Planning the Perfect Spain Road Trip Itinerary: 7 Routes to Inspire You

Spain is a country full of diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture – perfect for a road trip. From sunny beaches on the Mediterranean coast to the rugged peaks of the Pyrenees, there's a route for every type of traveler. Whether you're into history, food, or adventure, Spain's roads will lead you to unforgettable experiences and hidden gems.

Planning the perfect Spanish road trip means choosing routes that show off the country's many attractions. This guide will help you plan 7 amazing routes, providing detailed descriptions, accommodation tips, and travel advice to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Start your journey in Seville, a city famous for its flamenco dancing, stunning buildings, and lively atmosphere. Walk through the beautiful Plaza de España, a large square with a canal and bridges where you can take a boat ride. Explore the Alcázar, a royal palace with beautiful gardens and Moorish designs.

In the evening, wander through the narrow streets of the Santa Cruz neighborhood, where you can find cozy bars serving delicious tapas like jamón ibérico (cured ham) and gazpacho (cold tomato soup).

Drive to Córdoba, a city where history comes alive. The Mezquita, a mosque-cathedral, will amaze you with its forest of columns and red-and-white arches. Walk through the charming Jewish Quarter, a maze of cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses with colorful flower pots. Try local dishes like salmorejo, a thick tomato soup, and rabo de toro, a bull's tail stew.

Continue to Granada to visit the Alhambra, a breathtaking palace and fortress. The intricate designs, beautiful gardens, and views of the city will captivate you. Explore the Albaicín district, known for its narrow streets and white-washed houses. Enjoy a sunset view from the Mirador de San Nicolás, where you can see the Alhambra bathed in golden light. Granada is also famous for its free tapas, served with every drink order, making it a perfect place to sample a variety of dishes.

Head to Málaga, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant art scene. Visit the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress overlooking the city, and the Picasso Museum, dedicated to the famous artist. Walk along Calle Larios, a lively street full of shops and cafes. Don’t miss trying espetos (grilled sardines) a local specialty.

Drive to Ronda, a town perched on a deep gorge. Visit the Puente Nuevo bridge, which offers stunning views of the gorge, and the Plaza de Toros, one of Spain’s oldest bullrings. Wander through the town’s charming old quarter with its narrow streets and whitewashed houses. Try local dishes like rabo de toro and enjoy a glass of wine from the nearby vineyards.

• Hotel Alfonso XIII, Seville: This luxury hotel offers opulent rooms, a swimming pool, and fine dining. Prices start at €300 per night.
• Parador de Granada: Located within the Alhambra complex, this hotel offers a unique historical experience. Prices start at €250 per night.
• Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria, Ronda: This beautiful hotel has stunning views of the Tajo Gorge, a spa, and an outdoor pool. Prices start at €150 per night.

Begin your trip in Barcelona, a city full of creativity and energy. See Gaudí's masterpieces, including the Sagrada Familia, an unfinished basilica, and Park Güell, a colorful park with mosaics and great city views. Walk down La Rambla, a lively street with performers, shops, and cafes. Enjoy traditional Catalan dishes like pa amb tomàquet (tomato bread) and crema catalana (a dessert similar to crème brûlée).

Drive to Girona, a city with a well-preserved medieval old town. Walk along the ancient city walls for great views, visit the impressive Cathedral of Girona, and explore the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter. The colorful houses along the Onyar River are picturesque. Try xuixos, a pastry filled with custard cream.

Head to Figueres to see the Salvador Dalí Theatre-Museum, dedicated to the famous surrealist artist. The museum itself is a work of art, with bizarre sculptures and a large collection of Dalí's works. Afterward, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant and try empedrat, a traditional Catalan bean salad.

Drive into the Pyrenees mountains for breathtaking views, hiking, and charming villages. Visit Vall de Núria, which you can only reach by a rack railway, and enjoy hiking, skiing, and horseback riding. Explore the medieval village of Besalú, with its well-preserved bridge and quaint streets. The fresh mountain air and stunning scenery will rejuvenate you.

• Majestic Hotel & Spa, Barcelona: A five-star hotel with luxurious rooms, a rooftop pool, and excellent service. Prices start at €250 per night.
• Hotel Nord 1901, Girona: A boutique hotel in the city center with modern amenities and a relaxing atmosphere. Prices start at €120 per night.
• Hotel Val de Neu, Baqueira: A luxury hotel in the Pyrenees with ski-in/ski-out access, a spa, and fine dining. Prices start at €200 per night.

Begin your trip in Santiago de Compostela, the end point of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. Visit the stunning cathedral with its impressive facade and beautiful interior. Walk through the historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Try the local specialty, pulpo a la gallega (Galician octopus), in one of the many tapas bars.

