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HomeRoad TripsEuropeSouth EuropeSpainSpanish Highlights
Toledo

Spanish Highlights Road Trip

Barcelona - Zaragoza - Burgos - Salamanca - Madrid - Toledo - Trujillo - Seville - Cordoba - Granada

Expect on your itinerary

Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Historical sites Historical sites
Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Spanish Highlights Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages9 km2,175 h/stage2.6

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Spanish Highlights Road Trip in Spain?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 692EUR drive & more 288EUR sleep & more 638EUR eat & more 576EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,502EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,193EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 864EUR drive & more 388EUR sleep & more 1,111EUR eat & more 864EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,363EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,227EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,052EUR drive & more 525EUR sleep & more 1,980EUR eat & more 1,152EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,657EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,709EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,700EUR drive & more 588EUR sleep & more 660EUR eat & more 576EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,824EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,524EUR
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Spanish Highlights Road Trip Itinerary

The Spanish Highlights Road Trip is an amazing journey that will take you from Barcelona to Granada, taking in the sights and attractions of some of Spain's most iconic cities and towns. You'll travel through Zaragoza, Salamanca, Toledo, and Seville, with a total distance of around 2175km. This journey is recommended to take 12 days, and the best time of year to drive this route is during the summer months. Along the way, you'll be able to explore the rich historical sites, stunning landscapes, and the many UNESCO Heritage Monuments that make up this incredible route. The roads are in excellent condition, making it suitable for every driver. Plus, with its moderate budget, this road trip is perfect for anyone looking to make the most out of their trip. The Spanish Highlights Road Trip is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience and memories that will last a lifetime.
number of days 12 number of days
route length 2,175 km route length
budget fair budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Barcelona

Distance 2,175 km Driving time 23.7 h Pace: fast 652.6 kWh Airports BCN
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Barcelona, the beautiful capital of Catalonia, is the perfect starting point for the Spanish Highlights Road Trip. Located on the northeastern Mediterranean coast of the Iberian Peninsula, it is home to some of the most iconic attractions in the world, from the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell to the Gothic Quarter. This vibrant city offers something for everyone, from its rich cultural heritage to a bustling nightlife. The closest international airport to Barcelona is Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN). Here, you will find numerous car rental companies so that you can start your road trip in comfort. Driving around Barcelona is easy, with plenty of parking options and an extensive network of roads and highways. Barcelona's many attractions are a must-see, including the popular La Rambla, Montjuïc Castle, and the world-renowned Camp Nou stadium. For art lovers, there is the Picasso Museum and the Joan Miró Foundation, while those with an interest in culture should visit the Cathedral of Santa Eulalia and the Palau de la Música Catalana. For the best view of the city, head up to the iconic Montjuïc hill. No visit to Barcelona would be complete without savoring its delicious cuisine. From tapas bars and seafood restaurants to traditional Catalan eateries, there is something for everyone. With so much to see and do, Barcelona is an unforgettable start for the Spanish Highlights Road Trip.

1 Barcelona - Montserrat - Zaragoza

Distance 335 km Driving time 3.9 h Pace: fast 100.5 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site attractive landscape interesting cultural site accommodation options
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Are you ready for an incredible road trip from Barcelona to Zaragoza? Get ready to explore the wonders of Catalonia and Aragon! This 335 km journey will take you less than 4 hours, but you will be amazed at the number of sights you will see on the way. Start your adventure in Barcelona and make your way to Montserrat, a beautiful mountain range with spectacular views. Here you can visit the Montserrat Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take in the breathtaking views. Continue your journey along the winding roads to Zaragoza, a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. Visit the Aljaferia Palace, a Moorish fortress built in the 11th century, and explore the city’s many plazas, churches, and monuments. Along the way, you will be able to take in the beautiful landscapes of Catalonia and Aragon. Keep your eyes open for historical sites and picturesque views. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for a road trip of a lifetime!

2 Zaragoza - Burgos

Distance 325 km Driving time 3.7 h Pace: fast 97.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Zaragoza to Burgos? This 325 km journey will take you less than 4 hours and you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places in Spain. Along the route you will find the World Heritage Site of the Monastery of San Juan de la Peña, the Cathedral of Jaca, the Castle of Loarre and the Castle of Monzón. All of them are a must-see for anyone interested in Spanish history. Don't forget to stop in the charming villages of Sos del Rey Católico and Arnedillo, where you can enjoy a delicious traditional meal. Finally, you will reach Burgos, an incredible city with a rich cultural heritage. Visit the old quarter, the Cathedral of Santa María, the Monastery of Las Huelgas and the Monastery of Santo Tomás. With so much to see and do, you will have an unforgettable experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Let's hit the road!

