Scenic Drives in Spain

One of Spain's greatest gems is Madrid, a city literally packed with high-profile attractions, art venues and chic restaurants. Not far from this large and bustling metropolis, tourists will also find a number of interesting places such as Toledo, Caseres or Merida, which are equally peppered with a distinctive Moorish atmosphere, breathtaking examples of architectural gems and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

If you are ever in the region, don't miss Avila, with its perfectly preserved city walls and historic highlights, and El Escorial, a peaceful retreat just a stone's throw from the capital. There you will find an impressive monastery and palace that has a little delicacy in store for art lovers - an interesting photo gallery featuring paintings by famous Spanish artists.

Travelers who choose Spain as their vacation destination will not get the true feel of the country without venturing into the northern parts, such as Salamanca, Leon or Burgos. These are full of UNESCO heritage sites, towering cathedrals and city streets that never sleep.

Bilbao will be an option for vacationers interested in culture and the arts. The Guggenheim Museum, Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao and Museo Vasco are just a few gems just steps from Casco Viejo, the old town. Another place not to be missed is Pamplona, probably best known for its bull run immortalized in one of Ernest Hemingway's novels.

The south of Spain is mostly associated with a paradise for lovers of sunny beaches, unusual nightlife and long walks along its endless beaches. But a stay in one of the southern vacation destinations would not be complete without a stroll along Seville's palm-lined promenade, admiring the breathtaking Sierra Nevada in Granada or strolling through the old Jewish quarter in Cordoba.

Of Spain's many tourist attractions, the most prominent is probably Catalonia with its vibrant capital city of Barcelona. It offers a wide range of tourist attractions not to be missed, including chic restaurants, golden beaches and the famous Gothic Quarter.

Tired of the city's busy streets? Try visiting Zaragoza, where several dazzling art museums, architectural gems and first-class cafes await all tourists. For those looking for a quiet setting, Huesca is the perfect choice to take a breather and dive deeper into the pre-Roman history of this small town.

Although there are strictly defined traffic rules that must be followed when driving in Spain, there are many Spanish drivers who often make up their own rules or simply do not follow the existing rules; so be extra careful during your Spanish adventure.

Getting used to driving in Spain will not be a major problem as the country follows the right-hand traffic system; just like most European countries. Although the minimum age to drive in Spain is 18, you must be at least 21 years old to rent a car.

Using cell phones while driving is prohibited in Spain. The only way to talk on the phone while driving is to use a hands-free kit.

There are severe penalties for drivers who drive under the influence of alcohol. Keep in mind that with just one drink, you can exceed the limit of 50 mg of alcohol per liter of blood. At worst, you risk jail time with probation.

Driving in bus, cab or bike lanes marked with a yellow line parallel to the curb is also punishable. The only situation in which you can use the lane is to avoid an obstacle blocking the flow of traffic.

Do not use your horn in cities after dark. During the day, use the horn only in emergencies. Unnecessary use can result in a €60 fee. And: in case of an accident, just call 112 to contact the responsible authorities.

Vehicle lights are 'mandatory at night on highways and freeways and in tunnels. Use fog lights in bad weather.

There are also a number of toll sections on highways in Spain, as well as some toll tunnels. At the toll booths, you can pay with cash, credit cards, Shell Cards and Servisa Cards.

At the toll booths, you can pay with cash, credit cards, Shell Cards and Servisa Cards.

When driving a rental car in Spain, you should always remember to have the relevant documents with you, namely your driver's license, registration papers, the vehicle's technical inspection certificate and proof of insurance.

Mandatory equipment you should always carry includes: reflective vests for the driver and front passenger, two hazard triangles, a set of spare lights and a spare tire. First aid kits and fire extinguishers are items that are optional but worth bringing. And if you wear glasses, you should also carry a spare.

The speed limits to be observed are as follows: 50 km / h inside built-up areas, 90 km / h in rural areas, 120 km / h on highways, 100 km / h on roads that are not highways but with two lanes one way and 120 km / h on highways. Interestingly, the law allows a margin of 20 km / h when overtaking a vehicle in front.