Essential Spanish Phrases for Traveling in Spain

Many people in Spain speak English, but that doesn’t mean visitors couldn’t benefit from speaking a little Español themselves. Learning Spanish, and practicing it on your vacation, is a great way to stretch your mind and build special memories. Not to mention, these basic Spanish words and Spanish travel phrases are great to know in case you need help from someone who doesn’t speak English.

Spanish is considered a romance language, which means it started as an offshoot of Latin. It was born in Spain, then spread throughout the world via exploration and conquest. It is now the dominant language in Spain, throughout Central and South America, and in parts of Africa. There are an estimated half billion native Spanish speakers, making it the second most common native tongue in the world.

Spanish spoken in Spain is the most formal version of the language. Called the Castilian dialect, it is the purest version of the language. With its neutral, clear accent, Castilian is the easiest version of Spanish to understand. Much like the English spoken in the UK versus the United States or Australia, it is the closest to the original form of the language.

Basic Spanish Words

When in Spain, it is good to know a few of the most basic Spanish words:

• Hola = Hello
• Adiós = Goodbye
• Por favor = Please
• Gracias = Thank you
• Lo siento = Sorry
• Sí = Yes
• No = No
• ¿Quién? = Who?
• ¿Qué? = What?
• ¿Por qué? = Why?
• ¿Dónde? = Where?
• Felicidad = Happiness
• Gato = Cat
• Perro = Dog
• Caliente = Hot
• Fria = Cold
• Hoy = Today
• Mañana = Tomorrow
• Familia = Family
• Amigo = Friend

Common Spanish Phrases for Travel

Here are a few essential phrases to help you get around:

• ¡Es delicioso! = It is delicious!
• Me llamo… = My name is…
• Mucho gusto = Nice to meet you
• ¿Cuánto cuesta? = How much is this?
• ¿Dónde está el baño? = Where’s the bathroom?
• Me puede ayudar, por favor = Can you help me, please?
• ¿A dónde deberíamos ir a comer? = Where should we go to eat?
• ¡Salud! = Cheers!
• Buen provecho = Bon appetit
• Necesito ir a… = I need to go to…
• ¿Como llego hasta ahí? = How do I get there?
• No entiendo = I don’t understand

Spanish Slang

If you want to feel like a local, these slang terms are a great start:

• Venga = Come on!
• No pasa nada = No worries
• No me digas = You don’t say?
• ¡Vamo! = Let’s go!
• Friki = Weird

Visit Spain with YMT Vacations

Spain is a bucket list destination for many reasons. From its dazzling scenery to its colorful customs to its robust culture, this Mediterranean hotspot appeals to travelers of all stripes. YMT Vacations offers incredible trips to Spain, from cruises to land tours. To say mucho gusto to España with YMT Vacations, contact your travel agent or call us at 888-860-1969.