Find the Right Coverage for Your Adventures in Spain
Whether you plan to wander the historic streets of Madrid, relax on a beach in Andalusia, or hike the Pyrenees Mountains in the north, Spain has something for everyone. The country consistently ranks as one of the most visited destinations for international tourists worldwide. However, the very experiences that make it so captivating can also come with unexpected risks. That’s why insuring your trip is essential.
Buying travel insurance can protect you in various situations while visiting the country. Whether the airline loses your luggage, you miss a train, or you twist your ankle running with the bulls, the right coverage offers peace of mind, knowing you're prepared for unexpected expenses.
To help you find the best coverage for your adventure, this article will guide you through everything you need to know about travel insurance for Spain, from what it covers to how much it costs and how to select the best plan for your needs.
Whether you plan to wander the historic streets of Madrid, relax on a beach in Andalusia, or hike the Pyrenees Mountains in the north, Spain has something for everyone. The country consistently ranks as one of the most visited destinations for international tourists worldwide. However, the very experiences that make it so captivating can also come with unexpected risks. That’s why insuring your trip is essential.
Buying travel insurance can protect you in various situations while visiting the country. Whether the airline loses your luggage, you miss a train, or you twist your ankle running with the bulls, the right coverage offers peace of mind, knowing you're prepared for unexpected expenses.
To help you find the best coverage for your adventure, this article will guide you through everything you need to know about travel insurance for Spain, from what it covers to how much it costs and how to select the best plan for your needs.
Find the perfect travel insurance for your journey!
Explore our side-by-side comparison of the top short-term travel medical plans and choose the coverage that best suits your needs.
Do You Need Travel Insurance for Spain?
If you're traveling to Spain from a country that requires a Schengen Visa, you must have travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation. This is a mandatory requirement for obtaining a Schengen Visa.
Additionally, starting in 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries must apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering Spain or any other Schengen Area country. While ETIAS is not a visa, it is a mandatory travel authorization, and it’s important to ensure your travel insurance meets the health coverage requirements specified by ETIAS.
For travelers from countries that do not require a Schengen Visa or ETIAS (such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and most EU countries), Spain travel insurance is not a legal requirement. However, it is still strongly advised to protect you from unexpected events such as medical emergencies, lost luggage, or trip cancellations, which could result in significant out-of-pocket expenses without proper coverage.
Spain is famous for its beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails like the Camino de Santiago, and exciting events like running with the bulls in Pamplona. However, these attractions also carry certain risks. For instance, you might experience dehydration on the beaches, sustain injuries while hiking, or face disruptions like volcanic eruptions in the Canary Islands.
Having the right coverage ensures you are protected against these kinds of situations, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in all that Spain has to offer, knowing you're prepared for any situation that might arise.
Read More: Is Travel Insurance Worth It?
What Does Spanish Travel Insurance Cover?
The coverage you receive with your Spain travel insurance depends on the plan you select. While some policies offer basic protection, more comprehensive plans cover a wider range of travel-related risks.
Choosing a robust plan helps safeguard you against unexpected expenses and disruptions, ensuring peace of mind throughout your trip.
Key benefits often include:
- Travel Health Insurance – Covers medical expenses if you fall ill or get injured while in Spain, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications.
- Emergency Medical Evacuation – Provides transportation to the nearest suitable medical facility or repatriation to your home country if needed.
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption – This coverage reimburses non-refundable costs if you need to cancel or shorten your trip due to covered reasons such as illness, injury, or unforeseen emergencies.
- Lost, Stolen, or Delayed Luggage – Compensates for lost, stolen, or significantly delayed baggage, helping you replace essential items.
- Travel Delay Coverage – This covers extra expenses for meals, accommodations, and transportation if your trip is delayed due to weather, airline issues, or other covered events.
- Repatriation of Remains – Covers the cost of returning your remains to your home country in case of death during your trip.
Some travel insurance providers also offer optional add-ons, such as:
- Adventure Sports Coverage – If you plan to ski in the Sierra Nevada, scuba dive in the Balearic Islands, or run with the bulls in Pamplona, consider an add-on that covers high-risk activities.
- Pre-Existing Condition Coverage – Some plans include or offer add-ons for pre-existing medical conditions, ensuring your health needs are fully covered.
