Myths and stereotypes about other people and countries are natural, and they can be quite amusing. However, the accuracy of such stereotypes can be questioned. We have heard many myths about Spain and the Spaniards. Despite these misconceptions, Spain is no worse than any other country. Lets debunk the top nine myths about Spain.
So heres our top 10 Myths about Spain
- Bullfighting is a popular sport watched by all Spaniards. Actually, bullfighting often happens only once per year in many towns, including Ronda, the home of the modern style of bullfighting. Matadors are held in high esteem, but the average Spaniard is probably not going to make a special trip to see a bullfight.
- Spaniards drink a lot of sangria. Nope, sangria is like fruit punch, it goes down easily and gets you drunk quickly, but most Spaniards prefer beer or wine like other national groups. In fact, most bars make sangria only for the inevitable requests they get from tourists.
- Flamenco music and dancing is all you ever hear in Spain. Most popular radio stations play a mix of modern pop music, older rock songs, and the DJ’s favorite Latin music. Bars in tourist areas play a lot of Flamenco style music, but true Flamenco music tends to be quite spontaneous amongst friends.
- Siesta is an afternoon nap for Spaniards. Actually, most Spanish people take time to enjoy lunch, do their weekly grocery shopping, household chores, etc. Siesta these days is just a convenient time to break the monotony of work, although in summer, the afternoons can be too hot to work. Some people still use siesta to relax and take a short nap, but they are definitely in the minority these days.
- Spaniards are lazy and will promise to do something mañana, which means anytime in the next few weeks. Actually, most Spaniards are fairly punctual, and if they make an appointment with you, they usually keep it or call to offer an excuse why they can’t. A possible reason for foreigners getting confused about mañana is the meaning of the word which doesn’t just mean tomorrow, it also means morning.
- Spanish people will pretend not to understand foreigners just to have fun at your expense. In fact, most people in Spain never learn a foreign language and often forget what they learn at school because they don’t have the chance to practice. A Spaniard who has learnt another language will often be very excited about trying out what they do remember. Nevertheless, it’s always a good idea to learn Spanish, especially if you plan a longer stay or a move to Spain.
- Spanish people use a lot of gestures when they speak. Actually, most Spaniards are quite circumspect about body language, and they think the Italians are more physically expressive.
- Spanish men are very macho and make great Latin lovers. This myth always makes Spanish women laugh. In reality, men are the same almost anywhere, and an evening in a bar with their friends is preferred for many men in Spain rather than a romantic night in.
- Spain is a very backward country, and don’t drink the water. This myth is far from the truth. Spain is a progressive nation within the European Union and is rapidly catching up with its Northern European neighbors in gross domestic product and average income. In fact, Spain has been successful in attracting investment from new technology companies. All of the modern conveniences you’d expect in a progressive European country are available in Spain. Spanish tap water is perfectly safe to drink, although, like in other countries, some of the water can be high in calcium, and you might prefer to drink bottled water.
10. Ah, gotcha, there isn’t a 10, but the title of this page sounds so much better saying ‘Top 10 Myths About Spain’ instead of ‘Top 9 Myths About Spain’ don’t you think? Anyway, Spain and the Spaniards aren’t so bad. Coming from an English speaking country it can be quite an adjustment learning to cope with the “estilo de vida español” but give it time and I’m sure you’ll love living here every bit as much as the many other foreigners who have chosen to make Spain their new home.
FAQ: Myths and Realities of Spanish Life and Culture
Not really. Bullfighting is part of Spain’s cultural history, but it’s not a mainstream pastime. In many towns, like Ronda, events are held only once a year in the Plaza de Toros. While matadors are respected, most Spaniards don’t attend fights and many oppose the practice altogether.
Sangria is mostly for tourists. Spaniards typically prefer beer or wine. In fact, most bars make sangria only when asked by visitors. Locals might drink a tinto de verano (wine with lemon soda) in summer, but sangria isn’t a staple.
No. Flamenco is a southern tradition with deep cultural roots, but you’re more likely to hear pop, rock, or reggaeton on the radio. Authentic flamenco is often spontaneous and local — not the staged shows seen in tourist zones.
Not really. The traditional siesta is more myth than reality. While businesses might close midday, most people use that time for lunch, errands, or chores. A quick nap is rare, and mainly happens during hot summer months.
That’s a stereotype. Most Spaniards are punctual and take commitments seriously. The word mañana means “tomorrow” or “morning,” and confusion often comes from language differences, not laziness. If someone says they’ll do something, they usually mean it.
No. Many Spaniards don’t speak other languages fluently simply because they haven’t had much practice. Those who do are usually eager to help. Learning some basic Spanish shows respect and makes daily life easier, especially outside tourist areas.
Compared to Italians, Spaniards are actually more reserved. They don’t use exaggerated gestures when speaking and tend to be more controlled in public. The stereotype of wild hand movements doesn’t match typical Spanish communication.
Not more than anywhere else. The “Latin lover” idea is outdated and mostly seen in films. In real life, many Spanish men prefer casual evenings with friends over grand romantic gestures. Local women often laugh at the macho myth.
Yes. Spain is a fully developed EU nation with reliable transport, modern healthcare, and digital infrastructure. It’s one of Europe’s top tech investment destinations. Tap water is safe to drink, though some regions have hard water that leads people to buy bottled.
Adapting to the estilo de vida español takes time, but most expats settle in well. Spain offers a relaxed pace, rich culture, and good quality of life. With patience and openness, many foreigners come to love living here.
Ronda is compact, historic, and perfect for walking. Highlights include the Puente Nuevo bridge, El Tajo gorge, and the Real Maestranza bullring. Visitors enjoy local tapas bars, cafés, and stunning views. It’s a great base for exploring nature reserves like Sierra de Grazalema.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!