Dating in Spain (2023): Navigating the World of Romance

Europe is known as a continent full of romance, and dating in Spain is no different. If you’re looking to start off your dating relationships on the right foot, this guide will help you get started. This article shares more about what dating is like in Spain and helps you navigate the world of romance there. This viewpoint is that of the two areas in which I have lived and dated personally, Barcelona and Madrid, although it will serve the purpose of a guide to dating in Spain in general. If you’re looking for romance in Spain, use this guide to help you date with success. 

My Experience Dating in Spain

To better relate to your season of dating while in Spain, I wanted to share my dating history in both the cities of Barcelona and Madrid.  Although I haven’t been dating extensively while in Spain, I have had a few dates with Spanish women to help provide some insight into the dating world. All of the dating encounters I had have felt very similar and consistent. When reflecting on the time with my dates, what struck me the most was how casual my dates have been. The atmosphere of the dates with Spaniards was full of laughter, beers, and tapas. Good food is important on a date with a Spaniard, which will be discussed more throughout this article.

A Spanish woman never asked me about my diplomas or career. I never felt inadequate or like I needed to impress Spanish women with my accolades and accomplishments. We didn’t have deep, serious talks about our future but instead savored the moment together. We were simply enjoying our time together over good food and conversation and left the more serious conversations for later. When it came time to pay the bill at the end of the date, the Spanish women gladly offered to split it equally (though I insisted). I learned a lot about Spanish culture through dating and learned that most dates were similar, full of light-hearted discussion and good fellowship.

The Essence of Dating in Spain

Before asking women out, understanding the overall vibe of dating in Spain is important. One of the most important words in a relationship with a Spaniard is passion. Passion is an immediate feeling that comes across from conversations with Spaniards as they share their life passions and dreams. 

It’s important to understand the looks of Spaniards before dating. With a unique, beautiful appearance, Spaniards typically have dark eyes and dark hair. Yet as you spend more time in different regions of Spain, you will see that the look varies, and blonde hair and even blue eyes can be common. Spaniards are known for their beauty, and in my experience, I have definitely met beautiful women in Spain.

There is also a known essence of maintaining beauty in Spain and not letting oneself go. Compared to other countries such as America, you will not find Spanish women walking around in sweatpants. On the contrary, while Spaniards typically focus on their natural beauty with less makeup, they do put time and effort into their flawless external appearances. 

Embracing Spanish Passion in Relationships

Have you ever heard anything about a Spanish love affair? It’s hard not to think of emotion and intensity when thinking of Spanish passion in relationships. Spaniards of all ages, from young teens in love to elderly couples, have a romantic conception of love. They all view love as an irresistible passion involving intimacy and a physical attraction to their partner.

Many studies have been conducted on Spanish relationships, and Spaniards of all ages have a romantic conception of love. While the passion shown in relationships in Spain is romantic, it is also formed with a friendship base. Spaniards are loyal and committed and go all-in on intimate relationships with their companions. These lovers are not afraid to publicly declare their love for their partner.

How does this type of altruistic love in Spain relate to other European countries? A country that is similar regarding relationships with Spain is Italy. How Spaniards and Italians approach individuals in dating situations is very similar: warm and welcoming. Spain is a very liberal country for dating.

In contrast, in other countries, such as the Netherlands, where I’m from, public displays of affection are often avoided, and intimacy is left for private. In Spain, public showings of love are very common, showing the world the couples’ love for all to see. Compared to outside Europe, women from America are considered overconfident and go-getters in dating, while Spanish women are more traditional and laid-back in their initial approach to men. 

Timing is Relative: The Relaxed Spanish Approach

So what about dates: is Spain relaxed or more traditional when it comes to the dating routine? When you’re in Spain, it is socially accepted to go on casual, no-strings-attached type dates. There is no long-term commitment needed when signing up for a date in Spain. Casual dates and hookup culture are common in Spain, with a relaxed approach to forming relationships.

When headed on dates, does that mean Spaniards can no-show, be late, or change plans at the last minute? Punctuality is definitely not the most necessary trait when it comes to dating. In Spain, people can arrive late on dates, within thirty minutes or so late, without any social concern. A term in Spain is no pasa nada, meaning the reason one was late is not all that important to the date.

