Embracing the Spanish Way: A Guide to Thriving in the Local Culture When Moving to Spain

You are probably moving to Spain for the sun, sea and relaxed lifestyle. However, really feeling at home means getting under the skin of the Spanish way of life. Adapting to the culture goes beyond learning the language – it’s about getting into new habits, understanding the social norms and celebrating the traditions. This guide will help you navigate the subtleties of Spanish culture so you can settle in and enjoy.

Life in Spain is all about pace, from long lunches and late dinners to the famous siesta. Social connections are at the heart of Spanish culture where warm hellos, close conversations and strong relationships are highly valued. By understanding and getting into these habits you’ll find it easier to make connections and really thrive in your new life.

Family and community are at the heart of Spanish life, and get-togethers revolve around food and chat. Whether you’re adapting to the working culture or joining in with local fiestas, getting into the Spanish way of life will make your experience even better. With a bit of prep, you’ll be well on your way to relocating to Spain.

1. Embracing the Spanish Daily Routine

Spanish culture stands out with its distinct daily routine. Unlike the UK, where meals are eaten much earlier, Spanish people typically have lunch between 2 to 3 PM and dinner around 9 to 10 PM. The late dining schedule offers a leisurely pace to enjoy meals and social interactions. Dinner for families with young children usually occurs around 9 PM on weekdays, making it a delightful time to gather and share the day’s stories.

Another charming aspect of the Spanish lifestyle is the beloved siesta. This midday break, usually from 2 to 5 PM, allows Spaniards to rest and recharge. It’s not uncommon for many to enjoy a short nap after lunch, rejuvenating them for the rest of the day. This tradition reflects a balanced approach to work and leisure, a concept many modern cultures could adopt.

Spaniards truly know how to enjoy the night. Social gatherings and nightlife often begin much later than in other countries, with events starting around 1-2 AM. It’s common for people to return home from a night out as late as 6 AM.

Weekends are for sleeping in, with many not waking up until 10 or 11 AM. This vibrant nocturnal lifestyle is a testament to the Spanish zest for life and community.

2. Understanding Social Etiquette

Understanding social etiquette in Spain can be delightful if you’re aware of the cultural nuances. One of the most striking customs is the way people greet people. Greeting with two kisses on the cheek is customary in Spain, reflecting warm social interactions. While this might feel intimate to those from more reserved cultures, it embodies the friendly and welcoming attitude of the Spanish people.

Personal space in Spain is less rigid compared to other cultures. People generally stand close to each other while conversing, reflecting a comfortable level of intimacy. Building strong relationships is a priority, and maintaining eye contact during conversations conveys engagement and attentiveness.

Embracing these social norms will help you connect more deeply with locals and enrich your Spanish experience.

3. Navigating Spanish Food Culture

Spanish food culture offers a delightful sensory journey deeply rooted in tradition and communal dining. Lunch is considered the biggest meal of the day in Spain, and it is often enjoyed with family and friends. This midday feast is a time to relax and indulge in a variety of dishes, from hearty stews to fresh seafood, accompanied by the ubiquitous olive oil.

Dinner time in Spain is quite late, typically starting around 9:00 or 10:00 PM. It’s customary to leave a small amount of food on your plate at the end of a meal as a sign of appreciation for the host. Leaving a small amount of food on your plate reflects the Spanish way of savoring every bite and honoring the meal preparation effort.

Tapas, small plates of various foods, are a cornerstone of Spanish dining. These bite-sized delights are perfect for sharing in social settings, allowing people to sample a variety of flavours while engaging in lively conversation. Whether at a bustling tapas bar or a cosy gathering, this tradition epitomises the communal spirit of Spanish eating.

4. Engaging in Festivities and Traditions

Festivities and traditions are woven into the fabric of daily life in Spain, offering a vibrant cultural experience. Semana Santa, the significant Easter celebration, is characterised by elaborate processions and deep religious devotion. This week-long event is a spectacle of art, faith, and community, drawing participants and spectators from all over the world.

Regional holidays celebrate local patron saints and often focus on festivities like dancing and bullfighting rather than religious origins. Major festivals such as La Tomatina and the running of the bulls during Fiesta de San Fermín attract significant local and international attention. These celebrations are marked by communal joy and excitement, offering a unique glimpse into the heart of Spanish culture.

5. Communication Styles in Spain

Communication in Spain is as vibrant and expressive as its culture. Spaniards engage in direct communication and are comfortable expressing their emotions openly. Conversations are animated, with fast speech and expressive gestures adding dynamic energy to interactions. Interruptions are common, as people tend to talk over each other out of excitement.

Silence during conversations can be uncomfortable for Spaniards, as they prefer dynamic exchanges. Common requests are made directly, such as saying ‘Me pones un café?’ when ordering coffee. The use of informal language is prevalent, with ‘tú’ often replacing the formal ‘usted’. Learning Spanish can significantly improve your ability to connect with locals and navigate social settings effectively.

