Spain

Spain Overview

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If you’re planning a journey from Spain to China, this guide will provide you with everything you need, from essential travel information to visa policies, transportation options, and tips on exploring China’s top destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Hong Kong, and more. Read on to plan your perfect China trip from Spain!

Where is Spain?

Spain is a southwestern European country located on the Iberian Peninsula. Known for its rich culture, history, and scenic landscapes, Spain offers diverse attractions such as the Alhambra in Granada, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, and the beaches of the Costa Brava.

The Neighbouring Cities and Countries of Spain

Neighbouring Cities

• Barcelona: Famous for its architectural wonders, beaches, and vibrant culture.
• Madrid: The capital, known for its historical landmarks, art museums, and bustling city life.
• Valencia: Known for its futuristic architecture, beaches, and traditional paella.
• Seville: Famous for its flamenco dancing, architecture, and the Alcázar of Seville.

Neighbouring Countries

• France (to the north): Famous for its landmarks like Paris, the French Riviera, and wine regions.
• Portugal (to the west): Known for its stunning coastline, historic cities, and port wine.
• Andorra (to the northeast): A small, mountainous country known for skiing and shopping.
• Gibraltar (to the south): Known for the Rock of Gibraltar and its naval base.

Which International Airport in Spain Can Take Flights to China?

Main International Airports in Spain

Spain has several major airports offering international flights to China:

• Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD): The largest airport in Spain, offering direct flights to China.
• Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN): Also a major international airport with flights to China.
• Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP): Offers some indirect flights to China.
• Valencia Airport (VLC): Primarily offers connections through other European hubs.

Plan Your China Trip from Spain

Our Spain – China travel guide offers helpful insights on when to visit, top destinations, China visa requirements, and transportation options. Whether you’re looking to explore Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, or Hong Kong, this guide provides the essential details to make your trip unforgettable.

When and Where to Visit in China?

China is a vast country with a variety of destinations, each offering something unique:

• Beijing: Explore the Forbidden City, Great Wall of China, and Tiananmen Square.
• Shanghai: Discover modern architecture such as The Bund and Shanghai Tower.
• Xi’an: Visit the world-famous Terracotta Warriors and Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
• Hong Kong: A blend of Eastern and Western cultures with attractions like Victoria Peak and Hong Kong Disneyland.
• Chengdu: Famous for Giant Pandas and spicy Sichuan cuisine.
• Yunnan: Rich in ethnic diversity and home to beautiful locations such as Lijiang, Shangri-La, and Dali.

Spain to China Travel Tips

• Language: Mandarin is the official language in China, though many people in major cities speak some English.
• Currency: The Chinese Yuan (CNY) is used in China.
• Time Zone: China Standard Time (CST), UTC +8.
• Weather: China’s climate is varied, with hot summers in the south, cold winters in the north, and mild temperatures in central regions. It’s recommended to visit during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November).
• Local Customs: Be respectful of Chinese traditions such as proper greetings, avoiding loud speaking, and using both hands when offering gifts.

How to Travel from Spain to the Main Cities of China?

Here are the top routes for traveling from Spain to China’s main cities:

Barcelona – Beijing Travel

• Flight Duration: 11-13 hours (direct flight).
• Airlines: Air China, Iberia.
• Top Attractions:
  • The Great Wall of China
  • Forbidden City
  • Tiananmen Square
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.

Barcelona – Xi’an Travel

• Flight Duration: 12-14 hours (with layovers).
• Airlines: Qatar Airways, Emirates.
• Top Attractions:
  • Terracotta Army
  • Big Wild Goose Pagoda
  • Ancient City Wall
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.

Barcelona – Shanghai Travel

• Flight Duration: 12-14 hours (direct flight).
• Airlines: Iberia, Air China.
• Top Attractions:
  • The Bund
  • Yu Garden
  • Shanghai Tower
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.

Barcelona – Hong Kong Travel

• Flight Duration: 13 hours (direct flight).
• Airlines: Iberia, Cathay Pacific.
• Top Attractions:
  • Victoria Peak
  • Hong Kong Disneyland
  • Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with spring and autumn being ideal.

Barcelona – Guangzhou Travel

• Flight Duration: 13-15 hours (with layovers).
• Airlines: China Southern Airlines, Emirates.
• Top Attractions:
  • Canton Tower
  • Yuexiu Park
  • Chen Clan Ancestral Hall
• Best Time to Visit: Autumn.

Barcelona – Chengdu Travel

• Flight Duration: 13-15 hours (with layovers).
• Airlines: Qatar Airways, Emirates.
• Top Attractions:
  • Chengdu Panda Base
  • Sichuan Opera
  • Jinli Ancient Street
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.

Barcelona – Kunming Travel

• Flight Duration: 14-16 hours (with layovers).
• Airlines: Emirates, Qatar Airways.
• Top Attractions:
  • Stone Forest
  • Green Lake Park
  • Kunming’s Ancient Pagodas
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.

Barcelona – Chongqing Travel

• Flight Duration: 14-16 hours (with layovers).
• Airlines: Emirates, Qatar Airways.
• Top Attractions:
  • Three Gorges Museum
  • Hongya Cave
  • Chongqing Zoo
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn.

Visa Policy from Spain to China

Visa Requirements for Spanish Citizens

Spanish citizens need a visa to travel to China. The following documents and steps are required for the visa application:

1. Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended arrival date in China.
2. Visa Application Form: Complete the Chinese Visa Application Form online.
3. Photographs: Submit two passport-sized color photos.
4. Flight Tickets: Proof of return or onward travel.
5. Hotel Reservations: Accommodation details for your stay in China.
6. Financial Proof: Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in China.

Types of Visas

• Tourist Visa (L Visa): For those visiting for tourism.
• Business Visa (M Visa): For those traveling for business purposes.
• Student Visa (X Visa): For studying in China.
• Transit Visa (G Visa): For travelers passing through China en route to other destinations.

Visa Application Process

• Submit Documents: Submit your documents to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) in Madrid or the Chinese Embassy.
• Processing Time: Standard processing time is about 4-7 business days.

Spain to China Transportation Guide

By Air

Flights are the most convenient way to travel from Spain to China. Direct flights from Madrid and Barcelona to major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong are available, while layover options are also possible through major Middle Eastern carriers.

By Train or Bus

• Train Travel: High-speed trains within China are an excellent way to travel between cities, but there are no direct trains from Spain to China.
• Bus Travel: Buses are not practical for long-distance travel from Spain to China.

By Cruise or Ship

Although cruises from Spain to China exist, they are mostly for leisure and can take weeks. This is not an efficient mode of travel for most visitors.

Traveling from Spain to China provides endless possibilities for exploration, from Beijing’s historical monuments to Shanghai’s modern marvels. With proper planning, understanding the visa process, and choosing the best transportation methods, your China trip from Spain will be a memorable adventure. Safe travels!