travelling ireland to spain

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General Information

Nationals of the countries listed in Annex I of Regulation (EU) 2018/1806 (and you introduce the direct link) need a Schengen visa to travel to any country of the Schengen area.

The Schengen area encompasses 26 European countries without border controls between them: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

Immigration checkpoints are in place only at the external borders of the Schengen Area.

Ireland is one of the few EU countries that it is not part of the Schengen Area. As a result, anyone travelling from Ireland to Spain will pass through an immigration checkpoint.

A Schengen visa does not automatically entitle its holder to enter the Schengen area. The border authorities can refuse entry to the visa holder if they are unable to provide evidence of the purpose and specifics of their trip.

This visa allows its holder to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days (in any 180-day period). It also allows transit through the territory and airports of the Schengen area.

A Schengen visa may be issued for one, two or multiple entries with a maximum validity of 5 years.

Only visa applications from legal residents in Ireland are accepted. Applications must be submitted in person.

You should apply for a Spanish Schengen visa if Spain is the sole or the main destination of your planned trip. If your main destination cannot be determined, you should submit your visa application at the consular office of the country of entry into the EU.

https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Embajadas/dublin/en/ServiciosConsulares/Paginas/Consular/Visados-Schengen.aspx

News & Notification

Important update.

The Government of Ireland banned Irish residents from travelling abroad except in cases where they have a justified reason to do so (work, education, medical treatment, unavoidable family needs and care for vulnerable persons). If you intend to travel to Spain because you consider that your trip falls within one of the aforementioned reasons, you are advised to carry with you documentary evidence of the reason for your trip.

To protect your Health, the Government of Spain has implemented a series of measures to protect the general public’s health, including health control of passengers upon arrival in Spain. Check www.spth.gob.es to find out what the current health requirements are for travelling to Spain.

PLEASE BE GUIDED ACCORDINGLY & ALWAYS STAY SAFE.

Importance Notice Applicants can apply for Visa between 6 months and up to 20 working days before the planned travel. Any application submitted with less than 20 working days before the travel will not be accepted by the consulate. Applicants can apply for Visa between 6 months and up to 15 days before the planned travel. Any application submitted with less than 15 days before the travel will not be accepted by the consulate. Visa application form has been changed. Visa Fee increases from February 2nd Above 12 years : 80 Euros 6 to 11 years: 40 Euros Children under 6 years: Free of charge-->

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D ublin I nstitute of S panish

with you and for you

• Jul 3, 2023

10 essential tips for travelling from Ireland to Spain this Summer 2023

Updated: Jul 6, 2023

Live the summer of your life... Or start experiencing it every year!

ARTICLE CONTENT

Directly brought to you by our native Spanish team , we bring you a quick summary of the essential tips you need to know before travelling to Spain this summer as well as some pro tips for saving a lot of money or having the greatest experience. Let's go!

Introduction

Welcome to the essential travel guide for journeying from Ireland to Spain! Whether you're planning a sun-soaked beach vacation in Barcelona or an exploration of Madrid's vibrant culture, this guide is here to provide you with essential tips and advice for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

We've got you covered from flight options and travel documents to currency exchange, language considerations, weather preparation, transportation options, health and safety precautions, local customs, and more. So buckle up and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure from the Emerald Isle to the land of Flamenco, tapas, and architectural wonders.

Check for direct flights from Ireland to Spain, as they are more convenient and time-saving.

Major Irish airports like Dublin, Shannon, and Cork have regular flights to popular Spanish cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, and Alicante.

Landing directly in one of those mentioned airports can be done in less than 2 to 3 hours, helping you enjoy your trip from the moment you land on Spanish territory and saving money from doing flight scales.

PRO TIP: " When looking for flights, use your browser's incognito mode and prevent accepting cookies, as flights can increase their price over time due to users' activity on the website. "

Travel Documents

It might be obvious but we all know that one person who always forgets to bring them!

Ensure you have a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity. Ireland and Spain are both part of the European Union, so Irish citizens can travel to Spain using just their passport.

Non-Irish citizens should check visa requirements and ensure they have the necessary documents.

PRO TIP : " It is heavily recommended to save some photos in the phone storage and an online backup service for emergencies. "

Spain uses the Euro (€) as its currency.

You can exchange currency in Ireland or withdraw Euros from ATMs in Spain.

Also, remember to bring some cash when travelling to Spain, although almost every place has the option to pay by card, some other traditional places may have a hard time providing electronic payment methods.

It is always good to have some cash in your pockets for a quick need.

PRO TIP : " Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards. "

While many people in Spain speak English, particularly in tourist areas, it's beneficial to learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your travel experience and connect with the locals. Spanish is the official language in Spain, and even a small effort to communicate in the local language can go a long way in terms of cultural immersion.

