Top 10 best destinations where car rental and driving are easy in Spain

Spain is a country that calls out to be explored, not just through its major cities but through the winding mountain roads, coastal drives, and remote villages that only a car can fully unlock. For travelers eager to go beyond the tourist trail, renting a car offers freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to experience Spain at your own pace. From sun-drenched beaches in the south to the rugged peaks of the north, the country offers a well-developed road network, reliable rental services, and breathtaking routes that make driving a joy. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a couple or family, driving in Spain is an accessible and rewarding experience. Below are ten of the best destinations in Spain where renting a car is simple and exploring by road is part of the magic.

Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands

Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands

Mallorca is a dream for drivers. The island’s compact size means you can explore it thoroughly in just a few days, and Palma is the perfect place to start. Car rental is available directly at the airport, and driving around the island is easy thanks to the well-maintained network of roads.

A car gives you access to dramatic coastal routes like the MA-10, which winds along the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, and to hidden coves like Caló des Moro that are unreachable by public transport. Whether you’re exploring the artistic village of Deià or the Cap de Formentor, the freedom of the road brings you closer to the authentic soul of Mallorca. For your next travel to Spain, don’t miss Mallorca!

Málaga and the Costa del Sol

Málaga

Málaga, located on the southern coast, is a gateway to some of the most scenic and accessible driving experiences in Andalusia. The city itself is modern, with an efficient airport and multiple international car rental agencies. Once you pick up your car, you’re a short drive away from the whitewashed villages of the Axarquía, the luxurious resorts of Marbella, and the cliffs of Nerja.

The roads are in excellent condition, with clear signage and ample parking in both city centers and rural areas. The A-7 motorway, which hugs the coast, offers spectacular sea views and connects easily to inland treasures like Ronda, a historic town perched over a dramatic gorge. Car hire at Malaga airport, don’t miss this destination!

Bilbao and the Basque Country

Bilbao and the Basque Country

Bilbao offers an ideal starting point for discovering by car northern Spain’s green hills, dramatic coastlines, and cultural richness. Car rental is straightforward at the airport or in the city center, and the regional roads are surprisingly quiet and well-paved.

The Basque Country is made for road trips. Drive west to San Sebastián for a taste of world-class gastronomy, or venture east into the French Basque towns just across the border. Inland, you’ll find villages like Guernica and the forested Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. Having a car makes these less-touristy gems completely accessible.

Granada and the Alpujarras

Granada

For your next road trip in Spain, nestled beneath the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is a favorite among travelers for its Alhambra palace and historic charm. But renting a car here allows you to explore the lesser-known Alpujarras region, a stretch of picturesque villages and terraced farmland cascading down the mountainsides.

Driving here means steep roads and narrow bends, but the rewards are immense. Villages like Pampaneira, Bubión, and Capileira offer a glimpse into Andalusian life far removed from the cities. The roads, though winding, are safe and well-marked, and the views over the valleys are unforgettable.

Santiago de Compostela and Galicia

Santiago de Compostela and Galicia

In Spain’s northwest corner lies Galicia, a region that feels more Celtic than Mediterranean. Santiago de Compostela, famous for being the end point of the Camino de Santiago, is also an excellent launchpad for a road trip. Car rental options are plentiful, and driving is a peaceful affair with little traffic and generous speed limits.

Galicia’s charms are scattered across the countryside—from the wild Rías Baixas coastline to the serene Sil River canyon in Ribeira Sacra. Public transportation is sparse in this region, making a car not just convenient but essential for exploration.

Valencia and the Orange Blossom Coast

Valencia

Valencia strikes a perfect balance between tradition and modernity, and its surroundings offer an equally compelling blend. Renting a car here is quick and efficient, particularly at the international airport. Once on the road, you’re minutes away from sandy beaches, medieval castles, and orange groves stretching to the horizon.

The drive north along the Orange Blossom Coast to Peñíscola is especially scenic, while the inland routes to Xàtiva or the natural park of Albufera are peaceful and full of hidden delights. The region’s flat terrain and good infrastructure make driving easy for all experience levels. Car rental in Valencia is the best to visit the region.

Seville and the Route of the White Villages

Seville

Seville’s rich culture, historic architecture, and festive atmosphere attract millions each year, but few take the time to explore the countryside beyond. Renting a car in Seville opens up the romantic Route of the White Villages (Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos), a chain of hilltop towns known for their whitewashed facades and Moorish heritage.

From Arcos de la Frontera to Zahara de la Sierra, the route is packed with charm and incredible viewpoints. The roads are winding but well-signposted, and most towns have ample parking just outside the old centers. It’s a perfect area for a slow-paced road trip. Sevilla are include at the top 10 of the best destination in Spain.

