Editor’s Note: Coronavirus cases are in flux across the globe. Health officials caution that staying home is the best way to stem transmission until you’re fully vaccinated. Below is information on what to know if you still plan to travel, last updated on October 21.
If you’re planning to travel to Spain, here’s what you’ll need to know and expect if you want to visit during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The basics
Spain has suffered greatly from Covid-19, with a high number of cases and deaths. The Omicron coronavirus variant caused a peak in Spain earlier in 2022, but cases have since dropped.
Spain is open for travel and recently removed its remaining entry restrictions, see below.
What’s on offer
One of Europe’s biggest hitters for good reason, Spain pulls tourists in by the millions thanks to its warm weather, laidback vibe and excellent food and wine.
Plus, of course, there are some of Europe’s best beach resorts, mountains, and cultural cities such as Madrid, Seville and Barcelona.
Who can go
Travelers arriving in Spain by air or sea from EU or Schengen countries are no longer subject to any Covid-19 entry restrictions.
As of October 21, travelers arriving from elsewhere in the world are also no longer subject to any Covid-19 entry restrictions.
Previously, travelers from outside the EU and Schengen zone had to provide either a certificate proving full vaccination, a negative test (PCR or rapid antigen) or a certificate of recovery.
What are the restrictions?
Spain’s Covid-19-related entry restrictions have been removed.
What’s the Covid situation?
Spain has seen more than 13.4 million Covid infections and over 114,600 deaths as of October 21, 2022.
As of October 21, over 88.3% of the population has received at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine.
What can visitors expect?
Face masks are no longer mandatory in most public spaces, but remain compulsory on all public transport. See details here.
Useful links
Our latest coverage
Spain’s Barcelona to Montserrat railway route made our list of Europe’s most beautiful train journeys, while Belchite features in our round-up of fascinating abandoned towns from across the world.
Spain’s Olavidia cheese was crowned the world’s best at the 2021 World Cheese Awards, while the town of Regencos on the Costa Brava made our list of the most beautiful towns in Europe.
You can also find out what it’s like hiking Spain’s “Coast of Death” here.
And if you’re after culture, Cordoba has more UNESCO-rated sights than anywhere else in the country, or head to Figueres to visit Dali’s bizarre self-curated museum.
Joe Minihane, Julia Buckley and Francesca Street contributed to this report