Planning a trip to Spain? I’ve got you covered! Discover the best airlines offering direct flights, top-notch services, and seamless travel from the UK. Whether you’re looking for budget options or premium comfort, this guide will help you choose the perfect airline.
Hey there, fellow travel enthusiasts! After spending countless hours planning trips to sunny Spain (and making my fair share of booking blunders along the way), I thought I'd share everything I know about flying from the UK to this Mediterranean paradise. Whether you're dreaming of tapas in Madrid, beach days in Barcelona, or exploring the white villages of Andalusia, getting there is the first step of your adventure. So, let's talk airlines, routes, and all those travel tips I wish someone had told me years ago!
Spain has been my go-to escape from British weather for over a decade now. In this guide, I'll walk you through everything from budget-friendly options to premium airlines, helping you choose the perfect flight for your Spanish getaway. Ready to trade rainy days for Spanish sunshine? Let's dive in!
Why Fly to Spain from the UK?
immediately feeling that warm Mediterranean breeze on your face. As a Brit who's escaped to Spain more times than I can count, I can tell you it's no wonder this sunny paradise remains the UK's favorite holiday destination.
What makes Spain so irresistible? For starters, those gorgeous sun-drenched beaches stretching along the Costa del Sol, Costa Brava, and Costa Blanca. I still remember my first time dipping my toes in the crystal-clear waters of Mallorca—pure bliss compared to the pebble beaches back home!
But Spain isn't just about beaches. The country's rich cultural tapestry has me coming back year after year. From the mind-bending architecture of Gaudí in Barcelona to the Moorish splendor of the Alhambra in Granada, there's history around every corner. And don't even get me started on the food! My waistline expands just thinking about those late-night tapas crawls, paella by the sea, and churros dipped in thick chocolate for breakfast (yes, chocolate for breakfast is totally acceptable in Spain!).
Perhaps the best part? Spain is ridiculously accessible from the UK. With flights typically lasting just 2-3 hours, you can leave London after breakfast and be sipping sangria by lunch! I've literally flown to Barcelona in less time than it takes to drive from London to Manchester on a bad traffic day.
With dozens of daily flights from airports all over the UK, popping over to Spain for even a quick weekend getaway is completely doable. No wonder so many of us Brits have made it our second home!
Top Airlines Flying from the UK to Spain
After countless trips to Spain (and a few booking mishaps I'd rather forget), I've flown with pretty much every airline on this route. Here's my honest breakdown of your options, from budget-friendly to luxury experiences.
Budget Airlines
Ryanair
The Irish giant needs no introduction, does it? Love them or hate them, you can't deny Ryanair's impressive route network to Spain. I've snagged flights for as little as £19.99 each way! They fly to virtually everywhere: Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga, Alicante, Valencia, Seville—you name it.
Just remember: that rock-bottom fare is just the starting point. Want to choose your seat? That'll cost you. Planning to bring more than a small backpack? Open your wallet. Need to print your boarding pass at the airport? Oh boy, prepare for a fee that costs more than your sandwich on board.
That said, I've had perfectly fine experiences with Ryanair when I've played by their rules. My tip? Download their app, add priority boarding (which includes a cabin bag), and you're good to go without breaking the bank.
easyJet
My personal favorite among the budget carriers! easyJet strikes a nice balance between price and comfort. Their seats are a bit more spacious than Ryanair's, and their staff generally seem less... how do I put this kindly... stressed?
They cover all major Spanish destinations from most UK airports. I particularly love their flexible fare option when my plans aren't set in stone. It's saved me from expensive change fees more than once!
One thing to note—easyJet flights tend to sell out quicker than Ryanair's, especially during school holidays. I've learned the hard way that waiting for a last-minute deal often backfires with them.
Jet2
If you're looking for a budget airline with a more "package holiday" feel, Jet2 is your best bet. Based primarily in northern airports like Manchester, Leeds, and Newcastle, they offer generous baggage allowances compared to other low-cost carriers.
I flew with them last summer to Costa Blanca, and I was impressed by their customer service. You actually feel like a valued customer rather than just another passenger to process! Plus, they serve many smaller Spanish airports that bigger carriers don't touch, like Almería and Murcia.
Vueling
Spain's answer to easyJet, Vueling offers decent service with a Spanish twist. Based in Barcelona, they're particularly strong on routes to Catalonia and the Balearic Islands.
While technically a budget airline, they sometimes feel a step up from the ultra-low-cost experience. I've found their in-flight service friendlier (maybe it's that Spanish hospitality?), though their punctuality can be hit or miss during busy summer months.
