Spain is part of the Euro zone. This zone is comprised of the following countries: Spain, France, Germany, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Belgium, Luxemburg, Holland, Austria, and Finland. These countries share a single currency, which helps to facilitate free movement.

Generally, traveler’s checks can be exchanged in any bank, although you may have to be prepared to go to certain specific offices or branches of each bank.

Ultimately, it is much easier to use a credit card, though beware the very high bank fees per transaction. Visa, American Express, Mastercard, and Diner’s Club cards are accepted in most commercial establishments.

Major cities have private exchange offices which change cash and, in some cases, traveler’s checks. These offices usually charge a commission for the transaction.

To see the current exchange rate for your currency against the Euro, visit www.oanda.com/convert/classic. As an example, a coffee in a café can cost anywhere between 1.00 and 1.20 euros. A Big Mac menu costs 6.00 euros; a fixed menu (two courses, a dessert, and drinks) costs between 7.00 and 10.00 euros.

In general, business hours for most stores throughout the country start at 10:00 in the morning until 2:00 in the afternoon, Monday to
Saturday. The afternoon schedule is normally from 5:00 to 8:00.

Department stores have an uninterrupted schedule, and most boutiques and department stores are typically open the first Sunday of every month.

Restaurants are open from 1:00 until 4:00 for lunch, and from 8:00 to 11:00 for dinner. In smaller restaurants, as well as in bars and cafés, it is
possible to get something at any hour.

Banks are open from 8:30 in the morning until 2:30 in the afternoon, Monday to Friday. From October to April, banks are also open on Saturdays from 9:00 in the morning until 1:00 in the afternoon.

The majority of public services, including civil centers and health clinics, are open from 9:00 in the morning until 2:00 in the afternoon from Monday to Friday.