Spain Travel Insurance, Tips and Safety Information (2024)

Whether you’re going to Spain to relax on its beautiful beaches and resorts or to explore its history and famous architecture like the Sagrada Familia cathedral, there’s plenty to explore across the country. No matter what you’re looking for on your next adventure, Travel Guard can help you plan.

In this article:

  • Travel Insurance for Spain

  • Spain Travel Tips and Safety Information

  • Other Spain FAQs

Travel Insurance for Spain

Do I need a travel insurance plan to visit Spain?

We recommend that you visit the Spain travel advice page on the Government of Canada website prior to booking your trip. While it is not required to have travel insurance to visit Spain, travel insurance is highly recommended as your provincial health care plan may not include coverage when travelling internationally. Having a travel insurance plan with medical coverage (in addition to other helpful coverage) is always beneficial.

What is the best travel insurance plan for Spain?

The needs of every traveller are different, which is why our All Inclusive Package is a great option as it provides coverage for trip cancellation and trip interruption. This package also includes emergency medical insurance, baggage insurance and 24/7 emergency travel assistance. Be sure to review the policy wording for a full list of the terms and conditions of coverage including the covered risks and benefits of the All Inclusive Packages. Most of our insurance plan options are available online; however, additional options may be available through our World Service Centre by calling 866-648-8422 or by contacting one of our industry partners.

How much is a travel insurance plan for a trip to Spain?

On average, a Travel Guard travel insurance plan costs between 5-7% of the total price of your trip. Several factors come into play when pricing your plan, such as the packages you select and the cost of your trip. For more details on pricing, check out our article on how much travel insurance costs.

Ready to book your travel insurance plan for your trip to Spain? Travel Guard’s travel insurance plans provide excellent coverage options and access to 24-hour emergency travel assistance. Compare our travel insurance plans to find the best option for your travels today.

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Spain Travel Tips and Safety Information

Spain Travel Insurance, Tips and Safety Information (1)

Travel Guard provides excellent travel insurance plan options for travellers to Spain. To ensure visitors to the country are as safe and informed as possible, we’ve compiled some popular answers to questions that tourists travelling to Spain may have.

Is Spain safe to visit?

Overall, Spain is a relatively safe country to visit. One of the biggest concerns for travellers is petty crime, which is common in crowded areas, at tourist sites and on public transportation. It’s a good idea to carry only the cash and credit cards you need for the day and leave the rest – along with a copy of your passport – in your hotel safe. You may want to consider wearing a hidden money belt for added safety.

Demonstrations, protests and strikes also occur with some frequency in Spain. Stay away from large crowds to be on the safe side, and make sure you check for any planned transport strikes when you’re making transportation arrangements.

Visit the Government of Canada website for up-to-date information on travel advisory levels and safety information for travellers to Spain.

All Canadian travellers should enroll in the Registration of Canadians Abroad program, a free service offered to Canadian citizens travelling and living abroad. Enrolling in this program allows you to receive important information from the Government of Canada and helps them contact you in an emergency.

What currency is used in Spain?

The official currency in Spain is the Euro. You will be able to exchange currency at the airport before or after your departure, at banks in major cities or ATMs. Credit and debit cards are largely accepted as well, but remember to contact your bank before your travels to avoid unwanted interruptions. If you plan on visiting local or small vendors, carry cash with you in case credit or debit cards are not accepted.

What language is spoken in Spain?

The official language of Spain is Castilian Spanish, but there are other languages spoken across the country, including Galician, Catalan and some English. While you are likely to find English speakers at popular tourist destinations and resorts, you will benefit from learning common sayings and phrases to help you get by on your travels. One way to ensure you won’t get lost in translation is to download an app to help you translate. Make sure you choose an app that doesn’t require Wi-Fi so that you can use it no matter where you are.

Do I need a visa or passport to travel to Spain?

Spain is a Schengen-area country, which means it has standardized entry and exit requirements with 26 other European countries to remove the need for internal borders. Canadians may travel visa-free in the Schengen area, including Spain, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays that are longer than 90 days require a visa. All Canadians travelling internationally require a Canadian passport that’s valid for at least three months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

How do I contact the Canadian Embassy in Spain?

The Canadian Embassy in Spain is in Madrid. Visit the official Government of Canada website for a list of up-to-date phone numbers and addresses.

What is the weather like in Spain?

Spain is known for its year-round sunny weather and mild temperatures. Still, the country experiences some variety between seasons. From March to June, you’ll find sunshine almost every day, which is why Spring is the season that most visitors prefer. The summertime in Spain brings high heat and an even drier climate so most tourists prefer to spend their time at the beach when visiting at this time of year to stay cool.

You still won’t find a lot of rain from September to November, but temperatures begin to drop a bit. Depending on the climate you’re used to, you may want to dress in light layers to stay comfortable. Spain’s winter is from December to February, and it is the rainiest season for the country. While rainfall is not drastic, you’ll want to pack an umbrella on your travels.

When is the best time of year to visit Spain?

Spring is a popular time of year to visit Spain. Not only is the weather sunny and warm, but there are many popular events to celebrate on your vacation. Appreciate the arts with the four-day Las Fallas festival in Valencia, celebrate the religious festivities of Semana Santa in Málaga or take in the gorgeous florals during the Battle of the Flowers in Córdoba.

In the summer you can celebrate La Tomatina, a town-wide food fight in Buñol with tomatoes. And during the early fall, be on the lookout for The Human Towers of Tarragona or join in on the festivities of Carnival in February.

What is the dial code for phoning to and from Spain?

Spain’s dial code is +34. When making international calls, remember to use the Canadian exit code 011, followed by the dial code and then the area code. Calling a landline is typically less expensive than connecting with a cell phone. To ensure you don’t run into any unexpected fees, be sure to check with your cell phone provider before your trip about international calling.

What kind of power adapter do I need for my electronics?

Spain uses a type F plug, which means Canadian tourists will need an adapter for their electronics. To ensure you can use your devices as normal, we recommend a universal adaptor that can be used in a myriad of locations around the world. Most modern adapters will automatically adjust the voltage for North American electronics.

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Other Spain FAQs

Can I travel to Spain with kids?

Yes. Spain is a popular destination for people of all ages, including families with kids. Whether you’re exploring Spain’s famous architecture, learning about the country’s vast history or enjoying time on the beach, you’ll find there is plenty of family-friendly activities on your vacation to Spain.

Is it easy to travel around Spain via train?

Yes. Spain has a nationalized railway network of inner-city, city-to-city and regional high-speed train services.

Travel Guard offers comprehensive travel insurance plans for travellers heading to Spain. With excellent coverage and specialized emergency travel assistance representatives ready to help you at any time, Travel Guard is there for you.Compare our popular plansand find the best one for you!

Content provided by Travel Guard Group Canada, Inc. is not intended to be exhaustive. For more information, please call 866-648-8422 or speak with one of our Travel or Insurance Agency partners. For the most up to date safety and travel advice for any destination, please consult the Canadian Government Travel and tourism website at https://travel.gc.ca/ .

Spain Travel Insurance, Tips and Safety Information (2024)

FAQs

What health insurance do I need to go to Spain? ›

Healthcare in Spain

Spain has both public and private healthcare systems. Since the UK left the EU, the EHIC (European health insurance card) has been replaced by the GHIC (Global health insurance card). Similarly to the EHIC, a GHIC allows you to access state provided medical treatment whilst abroad.

Should I get travel insurance for Spain? ›

From lost baggage to trip cancellation and medical emergencies, it pays to have a safety net when you're exploring Europe. Options for travel insurance for Spain typically cover most unexpected delays and emergencies, offering reimbursem*nts to help you recoup some or all of your trip costs.

Is travel insurance required to enter Spain? ›

Is travel insurance required for Spain? Travel insurance is mandatory if you need a Schengen Visa for Spain. If you don't need a visa, travel insurance is optional but strongly recommended as medical costs can be high for foreigners, especially as you will need to pay for any prescriptions.

Is there a travel warning for Spain? ›

The national terrorism alert for Spain is 'high'. Always be aware of possible threats.

Is healthcare free in Spain for US citizens? ›

Eligibility For Healthcare in Spain

If you're living and working legally in Spain, you'll have access to state-funded Spanish healthcare. Yes, this even applies to expats, digital nomads, and those not enrolled in traditional employment!

Can US citizens get healthcare in Spain? ›

Therefore, state health care is free at the point of use for anyone living and working in Spain. As an expat, you will be entitled to state health care if you are a resident of the country and are making social security contributions (through either employment or self-employment).

How much is travel insurance to Spain? ›

A Europe travel insurance policy for Spain could cost as little as £6.84 for a week's stay. But the cost of your travel insurance will also depend on: Activities you plan to do – you may need to pay more to cover certain sports and activities.

Do I need medical insurance to travel to Spain from USA? ›

If you are a US citizen or have the nationality which does not need the Schengen visa, then travel insurance to Spain is not mandatory. However travel insurance for Italy from USA is mandatory if one need's a Schengen visa or if you want to stay over 90 days in Europe.

Why is travel insurance to Spain more expensive? ›

Why is travel insurance to Spain more expensive? The price of Spain travel insurance is based on claims costs. When something happens in Spain, the cost can be higher than elsewhere in Europe. Usually because medical treatments are more expensive, particularly in private hospitals.

Do tourists need travel insurance? ›

Travel insurance can offer financial protection if you cancel an expensive, nonrefundable vacation for an approved reason. Travel insurance can also cover your medical bills if you experience a medical emergency while traveling. However, sometimes you can get away with not purchasing it.

What is the best medical travel insurance? ›

Based on our comprehensive review, the companies offering the best travel medical insurance are Faye, IMG, Travelex, AIG Travel Guard and Allianz. Travel medical insurance is a specialized type of coverage that helps pay for medical bills and emergency evacuations if you're hurt or become sick while traveling.

What documents do I need for travel to Spain? ›

​ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Present proof of identity and a valid travel document. Present the corresponding visa, if required, according to nationality. Provide evidence of meeting the conditions for the proposed stay and of possessing sufficient financial means. Not be subject to a ban on entering Spain.

Why do Spanish hotels take your passport? ›

According to the Foreign Office's travel advice for Spain: "Hotels have a legal duty to register the passport details of tourists on check-in. "Wait until the hotel staff have registered your passport details or taken a photocopy of your passport. Don't leave it at reception to collect later."

What does a US citizen need to travel to Spain? ›

US Passport and Documents Needed

Americans will require a valid passport in order to be able to travel to Spain from the US with an ETIAS. The passport should be valid for at least 3 months from the intended date of departure from the Schengen Area. Other requirements include: A valid email address.

Why is travel insurance more for Spain? ›

Why is travel insurance to Spain more expensive? The price of Spain travel insurance is based on claims costs. When something happens in Spain, the cost can be higher than elsewhere in Europe. Usually because medical treatments are more expensive, particularly in private hospitals.

Should you buy travel insurance when going to Europe? ›

Travel insurance isn't required when visiting Europe; however, it can cover your prepaid and non-refundable trip costs in the event of travel delays, cancellations, a medical emergency or lost baggage.

Is it OK to not have travel insurance? ›

If all of your reservations can be canceled without penalty, then trip cancellation or trip interruption coverage isn't necessary. But even if your trip isn't 100% refundable, insurance may not be necessary.

Do I need travel insurance to go to Europe? ›

Travel insurance is not required for U.S. citizens to enter Europe.

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