Travel to Spain From the UK
When it comes to travelling from the UK to Spain, there are several options available to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you're looking for a quick flight, a scenic road trip, or a leisurely ferry ride, Spain is easily accessible from the UK.
There are also a few other things that you should prepare before your trip commences such as medical cover, travel insurance and the new Etias Visa Waiver system
In this article, we'll explore the main travel options, including air travel, road trips, and ferry crossings, plus provide you with all the information you need to plan your journey.
Air Travel:
One of the most popular and convenient ways to reach Spain from the UK is by air.
With numerous flights operating between major cities, you can easily find direct flights to popular Spanish destinations such as Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca, Alicante and Valencia.
Airlines such as British Airways, Ryanair, EasyJet, and Iberia offer regular flights from various UK airports. Try checking for low-cost flights via the Cheap Flights website, which often has special flight deals to Spain.
Flying to Spain provides the advantage of saving time and reaching your destination quickly. It's an excellent option for those looking for a hassle-free journey and limited travel time.
Additionally, many airports in Spain are well-connected to the city centers, making it convenient to explore your desired destination upon arrival.
Road Trips:
For those who enjoy the adventure of a road trip, driving from the UK to Spain offers a unique experience. The journey can be divided into several stages, allowing you to explore different countries and landscapes along the way.
The most common route is through France, where you can drive through scenic regions such as the Loire Valley, Bordeaux, and the Pyrenees.
Travelling by road provides the freedom to stop at charming towns, explore hidden gems, and take in breathtaking landscapes.
It's an opportunity to create your own itinerary and discover the beauty of multiple countries en route to Spain.
However, it's important to plan your journey in advance, considering factors like driving regulations, tolls, and accommodation options along the way.
Ferry Crossings:
If you prefer a more relaxed and scenic mode of transportation, ferry crossings offer a delightful way to travel from the UK to Spain.
Several ferry operators, such as Brittany Ferries and P&O Ferries, offer regular sailings from ports like Portsmouth, Plymouth, and Southampton to destinations including Santander and Bilbao in northern Spain.
Taking a ferry allows you to bring your car, giving you the freedom to explore Spain at your own pace once you arrive.
Onboard facilities like restaurants, bars, and entertainment options ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Moreover, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and coastline during the crossing, adding a touch of adventure to your travel experience.
Considerations and Tips:
Travel Documents: Ensure you have valid passports and any necessary visas for your trip.
Booking in Advance: To secure the best deals and availability, it's advisable to book flights, ferries, or accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Our travel resources page will help you find deals and help you plan your Spanish holiday.
Travel Insurance: Don't forget to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers any potential emergencies or medical needs during your trip.
Local Regulations: Familiarise yourself with the local driving regulations if you plan to drive in Spain and ensure your vehicle meets the necessary requirements.
Itinerary Planning: Research your destination thoroughly and plan your itinerary to make the most of your time in Spain.
ETIAS Visa Waiver: The new ETIAS visa waiver system takes effect in November 2023.
Download our comprehensive article all about travelling to Spain. You can also download our FREE E-Guides, to help you plan your next holiday to Spain.
Medical Cover Whilst Visiting Spain
When you travel to Spain from UK you should be in possession of an EHIC or GHIC card and travel insurance.
- European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
- UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)
- Travel insurance with appropriate healthcare cover
An EHIC or GHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance. You should have both before you travel to Spain from the UK.
What EHIC and GHIC covers
An EHIC or GHIC provides coverage for state healthcare services and not for private treatment. With an EHIC or GHIC, you can receive the medically necessary treatment in Spain under the same conditions as a Spanish citizen. This means that you will receive healthcare services either for free or at a reduced cost.
However, it's important to note that an EHIC or GHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance. It does not cover all eventualities, such as mountain rescue or medical repatriation back to the UK. Therefore, it is recommended to have both an EHIC or GHIC and travel insurance in place before travelling to Spain.
If you do not have an EHIC, GHIC, or provisional replacement certificate (PRC), you may be required to pay the full cost for any treatment you receive within the Spanish healthcare system.
To ensure you have appropriate coverage and avoid any unexpected expenses, it is essential to carry a valid EHIC or GHIC and have comprehensive travel insurance in place before your trip to Spain. This way, you can have peace of mind and access necessary healthcare services while enjoying your time abroad.
How to apply for an EHIC or GHIC card?
You can easily apply for these cards for free on the NHS website.
How to use it
Show your EHIC or GHIC when you visit any state hospital or doctor.
Important: EHIC or GHIC cards will not cover private health care in Spain. private healthcare.
Latest Entry Requirements To Travel to Spain from the UK
Spain has dropped its ongoing Covid travel restrictions from October 2022, especially for those looking to travel to Spain from UK.
This means that vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers alike can now enjoy all that Spain has to offer without the worry of additional testing or proof of vaccination.
This should bring a sense of freedom and peace of mind to everyone looking to travel to Spain.
Travelling to Spain From The UK
The entry rules for UK citizens into Spain are the same as other EU and NON-EU citizens as far as the COVID-19 regulations are concerned, from the 21st of October 2022 you are NOT required to:
- Show proof of being fully vaccinated
- Show proof of a negative COVID-19 test
- Show proof of having recovered from COVID-19 in the last 6 months.
- No need to complete a health control form prior to travel.
Visa Requirements: The new ATIAS Visa Waiver system takes effect from November 2023.
At the moment UK citizens are not required to have prior approval or a visa to visit Spain or other EU countries. This, however, is planned to change in 2024 when the new ETIAS visa waiver system should some into effect.
UK citizens will be able to apply online for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) for travelling to the Schengen area.
ETIAS is a visa waiver system that allows UK citizens to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
To be eligible for ETIAS, UK citizens must have a valid passport that is valid for at least 3 months after their planned departure date from the Schengen area.
They must also have a valid debit or credit card to pay the ETIAS fee. In addition, you will need to answer a few security-related questions before submitting the application.
Applying for an ETIAS Visa Waiver
- Over 40 countries will require an ETIAS VISA
- The start date for ETIAS is November 2023
- The cost is € 7 per person.
- It is FREE for persons under 18 and over 70
- It takes approximately 1 hour for issuance once applied for.
- An ETIAS VISA will last 3 years.
To apply for the visa waiver you will need to visit the official ETIAS website which should be available close to November 2023. Hopefully, there will also be a mobile app available.
Applications will be available entirely online and all information you provide should be accurate and correct, failure to do so could result in unnecessary delays or outright rejection of your application
The process will take around 10 minutes, once complete you will receive within a short time the confirmation and authority to enter the EU.
The cost of the application is proposed to be €7 per person over the age of 18, you will need the following items to apply for ETIAS.
- A valid Biometric UK passport.
- A credit/debit card is used to pay for the ETIAS application.
- An active email address.
Please note that for Spain travel requirements your passport validity should have at least 3 months remaining before your intended departure.
For the ETIAS application, you will need to provide accurate information about you and your travel plans, including:
- Full name, place, date of birth, and gender.
- Full contact details such as your current address, email address, and phone number.
- Full passport details, date and place of issue, and your country of residence.
- Your travel plans such as which countries you plan to visit within the EU.
- There will also be a few questions relating to health and security.
Once the online application for ETIAS is launched, it is estimated that there will be an acceptance rate of approximately 95%.
In the event that your ETIAS application is rejected, you will receive an email providing detailed explanations for the decision and instructions on how to file an appeal if desired.
Once your application is approved, the ETIAS authorization will remain valid for three years, allowing you to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Although at the moment the application process is not currently in operation you will be able to apply for an ETIAS Visa Waiver via the official EU Etias website here: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en.