If you’re a resident of Spain traveling abroad and need access to websites, apps, or services only available back home, you can access them with a VPN. A VPN encrypts and your internet connection and routes it through a VPN server in another location, giving you access to content not available in your current location.
A VPN can give you access to sites that are region-locked and not typically available in Spain, such as Hulu and other foreign streaming services.
These services also help to protect your privacy. All traffic is automatically encrypted, so it prevents your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or anyone else from snooping on your online activities. This is ideal in countries like Spain which are affected by the European Union’s mass surveillance of the internet. It is also important if you’re traveling and using public wifi hotspots because unsecured wifi networks are an ideal place for hackers to lie in wait. A VPN’s encryption can give you that extra layer of security and ensure criminals don’t get their hands on your information.
If you’re trying to access Spanish content while abroad check out our dedicated article on how to get a Spanish IP address from abroad.
We get into plenty of detail on the best VPNs for Spain, but if you don’t have time to read through the entire post here is a summary of our top picks:
- NordVPN Our #1 choice for a Spain VPN. Exceptional speeds and tight security. Able to unblock the most popular streaming sites from Spain. 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark Best budget pick. Doesn’t limit your connections and bypasses most blocks. No-logs provider.
- ExpressVPN Large array of fast servers dotted around the globe that easily unblock geo-restricted streaming sites and content. Solid privacy and security and easy to use apps.
- CyberGhost affordable choice that is ideal for beginners. Easy to set up and works well in Spain.
- IPVanish Popular with Kodi users, apps designed with remote control use in mind. Fast and secure but no the cheapest here.
- PrivateVPN Newest provider on this list with an ever-expanding network of servers. Good privacy and security.
Considering all the benefits they offer, VPNs are relatively inexpensive and are typically very easy to set up. Although, not all providers offer comparable services and many are simply not worth the investment. Some of the major things to look out for when choosing the right VPN are speed, security, and choice of server locations.
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To help you decide, we’ve put together a list of the best VPNs for Spain based on the following criteria (more on these later):
- Operates servers in Spain
- Can unblock geo-locked content outside of Spain
- Offers fast and reliable connections
- Provides strong security
- Keeps no logs
Note that we have a separate post for Netflix Spain specifically, but this article will look at the best VPNs overall for Spain.
The best VPNs for Spain – At a glance
We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Spain.
No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | IPVanish | PrivateVPN |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | ExpressVPN.com | Cyberghost.com | IPVanish.com | PrivateVPN.com | Ranking for Spain: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | Streaming Services | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu BBC iPlayer HBO | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu BBC iPlayer HBO | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu BBC iPlayer HBO | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu | Netflix Amazon Prime | Netflix Amazon Prime | Avg Speed (Europe) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 41 Mbps | Popular Sites Unblocked | 95% | 88% | 86% | 85% | 70% | 85% | Simultaneous Connections | 6 | Unlimited | 5 | 7 | Unlimited | 10 |
Best deal (per month) | $3.29 SAVE up to 63% + 3 months FREE | $2.30 Get 2 Months FREE with a 2-year plan | $6.67 SAVE: 49% on the annual plan | $2.11 SAVE 84% on the 2 year plan + 3 months FREE | $3.33 SAVE 72% on the 2 year plan | $2.00 SAVE 85% on the three year plan |
The best VPNs for Spain
Let’s take a closer look at the best VPNs for Spain:
1. NordVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is our top choice for a Spain VPN. It pegs some of the fastest speeds of any VPNs during our testing and is a great unblocker. This Panama-based provider has a strong focus on privacy. Its VPN server network comprises more than 5,000 servers in 60 countries, including more than 60 in Spain. For those looking to stream, you’re in luck, as NordVPN works with US Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, and more.
Security measures include military-grade 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. To ensure your privacy, NordVPN keeps no identifying usage logs.. You can connect up to six devices at a time with a basic package and can opt to connect to specialized servers for specific use cases, such as super-fast streaming.
Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. NordVPN can also be configured with select routers.
Pros:
- Operates over 60 servers in Spain
- Amazing speeds for streaming
- Works with a wide range of Spanish geo-restricted sites
- Top-notch security features and privacy protection
- Never keeps logs
- 24/7 customer support via live chat
Cons:
- Collects advertising IDs on mobile
Our score:
BEST VPN FOR SPAIN:NordVPN is our top pick. With a large range of superfast servers including lots in Spain, this is a great all-rounder option that works with Netflix and most other streaming services. Exceptional privacy and security credentials. A 30-day money-back guarantee makes this a risk-free deal.
Read our full review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark is an excellent budget alternative. It has recently almost doubled its server network and now has more than 3,200 in over 65 countries. Speeds are decent and Surfshark has amazing unblocking potential. You’ll be able to access all your usual content from Spain as it can even unblock notoriously tough sites like BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime Video.
Security is top-notch and you can expect 256-bit encryption, perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch, and protection against leaks. In addition, you’ll find apps equipped with split tunneling, automatic wifi protection, and double VPN options. No logs are maintained.