Mid-Range Airlines
British Airways
Good old BA—when I'm feeling like treating myself without going fully premium, British Airways is my go-to. Their complimentary drinks and snacks (yes, even on short-haul European flights!) make the experience more civilized than the budget scramble.
They fly to all major Spanish cities from London Heathrow and Gatwick, with particularly frequent services to Madrid and Barcelona. The Avios points are a nice bonus too—I've actually managed to get a free flight to Spain after collecting points from just a few trips!
The downside? Their fares are usually 30-50% higher than budget airlines. Worth it for the extra comfort? That depends on your priorities and budget.
Iberia
Spain's flag carrier naturally offers extensive coverage of its home country. Their main hub is Madrid, making them perfect if that's your destination or if you're connecting to southern Spain or the Canary Islands.
I find their service has that warm Spanish touch—the cabin crew always seem genuinely pleased to have you on board. They also offer competitive prices on direct flights from London, though fewer options from regional UK airports.
Pro tip: Check out Iberia Express for cheaper fares with similar service quality on popular routes!
TUI Airways
If you're booking a package holiday to Spanish resorts, chances are you'll fly with TUI. They're not just a charter airline anymore, though—you can book flight-only options to many Spanish destinations.
What I love about TUI is the convenience factor for beach holidays. They fly directly to holiday hotspots like Mallorca, Ibiza, and Tenerife from dozens of UK airports. The downside is less flexibility with schedules—they typically operate just 1-2 flights weekly on each route.
Premium Airlines
Emirates (via connecting flights)
Wait, Emirates to Spain? Yes, you read that correctly! While they don't offer direct UK-Spain flights, Emirates provides connecting options via Dubai if you're looking for ultimate luxury.
Why would anyone fly to Spain via Dubai, you ask? I wondered the same until I needed to use some Emirates miles and discovered this quirky routing. The experience is undeniably premium—imagine enjoying their world-class service, fantastic meals, and perhaps even a shower on board if you're in first class!
It's an extravagant option that only makes sense for the most dedicated luxury travelers or those using miles, but I had to mention it for completeness!
Qatar Airways (via connecting flights)
Similar to Emirates, Qatar Airways offers premium connections to Spain via Doha. Their Qsuite business class consistently ranks among the world's best, turning the journey into part of your holiday experience.
Again, this is an unusual choice for a simple UK-Spain trip, but if you're combining Spain with other destinations or using Qatar Airways miles, it's worth considering for the superior in-flight experience.
Popular UK Airports for Flights to Spain
The beauty of flying to Spain from the UK is that you've got options—lots of them! No matter where you live, chances are there's a convenient airport nearby with Spanish flights.
London obviously leads the pack with the most flight choices. Gatwick is particularly strong for Spanish routes, especially with easyJet and British Airways operating hundreds of weekly flights to destinations across mainland Spain and the islands. I've found Gatwick particularly good for last-minute deals—perhaps because of all that competition!
Heathrow offers fewer budget options but more premium services, with British Airways and Iberia dominating the Spain routes. If comfort is your priority, this is your best London option.
Don't overlook Stansted if you're after budget flights—it's Ryanair's main London base, offering dirt-cheap fares if you can handle the early morning departure times (I've been known to sleep overnight in the terminal to catch those 6 AM bargains... not my proudest moment, but my wallet thanked me!).
Outside London, Manchester Airport serves as a major hub for Spanish flights in the north. I love that you can fly directly to over 20 Spanish destinations from here, making it brilliantly convenient for northerners. Jet2 and TUI have particularly strong presence here.
Birmingham punches above its weight with Spanish routes too—perfect for Midlands travelers who don't want to trek to London. They've got a good mix of budget and package holiday flights, particularly to beach destinations.
Edinburgh and Glasgow serve Scotland well, though you'll find more summer than winter options. I've noticed prices tend to be slightly higher from Scottish airports, but the convenience of not traveling south first makes it worthwhile for many.
Bristol, Liverpool, Newcastle, and East Midlands airports all offer decent Spanish coverage too, especially during peak summer season. I once flew from East Midlands to Alicante and was shocked by how smooth and hassle-free the smaller airport experience was—sometimes bigger isn't better!
Main Airports in Spain
Spain's airport network is impressively extensive, with options ranging from major international hubs to tiny regional airports serving beach destinations. Let me walk you through the main gateways you're likely to use.
Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD)
Madrid's magnificent airport is the grand entrance to Spain that the capital deserves! With its stunning wave-like ceiling in Terminal 4 (seriously, it's worth arriving early just to admire the architecture), this is Spain's largest and busiest airport.