Consider learning common greetings such as:

- "Hola" (Hello)

- "Buenos días" (Good morning)

- "Buenas tardes" (Good afternoon)

- "Buenas noches" (Good evening/night).

Polite phrases are also essential:

- "Por favor" (Please)

- "Gracias" (Thank you)

- "De nada" (You're welcome)

- "Disculpe" (Excuse me)

- "¿Me permite? (Do you mind?)

Being able to ask for directions or assistance is extremely important.

- "¿Dónde está...?" (Where is...?)

- "¿Cómo llego a...?" (How do I get to...?)

- "¿Me puede ayudar?" (Can you help me?).

Restaurants and cafes are an integral part of Spanish culture, so it's helpful to know basic dining phrases as they will make your dining experience smoother.

- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" (A table for two, please)

- "La cuenta, por favor" (The bill, please)

- "Quisiera...por favor" (I would like...please)

Additionally, familiarize yourself with numbers, as they are crucial for ordering, shopping, and understanding prices .

- Knowing phrases for asking about the price, such as "¿Cuánto cuesta?" (How much does it cost?), can be handy while shopping.

If you encounter difficulties understanding or expressing yourself, don't hesitate to use translation apps or carry a pocket-sized phrasebook. The locals appreciate the effort, and it can lead to more meaningful interactions and memorable experiences during your time in Spain.

Remember that learning a few basic phrases shows respect for the local culture and can make your trip more enjoyable. Even if you don't become fluent overnight, the willingness to try will be greatly appreciated by the Spanish people you encounter on your journey.

PRO TIP: " Keep a list in your phone's notepad with common expressions in case you need one of them. "

Weather and Clothing

Spain has a varied climate, so check the weather forecast for your specific destination and pack accordingly. The North and the South have completely different temperatures.

In general, Spain has warmer weather than Ireland, so bring lightweight and breathable clothing. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen (really important), a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.

Sometimes, depending on the duration of the trip, it may be a good idea to bring some clothes and buy a few ones in Spanish shops. That way you wear exactly what you feel is the best for your Spanish experience.

PRO TIP: " Coming from Ireland the clothes pricing may look cheap to you! "

Electrical outlets

Spain uses the Europlug (Type C) and the Schuko plug (Type F) for electrical outlets. If your devices have a different plug type, you may need a travel adapter.

Should be a good idea to bring a universal adapter in your handbag, or one of those mentioned before. However, if you forget to pack one in your bag or you are in a rush, there are plenty of shops where you can buy one. Even the airport sells them if you are in a hurry.

By any means DO NOT try plugging anything that doesn’t match the socket outlet entrance, exit, voltage… If in doubt, ask an expert about the situation.

PRO TIP: "Always keep a universal adapter in your bag"

Transportation

Spain has an efficient transportation system. Research the available options such as trains, buses, and taxis to get around within the country. They are cheap!

If you plan to drive, ensure you have an international driving permit if necessary and familiarize yourself with local traffic rules.

There are a lot of rental options for cars, vans, motorbikes, electric scooters, bikes… This is a great option when planning on discovering stunning traditional places outside the big cities or cruising through the city from point A to point B.

PRO TIP: " You should plan your routes using Google Maps and other services before the trip "

Health and Safety

Obtain travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies or unexpected situations. It's advisable to have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you are an Irish citizen, as it grants you access to necessary healthcare services in Spain. Also, check if any vaccinations are recommended for your trip.

As with any destination, it is advised to map the medical centres, hospitals, pharmacies and useful health resources near your accommodation in case you need them.

Related to the weather, and as mentioned before, don’t forget to bring or buy sunscreen, it will make your experience in Spain more pleasant by preventing sunburns.

PRO TIP: " Check the local health safety warnings before the trip "

Local Customs and Etiquette

Understanding and respecting local customs and etiquette is an important aspect of travelling to Spain. Here are some key points to keep in mind to ensure a culturally sensitive and enjoyable experience. Greetings, meal times, and tipping practices may differ from what you're accustomed to in Ireland.

Greetings : Spanish people generally greet each other with a handshake or two kisses on the cheek, starting with the left cheek. However, in more formal settings, a simple handshake is sufficient. Take cues from the locals and follow their lead when greeting.

Meal Times : Spaniards typically have their main meal, known as "la comida," in the afternoon, usually between 2 pm and 4 pm. Dinner, "la cena," is served much later, typically starting from 9 pm or even later in some regions. Embrace the local dining schedule and be prepared for restaurants to be less crowded during lunchtime.

