Traveling to a Spanish-speaking country is an exciting adventure, but communication can sometimes be a challenge. Learning a few key phrases can make your trip smoother, help you connect with locals, and enhance your overall experience. You don’t need to be fluent to travel confidently—mastering essential phrases is enough to handle common situations like ordering food, asking for directions, or seeking assistance. This guide presents the top 20 Spanish phrases every traveler should know.
Greetings and Basic Politeness
Politeness is important when interacting with locals. Using proper greetings and courtesies shows respect and can open doors for friendly conversations.
Hola – Hello
A simple greeting that works in almost any situation.
Buenos días / Buenas tardes / Buenas noches – Good morning / Good afternoon / Good evening
Use these greetings according to the time of day to be polite and culturally appropriate.
Por favor – Please
Always accompany requests with this word for courtesy.
Gracias / Muchas gracias – Thank you / Thank you very much
Showing appreciation goes a long way in building rapport with locals.
Perdón / Disculpe – Excuse me / Sorry
Use this to get attention or apologize for minor mistakes or interruptions.
Asking for Directions
Finding your way around is crucial while traveling. These phrases help you navigate streets, transport systems, and landmarks.
¿Dónde está…? – Where is…?
Use this to ask for locations like a hotel, restaurant, or attraction.
¿Cómo llego a…? – How do I get to…?
A practical phrase for asking directions.
Estoy perdido / perdida – I’m lost
Let someone know you need help finding your way.
¿Cuánto cuesta el boleto / la entrada? – How much is the ticket / entrance?
Essential when buying tickets for public transport or attractions.
At Restaurants and Cafés
Food is a highlight of travel, and these phrases help you order, ask questions, and enjoy local cuisine with ease.
Quisiera… – I would like…
Use this when ordering food or drinks politely.
La cuenta, por favor – The check, please
Useful when you’re ready to pay.
¿Me puede recomendar algo? – Can you recommend something?
Ask locals or waitstaff for suggestions to discover popular dishes.
Soy alérgico / alérgica a… – I’m allergic to…
Indicate food allergies to prevent health issues.
Shopping and Transactions
Shopping in local markets or stores is part of the travel experience. These phrases help with purchases and basic interactions.
¿Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?
Ask for the price of items.
¿Acepta tarjeta de crédito? – Do you accept credit cards?
Helpful when paying in stores, restaurants, or hotels.
Solo estoy mirando – I’m just looking
A polite way to browse without pressure.
Emergencies and Assistance
Safety is important, and knowing how to ask for help or report issues is essential.
Ayuda, por favor – Help, please
A general phrase to seek assistance in urgent situations.
Necesito un médico – I need a doctor
Vital for medical emergencies.
Llamen a la policía – Call the police
Use in case of theft, danger, or other emergencies.
No hablo mucho español – I don’t speak much Spanish
A useful phrase to clarify language limitations and request slower or simpler explanations.