Drive to A Coruña to see the ancient Tower of Hercules, the oldest working Roman lighthouse. Relax on the beautiful beaches like Riazor and Orzán, and walk along the lively promenade. Visit the María Pita Square, named after a local heroine, and enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant.

Continue to Oviedo, known for its medieval old town and impressive San Salvador Cathedral. The city’s narrow streets are filled with charming cafes and shops. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts and the Archaeological Museum to learn more about the region’s history. Try fabada asturiana, a hearty bean stew, and wash it down with traditional Asturian cider.

Head to Santander, a coastal city with beautiful beaches and elegant buildings. Explore the Magdalena Peninsula, home to the stunning Palacio de la Magdalena and a small zoo. Relax on El Sardinero Beach and enjoy a boat trip around the bay. Try local seafood like rabas (fried calamari) and cocido montañés, a rich mountain stew.

Finish your trip in Bilbao, home to the famous Guggenheim Museum. The museum’s striking design and modern art collections are a must-see. Walk through the old town, called Casco Viejo, and visit the Mercado de la Ribera, one of Europe’s largest covered markets. Enjoy pintxos, small snacks similar to tapas, at a local bar. Try bacalao a la vizcaína, a traditional Basque cod dish.

• Parador de Santiago, Santiago de Compostela: A historic hotel in a former royal hospital. Prices start at €200 per night.
• Gran Hotel Sardinero, Santander: A beachfront hotel with elegant rooms and great amenities. Prices start at €150 per night.
• Gran Hotel Domine, Bilbao: A luxury hotel opposite the Guggenheim Museum with contemporary design and a rooftop terrace. Prices start at €220 per night.

Start your coastal trip in Valencia, known for its futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. This complex includes a planetarium, an oceanographic park, and an interactive museum. Walk through the old town with its narrow streets and historic buildings. Relax on the beaches of Malvarrosa and Las Arenas. Don’t miss trying paella, Valencia’s most famous dish.

Drive to Alicante to enjoy its stunning beaches like Playa del Postiguet and Playa de San Juan. Visit the Castle of Santa Bárbara, a fortress on a hilltop with great views. Walk along the Explanada de España, a promenade lined with palm trees and colorful tiles. Try turrón, a traditional nougat made with almonds and honey.

Continue to Murcia, a city with a beautiful baroque cathedral and charming squares. The Real Casino de Murcia, an elegant 19th-century building, offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Walk through the gardens of Floridablanca and Malecon parks. Try zarangollo, a local dish made of scrambled eggs, zucchini, and onions.

Explore Cartagena, a city with a rich history and Roman ruins. Visit the Roman Theatre, one of Spain’s most significant archaeological sites, and the nearby museum. Walk along the harbor and enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant. Don’t miss the impressive Palacio Consistorial, a beautiful modernist building.

Drive to Almería for its beautiful beaches and historic landmarks. Visit the Alcazaba, one of Spain’s largest fortresses, with great views of the city and sea. Explore the unique desert landscapes of the Tabernas Desert, where many famous movies were filmed. Relax on the beaches of Playa de los Muertos and Playa de Monsul. Try the local dish, gurullos, a traditional pasta.

• Caro Hotel, Valencia: A boutique hotel in a restored palace with luxurious rooms and an outdoor pool. Prices start at €180 per night.
• Hospes Amérigo, Alicante: A stylish hotel with a rooftop pool, spa, and gourmet dining. Prices start at €160 per night.
• Hotel Catedral, Almería: A charming hotel in a historic building with modern amenities and a central location. Prices start at €100 per night.

Start your trip in Madrid, Spain’s capital, known for its world-class museums, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful parks. Visit the Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Tour the Royal Palace with its lavish rooms and gardens. Walk through the Plaza Mayor and enjoy churros with hot chocolate at the historic Chocolatería San Ginés.

Drive to Segovia to see the iconic Roman aqueduct, a marvel of ancient engineering. The fairy-tale Alcázar, perched on a rocky outcrop, offers great views and a fascinating history. Walk through the old town’s narrow streets and visit the stunning Segovia Cathedral. Try cochinillo asado, a traditional roast suckling pig.

Head to Ávila to explore its well-preserved medieval walls that encircle the old town. Walk along the walls for spectacular views. Visit the Ávila Cathedral, a fortress-like building with impressive architecture. Try yemas de Santa Teresa, a sweet made from egg yolks and sugar.

Continue to Salamanca, a city with a stunning Plaza Mayor, one of Spain’s most beautiful squares. Tour the ancient University of Salamanca, one of Europe’s oldest, and admire its ornate facade. Explore the beautiful baroque buildings of the Clerecía and the House of Shells. Enjoy hornazo, a pastry filled with meat, eggs, and chorizo.