Tipping : Tipping is customary in Spain (not mandatory), although it's not as extensive as in some other countries. If you want to tip the service provider they will be very thankful for your kind gesture. It's common to leave a small tip, usually rounding up the bill or adding a few extra euros. In upscale restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is appreciated for exceptional service.

Respect for Siesta : The siesta, a short afternoon nap or rest period, is deeply rooted in Spanish culture. While it's not as prevalent in urban areas, smaller towns and rural regions may observe this tradition. Be mindful of quieter hours during siesta time, usually from approximately 2 pm to 5 pm, when some businesses may close for a break.

Dress Code : Spain tends to have a relatively casual dress code, but it's important to dress appropriately for specific occasions or religious sites. When visiting churches or religious landmarks, modest attire is expected, with shoulders and knees covered. In beach areas, beachwear is acceptable, but it's advisable to cover up when leaving the beach or strolling through town.

Politeness and Respect : Spanish culture places a strong emphasis on politeness and respect. Address people using their titles (such as "Señor" for men and "Señora" for married women) or use "Usted" (the formal "you") when speaking to strangers or in professional settings. Saying "por favor" (please) and "gracias" (thank you) goes a long way in showing appreciation.

Public Displays of Affection : Spaniards are generally comfortable with public displays of affection, such as holding hands or light kissing, particularly in more liberal areas. However, it's important to be mindful of the cultural context and adapt your behaviour accordingly.

By observing these customs and etiquette, you'll show respect for Spanish culture and seamlessly integrate into the local way of life. Embrace the warmth and hospitality of the Spanish people, and you'll likely forge memorable connections and have a more enriching travel experience.

PRO TIP: " If in doubt about anything mentioned before, politely ask a local. They will answer all your questions without hesitation. "

If feeling sophisticated, check " The History of Spanish Gastronomy ". We give a list of the top Spanish restaurant recommendations .

Enjoy the experience

Spain offers a rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Research and plan your itinerary accordingly to make the most of your trip.

You can use social media, search on the internet, ask the locals, plan tours... There are many options to get information about Spain.

Be open to trying new experiences and embrace the Spanish way of life as we only live once!

Prepare to pursue your Spanish adventure this Summer starting with the “ Spanish Summer Camp in Dublin ” and our many other lessons.

Feel free to check our wide variety of Spanish Courses for Leaving Certification, DELE, Business and many other classes!

We are currently offering a trial private lesson in our school in Dublin!

Mila Fernández

CEO, Teacher & Founder at Dublin Institute of Spanish

Álvaro Rubio

Marketing Specialist at Dublin Institute of Spanish

Copyright – Dublin Institute of Spanish

Recent Posts

The History of Spanish Gastronomy

Be prepared to visit Spain with these 16 things to know before you go

Jun 21, 2023 • 6 min read

Here's what you need to know to get ready for a trip to Spain © Flashpop / Getty Images

Spain has been home for the past 16 years, ever since I moved to its capital Madrid in my early thirties.

From day one, it was easy to be charmed by this warm and inviting country . It ticks a lot of  boxes in terms of what you’re looking for in a European destination – great cuisine and wine , spectacular landscapes , architectural gems, green spaces and a thriving art scene. 

Getting around the country is also very convenient, thanks to Spain's efficient and reliable multi-modal public transport system . And the Spanish people are some of the friendliest locals, who will happily go out of their way to point you in the right direction if you’re lost.

Of course there were still some cultural quirks I had to adjust to – for one, eating times in Spain are very late in comparison with the rest of the world's dining schedules. I still remember my early days in Madrid when my belly would be in outright rebellion while waiting for “early” dinner reservations at 9pm. And forget about making a speedy exit from social gatherings; in Spain saying farewell could take up another hour of your time.

Cultural idiosyncrasies aside, your trip to this incredible country can be your most memorable one yet if you plan well ahead, and follow these useful travel tips.

1. Pack warm clothes. Really.

There is a humorous Spanish expression that goes, “Hasta cuarenta de mayo, no te quites el sayo” , which translates to “Until the 40th of May, don’t remove your coat” – sage advice to keep a jacket handy until mid-June. While Spain may be famous for its blue skies and sun-drenched beaches, it actually has more colder seasons in the year than warm ones, during early spring (March to May), autumn (September to November) and winter (December to February). Regions in northern Spain, such as the Basque Country, Asturias and Galicia, have cooler temperatures compared to the rest of the country. 

2. Being cashless is common

Card is king in Spain. The main tourist hubs such as Madrid, Barcelona , San Sebastián and Ibiza are generally credit card-friendly destinations. In fact, you could go cashless for days and pay for your meals, drinks, taxis and bus fares without a problem using a credit or debit card.

