Spain Road Trip Itinerary: The best 20 Scenic routes

It has been a long time since I wanted to write about my favourite Spain road trips. My first Spanish itinerary was 30 years ago and I completed my last one just a couple of months ago.

I just love renting a car in Spain and exploring beyond the famous destinations. This is a country famous for Barcellona, Madrid and Seville, but there is so much more to discover, from the beautiful countryside to the hidden beaches and villages.

But, without further ado, let’s get to the key points with a full table of my suggested Spanish road trip itineraries.

Spain Road Trip – Key points

Here is a table with 20 of the most epic Spain road trips that you can find in the country.

For some of them, I described below the full itinerary. You can click on the route name or keep reading for more details. On a mobile, swipe left and right to see all the columns.

An important tip: rent your car well in advance, especially if travelling in peak season. I usually book my cars on DiscoverCars, a website that compares local and international providers besides offering full insurance at just 8 Euros/day, a real bargain

Name of the Road Trip	Km to Drive	Things to Do & Explore	Interesting Fact
Andalucia Road Trip	800	Explore historical cities, flamenco culture	Andalucía is known for its rich Moorish history
Islands of Galicia and Northern Spain	900	Visit beaches, traditional villages	Galicia has a unique Celtic heritage
The Best itinerary from Barcelona through the Pyrenees and back	1,300	Mountain landscapes, medieval towns	The Pyrenees are a natural border between Spain and France
Madrid, Toledo and Central Spain	640	Historical cities, Spanish cuisine	Toledo is known as the “City of the Three Cultures”
Fuerteventura, the Best Itinerary in the Canary Islands	300	Beaches, natural parks	Fuerteventura is famous for its wind sports
Costa Brava Road Trip along Spain’s Mediterranean Sea	300	Coastal towns, beaches, Dali Museum	Costa Brava means “Wild Coast” in Spanish
Road Trip Through Spain: From North to South in Style	1,500	Diverse landscapes, cultural landmarks	This trip to Spain is going to highlight the huge difference between north and south of the country
The Loop – The Ultimate Road Trip around Spain and Portugal	3,400	Spain and Portugal, diverse cultures	Combines the best of the Iberian Peninsula
From France to Spain Itinerary	800	Montpellier to Barcelona, Mediterranean coast	Links French and Spanish Mediterranean cultures
Valencia to Malaga Coastal Drive	500	Mediterranean beaches, paella in Valencia	Valencia is known for its City of Arts and Sciences
Basque Country Culinary Journey	300	Gourmet cuisine, coastal towns	The Basque Country is renowned for its unique gastronomy
Northern Spain Adventure	800	Rugged coastlines, Picos de Europa	Northern Spain is known for its distinct Celtic influence
Spanish Wine Country Tour	400	Vineyards, wine tastings in La Rioja	La Rioja is one of Spain’s most famous wine regions
Historic Cities of Castile Itinerary	700	Medieval cities, castles in Castile	Castile is the heartland of historic Spain
Aragonese Pyrenees Exploration	300	Mountain villages, national parks	The Aragonese Pyrenees are less travelled yet stunning
Mediterranean to Atlantic Coast Trip	1,000	Diverse beaches, from calm to surf-friendly	Showcases the contrast between Spain’s two coastlines
Green Spain Nature Drive	600	Lush landscapes, traditional fishing villages	“Green Spain” refers to the verdant northern regions
Extremadura Undiscovered Route	400	Roman ruins, natural reserves	Extremadura is known for its unspoiled natural beauty
Southern Spain Beaches and Mountains	800	Sierra Nevada, tropical coast	Offers a mix of mountainous terrain and tropical beaches
Gibraltar to Girona Coastal Journey	1,200	Diverse cultures, Rock of Gibraltar	A journey from the southern tip to the northeastern coast

Andalucia Road trip – An itinerary in the South of Spain

This is often pointed out as the best road trip in Spain. It is certainly on top of my favourites, starting with a short stay in the vibrant coastal city of Malaga where you can explore the city’s rich history and lively culinary scene.

Next, venture 140 km to Granada for the magnificent Alhambra Palace. Spend two days there wandering through the historic Albayzin district, absorbing the city’s captivating charm.

Journey 170 km to Cordoba, one of the best destinations in Andalucia, a city steeped in Islamic and Roman heritage. Here, Mezquita and the Jewish Quarter offer a deep dive into Andalucía’s history.

Your next stop, 140 km away, is Sevilla, the capital of Andalucía. Over three days, discover its architectural marvels, including the Plaza de España, the Alcázar, and the modern Metropol Parasol (Las Setas) and immerse yourself in the vibrant flamenco culture.

