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Audio Guide Devices at Popular Sights

I’m planning a trip to Spain for this Fall and will likely take advantage of the audio guide devices available at some of the popular attractions. On my last trip to Europe in 2019 I took my own corded earbuds and was able to plug them into most the audio devices offered. Since it’s been a few years, I’m wondering if the technology has changed. Is it still possible to use my own corded earbuds at most places?

Posted by
2916 posts

Often the audio guide is an app that you use on your own phone. What specific sites? That might help.

Posted by
8 posts

Thank you. It’s helpful to know the technology has advanced. I hadn’t thought about the possibility that mobile Apps would be more prevalent now. We will plan on taking both our cordless and corded earbuds to give us options. Thanks again!

Posted by
8933 posts

....and, depending on what you will have available for data service, I would advise trying to download the guides ahead of time, or at least when you have Wi-Fi. Some are available through the Play Store or App store, you might try checking the Official site for the attraction, the last resort is scanning the QR code at the attraction.

It is definitely the case now, that if you travel without a phone and data plan, you may not be able to access the guides.

Posted by
3306 posts

@TalGal, there isn't a one-size-fits-all type of answer, it will depend on the attraction. As mentioned earlier, some will lend their own devices, others might offer an app to download and many will work with QRCodes -you scan them and it takes you to a specific webpage.

It might be a good idea to list the sites you plan to visit, and maybe we can collectively recall what sort of solution each of them provides.

There's also a great observation regarding data consumption while on the go. Check your phone plan to see whether you're restricted -or else you might end up with a hefty bill when you go back home.

Posted by
8 posts

Thank you. Rather than list all the sights we plan to visit, I think we’ll go prepared for various scenarios - download Apps in advance when possible, take cordless and corded earbuds, and alcohol wipes in case we have to use loaned equipment.

Thanks for everyone’s input!

Posted by
616 posts

One specific note:

There are two audio guides available at the Royal Alcazar. Sevilla. One is the corded headphone loaned player. I think that’s the official audio guide.

The other audio guide is the Artymax App sold just inside the entrance. Avoid the Artymax app at all cost. It is hot garbage.

Posted by
8 posts

Thank you. Last time we were abroad they offered old school over-ear head phones and I wasn’t excited about reusing them. So I wiped them off with disinfecting wipes. I’m glad to hear they’ve upgraded to earbuds that are not reused. And, we can probably use our own if the port is compatible.
Thanks again!