If you do bring cash, make sure you have loose change. Several establishments, bus and taxi drivers, especially on morning shifts, usually do not have change for bigger bills. So if you prefer paying cash, it’s a good idea to be stocked up on smaller bills (€5 and €10) and coins.

3. Choose your time to visit Madrid wisely

Think twice about visiting Madrid in August . Most establishments in the Spanish capital close, and Madrileños usually head for the beaches to escape the brutal August heat . 

4. Expect to eat late

Prepare for late Spanish dining times. Many tourists who come to Spain for the first time end up hungry while waiting for restaurants to open. Most restaurants open for lunch from 1pm to 4pm, and dinner from 8pm to 1am. A lot of establishments also close on Mondays. You can stave off hunger pangs before mealtimes by snacking on tapas – small savory plates that are usually free with a drink order in many Spanish cities. In San Sebastián or Bilbao in the Basque Country , you can savor pintxos , or bite-sized portions typically served on a slice of bread and skewered with a toothpick.

5. Ordering certain drinks will immediately mark you as a tourist

A popular drink among tourists, sangría is usually served in pitchers meant for sharing, and not by the glass. Instead, try ordering a local favorite that’s similar to sangría, tinto de verano , a concoction of red wine and lemon soda. 

Ask for a caña  like a local instead of a cerveza . A caña  is a small glass of beer on tap (about 250ml).

6. Tipping is not expected

European countries in general don’t have a tipping culture. But of course, it is very much appreciated – especially if you enjoyed good service. 

7. Don't eat food while you’re on the move

Eating is an age-old pleasure that must be savored unhurriedly, so it’s uncommon to see Spaniards biting sandwiches or munching on fries while walking down the street or riding public transportation. 

8. Look for fixed-price lunches

Order the menú del día (daily menu) for lunch on weekdays. Take your cue from the locals and ask for the fixed-price menu (ranging from €8 to €17) that includes a three-course meal with dessert, drinks, bread and coffee.

9. Eat late, stay late

Make time for sobremesa  – lingering long after a meal for a post-dining conversation. This is a hallmark of sociable Spanish culture, to extend conversations well beyond mealtimes to be able to enjoy each other’s company for as long as possible, usually over drinks.

10. Keep an eye on your belongings

Be vigilant of pickpockets and keep your belongings close. Pickpockets are unfortunately rampant in high tourist traffic areas. If you’re sitting at an outdoor table, watch out for vendors that get suspiciously close and distract you with their items for sale, such as flowers or lottery tickets, while they surreptitiously steal your wallet or mobile phone on the table (this is a modus operandi I’ve witnessed more than once!). 

11. You can drink tap water in Spain

Go ahead and drink the tap water. Spanish tap water or “agua de grifo” is safe to drink, though the taste varies across regions. 

12. There's one number for an emergency

Call 112 for any emergency. You can contact this number for any kind of emergency in Spain, even without a Spanish SIM card on your mobile phone. You’ll be connected to the right emergency service through multilingual operators. To contact the Spanish National Police, dial 091. 

 13. Dress appropriately when away from the beach

Opt for smart casual attire and avoid overly casual outfits like athleisure wear, beachwear, or excessively revealing clothing in the city. If you’re visiting religious sites such as churches, cathedrals or mosques, cover your shoulders and knees to show respect for these places.

14. Brush up on basic Spanish

Like any destination, it helps a lot if you know basic local phrases. While you can get by speaking English in the bigger, more touristy cities, it is a different story when visiting smaller, lesser-known towns outside the tourist radar. 

Don't say “no problemo”, which is incorrect. The correct phrase is “no hay problema” or more colloquially, say “no pasa nada” . 

15. Know what is considered polite

Greet people, even strangers. It’s commonplace to greet people in elevators, shops and along hallways. Compliment good service by saying “muy amable” . Meaning “very kind”, this is a commonly used polite phrase to express gratitude for someone’s helpfulness. It can be said in different situations – if a person has gone out of their way to assist you, like giving you directions, holding a door or giving up their seat for you. You can also say this to show your appreciation for customer service that goes above and beyond.

16. Don’t leave a social gathering without saying goodbye

It is generally frowned upon to leave an occasion without letting your host know. However, be prepared for a long, drawn out goodbye – the Spanish are highly sociable people who like extending conversations, leading to lengthy, and often multiple stages of farewells. 

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FERRY ROUTES

Ireland to spain.

Playa de Zurriola at San Sebastián

Ferry to Spain from Ireland

Brittany Ferries offers the most convenient and comfortable overnight ferry from Ireland to Spain. Sail aboard our latest cruise ferries and discover a great way to travel to Spain from Ireland without all the hassle of flying. 

