With the EU lifting travel restrictions for some third countries, many people are starting to look into planning holidays to Spain, as well starting up their property searches again.
Whilst things are gradually easing up, it still will not quite be a ‘normal’ holiday this year, but as long as you are aware of the most up-to-date restrictions you can have a great time in the Spanish sun!
We thought it would be useful to round-up the current rules and restrictions on visiting Spain that are still in place, as well as what you can and cannot do on your visit, so that you can enjoy your visit and stay safe.
Which countries are allowed to visit Spain?
Spain has lifted travel restrictions for residents of the following third countries: Australia, China, New Zealand, Rwanda, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Japan, Israel and United Kingdom. Residents of these countries are able to enter Spain without proof of a negative Covid test.
Residents in all other third countries not on this list, are allowed to enter Spain provided they have proof that they are fully vaccinated with a vaccine approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) or the World Health Organization (WHO).
So if you are a resident of one of the countries on the above list, you can start to think about booking a trip to Spain – though don’t forget to check the requirements for your own country regarding your return home from Spain.
What is the Covid situation in Spain at the moment?
The national state of emergency declared by the Spanish government on 25th October 2020 came to an end on 9th of May 2021.
Rates of Coronavirus continue to fall and all of Spain’s 17 regions are currently on their way to vaccinating the 40-49 age group, with a total of 10m people already vaccinated by the first week of June.
Restrictions across the country were eased with the end of the state of emergency. The latest government guidelines for the whole of Spain include:
- Social distance of 1.5m must be maintained
- Wearing a mask is mandatory at all times in public places, both indoor and outdoor, regardless of the existence of social distance.
In addition to the above current rules and restrictions on visiting Spain, we have answered some of the most common questions below if you are planning a visit to Spain this summer…
Can I travel around Spain?
There are no longer any perimeter confinements in place, so you are allowed to travel freely between the different regions of Spain.
However, there are still various restrictions across the autonomous communities depending on decisions taken by regional governments, and as such all visitors should check the restrictions in advance for the regions they are planning to visit.
Do I have to wear a mask on the beach?
Anyone over the age of six must wear a mask at all times in public places in Spain, both indoor and outdoor. This is part of the government guidelines, and does not change across the different regions.
You do not have to wear a mask when swimming or sunbathing on the beach, but you do have to wear one when walking along the beach, as well as when leaving or entering.
You may also find that some beaches have a list of rules posted at the entrance, so don’t forget to keep an eye out for these.
Are public swimming pools open?
Public pools, hotel pools, and swimming pools on urbanisations and tourist complexes are open but limited to 75% of capacity, both for swimming and sunbathing.
Masks must be worn when entering, leaving, and walking around the pool area.
Are tourist attractions in Spain open this summer?
This will vary from region to region and it’s advisable to check the website of any attraction before you plan a visit.
Museums and galleries are open with a limited capacity of 75% – many will require pre-booking to ensure they don’t allow too many people in.
Here on the Costa Blanca many zoos, theme parks and water parks have started to announce opening dates, so at the moment things are looking promising! Some attractions, such as Terra Mítica in Benidorm, are offering a discount of 30% on pre-sale tickets on their website, so you will be able not only to enjoy the day and have fun, but get the tickets cheaper.
Are the markets open?
The weekly markets here on the Costa Blanca are open and you are able to get some fresh fruit and household goods at a reasonable price.
The so-called “hippies” markets such as the one in Torrevieja are usually open all year round, and the summer market in Guardamar will be open by the end of June to buy some souvenirs, toys, etc.
You can see a list of the weekly markets in our area here.
Can I meet up with friends?
Yes! The limit on the number of people allowed to meet up will vary in each region.
Here in the Valencian Community there is no limit on the number of people allowed in private gatherings, however tables in restaurants are limited to 10 people outside and 6 people inside.
Is there a nighttime curfew in place in Spain?
The nighttime curfew has been lifted by the Spanish government, however some regions may still have a curfew in place depending on the level of Covid transmission rates in the area.
In the Valencian Community there is no nighttime curfew but restaurants must close at 01:00, and nightlife must close at 02:00.
Can I view properties for sale in Spain?
Yes, you can book appointments to view properties.
Masks must be worn on all appointments and social distancing measures are in place. If you book an appointment to view a property on the Costa Blanca with Benigest, we will explain all rules and restrictions to you beforehand, so you know what to expect.
If you are planning a visit to the Costa Blanca this summer and would like to book appointments to view properties for sale, get in touch with us here at Benigest for more information. If you have any questions about the current rules and restrictions on visiting Spain feel free to ask!
