Spain · Practical · 2026
The operational basics
Plug type, voltage, time zone, drinking water, emergency numbers — the answers every guidebook tucks into the back inset. Here as a single card.
Power
US devices need an adapter + (rarely) a step-down for hair tools. Modern phone / laptop chargers are dual-voltage — check the sticker.
Time
Spring forward last Sunday of March; fall back last Sunday of October. EU may end DST changes — currently on indefinite hold.
Emergency
Drinking water
Tap water is safe across mainland Spain. Some islands (parts of the Balearics) have mineral-heavy tap water that's safe but tastes off — locals drink bottled.
Business hours
Standard shops 10:00-14:00 + 17:00-20:30 (siesta gap). Big chains and supermarkets stay open through the day. Banks 8:30-14:00 weekdays only. Tourist-zone restaurants run continuous service in summer.
Public holidays
Almost everything closes on January 1, January 6 (Reyes), Good Friday, May 1, August 15, October 12, November 1, December 6, December 8, and December 25. Regional holidays (Sant Jordi in Catalonia, San Fermín in Pamplona, etc.) close local services. Check before booking.
Last reviewed .
See also: visa & entry · connectivity & SIM.