D epart from the Irish port of Rosslare to Bilbao for a direct ferry to your holiday in Spain or southern France. Rosslare is easily reached from much of Ireland and is just over 2 hours’ drive from Dublin. 

Bilbao is in the Basque region of Spain and has an exciting blend of modern and historical attractions to explore. For more information view our route map and timetables.

Rosslare to Bilbao ferries

Step on board for either an overnight or two-night sailing to northern Spain from the popular port of Rosslare.

Rosslare to Bilbao

Ferries to spain.

Bilbao port is ideally placed for fast access by road to northern Spain or the south of France.

Can I get a car ferry from Ireland to Spain?

Sail with your vehicle on a direct car ferry from Rosslare to Bilbao in northern Spain.

How long is the ferry from Ireland to Spain?

Our sailings from Rosslare to Bilbao take between 29 and 33 hours.

Is there a direct ferry from Spain to Ireland?

Sail on our direct ferry service from Bilbao to Rosslare, with sailings twice weekly.

Can I take a pet on the ferry to Spain?

Yes – we have pet-friendly cabins and kennels available on our Rosslare to Bilbao ferry route.

Can I take food to Spain on the ferry?

You may take food for personal consumption on board (see official EU guidelines for more details). We also have restaurants aboard all of our ships.

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We offer you practical advice on border requirements, money, security, health and internet connection and inform you of the habitual opening hours in Spain, our public holidays, driving tips and what you need to know if you are travelling with pets. That way you will be prepared and informed on everything you need to know. Welcome and have a great trip!

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Find cheap flights to Spain from €29

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from ireland to spain departing on 5/10. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to spain.

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Best Spain Flight Deals

Cheapest return prices found by our users on KAYAK in the last 72 hours

Good to know

Faqs - booking spain flights, how long is the flight to spain.

An average direct flight from Ireland to Spain takes 6h 21m, covering a distance of 3023 km. The most popular route is Dublin - Barcelona with an average flight time of 2h 30m.

What is the cheapest flight to Spain?

The cheapest ticket to Spain from Ireland found in the last 72 hours was €45 one-way, and €52 round-trip. The most popular route is Dublin to Barcelona-El Prat and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was €52.

Which airlines fly to Spain?

Ryanair, Aer Lingus & American Airlines fly the most frequently from Ireland to Spain.

What are the most popular destinations in Spain?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is Málaga (17% of total searches to Spain). The next most popular destinations are Madrid (15%) and Alicante (8%). Searches for flights to Palma de Mallorca (8%), to Arrecife (7%) and to Tenerife South (7%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travellers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Spain

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Spain flight deals.

Top 5 airlines flying to Spain

Short flight so not much to rate. Surprised I had to pay for a soda.

the room on the plane was good but that is because flight not sold the other three seat and I had room. the food in terrible.

First the price I paid was excellent, my flight was full, but my seat was roomy. The one downside to the experience was they had games on the entertainment console. The guy behind me poked at my head about half the flight. I hope they get rid of this feature.

Very good need to offer better choice of food for business

They should. Heck planes more often not when they are suppose to be leaving causing delays

Crew was fantastic got lovely food and plenty of water. Entertainment was good. Never had to ask for anything. Left on time and got to Seattle early. Luggage did not take long either.

Always find Aer Lingus reliable and good value for money. Food on this flight was pretty basic and the headphone Jack at my seat only worked for one ear. Little disappointed in movie selection, limited on recent releases. Staff are okay - but I always buy a cheap ticket so not like I expect first class opulence anyway!!!

Boarding was so quick, flight was ahead of time which is great and the pilot spoke clearly and was letting people know everything, amazing, love travelling with you 😊

Great hospitality and service! Seats could always be cushioned better.

Excellent long haul experience really enjoyed using Dublin pre-immigration

Overall was good except for the seat which, for an 8 hour intercontinental flight, was uncorfortable. For that kind of flight seats should have more space, even for economy seats.

Needed more info on connecting flight. Late flight made very short connection. Lost luggage that we still do not have!

Seats comfortable on economy plus and attendants very helpful. Food was ok. Bathrooms needed servicing.

Good food, prompt and timely flight, good on-board personnel

Thankful for 2-4-2 economy seating. Food was ok. Free beer & wine in economy was nice. Served hot dinner, mud- flight snack and pre-arrival ham sandwich. Seat with pillow & blanket. Reasonable movie options. Overall, a good experience. IBERIA APP is terrible terrible terrible.... needs to get upgraded to equivalent of TAP Airlines App. No option to bid or request an upgrade. Very disappointing.

My luggage did not get to my Miami destination/home. I am waiting for it 24 hours later.