3 Burgos - León - Salamanca

Distance 389 km Driving time 3.9 h Pace: fast 116.8 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Burgos to Salamanca? This 389km journey will take you through the beautiful cities of León and Salamanca and will give you the opportunity to explore some of Spain’s most spectacular UNESCO Heritage sites. Along the way, be sure to take some time to visit the Burgos Cathedral, the Royal Basilica of San Isidoro in León, and the University of Salamanca. The entire journey will take you less than four hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore each city and enjoy the scenery along the way. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, buckle up and get ready for a memorable adventure!

4 Salamanca - Ávila - Madrid

Distance 214 km Driving time 2.4 h Pace: fast 64.1 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site camper parking available interesting cultural site accommodation options
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Take a road trip to discover the beauty of Spain! Starting in Salamanca, drive 214 km and in less than 3 hours you'll reach Madrid, with some amazing stops along the way. Visit the city of Ávila, where you'll find the majestic Cathedral of Ávila and the Walls of Ávila, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Enjoy the stunning views of the Sierra de Gredos mountains from the walls. The city also boasts several Romanesque churches and a lively atmosphere in the Plaza Mayor. And don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the local gastronomy. Finally, arrive in Madrid, a vibrant city and the capital of Spain. Here you can explore the stunning Royal Palace, the Prado Museum, and the Reina Sofia Museum. There's also the beautiful Retiro Park and the famous Plaza Mayor. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the journey!

5 Madrid - Toledo

Distance 74 km Driving time 1.0 h Pace: fast 22.1 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Madrid to Toledo! A journey of only 74 km will take you less than an hour to complete. Along the route, you will have the chance to explore some of the most remarkable UNESCO Heritage sites in Spain. Start your journey by visiting the Royal Palace of Madrid, the largest royal palace in Europe. Then, continue to the beautiful Plaza Mayor, a stunning square in the heart of Madrid. After that, you can make a detour to the nearby El Escorial, a magnificent palace and monastery. Finally, you will arrive in Toledo, the old capital of Spain. Here, you can explore the majestic Cathedral of Toledo, the El Greco Museum and the Alcazar of Toledo. Don't forget to take a stroll through its charming streets, as well. More information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

6 Toledo - Trujillo

Distance 221 km Driving time 2.4 h Pace: fast 66.3 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on a road trip from Toledo to Trujillo, a journey of 221 km taking less than 3 hours. Start your trip in Toledo, an ancient city known for its historic architecture and monuments, such as the Alcázar of Toledo and the Cathedral of Toledo, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Before leaving, don't forget to visit the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes and the Church of Santo Tomé. Continue your journey to Trujillo, a small city in the province of Cáceres. Here you can visit the Castle of Trujillo, a fortress built in the 13th century, or the Plaza Mayor, the main square of the city. Other attractions include the Church of Santa María la Mayor, the Church of San Francisco and the Convent of San Agustín. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Have a great road trip!

7 Trujillo - Mérida - Seville

Distance 279 km Driving time 2.8 h Pace: fast 83.8 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options camper parking available junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site
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Are you ready for a fun and exciting road trip? Then get ready to explore the amazing cities of Trujillo, Mérida and Seville! This 279km route will take you less than 3 hours to drive, and you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places in Spain. Trujillo is a beautiful city with a rich history, and you'll find plenty of historical sites to explore. Mérida is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world, and you'll also find several UNESCO World Heritage sites. Finally, Seville is a vibrant city with plenty of culture and history, and you can explore its many attractions. Along the way, you'll find plenty of places to explore, from historical sites to restaurants. Be sure to check out the itinerary for this stage of the tour for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. With this road trip, you're sure to have an adventure that you won't forget!

8 Seville - Cordoba

Distance 141 km Driving time 1.6 h Pace: fast 42.2 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options camper parking available
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Embark on a road trip journey from Seville to Cordoba, a journey of 141 km that will take you less than 2 hours. Start your journey in Seville, the capital of Andalusia, known for its flamenco, tapas, and Moorish architecture. Visit the Alcazar of Seville, a royal palace built in the 14th century, and the Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Once you have explored Seville, head to Cordoba, the former capital of the Roman province of Hispania Baetica and the Umayyad caliphate. Visit the Mezquita, a mosque-cathedral built in the 10th century, and the Alcazar of Cordoba, a palace built in the 14th century. Other places to visit in Cordoba include the Roman Bridge, the Synagogue, and the Calahorra Tower. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready to explore the wonders of Seville and Cordoba!

