Spain keeps pulling people back, and for good reason. Whether you’re chasing golden beaches, wandering through ancient cities, or just looking to eat your way through tapas and paella, this country delivers every single time. I’ve met so many Brits who make Spain their go-to destination, and honestly, I don’t blame them. It’s sunny and quite affordable.
Do You Need a Visa?
If you’re holding a UK passport, the good news is that you can visit Spain without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date.
But heads-up! Starting in the last quarter of 2026, the EU will roll out something called ETIAS. It’s not a visa, but a quick online authorization you’ll need before entering Spain and other Schengen countries. It’s simple and fast to apply, but don’t forget it.
For peace of mind, always check the latest entry rules on the UK government’s official website before booking anything. Rules can change and you don’t want surprises at the airport.
Best Ways to Travel to Spain from the UK
By Plane
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Spain. Direct flights take 2 to 3 hours. You can fly from London, Manchester, or other UK cities to:
- Madrid (MAD)
- Barcelona (BCN)
- Malaga (AGP)
- Alicante (ALC)
- Seville (SVQ)
Budget airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and Vueling often have cheap flights, so book early for the best deals.
By Train
If you prefer train travel:
- Take the Eurostar from London to Paris (2.5 hours).
- From Paris, take a high-speed train to Madrid or Barcelona.
Train travel is longer but offers scenic views and comfort.
By Car and Ferry
If you’re like me and enjoy the freedom of the open road, then driving to Spain can be an adventure all on its own. You’ve got a few solid options to choose from. You can take the Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais, or hop on a ferry from Portsmouth to cities like Bilbao or Santander. From there, it’s a scenic drive through France straight into Spain.
What I love about this route is that you get to turn your journey into part of the trip. You can stop in little French towns, grab a croissant, stretch your legs, and soak up a bit of French countryside before crossing the Spanish border. It’s perfect if you’re not in a rush and want to experience more than just one country.
By Coach
Now if you’re on a tight budget or just want to keep things simple, taking a coach is the cheapest way to get from London to Spain. Companies like FlixBus and Eurolines have routes that run regularly. Just be prepared as the ride is long. We’re talking over 24 hours on the road. It’s not the most comfortable, but it gets you there without breaking the bank.
Personally, I’d recommend the coach if you’re up for the experience and don’t mind a bit of a journey. Bring snacks, download your favorite shows, and you’re good to go.
Best Cities to Visit in Spain
Spain is one of those countries that never disappoints. Every city in this beautiful country has its own rhythm and something unique to offer. That being said, below are some of the best cities to visit if you ever find yourself in Spain:
Madrid
Spain’s lively capital is a mix of royal charm and modern hustle. You’ll find world-class museums like the Prado and Reina Sofía, massive green spaces like Retiro Park, and some of the best nightlife in Europe. Madrid is bold, full of energy, and easy to fall in love with.
Barcelona
This is where art meets the sea. The architecture alone is worth the trip. For example, the likes of Gaudí’s Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and the whimsical buildings will leave you speechless. Add in the beaches, tapas bars, and bustling markets like La Boqueria, and you’ve got a city that’s hard to beat.
Seville
This one is a personal favorite. Seville feels like old Spain. Flamenco dancers in the plazas, horse-drawn carriages rolling by, and the scent of orange blossoms in the air. It’s also home to the stunning Alcázar and one of the largest cathedrals in the world.
Valencia
Valencia gives you the best of both worlds. Why? Because you get historic old town streets and futuristic buildings like the City of Arts and Sciences. And of course, this is where paella was born. Trust me, it tastes better when you eat it here.
Malaga
Located along the Costa del Sol, Malaga is a sunny, coastal city that’s much more than a beach destination. It has a growing arts scene, great shopping, and surprisingly rich history. Plus, it’s the birthplace of Picasso.
How Much Does It Cost?
Spain is generally affordable, especially compared to many other Western European countries. Here’s a rough idea of what to expect:
Flights
Budget airlines can get you there for as little as £30 if you plan ahead. Full-service flights usually start at around £100.
Hotels:
- Budget: £40 to £60 per night
- Mid-range: £80 to £120
- Luxury: £150 and up
Food:
Tapas: €3 to €7 each
Sit-down restaurant meal: €10 to €25
Transport:
Metro or bus ride: €1.50 to €2.50
Day pass: €7 to €10
Best Time to Visit Spain
Spain has something to offer year-round, but here’s how the seasons usually play out:
- Spring (March to May): Warm, comfortable weather with fewer tourists. Great for walking tours and sightseeing.
- Summer (June to August): It gets hot, especially inland, and popular spots can be crowded. But if you love the beach and nightlife, this is prime time.
- Autumn (September to November): My favorite season to visit. Prices drop, the weather cools a bit, and everything feels more relaxed.
- Winter (December to February): Mild compared to northern Europe. Ideal for city breaks, cultural trips, and checking out Christmas markets.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Currency: Spain uses the Euro (€).
- Time Zone: Spain is 1 hour ahead of the UK.
- Language: People speak Spanish, but many in tourist areas know English.
- Power Sockets: Spain uses Type C and F plugs, so you may need an adapter.
- Tipping: Not required, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common.
Final Tips
- Book flights and hotels early to save money.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases. Doing this will help you tremendously. Trust me!
- Spain has excellent public transport. So you do yourself a disservice if you fail to use it!
For official travel updates, visit UK Government Travel Advice or Spanish Government Travel Information.
Resources Used for This Article
- UK Government Travel Advice for Spain
- Spanish Government Official Travel Information
- Eurostar: www.eurostar.com
- Ryanair: www.ryanair.com
- EasyJet: www.easyjet.com
