Madrid, June 21 (RHC)-- Passengers wearing masks and wheeling suitcases arrived at Madrid's main airport and French citizens crossed the border to buy bargain alcohol and tobacco on Sunday as Spain opened its borders to most European countries and ended a state of emergency imposed to contain COVID-19.

Spain's borders are now open to all European Union countries except Portugal, as well as Schengen area members outside the bloc and Britain.  British tourists will be allowed in without having to quarantine, Spain said on Saturday, even though they will still be subject to 14 days isolation upon their return..

Spaniards were also allowed to move freely around the country from Sunday and many were expected to visit friends, relatives and second homes in other regions.  Since March 14th, people have had to remain in their own provinces.