Manners in Spain
Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country
Greetings
- Handshake
- Light kisses on both cheeks
- Hug
Etiquette
- Meal times are late; lunch around 14:00, dinner after 21:00
- Siesta culture lingers; small shops may take long afternoon breaks
- Addressing by surname rather than first name is common
- Making eye contact during conversation is considered polite
- Punctuality is flexible; being a few minutes late is not considered rude
- Speaking loudly in public is not seen as impolite
- Modest dress covering shoulders and knees is expected in churches and cathedrals
- Standing while drinking at bars and discarding paper on the floor are common sights
- Tipping is not mandatory but leaving around 10% in cafes is appreciated
- Criticism of bullfighting or jamón may be sensitive for some
- Respect for local languages like Catalan or Basque is expected in those regions