All major airlines fly here, with Iberia making it their global hub. British Airways offers multiple daily direct flights from London, while budget carriers like Ryanair and easyJet also serve the airport from various UK cities.
I love flying into Madrid when I'm planning to explore central Spain or catch the high-speed AVE train to other regions. The airport connects to the city via an efficient metro line that costs just a few euros—much cheaper than city center airports in London!
One thing to note: Madrid-Barajas is HUGE. I once nearly missed my connection because I underestimated how long it would take to get from Terminal 1 to Terminal 4S (hint: there's a train involved). Give yourself plenty of time if you're connecting here!
Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN)
Barcelona's primary airport is my personal favorite entry point to Spain. Located just 12km from this gorgeous coastal city, El Prat offers the perfect balance of efficiency and size.
Virtually all UK carriers serve Barcelona, with easyJet, Ryanair, Vueling, and British Airways operating multiple daily flights. The competition keeps prices reasonable year-round—I've never had trouble finding a good deal, even during peak summer.
The airport has two terminals connected by a free shuttle bus. Terminal 1 is the newer, shinier option hosting most full-service carriers, while Terminal 2 serves many budget airlines. Both connect to the city via metro, train, and bus options.
Pro tip: If you're staying in central Barcelona, the Aerobus is your best transport option—fast, frequent, and dropping you right at Plaça Catalunya.
Other Major Airports
Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP)
Gateway to the sunshine coast, Málaga airport welcomes more British travelers than I can count! This modern, efficient airport serves the entire Costa del Sol region, including popular destinations like Marbella, Torremolinos, and Nerja.
During summer, you can fly here directly from over 20 UK airports. I've found particularly good deals with easyJet and Ryanair from London airports, while Jet2 and TUI dominate routes from northern UK cities.
The airport is well-connected to coastal resorts via trains, buses, and of course, endless rental car options. Just beware of the long queues at immigration during peak summer weekends—I once spent longer in the arrival hall than I did on the actual flight from London!
Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI)
As the entry point to Spain's most popular island, Palma airport gets BUSY. During summer, it handles more UK flights than almost any other Spanish airport.
Every carrier operates here, from budget options to charter airlines bringing package holidaymakers. I've found TUI and Jet2 particularly good for Mallorca trips, as they offer direct flights from regional UK airports that other carriers don't serve.
The airport is just 8km from Palma city, with excellent bus connections to all major resort areas. Despite its size and passenger numbers, I've always found it surprisingly efficient—a testament to how well the Spanish have organized their tourism infrastructure.
Valencia Airport (VLC)
Valencia's compact, user-friendly airport is perfect for accessing Spain's third-largest city and the beautiful Costa Blanca. Less frantic than Barcelona or Málaga, it offers a stress-free arrival experience that I really appreciate.
Ryanair and easyJet operate year-round services from multiple UK airports, with increased frequencies during summer. British Airways also flies direct from London.
What I love about Valencia airport is how quickly you can get from plane to beach or city center. The metro connection whisks you downtown in just 20 minutes—perfect when you're itching to start your holiday with some paella by the Mediterranean!
How to Find Cheap Flights to Spain
After years of trial, error, and perhaps too many hours stalking flight comparison websites, I've developed a system for finding the best deals to Spain. Let me share my secrets!
Book in Advance
I hate to break it to my fellow last-minute planners, but advance booking really does save money on Spain flights. The sweet spot? For summer trips, I've found booking 3-4 months ahead typically yields the best fares.
Christmas and Easter holidays are a different story—those should be booked 5-6 months in advance if possible. I learned this lesson the hard way when I once paid triple the normal fare for a December flight to Madrid that I booked just six weeks before travel.
That said, don't panic if you're planning a spontaneous getaway. Winter and shoulder season (except holidays) often have great last-minute deals, especially from budget carriers looking to fill seats.
Be Flexible with Dates
This is honestly my number one money-saving tip! Being able to shift your travel by even a day or two can save serious cash. Tuesday and Wednesday flights are nearly always cheaper than Friday and Sunday options.
I swear by Skyscanner's "whole month" view, which shows prices across an entire month in one glance. It's astonishing how flying on a Wednesday instead of a Saturday might save you £100 or more, especially during summer.
Google Flights has a similar feature with its price graph, showing you at a glance which dates offer the best value. I've changed my travel plans countless times after seeing these visualizations, and my wallet has thanked me!
