Travel between Spain and Italy has become much easier since the Schengen Agreement. It is also more affordable and a great way to explore the rich cultural heritage of both countries. A popular route for tourists is to begin in Barcelona, Spain, and then explore Italy by train or ferry, passing through cities such as Geneva, Milan, Venice, Cinque Terre, Portofino and finally ending in Rome.
Spain Offers Something Unique At Every Turn Starting off in Barcelona can be a wonderful experience filled with architecture from Antoni Gaudí (Sagrada Família), medieval landmarks (Montjuïc Castle) as well as numerous green parks and beaches scattered throughout the city. Barcelona also offers its own unique flavors of Spanish food such as tapas (pintxos) and paella.
Beyond that there are natural places that might pique your interests like Montserrat Monastery which is nestled on top of a peculiar rock formation with stunning views of Catalonia’s countryside or take a drive down Costa del Sol region for some time at the beach resorts or browsing historic medinas (marketplaces).
Experience Italian Culture Through Its Food & Surroundings After an adventurous few days in Spain, the journey continues through Italy. Here travelers can explore traditional Italian cuisine such as pasta Bolognese, risotto alla milanese as well various other regional dishes depending on what part of Italy they visit.
Many visitors love touring the vineyards of Piedmont then trekking to South Tyrol where authentic cheese dumplings are served up with sauerkraut ragout. After restoring your strength it is time to venture forth around the country by car along with stops at many famous landmarks such as Colosseum in Rome or Florence’s Cathedral Duomo while drinking delicious cappuccinos or spritz cocktails every once in a while depending on one’s taste preference.
The Basics
Yes, you can travel from Spain to Italy. The journey is quite straightforward and provides many different options for transportation. You will need the necessary documents in order to enter each country, however.
In most cases, if you are a citizen from the European Union or another member of the Schengen Area, you don’t need a visa for traveling between Spain and Italy. All that is required is proof of your identity such as your passport or identity card depending on what type of document was used for entry into either place.
All modes of transport available from Spain to Italy are listed below:
- By Air (Multiple Airlines)
- By Train (High speed rail service)
- By Bus (Intercity/ international bus companies)
- By Car (Road route through France)
Each mode of transport has its own advantages and suitability to certain types of travelers. Depending on how long your journey may take, opting for a flight could be the quickest and most hassle-free option; whereas taking a train ride is often more enjoyable as it takes travelers through lovely panoramic landscapes between countries.
For those catching buses on their journeys, they must be aware that unlike trains which offer comfortable seating and amenities such as bathrooms and dining areas – buses services do not always provide such luxuries so packing snacks on longer journeys is advised.
Drivers wanting to drive their own cars will have an exciting road trip ahead with plenty to see during most routes taken from Spain to Italy; however chances of rest stops must also factor into their planning as some roads pass through remote mountainous regions with little food stops along the way.
Travel Options
The great thing about being in Europe is that you can get to another country relatively easily from any point. It’s no different between Spain and Italy. There are several ways to get there, such as by plane, train, or bus. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each option:
Plane
The fastest way to get from Spain to Italy is by plane. You can usually find international flights for under 100 euros roundtrip, and they only take about 2-4 hours depending on your location in Spain and destination city in Italy.
Plus, airports tend to be close to main cities so it’s easy to get around. On the other hand, airports have strict security which means you need to budget extra time for check-in, plus it takes time to go through customs if you’re traveling abroad.
Train
Train travel allows for more relaxation than a plane ride since there is typically ample seated legroom with on-board services like restaurants or spare charging facilities. The downfalls are that trains will require multiple transfers depending on what route you take and might take days to reach your destination depending on how many stops there are along the way.
Plus, although the pricing varies depending on where you buy tickets (individual tickets vs local railways sites), sometimes a cheaper fare can be more expensive if you factor in connecting times and number of transfers required via the train network system.
Bus
The bus is also an option between Spain and Italy; although it requires lots of time – typically 10+ hours for long distance trips – so it’s not necessarily ideal for short visits or those who value convenience over the cost savings of taking a bus.
Bus travel often serves up fewer amenities than planes or trains do, but one advantage is that unlike trains which may involve multiple transfers on certain routes, buses usually stay on one path without changes along the way so passengers don’t have to worry about getting lost or needing assistance with connection points during their journey.
- Pros of Plane Travel: Fastest transportation method available; Short travel time; Can easily access cities.
- Cons of Plane Travel: Additional budgeting for check-in times; Needing extra time for airport customs.
- Pros of Train Travel: More relaxed than a plane ride; Depending on route taken may require multiple transfers.
- Cons of Train Travel: Potentially longer travel times; Price varies widely based on individual tickets.
