Working abroad Tips & Tricks

What does a typical day in Spain look like?

Last update: 22 July, 2024  ◦  8 January, 2024 by Photo from Lisa Lisa  ◦  4 minutes reading time
A typical day in Spain

Have you ever caught yourself daydreaming about the vibrant streets of Spain, envisioning a life where the sun-kissed shores of Valencia or the bustling energy of Madrid become your everyday reality? Here's a little peek into what a typical day could be like, giving you a taste of the adventure that awaits you! 🇪🇸✨

Morning kick-off 🧖‍♀️

In Spain, breakfast tends to be simple, often consisting of coffee paired with bread or a pastry. It's common to include fruit and yogurt in the morning. Perhaps you'll also enjoy a refreshing, freshly-squeezed juice. Whether getting ready for work or enjoying time off, the go-to dress code in Spain is typically smart casual for everyone. It’s quite normal to switch outfits often, one outfit may be worn to work, something else for lunch, and in the evening something dressier! 

Around 11 am it’s time for your second coffee of the day, out this time, with something to eat. The mid-morning snack in Spain tends to be heartier than the initial breakfast. Local bars bustle with savory options, such as breakfast rolls filled with jamon serrano and a variety of freshly-made tortillas, a delicious mid-morning treat. 🌯

Getting around 🚇

Getting around Spain is a breeze thanks to its excellent public transport system, including buses, trains, and ride-share options like BlaBlaCar. In cities, buses, metros, trams, and trains are super handy and budget-friendly for getting around. Major bus stations are usually close to city centers. Trains are great for speedy travel between big cities, but remember, smaller towns and tourist spots like the western Costa del Sol might not have direct train access. Although traffic in the major cities can be a pain, getting a rental car is a dependable choice that lets you stay flexible while traveling in Spain.

Work-life balance 👩‍💻
In Spain, the typical work schedule doesn’t follow the traditional 9-5 days. Instead, it often follows either an 8 am to 3 pm or a 10 am to 2 pm and 5 pm to 8 pm! Practicing the siesta, a cherished Spanish tradition, making sure to take some time to unwind and recharge. Even though Spaniards often start later, it's not about working any less. The focus isn't on fewer hours but rather on a different rhythm that values both work and savoring the day! Taking time off is a big part of this balance, and Spanish labor laws make sure that workers have enough rest and vacation time. 

People enjoy their lengthy lunch breaks and Spaniards hold lunchtime in high regard! It's common in Spain to take a 2-hour lunch break, typically starting after 2 pm. This time isn't just for meals; it's for client meetings, bonding with colleagues, and, most importantly, embracing "la sobremesa" - the cherished tradition of a conversation after eating. Don't miss out by eating at your desk; use this time to socialize, network, and perhaps pick up a few Spanish phrases to impress your colleagues! 

After work 👯‍♀️

Valencia isn't just a city with an historic old town, stunning sandy beaches, and iconic landmarks—there's a treasure trove of hotspots that make this place special! And guess what? Yobbers actually has an office right in the heart of Valencia! Cool, right? So, after work, take a stroll through Jardín del Turia which stretches over 9 km, borders Parque de Cabecera y Bioparc to the west and extends all the way to the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, another highlight in Valencia! Another one of our favorites is Playa de Pinedo. There, you'll find beautiful beaches, delicious food, and lovely walks. 

Do you want to go out and have some drinks after work with some colleagues or on the weekend with some friends? Then make sure to check out Cafe de las Horas, which has been around for 25 years, to try the best Agua de Valencia! This typical Valencian drink is made with orange juice, cava, vodka, gin, and sugar. Check out our blog for the best hotspots in Valencia.

Would you rather go and explore another city? The capital of Spain, Madrid, is a paradise for culture and food lovers. You’re in the land of flamenco, fresh tapas, and siesta. It's steeped in history and has tons to see—from beautiful parks and grand palaces to charming neighborhoods and long shopping streets. Are you a foodie? Make sure to visit the Mercado de San Miguel, Madrid's most impressive indoor market! You can taste the culture of Spain and eat delicious tapas. Do you want to know what it’s really like to live in Madrid? Read about Kate’s experience.

Exploring Madrid, make sure you take a walk in Retiro Park—it's right in the middle of the city and it's the biggest park in Spain. Locals call it 'Del Buen Retiro Park' (meaning: pleasant seclusion). After a long week, going out with friends is a must! There are lots of different things to do in the city for a fun night out, depending on what you like. Check out neighborhoods like Huertas, it's one of the liveliest and most famous parts of the city. Huertas is really popular among tourists and students from other countries. The streets with the most bars and clubs are Calle Huertas and the ones nearby. It's very close to Puerta del Sol. There is the super famous club called Kapital—it's Madrid’s biggest and best-known club. It used to be a theater and now it's seven floors of different music on each floor! 

Can you picture yourself living a day in Spain? Who knows, you might just find your next big adventure waiting for you there! Take a look at our vacancies in Spain. 🇪🇸