Trip to Spain: what you need to know before you go

Spain is one of Switzerland's favorite destinations (according to the 2023 Holiday Barometer), with its incredible landscapes, culture and colorful lifestyle. Travelling to Spain always promises to be an exotic experience for its visitors.

Are you planning a vacation in Spain? Here's our advice on how to get there safely and enjoy your trip.

Why go on vacation to Spain?

For many reasons...its magnificent beaches, its impressive mountains, its desert landscapes. The multitude of landscapes is THE wealth of Spain. It also has a fine historical heritage, which will delight visitors who prefer culture and fine monuments: there are numerous sites to visit in all 4 corners of the country, 48 of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Where to go in Spain this summer? 

There are plenty of vacation destinations to choose from! Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Alicante, Valencia... Not forgetting the paradise islands of the Canaries and Balearics.

As you can see, there's no room for error if you decide to go to Spain. The sun shines almost everywhere, and you'll be enchanted by the Spanish art of living.

Where to go in Spain for a young couple?

If you're looking for a romantic getaway, Seville is the ideal destination for young couples. With the Guadalquivir River running through the city, it boasts a rich artistic heritage, a magnificent historic city center and romantic little squares and neighborhoods. The capital of Andalusia is superb for strolling through the Maria Luisa Park or booking a room in one of the city's charming hotels.

If you'd rather party, go to the beach and relax in the sun, head for the Costa Brava or Ibiza. You'll be able to dance the night away (and even during the day)!

Where to go on vacation in southern Spain?

Andalusia is an incredible region, with an abundance of summer vacation destinations (although beware of the heat). Seville, Granada and its Alhambra palace, Almeria, Malaga and the Alcazaba, Marbella and its immense beaches...the choice is yours!

What documents should I bring with me when traveling to Spain?

- Your identity document: Spain is part of the European Union, and Swiss nationals can travel there with their valid passport or national identity card.

- The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): during your stay in Spain, the European Health Insurance Card (known there as the TSE for "Tarjeta Sanitaria Europea") gives you access to the public health system under the same conditions as Spanish insured persons. You'll usually find it on the back of your compulsory health insurance card. If you don't, contact your health insurer to obtain it.

- Travel insurance: be careful, as the European Health Insurance Card does not replace travel insurance, as it does not cover medical repatriation and, depending on the country, reimbursements may be very limited. With its many useful benefits, travel insurance not only protects you financially in the event of unforeseen circumstances during your vacation in Spain, but also provides assistance when you need it. Lost, stolen or damaged luggage, travel accident, cancellation insurance for all justifiable reasons...  

Only going to Spain for a weekend? Our temporary insurance covers you for short periods at a fair price. Covid coverage is always included in our packages.

What do I need to travel to Spain? 

It's a big country. Although the climate is fairly Mediterranean, it can vary from region to region, so pack accordingly. Make sure you take your travel guide, your first-aid kit, a photocopy of your travel documents and your mobile phone.

Good to know:

Cash and credit cards: in Spain, credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, and ATMs are easy to find. However, beware of commissions that may apply to your Swiss means of payment...

Electricity: the current is 220 V and plugs have two round pins (remember to bring an adapter for your three-pronged appliances).

Mobile phone and internet: Spain's international telephone code is 0034 (and 0041 for Switzerland). Check that your mobile subscription covers this country to avoid any surprises on your next bill!

Time zone and rhythm of life: Spain, with the exception of the Canary Islands, has the same time zone as Switzerland. However, mealtimes are very different. As a general rule, breakfast is served between 8am and 11am, lunch between 1:30pm and 4pm, and dinner between 9:30pm and 11:30pm.

>> Travel well protected in Spain: calculate your premium here <<