Apps are available for Linux, Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android. Surfshark doesn’t limit the number of devices you can connect at a given time.
Pros:
- No issues with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, or Hulu
- Extremely fast
- Utilizes tight security measures
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Keeps a strict no-logs policy
Cons:
- Limited configurations
Our score:
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is a stellar budget-friendly VPN that doesn’t compromise on security. Decent speeds, super at unblocking, and no connection limit. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Check out our full Surfshark review.
3. ExpressVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN, based in the British Virgin Islands, provides users with access to a network of more than 3,000 servers in 94 countries. In Spain specifically, it has two server locations, Barcelona and Madrid. ExpressVPN provides secure access to a huge range of content, including that provided by Hulu, BBC iPlayer, HBO, and Amazon Prime.
Of course, there’s privacy and security to consider as well, and ExpressVPN scores highly here too. It uses 256-bit AES encryption (considered military grade) and provides perfect forward secrecy. Additionally, DNS leak protection and a kill switch both serve to add additional layers of security. ExpressVPN maintains a no-logs policy and does not track any user activity. It keeps minimal connection logs but no IP addresses, so session data cannot be traced to an individual user.
Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and some wifi routers.
Pros:
- Operates fast servers in Barcelona and Madrid
- Easily unblocks geo-blocked Spanish sites almost everywhere
- Top-class security and privacy protection features
- Apps for Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, and Linux
- Keeps no traffic logs or personal data
Cons:
- Slightly more pricey than other services
Our score:
SOLID, RELIABLE VPN:ExpressVPN is another dependable choice. Optimized for high-speed connections. Scores well for streaming. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of ExpressVPN.
4. CyberGhost
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost is a Romania-based provider, which means it’s outside of the reach of the mass government surveillance of the 14 Eyes countries. It provides access to a growing network of servers, currently almost 7,000 in 90+ countries. More than 160 of these are located in Barcelona and Madrid.
Recently, there has been a large focus on improving the service’s streaming capabilities. CyberGhost can securely access US Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime, among many other services. The VPN client enables you to select the streaming service you want and will automatically connect you to the right server, saving time and (potentially) frustration.
This provider follows suit on the security front with 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. It keeps no logs of user activity and no connection logs that can be tied to an individual user. With a CyberGhost plan, you can connect to up to seven devices simultaneously.
Apps are available for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android.
Pros:
- Operates over 160 servers in Spain
- Streams HD video seamlessly
- Provides a secure, encrypted connection by default
- Use up to seven devices simultaneously
- Low-cost option with beginner-friendly apps
Cons:
- Lack of configuration options will frustrate power users
Our score:
BEGINNERS' CHOICE:CyberGhost has a simple set up. Works well in Spain. Good option if you are looking for a fast, reliable connection and an easy-to-use interface. Good privacy and security. 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of CyberGhost.
5. IPVanish
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish, a US-based provider, operates a network of over 1,900 servers in more than 60 countries, including about three dozen in Madrid and Valencia. Unlike some providers, IPVanish owns its servers (as opposed to renting them), so it has maximum control of the traffic running through them. This service works especially well with Kodi and as such is popular among users.
Like ExpressVPN, IPVanish fairs well on the security front, too. It uses the same 256-bit AES encryption and perfect forward secrecy and provides DNS leak protection and an optional kill switch. IPVanish has a true zero-logs policy with no traffic or connection logs. A single subscription allows for unlimited connections across all your devices.
Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android.
Pros:
- Operates fast servers in Madrid and Valencia
- Unblocks all major Spanish streaming sites from abroad
- Best performer for Android-based Kodi devices in our testing
- Keeps no logs, has an automatic kill switch and wifi protection
Cons:
- Customer support is a little slow
- Apps don’t work in China
Our score:
NO CONNECITON LIMIT:IPVanish is a great family choice as it allows any number of connections. A favourite for Kodi users but look elsewhere if you want to unblock large streaming services. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of IPVanish.
6. PrivateVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN, based in Sweden, is a relatively new addition to the VPN market, but this isn’t holding it back. It does operate a smaller network of servers than others on the list but still covers more than 60 countries. Plus, PrivateVPN boasts some excellent speeds which definitely makes it worth more than a second look. Add to its speed the ability to stream Spanish content plus sites like US Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and BBC iPlayer, and you’ve got yourself a great option for streaming.
This provider can compete on the security side of things, too. It provides strong encryption (126- or 256-bit depending on the chosen protocol) and perfect forward secrecy. Plus, you have a kill switch and DNS leak protection for additional backup. It maintains a strict no-logging policy to ensure the privacy of users. A PrivateVPN plan will let you connect up to 10 devices simultaneously.
Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android.
Pros:
- Servers in Madrid have good speeds for streaming abroad
- Strong security and privacy protection features
- Keeps no logs whatsoever
Cons:
- Small number of servers
- Live chat isn’t 24/7
Our score:
GREAT SPEED:PrivateVPN is consistently reliable. Good for general purpose use and HD Streaming. Could do with having more servers and lacks 24/7 support. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of PrivateVPN.