Finish your journey in Toledo, a city with a rich history and stunning architecture. Visit the Toledo Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic art, and the impressive Alcázar, now a military museum. Walk through the old town’s narrow streets and discover the city’s diverse cultural heritage. Try marzipan, a sweet almond confection Toledo is famous for.

• The Principal Madrid: A luxury hotel with elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a central location. Prices start at €250 per night.
• Hotel Real Segovia: A charming hotel with comfortable rooms and a central location near the Roman aqueduct. Prices start at €120 per night.
• Parador de Salamanca: A hotel with panoramic views of the city, comfortable rooms, and a swimming pool. Prices start at €130 per night.

Begin your trip in Bilbao, home to the famous Guggenheim Museum, where its unique design and modern art collections are a must-see. Walk through the old town, called Casco Viejo, and visit the Mercado de la Ribera, one of Europe’s largest covered markets. Enjoy pintxos, small snacks similar to tapas, at a local bar. Try bacalao a la vizcaína, a Basque cod dish.

Drive to San Sebastián, known for its beautiful beaches and world-class cuisine. Relax on La Concha Beach and take a funicular ride to Monte Igueldo for stunning views. Walk through the old town’s narrow streets and visit pintxo bars offering delicious bites. Don’t miss trying txuleta, a Basque-style rib-eye steak, and the local cider.

Head to Pamplona, famous for the Running of the Bulls during the San Fermín festival. Visit the impressive Pamplona Cathedral and stroll through the charming old town. Walk along the city’s ancient walls and try local specialties like chistorra, a type of sausage, and menestra, a vegetable stew.

Continue to Vitoria-Gasteiz, a city with a well-preserved medieval old town and beautiful parks. Visit the Cathedral of Santa María, an impressive Gothic building being restored, and learn about the city’s history at the Museo Artium, a modern art museum. Walk through the picturesque streets and sample pintxos at a local bar. Try txakoli, a local wine, and pantxineta, a pastry filled with custard and topped with almonds.

• Gran Hotel Domine, Bilbao: A luxury hotel opposite the Guggenheim Museum with contemporary design and a rooftop terrace. Prices start at €220 per night.
• Hotel Maria Cristina, San Sebastián: A grand hotel with elegant rooms, a luxurious spa, and exceptional dining. Prices start at €300 per night.
• Silken Ciudad de Vitoria: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms, a spa, and a central location. Prices start at €150 per night.

Begin your island adventure in Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands. Visit the stunning Palma Cathedral with its Gothic architecture and beautiful rose window. Explore the Almudaina Palace, a royal residence with impressive gardens, and walk through the picturesque old town. Relax on the beaches and try ensaimada, a traditional Mallorcan pastry.

Explore Mallorca, with its beautiful beaches, charming villages, and stunning Tramuntana mountains. Visit the village of Sóller, accessible by a scenic train ride from Palma, and enjoy fresh orange juice from local orchards. Discover Valldemossa, where composer Frederic Chopin once stayed, and tour the Carthusian Monastery. For outdoor lovers, the Serra de Tramuntana offers excellent hiking and breathtaking views.

Head to Ibiza for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches. Explore the charming old town, Dalt Vila, a UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow streets and historic buildings. Relax on beaches like Cala Comte and Cala Bassa, known for their clear waters, or experience the island’s famous nightlife at one of its clubs. Try flaó, a traditional Ibizan cheesecake flavored with mint and anise.

Visit Menorca for its tranquil beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the historic town of Ciutadella. Walk through Ciutadella’s charming streets, with its Gothic cathedral and pretty squares. Relax on the beaches of Cala Macarella and Cala Mitjana, known for their turquoise waters. Explore the island’s prehistoric sites, like the Naveta des Tudons, a megalithic tomb. Try caldereta de langosta, a lobster stew.

Finish your journey in Formentera, a small island with pristine beaches and a laid-back vibe. Relax on the beaches of Ses Illetes and Migjorn Beach, known for their clear waters. Rent a bike or scooter to explore the island’s scenic routes and charming villages. Try peix sec, a dried fish dish, and enjoy a glass of hierbas, a local herbal liqueur.

• Hotel Can Alomar, Palma de Mallorca: A luxury boutique hotel with elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a central location. Prices start at €250 per night.
• Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza: A luxury hotel with stunning sea views, a spa, and multiple pools. Prices start at €400 per night.
• Hotel Can Faustino, Menorca: A charming hotel in a historic building with elegant rooms and a beautiful garden. Prices start at €200 per night.