Humour plays a vital role in conversations, with many sharing funny stories to enhance interactions. Warmth and passion are emotional characteristics associated with Spanish conversations, making them lively and engaging. Embracing these communication styles will help you blend in and enjoy meaningful connections with Spanish people.

6. Family Life and Values

Family life is the cornerstone of social structure and daily life in Spain. Spanish culture values family unity and solidarity, with members supporting each other in various aspects of life. Commitment and loyalty are valued, and members are expected to support each other through thick and thin.

Respect for elders is key, with families often seeking the wisdom and advice of older members in important decisions. Meal times are social events where friends and family gather to enjoy each other’s company while eating. Popular dishes like paella and tapas epitomise sharing and communal dining, fostering strong family bonds.

Hospitality and generosity are important traits in Spanish culture, with Spaniards often offering food and assistance to family and friends. Frequent family gatherings, especially during celebrations and holidays, strengthen these bonds and create a sense of warmth and belonging. Understanding these values will help you appreciate the depth of family relationships in Spain.

7. Work Culture and Business Meetings

The work culture in Spain reflects a blend of tradition and modernity, with a strong emphasis on relationships. Many Spaniards take vacation in August, leading to limited business availability during that month. Office hours often include a break for siesta, with some businesses opening from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and then again from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Work-life balance is prioritised, allowing for quality family time. Relationship-building is crucial in Spanish business culture; introductions through mutual contacts are often preferred. Face-to-face interactions are preferred as they enhance trust and deepen relationships among business partners.

Meetings typically start with small talk, as building personal rapport is important before discussing serious matters. Spanish meetings may not follow a strict agenda, allowing discussions to flow more organically. The business environment often reflects a hierarchical structure, with communication primarily occurring at senior levels. Understanding these aspects will help you navigate the Spanish work environment effectively.

8. Adapting to Public Transport and Walking

Spain’s comprehensive public transport system includes:

• Trains
• Buses
• Metros
• Trams

This system facilitates easy travel across cities and regions. Public transport fares typically range from €1.50 to €4.00, making it an economical choice for commuters and travellers. This accessibility ensures that you can explore Spain’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities with ease.

Walking is favoured in Spanish cities due to their compact layout, allowing for easy exploration on foot. Many urban areas offer extensive cycling lanes, promoting cycling as a sustainable alternative to motorised transport. Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of Madrid or the beaches of Barcelona, adapting to public transport and walking will enhance your Spanish experience.

9. Exploring Spanish Homes

Traditional Spanish homes showcase the country’s rich architectural heritage. Thick stucco walls provide insulation against heat, ensuring a comfortable indoor climate. This feature is particularly beneficial during the hot summer months, maintaining a cool and inviting atmosphere inside a Spanish home.

Spanish houses typically have terracotta or ceramic red-tiled roofs, contributing to their durability and aesthetic appeal. Exposed wooden beams add structural support and rustic charm, while wooden shutters provide shade and privacy.

Arches and columns enhance the distinctive style of Spanish homes, making them unique and picturesque. Exploring these homes offers a glimpse into the traditional and modern Spanish way of life.

10. Handling Cultural Differences

Adapting to cultural differences is essential for successfully living in Spain. In business contexts, punctuality is expected, even if social situations may be more relaxed regarding time. Recognising this distinction helps navigate both professional and personal interactions more effectively.

Currencies differ, with the UK using pounds sterling and Spain using euros, affecting everyday transactions. The main difference is that a one-hour time difference exists between Spain and the UK, a legacy of historical time zone decisions. Being aware of these cultural differences and adapting to them will help ease your transition into Spanish life.these differences and adapting accordingly will make your transition to Spanish life smoother.

11. Making Friends and Building Relationships

Building friendships and relationships in Spain can be rewarding. Joining hobby groups for sports, dance, or cooking helps find friends through enjoyable activities that reflect local culture. Volunteering for local community projects aids in making friends and enhances your connection to the community.

Expat meetups and language exchanges in local cafes and bars allow you to practice Spanish while meeting locals in a friendly environment. Being open to new experiences and accepting social invitations is vital in meeting new people, and you can expect lots of opportunities to deepen relationships.

Building meaningful friendships requires consistent effort, including regular social interactions and following up with acquaintances.

Do you need assistance moving your personal belongings to Spain?

Moving to Spain is a journey that full of opportunities to make connections and experience culture. From getting used to the laid back daily routines and eating the food to participating in fiestas and building relationships, every step gets you closer to feeling at home in Spain. By understanding the local customs, valuing family traditions and getting into the social warmth you’ll be thriving in no time in your new life.

Moving to Spain would be easier if I had the right help. At Simpsons International Removals, we specialise in door-to-door services for UK residents moving to Spain. Whether you’re moving a few items or a whole household, we handle everything—professional packing to customs clearance and delivery—tailored to your needs. We even offer part-load and dedicated removals to get your belongings to you safely and on time.

Get moving. Get a quote now or visit our Container Shipping to Spain Guide. Moving to Spain has never been easier. ¡Viva España!