Drive 120 km south to Cadiz, with a fun detour to Jerez de la Frontera, renowned for its sherry production. In Cadiz, enjoy the blend of historical exploration and beach leisure, visiting landmarks like the Castillo de San Sebastián and unwinding at La Caleta Beach.

Conclude your journey in Estepona, 160 km away, with a stop in the picturesque village of Casares. Estepona offers both lovely beaches and one of the best historical centres to stay in the Costa del Sol.

I write extensively about this Road Trip through Andalucia. Here below is a quick table to summarise the trip

Day	Location	Driven Km	Activities/Highlights	Accommodation	Notes
1-2	Malaga	0	Explore historical sites, vibrant restaurant scene, and nightlife	El Museo	Perfect blend of history, culture, and beach relaxation
3-4	Granada	140	Visit the Alhambra, explore the Albayzin district, enjoy local cuisine	Palacio Gran Vía	Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Granada
5-6	Cordoba	170	Visit the Mezquita, explore the old town and Jewish Quarter	H10 Palacio Colomera	Discover Cordoba’s blend of cultures and historical wonders
7-9	Sevilla	140	Visit the Plaza de España, Alcázar, enjoy flamenco shows	H10 Casa de la Plata	Cultural vibrancy and historical beauty of Sevilla
10-12	Cadiz & Jerez	120	On the way from Sevilla to Cadiz stop at Jerez de la Frontera for a day visit. Explore Cadiz’s old town and local market Relax on the beach, try water sports, and visit La Caleta Beach	Los Claveles	Plenty of history and beach time
13-14	Estepona – Costa del Sol	160	Early morning departure, stop at Casares, visit Historic Centre Estepona, relax by the beach and Esplanade walk	Apartamento en Playa del Cristo	Estepona to Malaga Airport is 80Km
Extra	Ronda	NA	If you have 2 spare days, add at least a night to Ronda, a unique town sitting on the El Tajo Gorge, just 1 hour from the Estepona/Marbella	Catalonia Ronda	It can be done also as a day visit from Costa del Sol

Islands of Galicia and Northern Spain

This part of Spain is often overlooked by most travellers and in this respect, you will find a more genuine and characteristic environment, definitely less touristy than most of the country.

Start this Northern Spain itinerary from the Cíes Islands in Galicia, accessible from the airport of Vigo where you can rent the car. Spend a day at Rodas Beach, a natural paradise of crystal-clear waters and pristine sands. Hike through diverse flora for breathtaking Atlantic views.

Next, travel 100 km to Illa de Arousa, a serene island with wooden walkways and fresh seafood. Then, venture 150 km east to As Catedrais Beach in Lugo, famous for its natural rock arches and caves.

Continue your journey 220 km west to the vibrant Gijón, strolling along San Lorenzo beach and experiencing the local sidra culture.

Keep visiting (90 Km) the Asturias and explore the Picos de Europa National Park. The Covadonga Lakes offer spectacular glacial landscapes.

Conclude in the Basque Country, 300 km away, in San Sebastián famous for its lovely Concha Beach and exquisite cuisine.

The best road trip from Barcelona through the Pyrenees

Begin in Barcelona, where Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces and the bustling Las Ramblas set the vibrant tone. Plan to spend at least 3 full days in this amazing city.

Drive 80 km north to the charming town of Vic, known for its medieval architecture and bustling market square. This is a city with plenty of history that reminds me a lot of Siena, in Tuscany, with a wide main square and all the medieval buildings around to form a sort of stadium.

Venture 300 km further into the heart of the Pyrenees to Aínsa, a hidden gem with cobblestone streets and stunning mountain vistas. The town develops around the Cinca and the Ara rivers in a magical setup.

Continue 60 km to the enchanting Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park. Spectacular landscape with the Pyrenees mountains in the background, lush valleys, and amazing waterfalls. The park is really the perfect destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Next, journey 60 km to the quaint town of Jaca, a gateway to the Pyrenees. Explore its historic citadel and the Romanesque Cathedral, a testament to the region’s rich heritage.

Conclude your adventure 200 km away in San Sebastián, nestled in the Basque Country. This coastal city, known for its beautiful beaches and world-class cuisine, offers a luxurious end to your Pyrenean odyssey.

On your last day, make your way back to Barcelona by taking the direct A-22 and A-23. The trip is around 560km or 6 hours.

Madrid, Toledo and Central Spain

Begin your adventure in Madrid, a city where you will find plenty of art, culture, and vibrant energy for some of the best nightlife in Spain. Dedicate at least three full days to explore Madrid’s renowned museums, bustling plazas, extensive parks, tapas places and the great party scene in the underground hidden bars.