- Rental Car Protection – If you’re renting a car in Spain, this coverage can help with damages or accidents.
By choosing the right plan, you can enjoy your Spanish adventure without worrying about financial setbacks.
Read more about the various benefits of travel insurance and how to select the best plan for your needs in our guide to Comprehensive Travel Insurance.
What’s Not Covered by Travel Insurance for Spain?
While travel insurance for Spain offers comprehensive protection, it's important to be aware of potential exclusions. Before purchasing coverage, always review the fine print, as even the most robust plans may have specific exclusions.
Here are some common situations that are often not covered:
- Pre-existing medical conditions
- Injuries from high-risk activities, like running with the bulls or bungee jumping, unless an adventure sports rider is added
- Non-emergency medical procedures
- Self-inflicted injuries
- Alcohol- or drug-related incidents
- Losses from illegal activities
Luckily, most providers allow you to buy additional coverage with their travel insurance plans. Depending on your medical history or the activities you plan to participate in while visiting Spain, you may want to consider this option.
Just remember that the more coverage you have, the more you can enjoy your trip without worrying about unforeseen circumstances.
How Much is Travel Insurance for Spain?
The cost of travel insurance for Spain can vary depending on factors such as your age, health, trip duration, destination, and the type of coverage you select.
For example, a 35-year-old traveling from the US to Spain for seven days might pay between $10 and $20 for a travel medical plan (depending on their chosen coverage limit and deductible), while a 65-year-old would typically pay between $40 and $50 for the exact same coverage and duration.
This is due to factors such as higher medical risk, the need for additional coverage, and potential pre-existing health conditions. Insurance providers generally charge more for older travelers to account for the increased likelihood of medical issues or emergencies.
When shopping for coverage, it's important to consider not just the premium (the amount you pay for the policy) but also any additional costs that may apply, such as:
- Deductibles: Some plans may require you to pay a deductible, which is an amount you must pay out-of-pocket before the insurance policy starts covering expenses.
- Co-pays: Certain services, such as doctor's visits or prescription medications, may come with a co-pay, a fixed fee you pay when using those services.
- Covered Services: Typical coverage includes emergency medical expenses, evacuation, trip interruption, baggage loss, and flight delays. Make sure your policy covers what matters most to you.
- Exclusions and Limits: Be aware of any exclusions (services or situations not covered) and policy limits (the maximum amount the insurance will pay).
Make sure to fully understand the terms of your plan, including what’s covered, what isn’t, and any additional out-of-pocket costs. Look for coverage that addresses medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and any activities you plan to do while in Spain.
Compare travel insurance plans from multiple providers to ensure you get the best coverage for your needs. Carefully review each company's policies on trip cancellation, medical coverage, and lost luggage. Don’t just focus on the premium – also consider coverage for pre-existing conditions or adventure sports.
How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance for Spain
There is no one-size-fits-all travel insurance for Spain, as the right plan depends on your personal needs. There are several key factors to consider when selecting coverage:
- Assess Your Health Needs: At a minimum, you’ll want a policy that covers emergency medical care. If you have any pre-existing conditions, be sure to check whether they’re covered.
- Consider Activities: Are you planning to run with the bulls or scuba dive in the Balearic Islands? Make sure the plan includes adventure sports coverage for high-risk activities.
- Trip Length: The longer your trip, the more coverage you may need. Insurance plans often differentiate between short-term and long-term coverage.
- Destination-Specific Risks: Spain is prone to natural disasters like flooding, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. There have also been threats of terrorism in major cities. Depending on where you are heading, make sure you have coverage for these risks.
- Understand Coverage Limits: Always review the plan’s policy carefully to know exactly what it covers and what exclusions or restrictions may exist. Be sure to compare quotes from multiple providers to get the best coverage that fits your needs and budget.
The Best Travel Insurance for Spain
Below are our top recommended travel insurance plans for Spain. Each offers unique benefits tailored to different needs, from medical emergencies to trip protection and more.
The Best Travel Health Insurance for Spain
GeoBlue Voyager Choice and WorldTrips Atlas are two highly regarded travel medical plans. They cover medical emergencies, evacuations, and lost luggage, with varying coverage limits. They also offer additional benefits, allowing travelers to select the best option for their needs.
The Atlas Travel Insurance plan is a flexible and affordable option for visitors to Spain. Even the most budget-friendly plans offer excellent customer service and comprehensive benefits.
