Language & Local Tips
Essential Spanish and Catalan phrases plus insider local knowledge.
Essential Phrases
Hello
Greeting anyone, entering a shop
Good morning
Morning greeting until midday
Good evening
Afternoon/evening greeting
Thank you
Everywhere, all the time
Please
When ordering or requesting anything
Excuse me / Sorry
Getting attention, apologising
Do you speak English?
Starting a conversation
The bill, please
At restaurants — they won't bring it unless you ask
A table for two/four
Arriving at a restaurant
Water (still/sparkling)
Ordering water at restaurants
A beer, please
At a bar or restaurant
A coffee with milk
Morning coffee order
Where is…?
Asking for directions
The beach
Combined with '¿Dónde está…?'
How much is it?
Shopping, markets
Yes / No
Universal
Goodbye
Leaving a shop or restaurant
I'd like…
Ordering food, requesting things
It's delicious!
Complimenting the food — chefs love it
Can I pay by card?
Most places accept cards but good to check at markets
Cheers!
Raising a glass
I don't understand
When you need them to repeat or simplify