Road trip through Spain
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Exploring Spain by car
On a road trip through Spain, you can explore the Mediterranean coast as well as the famous Way of St. James or the beautiful north at your own pace. Enjoy the diverse range of leisure and cultural activities at your own pace. Because on a rental car trip, you decide where you want to go and how long you want to stay.
Deborah Clauss
Travel expert for Spain
Updated on 09/01/2025
The north of Spain on your own
On this road trip, you will experience some of the most beautiful highlights of northern Spain. The trip takes you through regions and cities that have a lot to offer in terms of cuisine and culture.
Start in Madrid and experience beautiful city beaches, nature and art in the Basque Country. Continue through Oviedo, Santiago de Compostela and Salamanca, where you will experience classic Spain in a historical setting.
Highlights: Santo Domingo de la Calzada ➢ San Sebastián ➢ Bilbao ➢ Oviedo ➢ Santiago de Compostela ➢ Salamanca
➔ PLAN A ROAD TRIP THROUGH SPAIN
| Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| 🛫 Arrival: | approx. 7–8 hrs from US East Coast |
| 🔆 Best travel time: | May - October |
| ⌛ Trip duration: | from 8 days |
| ⟷ Route length: | approx. 1150 miles |
| ⭐ Accommodation: | 4-5 star hotels |
| 🍴 Meals: | Breakfast |
| ⛵ Activities: | Wine tasting - City tours - Beach days |
| 💰 Price: | from $1870 per person (flights excluded) |
1. Santo Domingo de la Calzada
Be enchanted by the historical charm of Santo Domingo. Visit the beautiful cathedral and the impressive Cistercian abbey in the heart of the city. Learn more about the history of the town in the former pilgrims' hospital. Or explore the enchanting landscapes outside the city walls on unforgettable bike tours.
2. San Sebastian
Discover the culinary capital of the Basque Country, San Sebastian. Explore the old town or the beautiful beach promenade of La Concha. Marvel at the impressive Peine del Viento sculpture at the foot of Monte Igueldo. Take the cable car to the top of the mountain and enjoy the fantastic panoramic view.
3. Bilbao
Bilbao impresses with both historical and modern attractions. So take the opportunity to visit the picturesque old town with its almost seven-hundred-year-old charm as well as the modern Guggenheim Museum, the countless bridges or the huge Mercado de la Ribera. Incidentally, there is a trendy bar on the first floor, as well as plenty of tasty treats.
4. Oviedo
Halfway between the Bay of Biscay and the picturesque hills of Cantabria, Oviedo invites you on an unforgettable journey of discovery. Stroll through the picturesque old town. Watch the hustle and bustle on the Plaza Trascorrales or visit the Gothic church of Sancta Ovetensis. Afterwards, the city's many cafés and restaurants will delight you with their colorful gastronomic offerings.
5. Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela doesn't just cast a spell over pilgrims. The imposing trees, beautiful squares and historic buildings in the city center provide plenty of flair. In addition to the San Francisco Monastery, the cathedral and La Alameda Park, there are also exciting sights such as the magnificent Mercado de Abastos and the Cathedral Museum.
6. Salamanca
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Salamanca captivates with its stunning scenery and rich history. Stroll through the historic city center, explore the university founded in 1,425, admire the baroque Plaza Mayor, and cross the Roman Bridge. For a flavorful experience, join a guided food tour and savor the tastes of Salamanca.
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The most beautiful panoramic routes
Costa Brava
Discover the Catalan coast on a journey from Blanes to Cap de Creus and immerse yourself in the region’s culture. Along the 62-mile route, medieval villages like Cadaqués and Peratallada, traditional fishing towns, and hidden coves invite you to explore and enjoy. You can also hike parts of the coastline on scenic trails, where dramatic cliffs, lush landscapes, and sweeping sea views create an unforgettable backdrop.
Ruta de los Molinos
Walk in the footsteps of Don Quixote along the scenic Ruta de los Molinos in Castilla-La Mancha. In the storybook village of Consuegra, admire 12 historic windmills before hiking up to the summit of Mota del Cuervo—known as the Balcony of La Mancha—for sweeping views of the landscape. Explore the medieval Belmonte Castle, or wander through the unique “black villages” of Valverde de los Arroyos and Campillejo.
Ruta de la Plata
Travel Spain from north to south along the historic Silver Route and uncover countless landmarks along the way. This scenic journey stretches nearly 500 miles, leading you to highlights like Gaudí’s bishop’s palace in Astorga and the colorful landscapes of the Jerte Valley. Along the route, charming cities such as Mérida, Guadalupe, Zamora, and Cáceres invite you to stop and explore.
FAQ & travel tips
Familiarize yourself with the traffic rules, signs and speed limits before your trip. Please note that private autopistas in Spain are subject to tolls and many large cities have set up an environmental zone that restricts access and sometimes requires the vehicle to be registered. Plan the sections realistically and take a day off from time to time.
To rent a car in Spain, you’ll need a valid driver’s license and ID. The minimum rental age is typically 25, though some companies allow rentals from age 18 depending on the vehicle and location. Drivers under 25 should expect additional fees.
Spanish roads are generally well maintained and offer a good road surface, especially on highways and main roads. However, road conditions can vary on some secondary roads or in rural areas. Travelers should be prepared for winding roads and narrower roads, especially in mountainous or remote regions.
Further information can be found on the website of the Federal Foreign Office, for example.
The best time for a road trip through Spain is in spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the crowds of tourists are fewer. It can be hot in summer, especially inland. Also avoid the Easter and summer vacations to avoid crowded roads.
The cost of a road trip in Spain depends on your route, vehicle type, accommodations, and season. A midsize rental car starts at about $33 per day, plus fuel. Overnight stays in 3-star hotels begin around $65, with prices varying by location and time of year.
Get more information on the costs of a vacation in Spain or put together an individual travel proposal with our travel experts.