Atlas Travel Insurance
- Emergency medical, evacuation, repatriation benefits
- Choose between the basic and more extensive coverage
- Meets Schengen visa insurance requirements
- 24/7 worldwide travel and emergency medical assistance
The plan stands out due to its trip interruption coverage, reimbursing up to $10,000. If you need to cut your trip short, it will cover all associated costs, providing financial protection against unexpected disruptions.
GeoBlue's Voyager Travel Insurance plan is our top recommendation for U.S. travelers visiting Spain. Affiliated with Blue Cross Blue Shield, it provides access to a premium network of doctors and hospitals worldwide.
GeoBlue Voyager Plan
- For U.S. citizens up to age 95
- Includes pregnancy coverage, baggage loss, trip interruption & more
- 24/7/365 service and assistance
What sets this plan apart is its coverage for pre-existing conditions, making it an excellent choice for travelers with ongoing health concerns. It offers peace of mind, knowing that your medical needs will be fully addressed while abroad.
The Best Trip Protection for Spain
With Trawick Safe Travels AnyReason, U.S. citizens and residents can travel confidently, knowing they have both flexibility and financial protection against unexpected changes to their trip itinerary.
Safe Travels AnyReason
- Available to US residents traveling within the United States and abroad
- 100% Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption Coverage
- Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation
- 75% of Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) is included within 7 days of trip deposit
This plan offers one of the best Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) benefits at no additional cost. Trawick will reimburse you for up to 75% of your prepaid, non-refundable trip expenses if you have to cancel your trip for reasons beyond the standard covered events.
World Nomads Travel Insurance is a top choice for non-U.S. citizens seeking a travel plan with trip cancellation coverage. Policyholders can recover non-refundable expenses such as flights, accommodations, and prepaid activities.
World Nomads Travel Insurance for Trip Cancellation
- Trip cancellation and interruption benefits included
- Emergency medical transport and repatriation
- Baggage and gear cover
- Optional Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage available for U.S. citizens/residents (Explorer and Epic Plans)
Beyond trip cancellation coverage, World Nomads also provides coverage for over 200 adventure activities, emergency medical expenses, emergency evacuation and repatriation, and protection against lost or stolen baggage and personal belongings.
Safety Advice and Travel Tips for Spain
Spain is generally safe for people of all backgrounds. It ranks 46th out of 147 countries in Numbeo's 2025 Safety Index, reflecting its overall safety.
However, like any popular tourist destination, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure your safety during your travels:
- Pickpocketing: This is a frequent issue in major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded areas like public transportation, tourist attractions, or busy streets.
- Natural Disasters: Like many countries, Spain is subject to natural disasters. Volcanic eruptions in the Canary Islands and occasional flooding in various regions can disrupt travel plans. Stay informed about local weather conditions and any warnings during your trip.
- Unexpected Weather Events: Extreme weather events like heatwaves and heavy storms are becoming more common. Make sure you're prepared for varying conditions by packing appropriately and staying updated with weather forecasts.
- Civil Unrest and Terrorism: While Spain remains generally peaceful, civil unrest and occasional terrorism threats have been a concern in some regions. Always stay updated on the local news and follow any government advisories regarding security risks in specific areas.
Being aware of these potential risks will help you prepare for them. Staying informed and taking preventive measures can minimize your risk and allow you to enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
Medical Preparation for Travel to Spain
Ensuring you're medically prepared for your trip can prevent unnecessary stress. Before traveling to Spain, make sure to:
- Stock Up on Medications: Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medications to last your entire trip, plus extra for unexpected delays. Keeping them in their original packaging will help avoid issues at customs.
- Get Vaccinations: Schedule a check-up with your doctor to ensure you're up to date on routine vaccines.
- Understand Spain’s Healthcare System: While Spain provides universal healthcare for citizens, most foreigners rely on private clinics, which offer shorter wait times and more English-speaking medical staff.
Read More: The Healthcare System in Spain
How to Bring Medications to Spain
Spain allows visitors to bring most prescription and over-the-counter medications, but there are restrictions on certain drugs:
- Keep Medications in Original Packaging: Ensure your full name appears on the label and carry a copy of your doctor’s prescription.