Can I use a free VPN for Spain?
While you’re browsing VPN providers, you’ll no doubt come across a ton of free offers. These can certainly be tempting, but they typically don’t provide the level of service you’d expect and need from a VPN. What’s more, many providers are untrustworthy and have ulterior motives behind their services.
One of the major issues with free providers or free versions of paid services is that they offer a diluted version of the ‘real deal.’ Long wait times to access servers and slow speeds once you’re connected can make for a frustrating browsing experience.
If you’re looking to stream content, you may run into issues. Free VPNs typically have a small number of servers available so finding one in the country of your choice might be difficult, and again, you might have to wait in line behind other users.
There are also concerns with free providers from the standpoint of security and privacy. They’re usually looking to make money somehow, so if they’re not charging you for their service, it’s likely they’re profiting off you in some other way. This may include logging your activity, presenting ads while you browse, or enabling tracking cookies on your browser. Worst of all, some free VPN apps have been found to carry malware.
How to set-up a VPN in Spain
If you’ve never used a VPN getting started might seem like a difficult task. You’ll be surprised to find out it couldn’t be simpler, just follow the simple steps below.
Here’s how to set up a VPN in Spain:
- Settle on a VPN provider that’s best suited for you (we recommend NordVPN).
- Once your payment has been successfully processed, download the VPN software for your device.
- Connect to a server outside Spain (to stream US Netflix, for example, you’d connect to an American server).
- Navigate to the site you want to access and you should have no issues. If it doesn’t work, try clearing your browser cache and cookies and reloading the page.
Spain privacy laws
Countries in Europe are subject to the Data Retention Directive. This requires ISPs to collect certain data about users, such as source and destination IP addresses, timestamps, and location information. In Spain, this is implemented via the Spanish Law 25/2007. Data is stored for 12 months as standard, but could be stored for up to two years in some cases.
Spain is one of the 14 Eyes countries, and is subject to government surveillance collaboration between 14 countries, including the US, Australia, and the UK. These factors could offer reason for visitors or residents to employ the use of VPN, which is perfectly legal in the country.
Disclaimer: We are not legal experts and nothing above should be considered legal advice. We remind readers that they remain liable for any crimes they commit while connected to a VPN and encourage them to seek professional advice if they’re unsure about the legality of VPNs where they are.
Spanish VPN testing methodology
Comparitech strives to give our readers the most comprehensive and accurate VPN reviews and recommendations on the internet. We routinely evaluate dozens of VPNs using real-world experience, expert analysis, and a number of tests. When it comes to Spain VPNs, we focus on:
- Security: VPNs we recommend must meet our standards of quality, such as up-to-date encryption and protection from data leaks. We test each VPN for IP, WebRTC, and DNS leaks on both IPv4 and IPv6 networks.
- Speed: We test and record connection speeds to VPN servers around the world.
- Streaming: We’ve conducted thousands of real-world tests to find out which VPNs can unblock popular streaming services internationally.
- Support: We measure response times and gauge the quality of responses from each VPN’s customer support.
- Logging: We comb through each VPN’s privacy policy for language or lack thereof that might indicate the collection of personal data or online activity while using the VPN.
You can read more about how we test VPNs on our methodology page.
VPN for Spain FAQs
Will using a VPN for Spain impact my internet speed?
Yes, most VPNs lower your internet speed to some extent, although with the right service, you shouldn’t see a noticeable slowdown. We regularly test the top VPNs for speed and other features, and find that NordVPN is by far the fastest, so may be the best choice if you tend to download lots of large files. However, other providers on our list offer more than ample speeds for everyday browsing, streaming, and downloading.
Are VPNs legal in Spain?
VPNs are legal in most countries, including Spain. Only a few countries such as Russia and China have legal gray areas when it comes to VPNs. That said, just because using a VPN is legal in Spain doesn’t mean you can use it to carry out illegal activity.
Can I watch US Netflix in Spain?
Yes, watching US Netflix in Spain is straightforward. Simply sign up to a suitable VPN and download the app for your device. Connect to a US server and log into your Netflix account. You should see the full library of US content. Many VPNs, including those on the list above will provide access to other Netflix libraries too. VPN support teams are used to dealing with streaming issues so if you run into any problems, they’ll be on-hand to help.
Can I watch Hulu in Spain with a VPN?
Yes, you can watch Hulu in Spain with a VPN. However, you will need to use a VPN that offers U.S servers like NordVPN. This is because Hulu restricts its content to viewers in the United States. By connecting to a U.S server through your VPN, you will be able to bypass these restrictions and watch your favorite shows and movies on Hulu.
Can I use a VPN for torrenting from Spain?
Yes, you can use a VPN for torrenting in most countries, Spain included. The use of VPNs is perfectly legal in Spain while torrenting is also legal (providing it’s not torrenting of copyrighted material!). In order to use a VPN for torrenting from Spain, you need only connect to a VPN server (we recommend a server in Spain for faster speeds) to get a Spanish IP address. You can then torrent while benefiting from the extra security provided by the VPN.