Drive 70 km south to Toledo, a city perched on a hill above the Tagus River. Toledo’s ancient walls encase a rich tapestry of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish heritage. Wander through the cobbled streets, visit the imposing Alcázar, and explore the stunning Toledo Cathedral.

Continue 180 km east to the charming town of Cuenca, known for its “hanging houses” (Casas Colgadas) perched perilously on cliffs. Cuenca’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a blend of medieval and modern art, with the abstract art museum housed in the hanging houses.

Journey 280 km west to the walled city of Ávila, famous for its perfectly preserved medieval walls. Explore the city’s historic centre, visit the Cathedral, and walk along the ancient walls for panoramic views.

Conclude your itinerary with a return to Madrid, 110 km away. This 640-km journey through Central Spain offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and scenic beauty, capturing the essence of Spain’s rich cultural tapestry.

Fuerteventura, the best road trip itinerary in the Canary Islands

Set off on a magical drive across Fuerteventura, the second-largest of the Canary Islands, known for its stunning beaches and captivating landscapes. Begin your journey in Puerto del Rosario, the island’s capital, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and history. Spend a day exploring the quaint streets and harbour area.

Drive 30 km southwest to the charming town of Antigua, nestled in the heart of the island. Antigua offers a glimpse into traditional Canarian life with its windmills and the Centro de Artesanía, showcasing local crafts.

Continue 70 km south to the picturesque fishing village of Morro Jable. Here, the pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters of Playa de Jandía beckon for relaxation and water sports.

Venture 20 km west along the coast to the stunning Cofete Beach, a remote and unspoiled paradise perfect for those seeking tranquillity away from the crowds. The dramatic backdrop of the Jandía mountains is really unmissable, especially at sunset time.

Journey north 140 km to Corralejo, a lively resort town with vibrant nightlife, excellent dining, and the famous Corralejo Dunes Natural Park, offering vast sandy landscapes.

Conclude your Fuerteventura adventure back in Puerto del Rosario or the airport.

Costa Brava road trip

Destination	Km	Highlights and Things to Do	Interesting Fact
Girona Airport	0	Pick up the rental car	Gateway to Costa Brava
Girona	12	Explore the Old Town, Girona Cathedral, walk along the Onyar River	Known for its well-preserved medieval streets
Tossa de Mar	40	Visit Tossa de Mar Castle, enjoy the beach, explore Vila Vella (Old Town)	Home to one of the few remaining medieval towns on the Catalan coast
Sant Feliu de Guíxols	30	Visit the Monastery, enjoy water sports at the beach	Known for its annual music festival
Calella de Palafrugell	30	Explore the coves, Botanical Gardens at Cap Roig, traditional fishing village charm	Famous for its Habaneras music festival
Begur	15	Visit Begur Castle, explore the village, enjoy nearby beaches like Aiguablava	Known for its Indiano (Cuban) architectural influence
Pals	10	Explore the medieval village, visit the Torre de las Horas, rice fields	Pals is known for its rice cultivation. Do it as a day trip from Begur.
Empuriabrava	50	Explore the marina, skydiving, visit the Butterfly Park	Known as the ‘Venice of Spain’ due to its network of canals
Cadaqués	30	Visit Salvador Dalí House Museum in Portlligat, explore the town’s art galleries	Famous for its association with Salvador Dalí
Girona Airport	85	Return the rental car, end of the trip	Convenient return to the starting point

Road Trip Across Spain: From North to South in Style

This is a long trip that deserves around 3 weeks otherwise it would be rushed through and you would not be able to experience the essence of the country and the cultural difference between the south and the north of Spain.

Starting in Barcelona, you’ll immerse yourself in the city’s artistic vibrancy and beach culture. Moving to Valencia, enjoy its innovative architecture and culinary scene.

Stop in Granada, one of the best places to visit and stay in Andalucia. Witness the breathtaking Alhambra and delve into Andalusian culture. Stay in Malaga for the blend of history and seaside relaxation.

Marbella, one of the best destinations on the Costa del Sol, provides a luxurious retreat with its beaches and upscale charm. Experience the essence of Andalusian culture in Sevilla with its rich history and lively streets. Conclude in Cadiz, where history and coastal beauty culminate in an unforgettable Spanish experience.