- Restricted Medications: Some painkillers, anxiety medications, and ADHD treatments (e.g., Adderall, Oxycontin, Xanax) are restricted or banned in Spain.
- Travel Permits: If you need to bring restricted medications, contact the Spanish Agency of Drugs and Health Products in advance to obtain permission.
Read More: Traveling Internationally with Prescription Medication
What Vaccinations Do I Need for Spain?
You don’t need any specific vaccines to travel to Spain. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends staying up to date on routine vaccinations, including:
- Influenza
- Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP)
If you plan to visit rural areas or smaller villages, consider getting the Hepatitis A vaccine to protect against possible water contamination. Aim to visit a doctor at least six weeks before departure to ensure full immunity.
Accessing Medical Care in Spain
Spain offers high-quality healthcare to citizens and visitors alike. The system is divided into the public and private sectors. The nearest hospital will treat you if you are facing a life-threatening emergency. However, as a visitor, you’ll need to go to private clinics for minor medical care.
Spanish hospitals are of a high standard and are located throughout the country. Your insurance provider can provide a list of hospitals and clinics for the area you're visiting. If you're not fluent in Spanish, select a travel health insurance plan that includes translators for medical visits.
Travel Warnings and Alerts for Spain
To remain safe while traveling abroad, you should always be up-to-date on your destination's latest travel warnings. Since situations in a country can change rapidly, it's important to remain informed even after landing.
The list below is a great resource for the latest Spain travel advisory alerts and updates:
- US Department of State: Official travel advisory page for Spain.
- Australian Government Smartraveller: Safety and security information specific to Spain.
- Gov.UK Foreign Travel Advice: Travel advice for UK citizens in Spain.
- Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Travel advisories and safety tips for Spain.
Read More: A Guide to Travel Advisories, Warnings, and Alerts
Emergency Contact Information for Spain
In an emergency, the last thing you want is to be unsure how to get help in a foreign country. While it's not something anyone likes to think about, being prepared can make all the difference.
Knowing what to do in a worst-case scenario will help you respond quickly and effectively, ensuring you get the help you need without unnecessary delays.
Emergency Assistance Numbers in Spain
If you face an emergency in Spain (or anywhere in Europe), dial 112 from any phone. For specific services, use the numbers below:
- Police (Emergency): 091
- Medical Services: 061
- Fire Department: 080
- Police (Non-Emergency): 092
Embassies in Spain
If you need assistance from your home embassy, you can contact them at the following phone numbers:
- Canadian Embassy: +34 91 382 8400
- UK Embassy: +34 91 714 6300
- French Embassy: +34 91 423 8900
- Australian Embassy: +34 91 353 6600
- New Zealand Embassy: +34 91 523 0226
Being familiar with these numbers ensures you can get help quickly when needed. Save them on your phone before traveling for easy access.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Spain
If you’re asking yourself, 'Is Spain safe?' Fear not! Overall, the country is safe for visitors. The 2024 Global Peace Index ranks Spain as the 23rd most peaceful country in the world, while the U.S. ranks 132nd.
That said, it is still important to take precautions when traveling in Spain. Below are some top tips to help you avoid common risks and have a seamless trip.
Beware of Pickpockets
Pickpocketing is common in popular tourist destinations, especially in cities like Barcelona and Madrid, but it can happen in any crowded area. Public transit is particularly notorious for this.
To protect your belongings, keep your wallet and phone in your front pocket, wear a crossbody purse with a zipper, and always carry your backpack in front of you. Take only the cash you need for the day, along with a copy of your passport, and leave important valuables in your hotel.
Protect Yourself From the Heat
When visiting Spain in the summer, especially in the southern region of Andalucía, it’s important to stay hydrated. While the desert-like climate in the south is known for its intense heat, high temperatures can be an issue throughout the country.
Be proactive: drink plenty of fluids, eat fruits with high water content, and seek shade when possible. Common symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, headaches, and fatigue. If you experience these, seek shade and hydrate immediately.
Double-check the Tap Water
Most tap water in Spain is safe to drink, but it's always best to check with locals – such as neighbors, host families, or hotel/hostel staff – before drinking directly from the tap. In certain areas, especially in southern Spain, tap water can cause stomach issues, so it's safer to ask beforehand.
Keep an eye out for water delivery trucks; if you see them in the area, it may be a sign that the locals aren’t drinking tap water – and neither should you!
