Pronouncing Spanish Place Names Correctly: A Traveler’s Guide


Traveling to Spain or Latin America can be exciting—but nothing derails a conversation faster than mispronouncing local place names. From Sevilla to Querétaro, Spanish place names often trip up English speakers. Mastering correct pronunciation not only shows respect for local culture but also helps you navigate more confidently.

This guide will cover key pronunciation rules, common pitfalls, and practical tips so you can say Spanish place names like a local.

Why Pronunciation Matters

  1. Cultural Respect – Pronouncing names correctly demonstrates respect for the local language and culture.

  2. Effective Communication – Asking for directions, ordering transportation, or checking into hotels is easier when locals understand you.

  3. Confidence – Knowing how to pronounce names correctly reduces embarrassment and helps you enjoy your trip more.

Basic Pronunciation Rules in Spanish

1. Vowels Are Simple

Spanish vowels are generally consistent, unlike English. There are five vowels, each with a single sound:

  • A = “ah” as in father

  • E = “eh” as in bet

  • I = “ee” as in machine

  • O = “oh” as in more

  • U = “oo” as in food

For example, Barcelona is pronounced Bar-seh-LOH-nah, not “Bar-sel-O-nuh.”

2. Stress and Accent Marks

Many Spanish words have an accent mark (´) to indicate stress:

  • Querétaro → KEH-reh-tah-ro (stress on the first syllable)

  • México → MEH-hee-ko

If there’s no accent mark, the stress usually falls on the second-to-last syllable for words ending in a vowel, “n,” or “s,” and on the last syllable for words ending in other consonants.

3. Consonants That Differ from English

Some consonants are pronounced differently than in English:

  • J = “h” sound → Jalisco = HAH-lee-sko

  • LL = “y” sound in most regions → Lleida = YAY-dah

  • Ñ = “ny” sound → Año = AH-nyo

Commonly Mispronounced Spanish Place Names

Place Name Correct Pronunciation Common Mistake
Sevilla (Spain) Seh-VEE-yah Se-VILL-uh
Guadalajara (Mexico) GWAH-dah-lah-hah-rah Gwad-a-la-RA
Querétaro (Mexico) KEH-reh-tah-ro Kwer-ET-uh-ro
Bogotá (Colombia) Boh-GOH-tah Bo-GOT-ah
La Coruña (Spain) Lah Koh-ROO-nyah La KOR-uh-nuh

Practical Tips for Travelers

  1. Listen to Locals – Use apps like Google Maps or language guides to hear native pronunciations.

  2. Break Words into Syllables – Pronounce each syllable slowly at first, then combine.

  3. Avoid Anglicizing Names – Don’t try to force English sounds onto Spanish words.

  4. Practice Key Cities Before Traveling – Focus on major destinations to gain confidence.

Why Getting It Right Pays Off

  • Better Experiences – Locals are more willing to engage with travelers who make an effort.

  • Fewer Misunderstandings – Reduces confusion in directions, bookings, and local interactions.

  • Cultural Credibility – Shows you care about learning and respecting the language.

Conclusion: Speak Like a Local

Pronouncing Spanish place names correctly might seem challenging at first, but with practice and awareness of basic rules, it becomes second nature. Remember: vowels are consistent, stress matters, and some consonants differ from English.

By taking the time to learn correct pronunciation, you’ll improve communication, show respect, and enhance your travel experience. Next time you visit Sevilla, Querétaro, or Bogotá, you’ll say the names like a local—and that makes all the difference.