The cost of a road trip in Spain can vary widely depending on your preferences and travel style. Here's a breakdown of the main expenses:

• Accommodation: You can find a range of options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. On average, expect to pay between €50 to €300 per night. For budget travelers, hostels and budget hotels in smaller towns may cost around €50 per night. Mid-range hotels in popular cities usually range from €100 to €150 per night, while luxury accommodations in prime locations can reach up to €300 or more.
• Car Rental: Renting a car in Spain is quite affordable. Rates typically range from €30 to €100 per day, depending on the car type and rental company. Economy cars are cheaper, while SUVs and luxury cars cost more. Booking in advance often gets you better deals. Don’t forget to check if your rental includes insurance, or consider purchasing additional coverage for peace of mind.
• Fuel: Fuel prices in Spain are around €1.30 per liter. If you plan a long road trip, this cost can add up, so it's a good idea to budget for fuel accordingly. On average, a full tank for a compact car might cost around €60-€70, and you'll need to fill up every 500-600 kilometers, depending on your route and driving habits.
• Meals: Eating out in Spain can be very affordable, especially if you enjoy local tapas bars and menus del día (fixed-price daily menus). Expect to spend between €10 to €50 per person per day. A meal at a local bar or café can cost around €10 to €15, while dining at mid-range restaurants might cost €20 to €30 per person. For a splurge at a high-end restaurant, you could spend €50 or more per person.
• Attractions: Entrance fees for museums, historical sites, and other attractions typically range from €5 to €20 per entry. Some major sites like the Alhambra in Granada or the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona might be on the higher end, while smaller museums and local attractions are often cheaper. Many cities also offer tourist cards that provide discounted or free entry to multiple attractions.

Driving in Spain is generally straightforward, but it’s essential to be aware of the local rules and regulations to ensure a safe and pleasant trip:

• Driving Side: In Spain, you drive on the right side of the road. This is important to remember, especially when navigating roundabouts and making turns.
• Speed Limits: Speed limits vary depending on the type of road. In cities, the speed limit is usually 50 km/h, on rural roads it’s 90 km/h, and on highways, it’s 120 km/h. Pay attention to road signs as speed limits can change unexpectedly.
• Alcohol Limit: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% BAC (0.03% for drivers with less than two years of experience). This is lower than in some other countries, so it's best to avoid drinking if you plan to drive.
• Documents: Always carry your driving license, passport, insurance papers, and the car rental agreement. Police checks are common, and having these documents will make any stops quick and stress-free.
• Tolls: Some highways (autopistas) have tolls, which can be paid with cash or card. Make sure to have some cash on hand for smaller tolls, as not all toll booths accept cards. Toll roads are marked with an "AP" prefix on road signs.

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Spain at your own pace. Here’s what you need to know:

• Major Companies: Reputable car rental companies in Spain include Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, and Budget. Booking in advance through their websites can often get you the best rates.
• Requirements: To rent a car in Spain, you need a valid driving license, a credit card, and you must meet the minimum age requirement, which is usually 21-25 years old depending on the company. Some companies may also charge a young driver fee for renters under 25.
• Insurance: Basic insurance is typically included in the rental price, but it often comes with a high deductible. Consider additional coverage like collision damage waiver (CDW) or theft protection for extra peace of mind. Check if your credit card offers rental car insurance as part of its benefits.

Preparing for your road trip is key to a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Here’s a checklist of essentials to bring along:

• GPS or Map: While most rental cars come with built-in GPS, having a physical map or a GPS app on your phone can be a lifesaver, especially in rural areas where signal might be weak.
• Comfortable Clothing: Pack layers to accommodate varying weather conditions. Even in summer, evenings can be cool, especially in mountainous areas.
• Snacks and Water: Stock up on snacks and water, especially for long drives between towns. Having a supply of food and drinks can keep you energized and hydrated.
• First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit is always a good idea for minor injuries or illnesses. Include items like band-aids, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you might need.
• Camera: Spain is full of stunning landscapes and historic sites. Bring a camera to capture your adventures and make lasting memories.

If you have a driving license from the EU, USA, or Canada, you do not need an IDP. However, it's recommended for travelers from other countries to secure one.

Yes, Spain has a well-maintained road network and is generally safe for driving. Be cautious in rural areas and follow local traffic laws.

Yes, most toll booths and fuel stations accept major credit cards. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller, remote stations.

Contact your rental company for assistance. Most provide 24-hour roadside assistance services.

In cities, parking can be challenging. Look for designated parking areas and avoid restricted zones. In rural areas, parking is usually more accessible.

Embark on your Spanish road trip with confidence, armed with this comprehensive guide. Whether you're exploring vibrant cities, serene countryside, or stunning coastal regions, Spain promises an unforgettable adventure. Safe travels!