Destination	Km	Highlights and Things to Do	Interesting Fact
Barcelona	0	Explore Gaudi’s masterpieces, La Rambla, enjoy the beaches	Renowned for its art, architecture, and vibrant street life
Valencia	350	Visit the City of Arts and Sciences, enjoy the beaches, explore the old town	Famous for being the birthplace of paella
Granada	500	Visit the Alhambra, explore Albayzin, enjoy local flamenco	Home to the stunning Alhambra Palace
Malaga	130	Explore the historic centre, visit the Picasso Museum, relax on the Costa del Sol beaches	Birthplace of Picasso
Marbella	60	Enjoy the luxury resorts, visit the Old Town, relax on the beaches	A hotspot for international celebrities
Sevilla	230	Explore the Alcázar, Plaza de España, experience the vibrant flamenco culture	On the way to Sevilla, stop at the unique Caminito del Rey for one of the most impressive hikes in the world
Cadiz	130	Explore the old town, visit the Cadiz Cathedral, relax on La Caleta Beach	One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe

The loop – The ultimate Spanish road trip with Spain and Portugal

This is one of the best trips I ever had in my life. I enjoyed it so much, every single day. I did it in 6 weeks, and I stopped in a few more locations. The table below suits a 4-week trip but you can easily adapt it to make it shorter or longer.

This road trip starts from Barcelona, with its artistic vibrancy, and then heads to Valencia for a blend of modernity and tradition.

In Granada and Sevilla, immerse yourself in the essence of Andalucía. Cross into Portugal to explore Lisbon and Porto, enjoying their unique cultural and culinary offerings.

Journey to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, a city of great historical and spiritual significance. Visit Bilbao and San Sebastián in the Basque Country for a taste of Northern culture and cuisine.

Conclude your epic itinerary back in Barcelona, completing a full loop of unforgettable experiences. This journey is a once-in-a-lifetime exploration of the Iberic Peninsula’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local life.

Destination	Km	Highlights and Things to Do	Interesting Fact
Barcelona	0	Explore Gaudi’s masterpieces, La Rambla, and the city’s beaches	A vibrant city known for its art and architecture
Valencia	350	Discover the City of Arts and Sciences, old town, and enjoy the beaches	Birthplace of paella
Granada	500	Visit the Alhambra, explore Albayzin, and enjoy flamenco nights	Home to the majestic Alhambra
Sevilla	250	Marvel at the Alcázar, Plaza de España, and experience flamenco culture	The heart of Andalusian culture
Lisbon, Portugal	460	Explore Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and time at Lisbon beaches	A city famous for its maritime history
Porto, Portugal	310	Discover the Ribeira, wine tasting in the Douro Valley, and Porto’s beaches	Known for its port wine production
Santiago de Compostela	230	Visit the Santiago Cathedral, explore the historic centre	End point of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage
Bilbao	600	Guggenheim Museum, stroll through the old town, enjoy Basque cuisine	Famous for its modern art and Basque culture
San Sebastián	100	Relax on La Concha Beach, explore the Old Town, enjoy pintxos	Renowned for its culinary scene
Barcelona	600	Return to Barcelona, end of the itinerary	A perfect loop back to the cosmopolitan start

From epic Spain & France itinerary – Montpellier to Barcelona

Destination	Km from Previous Destination	Highlights and Things to Do	Interesting Fact
Montpellier, France	0	Explore the Place de la Comédie, Fabre Museum, and relax on Mediterranean beaches	A vibrant city known for its rich history and culture
Carcassonne, France	150	Visit the medieval fortress city, explore the old town	Home to the UNESCO-listed La Cité, a fortified medieval city
Toulouse, France	90	Discover the Capitole de Toulouse, visit the Cité de l’Espace, and enjoy local cuisine	Known as ‘La Ville Rose’ for its distinctive pink terracotta buildings
Andorra	190	Enjoy shopping, hiking in the Pyrenees, and visit the thermal spa at Caldea	A small mountainous country nestled in the Pyrenees between France and Spain
Lleida, Spain	160	Pass the border and visit Spain. Explore La Seu Vella (Old Cathedral) in Lleida and the historic centre	Known for its rich architectural heritage and fruit cultivation
Tarragona, Spain	100	Discover Roman ruins, visit the Tarragona Cathedral, and relax on Costa Daurada beaches	A city with ancient Roman history, home to the UNESCO-listed Roman Amphitheatre
Sitges, Spain	60	Enjoy the beaches, explore the town’s modernist architecture, and vibrant nightlife	A picturesque coastal town known for its Film Festival and Carnival
Barcelona, Spain	40	End the trip exploring Gaudi’s masterpieces, La Rambla, and the city’s beaches	A vibrant city famous for its art, architecture, and cosmopolitan lifestyle