Central Spain Road Trip Itinerary
The Central Spain Road Trip is the perfect way to explore the heart of the country. Starting and ending in the vibrant city of Madrid, this 831 km route takes you through some of Spain’s most beautiful towns and cities, including Segovia, Ávila, Salamanca, Plasencia and Toledo. Along the way, you will discover a wealth of historical sites and monuments, many of which are UNESCO Heritage sites. The best time of year to drive is during the spring and autumn months, when the days are mild and the roads are in excellent condition. Although the route is mostly straight and wide, there are some curvy and narrow roads along the way. This road trip is suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a moderate budget. It is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience and many lasting memories.
6
number of days
831 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
Madrid/El Retiro Park/Photo by nperron22 on Pixabay
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START
Madrid
Distance 831 km
Driving time 12.3 h
Pace: fast
249.4 kWh
Airports
MAD
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Madrid, the capital of Spain, is an exciting and vibrant city with countless attractions and activities to explore. Known for its rich culture and history, Madrid is a great starting point for the Central Spain Road Trip.
When visiting Madrid, you have to explore the Royal Palace, a beautiful 18th century palace that has been home to the Spanish Royal Family for centuries, and the Prado Museum, which houses one of the finest art collections in the world. For a more modern experience, head to Gran Via, the main shopping and entertainment street in Madrid. Here you can find unique stores and restaurants, as well as some of the city’s best nightlife.
If you’re looking to explore the outdoors, Madrid is home to several stunning parks and gardens, including the Buen Retiro Park, a large park with beautiful gardens, a lake, and plenty of outdoor activities.
The closest international airport to Madrid is Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD). This airport has many car rental services, so you can easily start your Central Spain Road Trip from Madrid.
Madrid is a great starting point for a road trip, with plenty of attractions and activities to explore. Whether you’re looking for culture, nightlife, or outdoor activities, Madrid has something for everyone.
1
Madrid
- El Escorial
- Segovia
Distance 126 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
37.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Madrid to Segovia! This 126km journey will take you less than two hours, and you will be able to experience some of the most interesting places in the area. Start your journey in Madrid, the capital of Spain, and head to El Escorial, a historical site and former residence of the Spanish monarchs. Make sure to take a stroll through the monastery, and admire its impressive architecture. Next, you will drive through some winding and narrow roads, so pay attention to the road. Once you reach Segovia, you will be able to explore the city's historical sites, such as the Roman Aqueduct, the Alcázar of Segovia, and the Gothic Cathedral. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Segovia - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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2
Segovia
- Ávila
Distance 67 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: fast
20.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Segovia to Ávila? This route is only 67 km and it can be done in less than an hour. Enjoy the breathtaking views as you drive through winding roads, narrow sections, and some of the most beautiful scenery in Spain. Along the way, you'll want to make sure to visit some of the most interesting places in Segovia and Ávila. In Segovia, make sure to explore the old city, the Alcázar of Segovia, and the Aqueduct of Segovia. In Ávila, visit the old city walls, the Cathedral of Ávila, and the Basilica of San Vicente. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Ávila - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Ávila - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
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3
Ávila
- Salamanca
Distance 127 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: fast
38.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Ávila-Salamanca road trip! This 127 km drive will take you less than two hours, so you can make the most of your time and explore some of the most interesting places in these two Spanish cities.
Start your journey in Ávila, a beautiful city surrounded by medieval walls. Here you can visit the Cathedral of Ávila and the Basilica of San Vicente, both of which are stunning examples of Romanesque architecture. You can also explore the Convent of Saint Teresa, the birthplace of the famous mystic and saint.
Continue your journey to Salamanca, a city known for its vibrant culture and beautiful architecture. Here, you can visit the University of Salamanca, one of the oldest universities in the world. You can also explore the old city center and admire the Plaza Mayor, a stunning main square surrounded by colorful buildings. Last but not least, don't forget to visit the Catedral Nueva, a marvelous example of Spanish Baroque architecture.
As you take this road trip, make sure to take in the stunning views of the countryside. If you need more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Salamanca - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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4
Salamanca
- Béjar
- Plasencia
Distance 130 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: fast
39.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready to embark on a road trip through the stunning Spanish countryside? Starting in Salamanca, your first stop is Béjar, a small town with plenty of history and culture to explore. From here, you'll drive through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region, with plenty of stops along the way to admire the views. As you make your way to Plasencia, you'll pass through some of the oldest towns in Spain, such as the beautiful medieval city of Ciudad Rodrigo. Along the way, you'll also have the chance to explore some of the most stunning natural sites, including the Sierra de Francia mountain range and the Monfragüe National Park. With a total distance of 130km and a driving time of fewer than 2 hours, this stage of your tour will be a great way to get a taste of the beauty and culture of the region. Don't forget to take some time to explore the historical sites and scenic roads along the way. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Plasencia - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
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5
Plasencia
- Arenas de San Pedro
- Toledo
Distance 262 km
Driving time 4.2 h
Pace: fast
78.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 262 km long road trip starting in Plasencia, Spain, and ending in Toledo. The journey will take you less than 5 hours and you will pass through Arenas de San Pedro. Along the way, you will be able to marvel at the stunning historical sites, the winding road, and the breathtaking scenery. Visit the Plaza Mayor in Plasencia, the largest plaza in Spain, and the nearby Cathedral of Plasencia, built in the 16th century. In Arenas de San Pedro, do not miss the opportunity to observe the Roman ruins and the famous castle. Finally, in Toledo, you can explore the old Jewish Quarter, the Cathedral of Toledo, and the Church of Santo Tomé. Make sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Toledo - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
Toledo - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Toledo - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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6
Toledo
- Aranjuez
- Madrid
Distance 120 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: fast
35.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a memorable road trip from Toledo to Madrid and explore some of Spain's most interesting places. The drive is only 120 km and will take less than two hours, making it the perfect day trip. Start your journey in Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take in its rich history and architecture. From there, visit Aranjuez, a beautiful Royal Palace and Gardens, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finally, end your journey in Madrid, Spain's vibrant capital city, where you can explore its iconic landmarks, museums, and food culture. Along the way, make sure to take in the stunning natural beauty of the Spanish countryside. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Madrid - Spain - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Madrid
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Madrid, the capital of Spain, is the perfect ending point for your Central Spain Road Trip. Located right in the center of the country, Madrid is easily accessible by car and is the perfect place to cap off your road trip.
