Rainy Spanish road curving through hills with a car and cloudy sky

Rainy Day Road Trips: Where to Go When the Sun’s Not Shining

Just because the sun takes a break doesn't mean your adventure has to. In Spain, even rainy days can turn into beautiful, cozy road trips filled with great food, warm cafés, scenic views, and relaxing drives. So instead of staying in your hotel or scrolling through your phone, grab your keys and hit the road — rain or shine.

Here are the best rain-friendly day trips that keep you mostly dry but still let you enjoy the charm of the Spanish coast and countryside.

1. Ronda – Rain Makes It Even More Magical

Ronda is one of those places that looks amazing in any weather. The mist that hangs over the cliffs during a rainy day just adds to its mystery. You can visit the Puente Nuevo, explore the Arab Baths, and duck into wine bars and restaurants carved into the cliffs.

🧥 Best for: Romantic rainy day, wine lovers, dramatic landscapes
🧭 Drive time from Marbella: ~1 hr 30 min

2. Málaga – Museums, Markets, and Covered Streets

Málaga is perfect when the weather turns gray. You can visit the Picasso Museum, the Centre Pompidou, or stroll through the Atarazanas Market — all indoors. Most of the old town has small, narrow streets that stay dry, and there’s no shortage of tapas spots to hide out in.

🧥 Best for: Culture, art, and foodie stops
🧭 Drive time from Marbella: ~1 hr

3. Mijas Pueblo – Cozy Cafés and Covered Viewpoints

This little mountain town has charm to spare — especially when there’s a light drizzle. The white houses and stone walkways glisten in the rain, and you’ll find plenty of small cafés and shops to wander through. Grab a warm coffee and enjoy the slower pace.

☕ Best for: Slow walking, mountain views, warm drinks
🧭 Drive time from Fuengirola: ~20 min

4. Estepona – Street Art & Coffee Walks

Estepona’s old town is filled with murals and colorful flowerpots on almost every street. Even in the rain, it’s beautiful. The sidewalks are mostly covered and the town is flat, making it easy to explore with an umbrella in hand. Stop by a pastry shop, walk the covered marina area, or just enjoy people-watching from a café window.

🎨 Best for: Photography, pastries, relaxed pace
🧭 Drive time from Marbella: ~30 min

☔ Bonus Tips for Rainy Day Road Trips

  • Keep a towel in the car — not just for you, but for the windshield too.

  • Pack layers. Spanish rain can feel cool even in spring.

  • Avoid mountain roads in heavy rain — low visibility and slippery curves.

  • Bring snacks! You might want to skip a stop if it’s pouring, so it helps to be ready.

Back to blog