The only comment I have is why do you sell snacks on board? They should be free. When we take domestic flights here in US, our snacks are free. Also, please communicate with me in English. I received so many emails way before my flight that were in Spanish that I had to ask my son to interpret for me. You should be WELL AWARE if the customers you are communicating speak the language, it does mean that we speak and understand Spanish because we are traveling to Spain, NOT NECESSARILY! Thank you!

Flight was delayed by well over an hour. Communication was terrible.

I like the team but I don't like the food you provided with money. I want free food and free water.

An average flight experience. For our transatlantic portion, they provided a main meal and two snacks. However, the food was not very tasty and the drinks far too small and infrequent for such a long flight. The regrettable part of the flight was that the toilets were extremely filthy. I feel this is unacceptable.

Most important was the effciency - on-time take-offs and landings, no missed connections, baggage arrived correctly. Friendly & professional crew. Less important was food/drink. Pretty spartan, but we'll know next time and bring our own stuff.

Delayed takeoff was inconvenient. We should have boardrd later. Coffee/ beverage service on a 7:30 flight would have been good.

Flight from Lisbon to Barcelona was ok. Business flight Boston to Lisbon was awful. Attendants should pay more attention to Business Passengers and not be so stingy with water. Worse Business Flight I have ever taken. Food was awful. Cramped for space.

People seated in exit rows should have designated overhead space

Disastrous boarding. Entered air bridge only to descend stairs and enter a bus. Plane had insufficient storage, was old and chair recline was damaged. Air stewardess was sullen.

The airline made last minute changes to our business class seats splitting our family of 4 with young children who had pre-booked a row of 4 seats. The seat was also dirty and sticky. Our pre-ordered child meals were also not available. :(

I suspect that there was an item pilfered from my bag at the TAP automated check-in counter on March 26th at Heathrow Airport around 11:30am. I think that the employee assisting me with my bags took something out of it when I was not paying attention because today, March 27th there is a notebook missing. Please check the camera to see if indeed this occurred. My description: Male, African Decent, 5'8, 180lbs medium build, wearing trousers and a jacket. Employee description: Female, Indian Decent (guessing) 5'7, slight build. Flight 1359, London to Lisbon.

The flight crew was good, the flight itself was quick and comfortable

Boarding was late by 30 min due to a bus missing to take us to the plane... And then the flight was delayed by about 90 minutes, in a 60 min flight

Two of three flight attendants were not super kind as I would expect. The very kind young lady in my section was wonderful but then lady and man up front were not. Sorry but it makes a difference !

The whole flight was coughing and farting all the way. It was impossible to breathe. If people are traveling sick they should either not be allowed to fly or made wear masks

J'ai perdu le billet 🎟 faute de visa j'ai pas eu de remboursement. J voulais prendre un autre Est-ce que yaura une solution

I will never fly vueling. 1h30 delayed, connexion missed with the crew closing the boarding in front of us. 40 people missed the Barcelona-Orly connexion. hours waiting for rebooking and hotel.. inadmissible

3 hr flight from Barcelona to Gran Canaria. Ŵent according to plan No issues with staff oŕ flight. Many people includiñg us could not get luggage self checķ in termìnals to work. Had to wait in check in line.

The communication about the delay could have been better before and during the flight. Also, this online form could have less bugs. It is almost impossible to type in this window.

Boarding was very poor as the flight was initially delayed. We were told the flight would be at 21:40. We were with our 10 month baby who was sleeping. I received an email from Kayak which said the flight was now due to take off at 21:04. When we checked the screens at Gatwick we were told the gate was closed. The lack of communication was extremely poor and we had to run with our baby and there were many other passengers, including elderly people, also running to the gate. When we got to the gate, the staff had no reasons for the poor communication.

It was a short flight but the seat was very straight. I didn’t need any service, but wifi was not available. In resume, a normal service. Nice, the punctuality. Thanks

You have couple of KG's grace on checked luggage

Last time bucking this company if I would know I wouldn’t do it, they made me lose my flight

I liked the regular updates and appreciated the automatic online checkin which didn’t work for our Vueling flight so I had to do this myself.

This was one of the best travel experiences we've ever had with Ryanair. The flight boarded on time in Dublin, departed on time, and arrived on time in Split, even though the flight was full. The aircraft was clean, and all members of the cabin crew were both friendly and efficient. Even our fellow passengers were well behaved! So top marks to all concerned!

flight delayed, no information given until late on, Ryanair app said "on time" until 5 minutes before expected departure time, crew rushed us to board, when it was already 3 hours late

Due to long security check and no last call announcements from Gate staff, my family and 12 other passengers missed the flight.

