Spanish Customs That Surprise Foreigners

Spanish Customs That Surprise Foreigners

Spain is a country full of customs and traditions that are very different from what many foreigners are used to. When international visitors arrive in Spain, they’re often surprised by some customs that, for Spaniards, are completely normal. Here are some typical customs that might seem a bit strange if it’s your first time in Spain or you’ve only been here a short while. This will help you adapt and get to know the culture better.

1. Meal Times

Meal times in Spain always surprise people because, compared to other countries, we do everything VERY LATE. Generally, lunch is between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM, while dinner is around 10:00 PM. Also, when it comes to nightlife, it’s normal for a nightclub to open after midnight and close around 6:00 AM. Without a doubt, for a Spaniard, it would be strange to eat at 12:00 PM, have dinner at 8:00 PM, or come home from a party at 2:00 AM.

You’ll also notice that punctuality isn’t Spaniards’ strong point, especially in informal settings and with friends. If you organize a party or get-together at a certain time, expect people to arrive quite a few minutes later!

2. Tapas

Tapas are one of the most popular foods in Spanish culture. They’re small portions of food that are generally served with drinks. Although we can find tapas bars throughout the country, they’re typical of southern Spain, specifically Andalusia. There, it’s very normal to be served a small portion of food for free with your drink. Yes, FREE. One of the things Spaniards value most is food, and the feeling of enjoying yourself with friends or family on a terrace, with a drink in hand and tapas on the table, is priceless!

So, are you up for a “tapeo” (tapas crawl)?

3. The Sobremesa

As we mentioned, one of the things Spaniards enjoy most is food. In Spain, meals are one of the most important parts of the day and a leisure moment to enjoy in company. That’s why we have the concept of “sobremesa,” which consists of the custom of staying to chat and enjoy the moment at the table after eating without rushing.

4. Eating 12 Grapes on New Year’s Eve

Do you know the tradition of eating 12 grapes on New Year’s Eve? It’s done to have good luck during the coming year. It’s a tradition that drives many people crazy when they’re learning Spanish and Spanish culture. Every December 31st, Spaniards gather with family and friends to have dinner together and celebrate the new year with the Clock Strikes and grapes.

The Clock Strikes are broadcast on television, and the tradition consists of everyone together, with a countdown, eating 12 grapes during the first seconds of the year to the rhythm of the bells, and then celebrating the arrival of the new year.

5. Window Shutters

There’s no doubt that Spaniards go into shock when they travel abroad and find a house without window shutters. This marvelous invention that you’ll see in all (yes, all) Spanish houses allows us to enjoy total darkness for sleeping, both at night and for a short nap. Perhaps it’s because in Spain there are many hours of sunlight throughout the year, but even so, although other countries use curtains to block the sun’s light, they can’t compare to window shutters.

6. The Siesta

Although not all Spaniards do it, the siesta is world-famous. It consists of sleeping for half an hour after meals to rest and recharge energy. As we know, in Spain there are many hours of sunlight and it’s very hot, and the hottest hour just happens to coincide with “siesta time.” At this time, especially in summer, many businesses close and people spend these hot hours at home to shelter from the heat.

7. Greeting with Two Kisses

Have you ever been introduced to someone and found that person approaching you and giving you two kisses on the cheek? Don’t worry, it’s a totally common and widespread practice in Spain and other Spanish-speaking cultures. Two kisses are given both when meeting someone for the first time and when greeting someone you don’t see very often, while greeting and asking questions like “¿qué tal?” (how are you?). Usually, these are air kisses, just bringing the cheeks close together, and it’s a sign of courtesy and appreciation.

Tip! To avoid misunderstandings, start giving your kisses from your left side, then from your right. But if someone gets confused about where to start, don’t worry, you’ll just have a laugh about it!

These are the customs that most catch the attention of foreigners visiting Spain. Did you know about them? How is it in your country? We hope you found them super interesting.

Tell us about it at Escuela Elcano. We’re waiting for you!