Driving in Spain: What Tourists Need to Know
Planning to rent a car and explore the Spanish coast? Good idea. Driving in Spain gives you access to coastal towns, hidden beaches, scenic routes, and local life that you won’t experience by bus or train. But before you start the engine, it’s worth knowing the basics.
Need a rental car for your trip? Check availability here:
View rentals
1. Basic Driving Rules in Spain
Spain’s rules are straightforward, but enforcement is strict — especially along the Mediterranean coast.
Key Rules
- Drive on the right-hand side
- Seatbelts required for all passengers
- No handheld mobile phones while driving
- Headlights required in all tunnels
- Children under 12 must sit in the back with proper restraints
Always carry:
passport, driver’s license, rental agreement, and insurance papers.
Official Reference: Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT)
https://www.dgt.es
(Spain’s national traffic authority)
2. Do You Need an International Driving Permit?
EU/EEA Citizens
Your driving license is accepted without any additional permit.
Non-EU Visitors (UK, US, Canada, Australia, etc.)
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended and required if your license:
- is not in Spanish
- is not in English
- does not use Latin letters
Check with your home licensing authority before traveling.
3. Speed Limits in Spain (km/h)
| Road Type | Speed Limit |
|---|---|
| Autopistas / Motorways (AP-) | 120 km/h |
| Autovías (A-) | 120 km/h |
| Secondary roads | 90–100 km/h |
| Urban areas | 30–50 km/h |
Spain uses both fixed and mobile speed cameras.
Fines can be mailed internationally — so keep to the posted limits.
4. Toll Roads vs Free Roads
Autopistas (AP-)
Toll roads — fast, smooth, and ideal for long-distance drives.
Autovías (A-)
Free highways — often scenic and great for tourists.
Payment Options
- Cash
- Credit/debit card
- Electronic toll device (many rental cars include one)
Tip: AP-7 is the main coastal motorway between Valencia, Alicante, Murcia, and Málaga.
5. Fuel Tips
- Gasolina = Unleaded petrol
- Gasoil = Diesel (confirm before filling!)
- Some pumps require paying inside the station
- Rural stations may close at midday or Sundays
Fuel Prices (Updated Regularly):
https://geoportalgasolineras.es/geoportal-instalaciones/Inicio
(Official Spanish Government fuel price portal)
6. Parking Rules
- Blue lines (Zona Azul) = paid parking, buy a ticket
- Yellow lines = no parking
- White lines = usually free
- Green lines = resident-only (city dependent)
Parking Apps That Work in Spain
- Telpark
- EasyPark
- ElParking
Underground garages are recommended in Valencia, Alicante, Benidorm, and Marbella.
7. Safety & Travel Tips
- Don’t leave valuables in sight at beaches or viewpoints
- Take your passport and wallet with you
- Always lock the car
- Priority in roundabouts goes to cars already inside
- Watch for scooters and bikes in coastal towns
Need pick-up or delivery info for your rental?
Delivery & Pick-Up Guide
Travel Tip Box
If you plan to explore old towns like Altea, Calp, Estepona, or Casares, choose a compact rental car. Narrow streets and limited parking make smaller vehicles far more convenient.
Final Thoughts
Driving in Spain is safe, scenic, and surprisingly easy once you know the basics. Whether you're traveling the Costa Blanca or exploring Andalusia’s white villages, having your own car gives you freedom to see far more than the average tourist.
Buckle up, drive smart, and enjoy the Mediterranean road ahead.
Recommended Next Reads
Micro FAQ
Q: Are Spanish roads safe for tourists?
Yes — Spain has some of Europe’s safest and best-maintained roads.
Q: Do gas stations accept foreign cards?
Most do, but rural stations may require cash or paying inside.
Q: Are roundabouts confusing?
Just remember: cars already inside have priority.