Early morning and late evening flights also tend to be cheaper. Yes, that 6:30 AM departure requires a painfully early alarm, but the money saved can buy a lot of extra tapas once you arrive!
Consider Budget Airlines
Budget airlines get a bad rap sometimes, but for short flights to Spain, they're often perfect. The flight is only 2-3 hours—do you really need a gourmet meal and extra legroom for such a short hop?
I regularly fly Ryanair and easyJet to Spain, and while I have to pack strategically to avoid baggage fees, the savings are substantial. On my last trip, I paid £79 return with Ryanair compared to £220 with British Airways for almost identical flight times.
The key to happy budget airline travel is understanding exactly what's included and what costs extra. Always read the fine print about baggage allowances, check-in procedures, and boarding requirements. I once had to fork out €55 for a boarding pass I forgot to print—a mistake I'll never repeat!
Sign Up for Airline Newsletters
This might sound old-school, but airline email lists still provide some of the best flash deals around. I've scored £29 flights to Barcelona through Ryanair's subscriber-only sales, and easyJet regularly sends out codes for discounted flights to email subscribers.
Airlines like British Airways and Iberia also run periodic sales that are announced to subscribers first. Last January, I nabbed a £89 return to Madrid in BA's New Year sale—about half the usual price.
Yes, it means a slightly fuller inbox, but it's worth creating a dedicated email folder for these alerts. When a Spanish beach is calling your name in the middle of a dreary British winter, you'll be glad you did!
Get into the holiday spirit with our ultimate guide to celebrating Christmas in Spain.
Best Time to Visit Spain
Spain's climate varies dramatically by region, so the "best" time to visit really depends on your destination and preferences. Let me break it down by season to help you pick your perfect Spanish escape.
Spring (March-May)
This is my personal favorite time for exploring Spanish cities. The weather is mild and sunny (typically 15-25°C), flowers are blooming everywhere, and you'll encounter far fewer tourists than in summer.
Southern cities like Seville and Granada are particularly magical in spring. I'll never forget wandering through Seville's perfumed orange blossom streets during Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions—an experience that feels authentically Spanish rather than touristy.
Barcelona and Madrid are perfect in April and May, with comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and significantly shorter lines at major attractions. I once walked straight into Sagrada Família in April—something unimaginable during August!
The only downside? Spring isn't reliable beach weather in northern Spain, though the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca often warm up nicely by late April.
Autumn (September-November)
Similar to spring, autumn offers gorgeous weather without the crowds. September is particularly brilliant—the sea is still warm from summer, but the intense heat has subsided to more comfortable levels.
This is wine harvest season too, making it ideal for visits to Spanish wine regions like Rioja and Ribera del Duero. I spent a long weekend in La Rioja last October participating in grape stomping and village harvest festivals—an unforgettable authentic experience!
The Mediterranean coast stays pleasantly warm through October, making it perfect for combining beach time with cultural exploration. Just pack layers for evenings, which can get chilly, especially in northern regions.
Summer (June-August)
Let's be honest—this is when most Brits visit Spain, especially for beach holidays. The weather is reliably hot and sunny across the country, with coastal areas benefiting from refreshing sea breezes.
The Spanish islands reach their peak glory in summer. I've spent many blissful July days on Mallorca and Ibiza beaches, reveling in the perfect combination of crystal clear waters and guaranteed sunshine.
However, be prepared for crowds and higher prices everywhere. Cities like Barcelona and Madrid can be uncomfortably hot (often exceeding 35°C), making sightseeing challenging during midday hours. I learned to adopt the Spanish schedule in summer—sightseeing early morning, long lunch and siesta during peak heat, then emerging again for evening explorations.
Winter (December-February)
Don't dismiss winter Spain! While beach holidays are off the menu (except perhaps in the Canary Islands, which stay mild year-round), this is a fantastic season for budget city breaks and unique experiences.
Madrid and Barcelona are delightfully uncrowded, with comfortable daytime temperatures around 10-15°C. I love strolling into normally packed attractions like Madrid's Prado Museum and having entire rooms to myself!
This is also the season for ski enthusiasts to discover Spain's lesser-known ski resorts in the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada. I spent a weekend skiing in Sierra Nevada last February—where else can you ski in the morning and potentially visit a Mediterranean beach the same afternoon?
Christmas in Spain offers a different but equally magical experience to UK celebrations, with spectacular light displays and unique traditions like the midnight Misa del Gallo on Christmas Eve.
Top Cities to Visit in Spain
After countless trips criss-crossing this diverse country, I've developed some firm favorites among Spain's vibrant cities. Each has its own distinctive character and charm—here's why you should consider them for your next Spanish adventure.