What can you say Ryanair get you there,no frills Not so cheap anymore ..... but what is now days! Would use again as always. Good flight times for us.

3 hours delay, non comunicated until past the time of original boarding, no assistance, witnessed land crew shouting at a passenger

Ryanair is the worst airline in Europe and easily one of the worst in the planet

Letting people wait outside for boarding in the rain and almost 0 degrees for a high temperature destination is very customer unfriendly

Late again rude staff at gate bullying passengers made us stand in the cold 3degrees for 40 mins before they let us board

While this flight from Dublin to Venice boarded on time, its departure was delayed by about an hour because, apparently, there were no demonstration kits on board, and we couldn't depart until the safety demonstration was completed. We were informed that we were in danger of losing our delayed slot if Ryanair engineering didn't provide the kits 'soon', which would have resulted in an additional two-hour delay. Thankfully, we didn't incur that additional delay. It's not clear where the source of this problem lies but it needs to be addressed to ensure it does not recur for other flights in the future.

Usual RyanAir flight but disembarking was poor, no rear steps. The Faro Airport required lots of up step and down steps, no elevator Getting through passport control took 50 minutes in the EU line

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• General Election 2024

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General election called for 4 July

• Starmer confirms support for extending voting age to 16
• 'No pneumonia yet': PM laughs off election launch deluge
• Tories deny Sunak taking 'duvet day' on first campaign weekend
• Housing Secretary Michael Gove to stand down at general election
• Sunak doesn't rule out Johnson joining Tory campaign
• PM agrees to take part in Sky News leaders' event on one condition
• Live reporting by Brad Young

Expert analysis

• Beth Rigby: Starmer launched in Scotland but he needs to keep his base
• Tamara Cohen: What the Mail's front page means for the campaign
• Sam Coates: Gove stepping down shows the political winds are shifting
• Sophy Ridge: This is what the Tories don't want to talk about

Election essentials

• Trackers: Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Subscribe to Sky's politics podcasts: Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more: What happens next? | Which MPs are standing down? | Key seats to watch | How to register to vote | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency's changing | Sky's coverage plans

The Conservatives would bring in National Service for 18-year-olds, they will announce on Sunday.

In the first new policy announcement of the election campaign, the prime minister has unveiled a plan that would see new adults given the choice of a full-time military placement for 12 months or a scheme to volunteer for one weekend a month for a year.

The placement would be selective - with tests used to decide who is eligible - and involve working with the armed forces or in cyber defence. 

Read more from our political correspondent Rob Powell :

At a breakfast with veterans on Saturday morning, Rishi Sunak made light of the wetter-than-hoped election announcement earlier this week.

Standing at a lectern outside Number 10 on Wednesday, the prime minister had to ignore the steady rain as he outlined his plan for the upcoming polling day.

This morning - a sunnier one - he met the group of eight veterans and sat in The Buck Inn, a Wetherspoon's pub on the High Street in his Richmond constituency, where the group were sipping tea and some tucked into breakfasts.

But it was the wet weather that was the subject of conversation...

The Conservatives would introduce National Service for 18-year-olds, it will be announced on Sunday.

Hailed by the party as a "bold new model", the plans would see new adults working in the armed forces or volunteering in their community.

The scheme would be mandatory.

"We have so much to be proud of in the United Kingdom, but we also need to be open and honest about the long-term challenges that our country and our society faces," the party said.

"And one of the problems in our society is that we have generations of young people who don’t have the opportunities they deserve."

Young people would be able to choose from:

- A selective, full-time 12-month placement in the armed forces or UK cyber defence

- Volunteering the equivalent of one weekend per month (25 days per year) in their community with organisations such as fire, police and the NHS as well as charities tackling loneliness and supporting older, isolated people

It has not been confirmed that the 12-month placement option would be paid.

This National Service will provide valuable work experience and ignite a passion for a future career in healthcare, public service, charity or the armed forces, the Conservatives say.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: "This is a great country but generations of young people have not had the opportunities or experience they deserve and there are forces trying to divide our society in this increasingly uncertain world." 

What was Labour's reaction?

Responding to the plans, a Labour Party spokesperson said: “This is another desperate £2.5bn unfunded commitment from a Tory Party which already crashed the economy, sending mortgages rocketing, and now they’re spoiling for more. 

“This is not a plan – it’s a review which could cost billions and is only needed because the Tories hollowed out the armed forces to their smallest size since Napoleon. 

“Britain has had enough of the Conservatives, who are bankrupt of ideas, and have no plans to end 14 years of chaos. It’s time to turn the page and rebuild Britain with Labour.”

UNISON has commented on Sir Keir Starmer's package of workers' rights. 