The best way to experience Madrid is to start with a stroll through its bustling streets. See the magnificent Plaza Mayor and the Royal Palace, or marvel at the stunning architecture of the numerous churches. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the main shopping street of Gran Via, or take a day trip to the stunning El Escorial Monastery.
Madrid also has world-class museums and galleries, including the Prado Museum, one of the most important art galleries in the world. With over 7,000 artworks, it’s sure to keep you occupied for hours. The Reina Sofia Museum is also a must-visit, with its collection of modern art from the 20th century.
For those flying into Madrid, the closest international airport is Madrid-Barajas Airport (IATA: MAD). Once you’re in the city, there’s plenty of public transportation options to get around.
Madrid is the perfect place to end your Central Spain Road Trip. With its rich culture, vibrant streets, and world-class museums, it’s sure to be a memorable experience.
Central Spain Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Madrid
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End:
Madrid
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Distance:
831 km
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Stay:
6 days
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Getting there:
Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD)
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When to drive:
March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
We hope that our Central Spain Road Trip gave you multiple inspirations for your future travels.
The itinerary we’ve suggested can be used as a template that you can recreate in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with original attractions.
If car travel is a means of travel that you prefer, there are a number of essential road rules to follow and a bunch of things to bear in mind to turn your adventure into pleasure.
These tips will also become useful for holidaymakers who are interested in car rental or renting a camper.
When you’re sightseeing around Spain, you should kept in mind the local road regulations.
Alcohol is best to be avoided at any cost when Spain is your road trip destination.
Holidayers ought to remember that the allowed level of alcohol in blood is low and is only 0.5‰.
Exceeding the maximum allowed speed limit, which is 50km/h, around the city streets may lead to a speeding fine.
If you are aiming for non-build-up areas, you cannot exceed the maximum allowed speed of 100km/h.
Avoid driving faster than the permissible speed of 120km/h when driving on motorways.
In order to stay safe, we recommend equipping your car with a first aid kit and fire extinguisher and driving with your headlights on during the day.
The majority of holidaymakers wonder about the costs of the whole trip.
Depending on your needs, the money that you have to spend will vary.
A wide range of budget options is showed below.
We estimate that the cheapest option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 7 stages across Spain may cost around 113 EUR.
Economy accommodation options will cost more or less 319 EUR.
Tourists should also take into consideration the fact that they will spend approximately 288 EUR for restaurants and food in this option.
Travellers will have to pay about 345 EUR if they opt for the cheapest rental car option as well.
Thus, going for vehicle rental will increase the costs of the road trip from more or less 720 EUR to about 1,065 EUR.
Drivers who seek greater comfort and the standard option will pay roughly 150 EUR for the gasoline needed to cover the tour.
Cost amounting to 550 EUR can be expected by all holidayers who are searching for standard overnight stays.
Holidaymakers can expect that the standard option in terms of food and restaurants will cost approximately 432 EUR.
Travellers who want to cover the tour in a standard rental car should expect a cost of around 432 EUR.
Summing up the standard offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total around 1,564 EUR for holidaymakers who would like to try car rental and 1,132 EUR for those who are not interested in renting.
The available premium offer has been prepared for the most demanding travellers.
When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total approximately 2,792 EUR for drivers who are considering car hire and 1,132 EUR for those who do not need a rental car.
Travellers who would like to cover the road trip in a premium hire vehicle can expect a cost of roughly 1,026 EUR.
When it comes to the top standard version of the tour, you need to spend the maximum of 200 EUR to cover the planned mileage.
You should expect to pay about 576 EUR for restaurants and food and roughly 990 EUR for accommodation options if you are interested in the top standard of services during your itinerary.
Our itinerary will also be ideal for all camper enthusiasts, as it can be easily adjusted to their needs.
When it comes to this travel means, you should expect the costs of more or less 1,350 EUR.
Travellers will spend around 225 EUR on gasoline allowing to cover all stages of the trip.
Holidayers who would like to go for camper hire should expect to pay approximately 330 EUR for accommodation and roughly 288 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The Road Trip Costs section shows all the presented details in a simple manner.
The part of Spain presented in our adventure idea is great to be explored between March and November.
If Central Spain Road Trip has inspired you, check out other thrilling road adventures that we offer on our website.
Hopefully, the broad spectrum of travel opportunities will surely live up to the expectations of the most demanding drivers.