Zaragoza and the Mudejar Heartland

Zaragoza and the Mudejar Heartland

Often overlooked by international travelers, Zaragoza is a hidden gem in northeast Spain. Renting a car here means you can explore not just the city’s rich Mudejar architecture, but also the surrounding region of Aragón, dotted with castles, monasteries, and Roman ruins.

Head south to Teruel and Albarracín, considered one of the prettiest towns in Spain, or north to the Pyrenean foothills. Traffic is light, the roads are straight and scenic, and gas stations are abundant. It’s a region where history and nature meet, ideal for exploration by car.

Madrid and the Castilian Plains

Madrid, Spain

As the capital and geographic center of Spain, Madrid offers some of the best infrastructure for car rentals. Whether at the airport or in town, picking up a vehicle is seamless. Once behind the wheel, a world of Castilian heritage awaits.

Toledo, Segovia, and Ávila are all less than two hours away and offer spectacular day trips. You can also venture into the wine region of Ribera del Duero or the sleepy hills of La Mancha. The highways around Madrid are modern and fast, with toll-free options and plenty of rest stops.

Barcelona and the Costa Brava

Barcelona

Barcelona may be best known for its urban allure, but it’s also the perfect springboard to one of Spain’s most picturesque coastal regions: the Costa Brava. Rent a car at El Prat Airport or in the city and head northeast toward beaches, cliffs, and medieval villages.

Stop in Tossa de Mar, Begur, or Cadaqués—each a small paradise where public transport struggles to reach. Inland, the volcanic Garrotxa Natural Park and the historic city of Girona are just as inviting. The roads are excellent, the signage is bilingual, and the views are nothing short of cinematic. Car rental at Barcelona airport waiting your for your next travel in Spain.

Conclusion

Driving in Spain is more than just a means of transportation—it’s a cultural immersion. The country’s varied geography, rich history, and diverse regional traditions come alive when explored by car. Whether you’re tracing the white villages of Andalusia or hugging the cliffs of the Costa Brava, the road will lead you to places no tour bus can reach. With easy access to rental vehicles, modern roads, and unforgettable landscapes, Spain stands out as a top-tier destination for road trips. The key is to start your engine and see where the road takes you.

Summary

• Spain is ideal for road trips thanks to its excellent infrastructure and scenic diversity

• Málaga and the Costa del Sol: Coastal and mountain routes, ideal for beach and historic town hopping

• Palma de Mallorca: Compact island with cliffside roads and hidden coves, perfect for short scenic drives

• Bilbao: Northern Spain’s Basque Country with cultural routes, coastlines, and culinary destinations

• Granada: Access to Alpujarras villages via winding mountain roads, ideal for cultural immersion

• Santiago de Compostela: Galicia’s remote coasts and inland wine regions are best explored by car

• Valencia: Orange Blossom Coast and Albufera Natural Park easily reachable by well-kept roads

• Seville: Gateway to the Route of the White Villages, with panoramic drives and historic sites

• Zaragoza: Hidden treasures in Aragón with low traffic and exceptional historical landscapes

• Madrid: Perfect for day trips to medieval towns and wine regions with excellent highways

• Barcelona: Costa Brava’s cliffs and medieval villages are best accessed with a rental car

• Car rental in Spain is efficient and affordable, with major hubs at airports and city centers

• Roads are well-marked, modern, and support both novice and experienced drivers

• Driving allows for deeper cultural exploration, beyond what public transport can offer

• From north to south, Spain offers self-drive travelers an unforgettable adventure

F.A.Q. – Driving and Renting a Car in Spain

Do I need an international driving permit to rent a car in Spain?
If you are from an EU country, your national driving license is sufficient. Non-EU visitors, including Americans and Canadians, typically need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their regular license.

Is it safe to drive in Spain?
Yes. Spain has a well-maintained road network and adheres to strict safety standards. Urban driving can be hectic, especially in cities like Madrid or Barcelona, but rural and highway driving is generally calm and enjoyable.

Are manual cars standard in Spain?
Yes, most rental vehicles come with manual transmission. If you prefer an automatic, make sure to reserve in advance, as automatics are limited and tend to be more expensive.

What are the speed limits in Spain?
Speed limits vary by road type: 120 km/h on highways, 90 km/h on secondary roads, and 50 km/h in towns unless otherwise posted. On this list, your have many destinations in Spain. You can select other one by exemple, a Car Hire in Alicante Airport.

Can I use my GPS or mobile for directions?
Yes. GPS systems are allowed, and mobile navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze are widely used. Just ensure you have a data plan or download maps offline.

What’s the best time of year for a road trip in Spain?
Spring and autumn offer mild weather and less crowded roads. Summer is popular but can be hot, especially in the south. Winter road trips are great in the north but may involve snow in mountainous areas.