9 Cordoba - Granada

Distance 198 km Driving time 2.1 h Pace: fast 59.4 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Embark on a road trip from Cordoba to Granada, a journey of 198km that can be completed in less than 2 hours. On the way, you will pass through a breathtaking landscape of olive groves, orchards, and vineyards. Your first stop should be the Mezquita of Cordoba, a mosque-cathedral dating back to the 8th century. The city’s Jewish quarter, El Judería, is also worth a visit. As you continue your journey, take in the stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. When you reach Granada, make sure to visit the Alhambra, a 14th-century Moorish palace and fortress. The city is also home to the Royal Chapel of Granada, where the remains of the Catholic Monarchs, Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon, are buried. For a more relaxed experience, stroll through the cobbled streets of the Albayzín district and take in its Moorish architecture. Along the way, you can enjoy a variety of delicious tapas and traditional dishes. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Bon voyage!

  Granada

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Granada is the perfect final destination for the Spanish Highlights Road Trip. Enjoy the Alhambra palace and the Generalife Gardens, two of the most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Take a stroll through the streets of the old city and discover the various monuments and churches, such as the Cathedral and the Royal Chapel. Explore the traditional Arab markets, such as the Alcaiceria and the Bib-Rambla. Visit the Albaicin and the Sacromonte, and enjoy the amazing views of the Alhambra. The closest international airport to Granada is located in Malaga, with the IATA code AGP. It is about an hour and a half away by car, and offers great connections with the rest of the world. If you are traveling by car, the best option is to take the A44 motorway, which will take you directly to Granada in about two hours. Granada is a great way to finish your Spanish Highlights Road Trip. Enjoy the amazing monuments and churches, explore the traditional Arab markets, and take in the breathtaking views of the Alhambra. Don’t forget to plan a stop at the Malaga airport on your way back home.

Spanish Highlights Road Trip at a glance

We hope that our Spanish Highlights Road Trip has inspired you.
Our tour can be used as a base that you can recreate in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with original stopovers of your choice.
If car travel is the preferred travel mode for you, there are a number of important traffic regulations to follow and a number of elements to remember to turn your road trip into pure pleasure. These tips will also become useful for tourists who are interested in car hire or camper hire in Spain.
It is vital to follow the local road rules when on a tour around Spain. Alcohol is best to be avoided at all costs when Spain is your road trip destination. The permitted blood alcohol level is low and amounts to only 0.5‰. Exceeding the maximum speed limit, which is 50km/h, when driving around the build-up areas may result in a speeding fine. When it comes to rural areas, the maximum car speed is 100km/h. When travelling on highways, you can drive at the allowed speed of 120km/h. It is best to equip your car with a fire extinguisher and first aid kit and drive with your headlights on at daytime to increase your safety.
One of the decisive factors when scheduling an itinerary is costs. The money that you have to pay is dependent on the budget option that you choose. Let’s have a look at the budget options.
We estimate that the budget option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 10 stages across Spain can cost around 288 EUR. You should take into consideration that economy accommodation options will cost more or less 638 EUR. When it comes to the travel expenses related to restaurants and food in this offer, the average expenses are 576 EUR. Travellers will have to pay approximately 692 EUR if they go for the cheapest car hire option as well. Thus, going for vehicle rental will increase the expenses of the road trip from about 1,502 EUR to approximately 2,193 EUR.
Holidayers who are interested in greater comfort and the standard option will pay approximately 388 EUR for the gasoline needed to cover the road trip. The expected approximate cost of standard accommodation is 1,111 EUR. When opting for this option, take into consideration that the food and restaurants within this range will cost about 864 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the trip in a standard hire car can expect a cost of roughly 864 EUR. Summing up the standard offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total approximately 3,227 EUR for travellers who would like to try car rental and 2,363 EUR for those who are not interested in rental.
Tourists who are considering the highest level of convenience will be pleased with the premium option. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total roughly 5,709 EUR for holidaymakers who are considering car rental and 2,363 EUR for those who do not need a rental car. Travellers who would like to cover the tour in a premium hire car should expect a cost of roughly 2,052 EUR. When it comes to the premium version of the road trip, you have to spend the maximum of 525 EUR on the fuel needed to cover the tour. Tourists who would like to go for top services in all aspects of their adventure should expect to pay approximately 1,980 EUR for hotels and approximately 1,152 EUR for food and restaurants.
Our trip will also meet the expectations all camper fans. If you choose this transport option, it costs around 2,700 EUR. Travellers will spend around 588 EUR on fuel allowing to cover all stages of the trip. Holidayers who would like to go for camper hire should expect to pay about 660 EUR for accommodation and more or less 576 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The section Road Trip Costs presents all the presented details in an easy to follow manner.
The part of Spain presented in our adventure idea is superb to be explored between April and October. If Spanish Highlights Road Trip has inspired you, you should see other picturesque road adventures that we offer on our website. We hope that the great versatility of travel opportunities will surely meet the expectations of the most demanding travellers.

Facts for safer driving in Spain

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 50 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 100 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 120 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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