How to Reach Spain: Your Travel Access Guide

Your Travel Guide

How to Reach Spain

By Air

Air is the most common means of transportation for people flying in from different countries. The Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas is the busiest international airport in the country, followed by the international airports in Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca and Malaga. Top airlines like KLM Royal Dutch, Lufthansa, Air India, and many more have daily flights from top destinations like London, New York, Mumbai and Dubai.

If you are flying within the borders there are many more airports and flights to choose from.

By Land

Reaching Spain by land offers various options, depending on your starting location and preferences

Road Travel :You can also get into Spain if you come from a neighbouring European country who will be travelling on a motor vehicle. The roads are developed and so you can travel on our own vehicle or a rented one. The countries like France, Portugal, and others connected through some major highways and motorways are Spain’s neighbours.
Bus Travel: Spain has international bus services with other neighbouring counties. For instance, there are companies that provide bus routes connecting them with leading Spanish urban centres. These allow for cost effective travel by land to Spain.
Bicycle Touring: Bicycle touring offers an ideal way into Spain for an adventurous traveller. Cyclists can utilise specified trails while bicycle friendly hotels can be found. The advantage is that it takes one’s time to visit areas as well as appreciate the land and culture.
Walking and Hiking: You can hike or walk into Spain through the Pyrenees or any other nearby border region. Many signposted trails and tracks in the country, especially on the Camino.
Border Crossings: Research and plan well for your border crossing since it will depend on either your nationality or how you intend to cross the border. In most cases, it is easier for EU citizens to pass through borders in the Schengen area.

By Water

Arriving in Spain through water could be an exciting and picturesque means of transportation. Here are several ways to reach Spain by water:

Ferries: Spain has good accessibility of neighbours due to ferry services. Ferries can be taken from the different ports of Europe and North Africa.
Cruise Ships: Cruise ships love going to Spain — especially Mediterranean cruises and crossings between Europe and America. It is not unusual to see cruises to places like Barcelona, Malaga, Valencia or even the canary islands.
Private Yachts and Boats: You may sail up to the coastal area of Spain, docking onto the port and marinas if you possess access to a private yacht or a boat. Spain boasts of several marinas lining the shore and welcoming sailors from other parts of the world.
Yachting and Sailing Events: There are many yachting and sailing events that take place in Spain; and people coming from other nations often come via sea. Such events as Barcelona World Race, Copa del Rey Regatta, and ARC Atlantic Rally for Cruisers.

Commuting Inside Spain

The transport network in Spain has provided relative convenience to its people with regard to commuting within the country.

Metro: There is an efficient metro system in major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia.
Buses: City and town residents often use buses as their means for travelling around. There are also local, regional, and intercity buses.
Trains: The railway network in Spain is very extensive. Their services include commuter trains (Cercanías), which connect urban centres with residential areas. You can also use faster trains such as the AVE which connects the major cities.
Trams: Trams are also an option in some cities like Valencia and Seville.
Rental Bicycles: Most Spanish cities are being made more bike friendly. Bicycles are available for rent, and you may visit the town using a bike lane in urban areas. Similarly, cities such as Barcelona have bike sharing programmes.
Taxis: Taxis are widely available in major Spanish cities and towns. They are convenient particularly for short trips.
Rental Cars: You also have the option of renting a car if you need more freedom and flexibility to move around.
Walking: Walking in many Spanish towns is a delightful experience. It lets one discover the charm of modern quarters as well as the historical town squares.
Ferries Ferries are used in coastal areas and islands such as the Canary and Balearic Islands.
Electric Scooters: Many Spanish towns have electric scooters which enable short-distance commutes
Domestic Flights: Hopping onto the many domestic flights can also help you get around quicker..