.

Spanish social etiquette

• Kissing on the cheek
  Instead of a handshake, it’s normal to greet people with two kisses on the cheeks – even if you just met. It might feel awkward at first, but it’s just how things are done here.
• You can’t just not say hello
  When entering shops or even elevators, greeting others with a buenos días or hola is common. Silence can come off as cold or rude.
• Shouting = not angry
  Spaniards can sound like they’re yelling when they’re just passionately chatting. It’s totally normal – no one’s mad, they’re just… Spanish.
• People are super direct
  … and tend to say what they mean without a filter. It might feel blunt at first, but it’s honest communication. Small talk isn’t really a thing here…
• Personal space is smaller
  People stand closer when talking, and touching during conversations is normal – on the arm, shoulder, or back. It’s not meant to be invasive.
• You might get called “Guapa” by strangers
  Terms like guapo or guapa are used casually, even by strangers or older folks. It’s usually in a kind way, not flirting…

Services in Spain

• You still need to carry cash
  Cards are accepted in most places, but some small shops and parking meters still prefer cash.
• Tipping is not a big deal
  Unlike other countries, tipping in Spain is very minimal. Just rounding up the bill or leaving €1 or €2 for good service is totally fine, if you want – but it’s not expected.

• Service might feel blunt
  It’s not rude – just straightforward and not overly enthusiastic.. but rest assured, you will get your wine fast – duh.
• The volume level in bars and restaurants
  The noise level can be surprisingly high. Spaniards are not shy about talking or laughing loudly, and it’s all part of the social vibe.
• Water isn’t always free at restaurants
  Some places charge for bottled water, and it’s not always customary to bring tap water. Ask for agua del grifo if you want tap.
• Coffee culture is traditional
  To-go coffee in a giant paper cup is still not the norm in most parts of Spain. Coffee here is strong, small, and meant to be sipped sitting down.

Neighborhood life & culture in Spain

• Public displays of affection
  Spanish people are pretty relaxed. Couples holding hands, kissing, and being openly affectionate in public is just normal here.
• You can hear everything in apartment buildings
  It’s normal with balconies overlooking a shared inside garden and courtyards, people often just talk loudly and openly, without a care if the whole building hears. It’s all part of the neighborhood feel.
• Life happens outdoors
  People spend a lot of time outside in plazas, cafés, and parks, especially in the evenings. Outdoor socializing is a big part of life.
• There’s a festival for everything
  Every town has its own patron saint celebration, local food festival, historical event or a street fiesta. Expect fireworks, parades, and parties at random times of year.

Other Fun Facts & Surprises in Spain

• People dress really well
  Even casual outfits look stylish and put-together. You don’t really see people out in sweatpants or gym clothes unless they’re, well… going to the gym.
• Spanish people walk alot
  Walking is a huge part of daily life, here you’ll see people of all ages out for a paseíto.
• Smoking is still pretty common
  … even on terraces of bars and restaurants. If you ask me, probably this would be the only thing I don’t like about Spain.
• Air conditioning isn’t always given
  Even in hot weather, some older buildings, homes, and businesses use open windows, fans, shutters, or simply… suffer.
• Dryers are rare
  You’ll see laundry hanging off balconies everywhere – even in cities.

• Milk and eggs aren’t in the fridge
  Milk is usually shelf-stable UHT milk, so it’s kept outside the fridge until opened. Eggs aren’t washed like in some countries, so their natural coating stays, so no fridge is needed.
• Toilet paper sometimes goes in the bin
  In older buildings or public restrooms, you might see signs asking you to throw toilet paper in a small bin instead of flushing it.

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Living in Spain is full of surprises – some weird, some cute… but all part of the experience that makes this country so unique. Keep an open mind – explore the culture, go with the flow and have a laugh at all the surprises along the way… It will help you settle in faster and enjoy the Spanish way of this beautiful life….

¡Que te vaya bien!

Aaaanyways,

See you at the next one,

Noémi

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