In other European countries, the approach to dating is a little less relaxed. For example, punctuality is important in Germany and Switzerland and could turn your date quickly. Arriving late shows a lack of interest in the date waiting for you, and punctuality is valuable in dating there. In the Netherlands, it is considered rude and a turn-off if your date doesn’t prioritize your time and instead makes you wait. 

Beyond the Date: The Role of Friends and Family

Does your intimate relationship with your partner include your mother, grandmother, and brother? In Spain, dating isn’t just a private one-on-one relationship; it’s a family affair. Movies like Meet the Parents have made introductions to families through the dating process famous, but in real life in Spain, family is important in dating. Beyond the date, men and women should expect to meet their potential lover’s family early in the process. Let’s take a deeper look into the role of friends and family when dating in Spain. 

In Spain, friends and family come first. Although dating is important, close-living friends and family will always take priority. Spaniards are very social people, meaning they make it a point to surround themselves with their family and friends consistently. There is even a term in Spanish for one-on-one time, surrounded by a sweet meal together around the table with family and friends, called la merienda. This catch-up time is crucial for both men and women, and dating will not come in the way of that special time with family.

On many occasions, depending on your age, your date may still live at home with their parents in Spain. It is extremely common for Spaniards in their late twenties to still call their parents’ home their home, too. After family time, friend time, and in many cases, work time, dating will then be the next priority in the lives of both Spanish men and women. 

Tips for Navigating the Dating Scene in Spain

So, let’s get down to some practical tips on navigating the dating scene in Spain. It is certainly not impossible to find the love of your life in Spain, yet it’s important to consider this guide when beginning to date there. Dating someone from a different culture can be different and feel foreign, but it’s also incredibly exciting and rewarding.

1. The Art of Dressing: Making Impressions Count

To succeed while dating in Spain, you must dress to impress. Many cultures, specifically the dating scene in America, are considered very casual, with the art of dressing, not a huge factor. When dating in Spain, making a good first impression counts, and one way to do that is through appropriate dating attire.

Traditional clothing in Spain has always been centered on one important factor: expressing oneself authentically. Each region of Spain has its own particular attire that is a mix of various cultures represented in their area. While showing up in a chulapo for a date may be a bit antiquated in Madrid, for example, attire for dating still matters in Spain.   

Your attire for a modern-day date in Spain depends largely on the time of the event and where you are meeting. Many young professionals go right to their date after work in Spain, so they wear their professional office clothes to a club or restaurant afterward. If a date is on a Friday or Saturday, women tend to dress up more in dresses, skirts, or tight pants with a top and heels. Men typically wear chino pants and a shirt or polo shirt, but some particular clubs require a dress code. Be sure to check into the dress code of your meeting place to make the best first impression while maintaining your own unique style.

2. Open Expressions: Understanding Public Displays of Affection

Public displays of affection, or PDA, are frowned upon in many cultures. These cultures are typically more conservative and rigid, and some countries actually completely forbid PDA. For example, many of the countries in Southeast Asia, such as Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand, frown upon any form of affection in public. In the United Arab Emirates and specifically in the city of Dubai, kissing in public is actually illegal and could come with a fine.

Thankfully, you’re dating in Spain, where PDA is not just legal; it’s accepted and encouraged. Considered one of the world’s most affectionate nations, Spain is a country where you’ll see couples sitting on the same side of the booth, making physical contact during conversation. Oftentimes, you can observe PDA from a new couple, even on the first date.

While walking the streets of Spain, you will see couples holding hands, kissing, and touching most commonly. Lovers and couples are not scared to show affection for one another, even in front of kids, strangers, and co-workers. If you’re a fan of public displays of affection, Spain may be a great scene for you while dating.

3. Take it Slow: The Spanish Way of Progressing in Relationships

Once you have made it through the dating scene in Spain and found your significant other, it’s time to navigate progress in a relationship. While you may be smitten and fell hard fast, it’s important to take it slow, especially when saying the “te amo” words. In Spain, it’s good to know the different stages of romantic love, which is similar to many Latin American nations. 

Referring to liking someone is “me gustas” and to like them a lot is “me encantas.” When you’re beginning to have feelings of affection, that is known as “te quiero.” Falling in love with your partner is “te amo,” and even deeper love is called “te adoro.” You definitely don’t want to let your partner know that you adore them on the first day!