- Pros Bus Travel: Cost effective transportation option; No need worry about connection points during journey.
COVID-19 Travel Restrictions
As Europe continues to be impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, numerous countries now have imposed strict travel restrictions for citizens and visitors alike, in order to reduce the rate of infection. This is true when considering travel from Spain to Italy.
For individuals seeking to cross borders between Spain and Italy, there are currently a number of rules to be aware of.
Latest Government Guidelines
- Entry Requirements: All air passengers arriving from Spain will need to present a negative PCR test taken no longer than 72 hours prior to their arrival.
- Quarantine Rules: All arrivals – regardless of whether or not they have obtained a negative test result – must undertake 14 days of self-isolation upon entering Italy.
- Exempt From Restrictions: Individuals with permanent residence in either country may travel freely across the border, provided they quarantine for 14 days upon return.
- Crimson Country List: Currently, Spain is on the Italian government’s ‘crimson list’ of countries which means that entry is only permitted within certain circumstances, including essential family visits.
Clearly, those wanting to travel from Spain into Italy must weigh up the restrictions before deciding whether to proceed with any such journey. All travelers should ensure that they remain well informed regarding current regulations before subjecting themselves to potential fines and other penalties.
To this end, it may be advisable for individuals considering travelling between these two countries at this time to register their details on the appropriate online portal. Doing so will provide them with real-time information on travel alerts as well as ensuring that suitable safety guidance is communicated daily via text alerts or emails.
Immigration Requirements
Italy and Spain are two beautiful countries located in Europe with a lot to offer tourists and travelers from around the world. As both countries form part of the Schengen area, people who intend to travel to both countries need to comply with certain requirements before they are granted visas. For travelers going between Spain and Italy, here is what you need:
Visa Requirements
- The traveler must have a valid passport with at least 3 months remaining before it expires.
- The traveler must have sufficient funds for their stay in either country.
- The traveler must show proof of accommodation (hotel reservations) for their visit.
- The traveler must present proof of return or onward tickets/itinerary.
Travel Restrictions
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some restrictions have been imposed on travelers intending to visit either country from different parts of the world. Here are some general travel restrictions that one needs to consider carefully before booking any trips:
- Passengers arriving from any non-Schengen destination need to provide a negative PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours prior departure.
- Spain has imposed mandatory 14-day quarantine measures for travelers entering the country.
- Non-EU nationals may be refused entry if their flights originate from outside of Europe.
- Passengers also require an International Travel Certificate before boarding their flight.
Health & Safety Tips
Travelling from one country to another is an exciting experience-but it can also be stressful and sometimes even dangerous due to health risks and other hazards. It’s important to take extra care while travelling in order to remain safe.
When travelling from Spain to Italy, there are a few essential precautions you should take before and during the journey:
- Be Prepared: Before you leave for your trip, make sure you have everything you need. Check that your passport is up-to-date and that any necessary visas are in order. Prepare for potential health concerns by researching travel advisories, medical facilities, and available insurance coverage.
- Stay Informed: Make sure you know what the laws and customs of the countries are so that you don’t run into trouble. Also keep informed of news regarding political unrest or terrorist threats; this will help prepare for any situations that may arise.
- Be Vigilant & Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings at all times-especially at ports and airports-to avoid potential risks and safety hazards. Pay attention to signs warning about pickpocketing or other criminal activities.
- Get Vaccinated: Certain vaccinations may be required when travelling from country to country. Make sure to get any necessary vaccinations prior to the trip.
- Know First aid Treatment Tips: Knowing how to treat minor injuries or illnesses is important in case of an emergency. Read up on first aid treatment tips so that you can respond quickly if needed.
- Eat & Drink Safely: Be careful what food items you consume, as certain foods that are safe in some countries may not always be safe in others due to different growing conditions and various levels of hygiene. Also make sure that water sources aren’t contaminated before drinking from them.
Costs and Currency
Planning a trip from Spain to Italy can be exciting and often cause a feeling of anticipation. However, it is essential to remember costs and plan for ways to manage expenses. Travelling abroad requires some additional calculations, such as budgeting for the currency conversion rate and fees that may apply to exchanging money.
Fortunately, Spain and Italy are both part of the European Union (EU), which makes planning a bit easier if you intend on travelling solely within the region. If you need help on estimating these costs in advance, here are some tips:
- Current Currency Conversion Rates: Depending on your home country’s exchange rate compared with the foreign currency used in Spain or Italy, profits could be realized from converting currencies before and/or after your travels.
- Consider Currency Exchange Fees: There are typically fees when purchasing foreign currencies at airports or banks in either country. These can usually be avoided if exchange rates are managed prior to travel.
