I am going to Spain in June and I was wondering what are the customs and clothing that I should know about?

Question

I am in my twenties and taking a school trip to Spain. Specifically Madrid, Toledo, and Seville. I want to try to fit in as much as possible, so I was wondering what are the customs that I should learn and the clothing that I should wear? If you have any other advice please don't hesitate. I haven't traveled verry far and need all the help that I can get.

Thank You!

Answer 1

Hi !

   well people shop at stores like H&M here. so its up to date.. don´t worry just be yourself. and have fun !

Take care,

Bcn_mimosa from Barcelona, Spain

Answer 2

To avoid looking like a "guiri" don't wear socks and sandals and make sure you wear sunscreen so you don't get burnt.  

Spanish people tend to generally be polite, unless they are behind the wheel of a car.  They give up their seat for old people on the bus and metro.  The standard greeting is a kiss on each cheek.  If they bump into you they say sorry.  They don't queue, so you need to be assertive at the bar and know where your place is in the "line".  There's nothing you can really learn about the customs, just speak spanish if you can.

As for clothing, just wear whatever you want, no one here cares and anything goes.  In Madrid, jeans and shoes (not trainers) on a night out is fine with a nice top.  During the day in summer - a dress, skirt, shorts, tshirt, vest whatever... for shoes i wear flip flops or ballet flats.  Wear comfy shoes to Toledo as the streets are cobbled and everywhere you walk is up hill.

have fun.

Answer 3

They really dress in Seville, and Madrid.  You want to have some nice, but fairly conservative outfits for evening.  Heels are good to have, but can be uncomfortable, especially on the cobbles in Seville, so, dressy flats are even better.  It will be HOT in Seville, Madrid may still be pretty cool in the mornings, but it warms up by noon, so layers are probably a good idea, and know that you probably should not show your shoulders or too much leg when you are in the Cathedrals.  Just be polite, and nice, and follow what others do, and you'll be fine.

Make sure you know that any souvenirs you buy are real, not made in China (a lot of it is, these days) and in Toledo, get the GOOD Damasquinado, make sure you can actually SEE a craftsman on premesis, or it's probably made by machine.

Oh!  And take TONS of photos!  Anything you don't have a photo of, you will forget within ten years.

Here's an idea of what they are wearing:

http://www.elcorteingles.es/tiendas/port...

Answer 4

Been living in madrid for almost a year now and I'd say the dress is predominantly casual. Be wary, this is especially true at night in bars and club...people don't get over-the-top dressed up