When traveling between cities, driving in Spain is incredibly simple. However, it does take some getting used to driving in a big city. For those coming to Europe for the first time and staying only briefly, it is not advised. Unless, of course, you enjoy some exciting city driving and are a thrill-seeker. Driving on the right side of the road, like the Spanish do, will relieve a lot of your worry and anxiety. If you’re not used to driving on the right side, you should absolutely take it slow until you get used to it. Don’t worry, though; it won’t take you long to adjust. It only took me a few days to feel like I had been doing it my entire life.
Rent a Car
Although many tourists are familiar with Spain’s state-of-the-art bus and rail networks, driving a car is undoubtedly the best way to see the nation. When you rent a car in Spain, you have the fun freedom to decide on your own route and take it at your own pace. Most roads are in excellent condition and connect all parts of the nation.
Requirements
- Driver’s license
- ID or Passport
- Credit Card
- International Driver’s Permit
The minimum age to drive in Spain is 18. However, the majority of Spanish rental car agencies demand that you be at least 21 years old in order to rent a vehicle. Some may additionally need that you be at least 23 years old and that you have had your license for at least a year. All drivers must show a current driver’s license, an ID that serves as identification, and a credit card to complete the transaction.
Roads
Spain has a large portion that is either very level or gradually ascends, making travel quick and simple. The motorways and roads are in excellent shape, and there is usually little traffic, so you can take in the scenery. On a road trip through Spain, you’ll frequently pass lovely flowers or cross tall bridges that are positioned between mountains. Outside of major cities like Madrid or Barcelona, traffic will increase but driving will still be simple.
The maximum speed allowed on autopistas and autovas, or motorways, is 120 km/h. Autopistas, denoted by the letters AP, are frequently toll roads, but Autovas (A), which run parallel to the Autopistas, are free highways. Driving in Spain requires constant attention to the posted speed limit because the national guard and police are responsible for maintaining it. On major thoroughfares, the posted speed limit ranges from 80 to 90 and occasionally 100 km/h. This is either 50 or 70 km/h in urban areas. Consider keeping an eye out for traffic signs and adhering to the posted speed limit.
Traffic
Larger cities like Barcelona frequently encounter traffic bottlenecks, thus it is not advisable to travel there by car during peak hour. Spain has four rush hours (horas puntas) due to their afternoon break, however it is known to be busy during the majority of the day. To reduce pollution, some cities—like Madrid—don’t even permit traffic to enter the city’s historic district.
The majority of the mountain roads are in decent shape, it is always a good idea to drive cautiously. Your car might need snow chains if you’re touring Spain’s mountains in the winter. Make sure to inquire about it with the rental car company when picking up your vehicle in Spain.
Rental Car Insurance
It is a legal requirement to obtain unrestricted third-party liability insurance while renting an automobile in Spain. This will usually take the form of a deductible hold on your credit card with the majority of firms and is normally included in the cost of your automobile rental. Before you hire a car, be sure to verify that your credit card can pay for the fees of this deposit. Although not required, additional insurance such as a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or theft coverage is advised.
The Takeaway
Spain is a magnificent nation. There are plenty of places that you can visit once you are there. The easiest way to explore Spain on your own time is by driving yourself, even if there is an excellent interrail system and a variety of other public transit choices.