The progression of relationships in Spain is organic, laid-back, and cannot be forced or faked. These connections are formed through genuine connections and shared experiences built on trust and intimacy. One of the quickest ways to slow down the progression of a relationship is not to be accepted by the partner’s inner circle. It is important for all suitors to spend quality time with the friends and family of a partner to progress further in the relationship. 

Where and How to Meet Your Spanish Match

If you want to find your perfect match in Spain but don’t know where to start, this guide will help you meet that special someone. A first piece of advice tied to dating in Spain is that the way of Spaniards’ hearts is through their stomachs. Traditional Spanish food is fundamental in Spanish culture, so knowing what is served in a typical breakfast or dinner is essential to dating. If you know your date loves chocolate, consider a coffee and churros outing at a local cafe. Some dates may require research on specific diets, such as vegetarian-friendly dishes in Spain, so be sure to research restaurants before meeting. 

1. Digital Love: Popular Dating Apps in Spain

While spending quality time together in person is most important in Spain, not all relationships form through traditional meetings. Dating apps, like in many countries around the world, are extremely popular in Spain. There are many options for dating apps in Spain, so be sure to try out several to see which is the best fit for you. These dating apps are free, but all offer different types of communication with prospective suitors.  Three dating apps, especially common in Spain amongst younger people and expats, are Tinder, Bumble, and Badoo.

2. Beyond the Screen: Traditional Ways to Find Love

If online dating isn’t for you, there are more traditional ways to find love in Spain. Since family members and friends are so close to Spaniards’ hearts, one of the most common ways to find a partner is through one’s social circle. Oftentimes, families will have recommendations of potential dates for a son or a daughter, possibly the child of one of their friends. If not, some of the best ways Spaniards have found dates beyond the screen are through joining activity clubs, attending local events, or becoming involved in the community. 

If being part of a community is not your thing, consider hitting the nightlife scene in Spain to look for love. One great Spanish nighttime activity for singles is to attend a flamenco show in Madrid. Another great activity to consider that could be a great way to connect with locals and potentially find love is attending a cooking class in Madrid. Another great option for daters is wine festivals located throughout Spain which are popular social events great for gathering and meeting others. Throughout Spain, daters will find many social occasions to meet traditionally and in person.

Overcoming Challenges: Language and Cultural Nuances

Dating in Spain, or any different country than your native country, can come with its own challenges. I have personally experienced how difficult learning language and cultural nuances can be in the dating world. It surprises many foreign daters to learn that while there are many English-speaking Spaniards, there is still a significant part of the population in Spain that does not speak English at all. Depending on the area of Spain, English may be heard even more infrequently. For example, major tourist areas such as Barcelona have many English speakers, yet it is much less common in remote areas such as Asturias.

Learning Spanish is not always completely essential to date in Spain. However, it helps to have a base understanding of the language, going back to first impressions that leave an everlasting mark. One way to learn the language quickly to date a Spaniard more efficiently is through a Spanish school. For example, I learned Spanish in Valencia, which worked well for me, and these language schools exist throughout the country of Spain.

The cultural differences in Spain could challenge dating there, but they are not barriers to finding love. Spaniards tend to be more late and less courteous of other’s time than in other countries. This is not considered rude but is simply a cultural trait. Because Spaniards are so social, your intimate date for two may become a group friend hangout for you to meet their social circle. Being open-minded to the cultural differences that occur in Spain rather than becoming offended by them will help you succeed in finding love there.

Wrapping Up: Falling in Love with Spain and its Dating Culture

In conclusion, the essence of Spanish dating is laid-back, romantic, and centered around their social circle. Spanish partners make great companions and lovers, and public displays of affection are almost guaranteed in Spain with a date. Making a good first impression, both on the date and with their family and friends, will help ensure that the relationship can progress. Both in-person social events and online virtual ways exist to meet that special someone in Spain, yet you should be aware of cultural differences before entering the dating scene.

Leaving you with a final tip for successful dating in Spain, be sure to download Uber in Spain to help make social outings effortless. Especially if dating in major cities like Madrid or Barcelona, having the right apps and research done for your date will help ensure a successful first impression.