Madrid
Spain's elegant capital often gets overlooked in favor of flashier Barcelona, but Madrid has thoroughly captured my heart over the years. There's something about its grandeur mixed with authentic neighborhood vibes that feels both impressive and approachable.
The city's "Golden Triangle of Art"—the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums—houses some of the world's most impressive art collections. I still get goosebumps remembering my first encounter with Picasso's powerful Guernica at the Reina Sofia.
Retiro Park provides a glorious green escape, where locals and visitors alike row boats on the small lake, picnic under trees, or simply people-watch with an ice cream. I love grabbing a book and joining the Madrileños for their Sunday ritual of relaxing here.
Madrid truly comes alive at night—dinner rarely starts before 9 PM, and neighborhoods like La Latina and Malasaña buzz with tapas bars until the early hours. My tip? Join a local food tour early in your trip to discover hidden gastro gems you can return to later.
Barcelona
Vibrant, artistic Barcelona offers a completely different Spanish experience, with its distinctive Catalan culture and stunning Mediterranean setting. I've visited countless times and still discover new treasures on each trip.
Gaudí's fantastical architecture defines the city's unique aesthetic. Beyond the iconic Sagrada Família (which gets more breathtaking with each visit as construction progresses), don't miss the whimsical Park Güell and the elegant Casa Batlló. I recommend booking tickets online for all Gaudí sites to avoid the notoriously long queues.
The Gothic Quarter's labyrinthine medieval streets contrast beautifully with the organized grid of the Eixample district. I love getting deliberately lost in the Gothic Quarter, stumbling upon hidden plazas and centuries-old churches around unexpected corners.
Barcelona's beach culture adds another dimension to city life. After a morning of sightseeing, you can be lounging on Barceloneta beach by afternoon, followed by fresh seafood at a beachside chiringuito. Talk about the perfect urban-coastal balance!
Seville
Oh, Seville—the city that embodies all those romantic Spanish stereotypes in the best possible way! Flamenco, orange trees, ornate architecture... this Andalusian capital delivers the Spain of imagination.
The Royal Alcázar palace complex showcases incredible Moorish architecture and lush gardens. I recommend visiting first thing in the morning to appreciate its peaceful courtyards before the crowds arrive. Game of Thrones fans will recognize it as Dorne from the series!
Seville Cathedral, the world's largest Gothic cathedral, houses Christopher Columbus's tomb and offers spectacular views from its Giralda tower. The climb up is via ramps rather than stairs (designed for horses originally), making it more accessible than many bell towers.
What I love most about Seville is its passionate atmosphere—this is the spiritual home of flamenco after all. Catching an authentic performance in a small venue in the Triana neighborhood remains one of my most vivid Spanish memories.
Valencia
Modern and traditional Spain blend perfectly in Valencia, creating what might be the country's most livable city. Its combination of beautiful beaches, futuristic architecture, and preserved historic center ticks all my boxes.
The City of Arts and Sciences is an architectural marvel that looks like something from a sci-fi film. Designed by local architect Santiago Calatrava, this complex houses an IMAX cinema, Europe's largest aquarium, an interactive science museum, and an opera house. I spent an entire day exploring and photographing these stunning structures.
Valencia Cathedral claims to house the authentic Holy Grail, but regardless of religious significance, its blend of architectural styles from Gothic to Baroque makes it worth visiting.
This is also the birthplace of paella, Spain's famous rice dish. Skip the tourist versions and head to a traditional restaurant in the Albufera region just outside the city. I had my life-changing paella moment at a rustic restaurant overlooking the rice fields where the ingredients are grown!
Granada
Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada offers an intoxicating blend of Moorish history, student energy, and breathtaking natural surroundings.
The Alhambra palace complex is, without exaggeration, one of the most beautiful places I've ever visited. Its intricate Islamic carvings, peaceful courtyards, and gardens featuring the sound of running water create a sensory experience that photographs can't capture. Book tickets well in advance—they limit daily visitors and frequently sell out.
Granada has preserved its Moorish neighborhood, the Albaicín, where whitewashed houses line narrow, winding streets leading to spectacular Alhambra viewpoints. Climbing to the San Nicolás viewpoint at sunset to watch the palace walls turn golden is a memory I treasure.
What makes Granada extra special? It's one of the last places in Spain maintaining the tradition of serving free tapas with every drink! Bar-hopping here becomes an affordable feast as each round brings new complimentary dishes. My favorite area for this is Calle Navas, where the tapas get more elaborate the more you drink!
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