Want to make friends with the locals? Madrileños (locals from Madrid) take great pride in their tap water, claiming it’s the best in Spain – and even better than bottled! Compliment the water, and you’ll have an instant conversation starter.
Heed the Flags on Beaches
Spain is famous for its beaches, attracting millions of tourists to the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts each year. Whether you’re visiting the warm, calm waters of the Mediterranean or surfing the rougher waters of the Atlantic, it's important to pay attention to the flags on the beach.
Public beaches in Spain use color-coded flags to indicate swimming conditions:
- Green: Safe to swim
- Yellow: Caution, restrictions in place
- Orange: No lifeguard on duty
- Red: Dangerous, swimming prohibited
Always check the flags before entering the water.
Avoid Demonstrations
Civil unrest and demonstrations related to economic and political issues are becoming more common in Spain. While most protests are peaceful, they can sometimes turn unpredictable or even violent. To stay safe, it’s best to avoid demonstrations or large crowds.
Spain’s economy heavily depends on tourism, and while the country is famous for its warm hospitality, it’s still important to be aware of potential risks. By following the precautions outlined above, you’ll help ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable trip.
Read More: 10 Common Travel Scams to Avoid Abroad
Ready to Enjoy a Stress-Free Spanish Getaway?
Spain is a country full of diversity, with each region offering unique experiences for travelers. No matter where you explore, proper preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and memorable trip.
By securing comprehensive travel insurance, you can confidently dive into your Spanish adventure, knowing you’re covered in case of unexpected emergencies.
With the right protection in place, you can enjoy your journey without worrying about unforeseen travel expenses or disruptions, ensuring your getaway remains as stress-free as possible. So, are you ready to explore Spain with total peace of mind?
Get a free quote to find the best coverage for your trip. Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
The entry requirements for Spain depend on your nationality, travel purpose, and where you're traveling from.
EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: No visa is required for tourism, business, or short stays (up to 90 days). A valid passport or national ID is needed. For stays longer than 90 days, a residency or work visa is required.
Non-EU/Non-EEA Citizens: A Schengen visa is required for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period). To apply, you'll need a valid passport, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, financial means, and a return ticket.
Travelers from Visa-Exempt Countries (starting 2025): While a visa is not required for short stays, travelers must apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering Spain. ETIAS is not a visa but is a mandatory travel authorization.
Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date.
Always check the latest travel guidelines, as requirements may change due to health, security, or other reasons.
If you're traveling to Spain from a country that requires a Schengen Visa, you must show proof of travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation. This is a mandatory visa requirement.
However, travel insurance is not legally required for travelers from countries that don’t require a Schengen Visa (such as the US, Canada, or Australia).
That said, it is still highly recommended to protect yourself from unexpected incidents such as medical emergencies, lost luggage, or trip cancellations, which can lead to significant out-of-pocket costs.
Travel insurance for Spain typically covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and delayed flights. It may also include coverage for emergency medical evacuation and hospitalization.
Depending on the policy, it can also offer protection for activities you plan to do in Spain, such as adventure sports, and coverage for pre-existing conditions. Always review the specific policy details to ensure it meets your needs.
The cost of travel insurance for Spain depends on several factors, including your age, health, trip duration, coverage type, and additional costs like deductibles or co-pays.
On average, a week-long travel insurance plan for a single, middle-aged traveler typically costs between $20 and $40.
When buying coverage, look for plans that include medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and any activities you plan to do in Spain. Also, be aware of any exclusions, coverage limits, and additional out-of-pocket costs.
Yes, you can purchase travel insurance after booking your flight to Spain. Most insurance providers offer coverage up until the day before your departure.
However, it’s advisable to buy travel insurance as soon as possible. Doing so protects you from unexpected trip cancellations, interruptions, or delays before departure. It also ensures coverage for pre-existing conditions, which may not be included if you wait too long.
Find the perfect travel insurance for your journey!
Explore our side-by-side comparison of the top short-term travel medical plans and choose the coverage that best suits your needs.
Read More
Author: Elizabeth Baugh is a content editor at International Citizens Insurance. She is writer specializing in education, travel, health, and wellness topics. With over a decade of international living and travel experience, Elizabeth is an expert in the realms of international travel, moving abroad, insurance, and immigration.