Essential Apps for Travelers in Spain
Traveling to Spain offers a rich cultural experience, but navigating daily life there is easier with certain local apps. These apps help with payments, transport, and translation, though some may require a Spanish phone number or local setup. Below is a guide to the most important apps, along with tips for preparation before and during your trip.
Before You Arrive in Spain
- Purchase a Spanish SIM Card: Many airports sell prepaid SIM cards from providers like Vodafone or Yoigo. These often include data and roaming packages. Get one at arrival for hassle-free connectivity. Stores like PhoneHouse in cities also sell affordable options.
- Download Essential Apps: Install international apps like WhatsApp or Google Maps before leaving. For country-specific apps like Renfe or Bizum, setup can be done post-arrival once you have a local phone number.
Top Apps for Travelers in Spain
1. Bizum
- Language: Spanish (English support available in settings)
- What It Does: Bizum lets you make instant payments between bank accounts via phone number. Ideal for splitting bills or small purchases between locals.
- How to Set Up: Link your bank account to Bizum through an app like BBVA Río, Santander, or Bankia. Use your Spanish phone number for verification.
2. Cabify
- Language: Spanish/English
- What It Does: Spain’s leading ride-hailing app, offering cars, taxis, and vans. Useful in cities like Madrid or Barcelona without reliable public transport.
- How to Use: Enter your phone number (with +34 country code). Link to a credit card, Bizum, or mobile wallet for payment.
3. Glovo
- Language: Spanish/English
- What It Does: Deliver food, medicines, groceries, and other essentials. Offers practical delivery in major cities and smaller towns.
- Tips: Filter for English menus or popular international chains like Starbucks or McDonald’s.
4. WhatsApp
- Language: Multiple languages, including English
- What It Does: Primary messaging app for communication with locals. Used for organizing meetups, sharing travel tips, and even buying tickets/group transactions.
- How to Set Up: Verify with a Spanish phone number via a local SIM card.
5. Renfe App
- Language: Spanish/English
- What It Does: Book and manage trains, buses, and intercity travel across Spain, including high-speed AVE trains.
- Tips: Scan QR codes on trains to validate tickets. Download schedules offline for trips in rural areas.
6. BBVA Río
- Language: Spanish/English
- What It Does: Access bank accounts, track expenses, transfer money, and pay abroad (useful for tourists dealing with euros or other currencies).
- How to Set Up: Non-residents can open an account in many BBVA branches. Alternatively, use the app for quick currency tips and ATM location guides.
7. Google Maps
- Language: Multilingual (English preferred)
- What It Does: Navigate Spain’s roads and public transit. Works offline and is widely used by locals despite being international.
- Tips: Save poi (points of interest) like historic sites, parks, and tapas bars to your device for offline access.
8. Google Translate
- Language: Multilingual support
- What It Does: Translate text, voice, or images. Translates Spanish idioms and regional dialects in Catalonia or the Basque Country.
- How to Use: Offline mode allows offline translation. Practice phrases like “hola” and “gracias” beforehand.
9. Booking.com
- Language: English/Spanish
- What It Does: Find and book hotels, apartments, and hostels across Spain. Offers shared accommodations and last-minute deals.
- Tips: Use filters for “English-speaking staff” and read reviews from international travelers for trustworthy options.
10. Spain’s App del Turismo de España
- Language: English/Spanish
- What It Does: Discover official tourist attractions, events, and cultural experiences curated by Spain’s tourism board.
- How to Use: Explore themed itineraries. Scan QR codes at sights to access augmented reality guides or historical details.
Tips for Using Apps in Spain
- App Setup Requirements: Apps like Bizum or bank apps need a Spanish phone number. Purchase a SIM card and register with a local number immediately after arrival.
- No Need for a VPN: Unlike China, Spain has unrestricted internet access. Stick to local apps for better coverage and user experience.
- Cash vs. Digital Payments: Many small businesses still use cash, but large cities rely on cards or Bizum. Keep small bills for street markets and small shops.
- Language Tips: Most apps have multilingual modes, but basic Spanish phrases (“¿Qué idioma? Inglés”) can help troubleshoot with locals.
Conclusion
These apps simplify travel in Spain by bridging gaps in payments, transport, and communication. With a local SIM card, you’ll stay connected to apps like Cabify and Renfe, while favorites like WhatsApp and Google Maps ensure seamless navigation. Embrace Spain’s mix of modern tech and traditional culture, and don’t forget to practice “¿Dónde está?” (“Where is…?”) for those non-digital moments!
