Spain travel guide for the Irish

Irish citizens do not need a visa to enter Spain for tourism or short business stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. You will need a valid passport and, from 2026, an ETIAS travel authorisation. The 90-day limit applies across the whole Schengen Area, so days spent in France, Italy or elsewhere count against the same allowance. If you plan to stay longer, work, or study, you need a separate visa or permit.

As an Irish citizen, you are visa-exempt for Spain. At border control, you may be asked to show your passport, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds for your stay, and a return or onward ticket. The 90-day rule is strict: overstaying can lead to fines or a re-entry ban. For stays beyond 90 days, apply for a long-stay visa or residence permit before you travel.

The Embassy of Ireland in Madrid is your main contact for consular assistance while in Spain. For passport emergencies, lost documents, or legal issues, contact the embassy or the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin. The embassy can provide a list of local lawyers, interpreters, and doctors if needed.

Spain is a mid-priced European destination. A budget traveller can manage on €50–70 per day for a bed in a hostel, supermarket meals, and public transport. A mid-range traveller should plan for €100–150 per day for a standard hotel, restaurant meals, and some paid attractions. High-end hotels, fine dining, and private transfers push that above €250 per day. Prices are higher in Madrid, Barcelona, and the Balearic Islands, and lower in inland cities like Seville or Granada.

Direct flights from Dublin to Madrid take about 2 hours 30 minutes; to Barcelona, about 2 hours 20 minutes. From Dublin to the Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria) takes about 4 hours 30 minutes. Aer Lingus and Ryanair operate direct routes from Dublin and Cork to several Spanish cities. Flight time from Shannon is similar, with connections often via Dublin or London.

Spain uses the same plugs and voltage as Ireland: Type F (and C) sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz. Your Irish appliances will work without an adapter, but bring a universal adapter if you have devices with UK-style three-pin plugs. The Canary Islands use the same system.

Tipping is optional in Spain. Locals often round up the bill or leave small change at cafés and bars. For good table service in a restaurant, 5–10% is appreciated but not expected. In taxis, rounding up to the nearest euro is common. Tipping is not a wage substitute as it is in the US, so there is no pressure to tip.

The single European emergency number 112 works for police, fire, and ambulance anywhere in Spain. The national police can be reached on 091, and the Guardia Civil on 062. Spain is generally safe, but watch for pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas, especially in Madrid, Barcelona, and on public transport. Keep valuables out of back pockets and be cautious in busy markets and metro stations.

Answers to common questions for Irish travellers to Spain.

Official sources for entry requirements and travel advice.