One of the greatest Spanish jewels is Madrid, a city literally packed with top-rated attractions, art venues, and fancy restaurants. Not so far from this large and bustling metropolis, tourists will also find a number of interesting spots such as Toledo, Caseres or Merida which are equally riddled with characteristic Moorish atmosphere, stunning examples of architectural gems, and plenty of outdoor activity options to pursue. 

When you’re already in the region, try not to miss Avila, with its perfectly preserved fortified city walls and historic highlights, and El Escorial, a peaceful retreat located at a stone throw’s from the country’s capital. There, you’ll find a stunning monastery and a palace that can boast a little treat for the lovers of art - an interesting Picture Gallery featuring paintings by renowned Spanish artists.

Travellers who choose Spain as their holiday destination won’t grasp the real feel of the country without venturing into its 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 holidaymakers who are into culture and art. Guggenheim Museum, Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao, and Museo Vasco are only a few gems that can be found at a stone’s throw from the Casco Viejo – the Old Town. Another spot not to be missed is Pamplona probably most renowned for the Running of the Bulls event that was immortalized in one of Ernest Hemingway’s novels.

The south of Spain is mostly associated with a paradise for the lovers of sunny beaches, fancy entertainment spots, and long walks along the never-ending strands. But a stay in one of the southern resorts wouldn’t be complete without a stroll along the palm-lined promenade of Seville, admiring the breathtaking Sierra Nevada Mountains in Granada, or a stroll around the Old Jewish Quarter in Cordoba.

Among the many Spanish tourist attractions, the most prominent one is probably Catalonia with its lively capital, Barcelona. It offers a wide selection of must-see tourist attractions, including fancy restaurants, golden beaches, and the famous Gothic Quarter. 

Fed up with the busy city streets? Try visiting Zaragoza where multiple dazzling art museums, architectural jewels, and top-notch cafés await all tourists. For those who seek some peaceful environment, Huesca will be the perfect choice to catch some breath and delve deeper into the pre-Roman history of this small city.

Even though there exist strictly defined traffic rules that are supposed to be followed while driving around Spain, there are many Spanish motorists who often create their own rules or simply do not adhere to the existing ones – so be extra cautious during your Spanish adventure.

Getting used to driving around Spain won’t be a bigger problem as the country follows right-hand traffic system – just like most of the European countries. Even though the minimum driving age in Spain is 18, you need to be at least 21 years old in order to hire a car. 

Using mobile phones while driving is against the law in Spain. The only possibility of making a call while driving is using a hands-free set.

There are heavy penalties imposed on motorists who drink and drive. You should bear in mind that even a single drink can already put you over the limit of 50 mg of alcohol per litre of blood. The worst case scenario is a prison sentence with suspension.

What is also penalised is driving in bus, taxi, or cycle lanes which are marked with a yellow line that runs parallel to the curb. The only situation in which you can use the lane is to avoid an obstruction blocking the traffic flow.

Don’t use your horn in cities after dark. During the day, the horn should be used only in case of an emergency. An unnecessary use of it can result in a €60 fee. What’s more, in case of an accident, simply dial 112 to reach appropriate authorities.

Automotive lighting is obligatory on motorways and expressways at night as well as in tunnels. In adverse weather conditions, you should use fog lamps.

What’s more, there exist a number of toll sections on motorways as well as a number of paid tunnels in Spain. At the toll gates, you can pay with cash, credit cards, Shell Card, and Servisa Card.

While driving around Spain in a rental car, you should always remember to carry with you appropriate documents, namely your driver’s licence, registration documents, vehicle technical inspection certificate, and a proof of insurance.

The obligatory equipment that you always have to carry with you includes: reflective vests for the driver and passengers, two warning triangles, a set of spare bulbs, and a spare tire. First aid kit and fire extinguisher are both elements that are optional, yet it’s worth taking them with you. What’s more, if you wear glasses, you should have a spare pair with you as well.

The speed limits that have to be observed are as follows: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h in rural areas, 120 km/h on expressways, 100 km/h on roads that are not expressways but have two lanes going in one direction, and 120 km/h on motorways. Interestingly, the law allows a 20 km/h leeway if you are overtaking a vehicle in front of you.