Our guide to driving in Spain

About Spain

Spain is a captivating country renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes. With a population of over 46 million people, Spain is a constitutional monarchy, known for its warm Mediterranean climate, stunning coastlines, and breathtaking mountain ranges.

The country's capital, Madrid, is a bustling metropolis and a cultural hub, housing world-class museums, art galleries, and a lively nightlife scene. Barcelona, situated on the northeastern coast, is famous for its distinctive architecture, including the remarkable Sagrada Familia and the vibrant streets of Las Ramblas.

How to get to Spain

To drive from the UK to Spain, you have a couple of options depending on your starting point in the UK and your desired destination in Spain. Here's a general guide:

Choose your route: There are several ferry and Eurotunnel options to cross the English Channel from the UK to mainland Europe. The most common routes are:

a. Ferry: You can take a ferry from ports like Portsmouth, Plymouth, or Poole to destinations such as Santander or Bilbao in northern Spain. The ferry journey takes around 20-24 hours.

b. Eurotunnel: Another option is to use the Eurotunnel, which connects Folkestone in the UK to Calais in France via the Channel Tunnel. From Calais, you can drive south through France and enter Spain.
Plan your journey through France: Once you reach mainland Europe, you'll need to drive through France to reach Spain. Here are some popular routes:

a. Eastern route: If you're traveling from the southeast of the UK, you can take the A26 motorway from Calais to Reims, then continue on the A5 and A31 to reach the border with Spain. From there, you can take the A6 and A7 to Barcelona or continue on the A9 to reach the Mediterranean coast.

b. Western route: If you're starting from the southwest of the UK, you can drive from Calais towards Paris on the A16 and A1. From Paris, take the A10 towards Bordeaux, then continue on the A63 towards the Spanish border. Once in Spain, you can take the AP-8 or AP-68 to reach destinations like San Sebastian, Bilbao, or Barcelona.

Tips when driving to Spain

Check for toll roads: Keep in mind that some sections of the French motorway system and certain routes in Spain have toll charges. Consider budgeting for these additional expenses.
Research rest stops and accommodations: It's important to plan for rest stops and accommodations along the way, especially for long journeys. France has numerous rest areas with facilities and accommodations for overnight stays. In Spain, there are also various service stations and hotels along major routes.
Familiarise yourself with driving regulations: Make sure you are aware of the driving regulations in both the UK and Spain, including speed limits, documentation requirements, and any specific rules of the road.
Prepare necessary documentation: Before traveling, ensure you have your valid driving license, passport, vehicle registration, and insurance documents readily available. It's also advisable to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your driving license, as it may be required in certain countries.

Remember to check for any travel advisories or restrictions related to driving in both the UK and Spain, especially regarding border crossings and COVID-19 guidelines. It's recommended to plan your journey in advance, allowing for flexibility and taking breaks as needed.

Things you need when driving in Spain

When driving from the UK to Spain, there are several essential items and documents you will need to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. Here's a list of things you should have:

Valid Driving License: Carry your valid UK driving license. Ensure that it is up-to-date and valid for use in Spain. If you have a paper license, it's recommended to also carry an additional form of photo identification.
Vehicle Documents: Carry the necessary documents for your vehicle, including:

a. Vehicle Registration Document (V5C): This proves ownership of the vehicle.

b. Vehicle Insurance: Ensure you have valid insurance coverage that extends to driving in Spain. Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage for driving abroad.

c. MOT Certificate: If applicable, make sure your vehicle has a valid MOT certificate.
Travel Documents: Remember to carry the following travel documents:

a. Passport: Ensure you have a valid passport for all passengers.

b. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance: While the EHIC has been replaced by the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), it's advisable to have suitable health insurance coverage for your journey.

c. International Driving Permit (IDP): While it's not a requirement in Spain, carrying an IDP alongside your driving license is recommended. Check if you need one based on your license type and consult the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information.
Reflective Jackets and Warning Triangles: It's mandatory in Spain to carry a reflective jacket for each passenger and two warning triangles. Make sure they are easily accessible within your vehicle.
Spare Bulbs and Tools: Carry spare bulbs for your vehicle's headlights, indicators, and other lights, as well as the necessary tools to replace them.
First Aid Kit: While not mandatory, it's advisable to have a basic first aid kit readily available in case of emergencies.
Road Maps or Navigation Devices: Carry road maps or use a reliable navigation device or smartphone app with updated maps for your route.
Travel Adapters: If you plan to charge electronic devices or use any electrical appliances during your journey, consider bringing appropriate travel adapters for the different plug types in Spain.
Cash and Cards: Have sufficient cash and/or a credit/debit card for fuel, tolls, parking fees, and other expenses along the way.
Snacks, Water, and Entertainment: Bring some snacks, water, and entertainment options to keep yourself and your passengers comfortable during the journey.

It's also advisable to familiarise yourself with the traffic regulations, speed limits, and any specific requirements or restrictions in both the UK and Spain. Additionally, check for any travel advisories or updates before your departure to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip