Roads in Spain: Spain boasts an impressive 166,000km of paved roads, with a significant portion consisting of four-lane autovías (freeways) and autopistas (tollways). Highways are well-maintained, though the infrastructure in more remote areas, like parts of Galicia and Extremadura, can be less developed. Road signs are in Spanish, with some areas featuring regional languages, but the icons are usually self-explanatory. Driving in Spain requires a photo ID, and a valid driver’s license is essential. A US driver’s license is acceptable for up to six months, but if you plan to drive beyond that, you’ll need a Spanish license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) can be useful if your license doesn’t include a photo. If stopped by the police, remain calm, as they are generally polite unless provoked. Insurance is mandatory; rental cars usually come with basic insurance, but it’s wise to check if you’re covered outside the EU. Car rental companies often offer extra insurance for a fee. Renting a Car: To rent a car, you must be at least 21 and have held a license for a year, though some companies require you to be 25. Rental cars are usually manual, but automatic models can be found. If you’re under 25, expect a surcharge. Rules of the Road: In Spain, drive on the right, and seat belts are compulsory for all passengers. Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal, and hands-free devices are also banned. You can only use a phone when parked in a safe area. Speed Limits vary, but generally, it’s 20-30km/h in residential areas, 50km/h in built-up areas, 90km/h on rural roads, and 120km/h on freeways. Radar traps are common, with fines starting at €100. Parking is paid in many city centers from Monday to Saturday, with varying rates across different zones. Look for blue pay-and-display meters. Petrol Stations are abundant and usually open from 7am to 10pm, with major stations open 24 hours. Unleaded petrol is called sin plomo and diesel is gasóleo. Taxis in Spain are reasonably priced, with a base fare of around €1.20 and €0.80 per kilometer. Taxis are metered, but in some areas, you might find fixed fares for airport trips. You can hail a taxi anywhere if the green light is on, but in some cities, you can only do so at taxi ranks. You can also call for one by phone, though there might be a small surcharge. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service. Buses: Spain has an extensive bus network, with Alsa being the largest operator. Buses are generally cheaper than trains, though they can be slower. It’s often more cost-effective to buy tickets in advance online, where you can sometimes find discounts. Trains: Spain’s train system, run by Renfe, is efficient and covers most major cities and towns. The high-speed AVE trains are the jewel of the system, linking Madrid with cities like Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia. Rail passes like the Renfe Spain Pass can save you money if you plan to take multiple long-distance trips. Bicycles: Cycling in Spain is growing in popularity, with many cities offering bike rental services and dedicated bike lanes. It’s a great way to explore urban areas, and with the rise of electric bikes, tackling Spain’s hilly terrain is becoming easier.