- Managing Expenses: Create a budget prior to travelling that estimates food, lodging, transportation and other incidentals needed during your stay.
Accessing Current Exchange Rates is easy. Visit websites such as XE Money Converter or Bank of Canada/Bank of England to view up-to-date rates between Euro and virtually any other major currency around the world.
Setting aside an appropriate amount for each day’s expenditures can ease many worries about money once vacation begins. Additionally, check with your current bank regarding any fees their affiliated international banks may charge when making overseas purchases through ATM withdrawals or credit card purchases made overseas.
Credit cards issued by EU member countries should theoretically work from one country to another; however it’s always best to check with your bank first just in case there are exceptions applying for transactions outside your home country’s borders.
Experiences
Travelling from Spain to Italy is possible, and is a beautiful experience. From the iconic beaches of Barcelona, Spain to the picturesque mountains of Lake Como in Italy – having a journey across the two countries can offer not only a range of experiences but breathtaking sights and snapshots. For any traveller that wishes to discover the history and culture of both countries, hopping between them via either train or car travel constitutes an unforgettable adventure.
When visiting Spain, it’s always a great idea to explore Barcelona first. Being one of Spain’s major cities and with its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea coast makes it an ideal starting point for one’s journey. There are plenty of attractions on offer, from La Sagrada Familia (a large Roman Catholic church) to Casa Batlló (Gaudí’s masterpiece).
When visiting these architectural feats – be sure to look up at their breath-taking facades. Other recommended attractions include taking part in Spanish sports like Futbol (Football) at Camp Nou stadium – or getting lost within Barcelona’s flurry of colourful markets such as La Boquería where you can sample local Spanish produce.
The next stop is Lerida which is located near the Pyrenees mountains and is known for its incredible landscapes. Outdoor adventurers will especially be charmed by Lleida’s many bike trails connecting rural areas and hills alongside stunning views of dense woodland covered mountainsides. Outdoor activities like camping and paragliding are highly recommended here so don’t forget your hiking boots if travelling during Spring/ Summer seasons.
During this leg of the journey Montserrat National Park should also be checked out – this stunning natural site still houses traditional Catalan culture nearby found in towns like Manresa – offering visitors a unique insight into rural Spain as they travel northwards towards France along towards Versailles chateau (France) before crossing over into Italy from here.
Finally, once entering Italy – heading straight towards Salerno will transport travellers back into another era through cobblestoned streets combined with Campanian cuisine accompanied by Italian Renaissance architecture still preserved since the 1800s awaiting everyone’s exploration.
Conclusion
Traveling from Spain to Italy is an incredible journey of culture, scenery, and food. The memories made during this trip will last a lifetime. From the stunning architecture of Barcelona, to the breathtaking views of Madrid and Rome, and finally the delightful cuisine of Naples, I can say with certainty that it was a trip to remember.
The exciting city life found in Barcelona captivated me immediately. Everywhere I looked there were iconic buildings from Gaudi’s works to the Sagrada Familia. The nightlife was inviting and filled with sights and sounds that were simply magical. There was never a dull moment while visiting this magnificent city.
After leaving Barcelona, my next stop was Madrid. While in Madrid I enjoyed so many things; from learning about Spanish history at El Prado Museum, to strolling along Plaza Mayor for some people watching or taking a Segway tour around Retiro Park like I did. After exploring Spain’s capital city for several days, it was time for me to move on to my final destination – Italy.
Once getting out of Spain, crossing over into Italy felt completely different right away. Everything seemed new and different from all the places we have been before and with each passing day I got more excited; especially when we arrived in Rome. The ruins of Forum Romanum announced our arrival into Italy; its limestone walls still standing tall after centuries of wear still mentioned stories written long ago.
Exploring Trastevere felt like getting lost in time due to its narrow cobblestone streets full of life yet keeping a harmony vibe throughout its neighborhood. Lastly but not least, my favorite destination by far within my journey was Naples. After countless cappuccinos and Pizza margherita eaten (yes they are the best ever), it had become apparent why Neapolitans are gourmets – their food was simply divine.
My trip from Spain to Italy ended up being one of the most memorable trips that I have ever taken in my entire life – every part of this journey became part of me now forever as many memories were made along the way. This story has come full circle with lasting thoughts that will emanate for years to come – after all who does not love traveling through Europe?
I’m a passionate traveler, writer, and Italophile. My fascination with Italy’s history, art, and culture has led me on countless adventures across the Italian landscape. Through “I Live Italy,” I share my love for this extraordinary country and aims to inspire others to explore its boundless beauty.