Earlier, the Unite criticised Labour's plans for having "more holes in it than Swiss cheese".

General secretary Sharon Graham accused the party of watering down its policies after rebranding "Labour's new deal for working people" as "Labour's plan to make work pay".

But Christina McAnea, UNISON's general secretary, backed the plans.

She said: "Labour's new deal best illustrates that choice. It will make work fairer and boost the economy too."

She said its measures are "proving popular on the doorstep" and said that "bad employers" will no longer be able to cut corners and costs by exploiting staff.

"An end to dodgy zero-hours contracts, paid travel time for care workers and a new fair pay agreement to help boost recruitment in that crisis-stricken sector too. Plus a wave of bringing public service contracts back in-house to end the profiteering in frontline services. Labour is the only party with a plan to help working families." 

The Liberal Democrats are "way more in tune" with young voters than "any other party", their leader has argued.

Sir Ed Davey spoke in Chichester in reaction to Labour's pledge to lower the voting age to 16.

He pointed to his party's position on housing, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and their pro-European stance as policies that may appeal to younger people.

Sir Ed welcomed Labour's promise to reduce the voting age to 16 but said "bolder" reform is needed to fix the country's "broken" political system.

When asked how the Lib Dems could regain the trust of young voters following the U-turn on their pledge to scrap university fees during the 2010 coalition government, Sir Ed said his party had "fought the Conservatives every single day" during the power-sharing agreement but "weren't able to get everything we wanted".

Under the coalition, university tuition fees were trebled to a maximum of £9,000-a-year from 2012. 

Now that Rishi Sunak has called the next general election for Thursday 4 July, the nation is preparing for its first polling day since December 2019.

Here's everything you need to know about the general election and how it's going to work...  

Scottish First Minister John Swinney has defended his decision to challenge the sanction ordered against his colleague Michael Matheson.

Mr Matheson drew criticism over a near-£11,000 data roaming bill on his parliamentary iPad.

The Scottish parliament's standards committee backed a 27-day suspension for the MSP.

But SNP leader Mr Swinney said he did not support the cross-party committee’s sanction as one of its members, Conservative Annie Wells, had previously made critical comments about Mr Matheson’s explanation for the bill, which Mr Swinney believes therefore prejudiced the decision.

Speaking to journalists, he said: "I’m not going to have prejudice taken forward in any part of Scottish life, it shouldn’t happen in the Scottish Parliament."  

Flight logs appear to show Rishi Sunak used a Tory donor’s helicopter to travel from his Yorkshire home to campaign in London this afternoon.

Online route data shows a helicopter believed to be owned by millionaire businessman Richard Harpin landing in grounds next to Rishi Sunak’s mansion this morning after previously taking off from an airfield 15 minutes’ drive away in Bagby.

It then flew via Nottingham to Central London.

Rishi Sunak has since been photographed campaigning in Wimbledon and Carshalton in South London – two Tory-held Lib Dem marginals.

It comes after Labour accused the Prime Minister of taking a day off in the first week of the election race.

Conservatives denied that saying Mr Sunak was leading "from the front".

On Thursday and Friday he campaigned in all four nations of the UK, using a plane to visit Wales, the North of Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The Prime Minister then met veterans in his Richmond constituency this morning, but the media had not been made aware of any other visits.

A Conservative source did not deny that Rishi Sunak used a helicopter to travel from Yorkshire but said the London visits were "pre-planned".

"As with literally all campaigns, politicians do canvassing, door knocking, meeting activists and volunteers without media as well as with", the source added. 

 Rishi Sunak has hit out at Labour and said a Keir Starmer-led government would be marked by "uncertainty" and mean a "more dangerous world".

In a lengthy thread on X, the prime minister claimed that Labour "doesn't have a plan".

Expanding on what he said would be the uncertainty of a Labour government, he said: "Who knows what they would do in government? They won't tell us how they would fund any of their policies. They refused to meet our defence spending pledge." 

He argued that an "uncertain future" has consequences.

"Our enemies notice. The world becomes more dangerous as they take advantage of our weakness. This leads to higher prices of food and fuel, as well as a greater risk of attacks against our nation." 

Mr Sunak is referred to his pledge to raise defence spending to 2.5% of GDP, at a time when Russia appears to be on the front foot in Ukraine.

Meanwhile Sir Keir, who has sought to re-establish Labour's security credentials in recent years, has said he wanted to commit to the 2.5% "when resources allow".

Earlier we brought you discussion of Richard Tice's somewhat tenuous links to Skegness in Lincolnshire.

The Reform Party leader is standing to be an MP in the seaside destination, but how well he actually knows the town is an open question.

Here's what he told Sky News:

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