Northern Spain travel guide – the ultimate road trip

If a European road trip is on your bucket list, then northern Spain should definitely feature. 

Sometimes overlooked in favour of other regions across the continent, this area has some outstanding natural beauty and fascinating cities to visit.

With many exciting locations and endless stunning scenery across northern Spain, here's everything you need to know to make your Basque and beyond road trip unforgettable.

Travelling to Spain from the UK

Once you've decided that you're heading to northern Spain, you'll have to choose between flying to one of the many airports in the region – or driving from the UK to Spain.

If you choose to drive, your first point of call will be the south of England, where you'll need to choose between using a ferry or the Eurotunnel.

From there, you'll need to select the best route through France to get to Spain.

You may want to travel through France to various destinations along the way, as part of a European road trip.

If you’ve decided to drive to Spain, then we can tell you that it's probably a lot easier than you think, and offers up some great opportunities for adventure along the way.

Our essential guide to driving from the UK to Spain, covers everything from what to pack to which routes to take.

The alternative is to fly and then hire a car. There are several benefits for choosing this option, but beware of what you are agreeing to – and make sure you're prepared.

Following the end of Brexit, it was reported that hiring a car on the continent has more than doubled in many European destinations, so make sure to shop around for the best deal available.

No matter which option you decide, check the best available prices for petrol and diesel for your vehicle. Make sure you find out how much you can expect to pay at the pumps for fuel with the RAC in Europe.

Always check the local government rules before driving in the region.

• Speed limits in Spain - your complete guide
• Motorways and tolls in Spain - all you need to know
• British expats in Spain - updated driving rules

What will you need to drive in Spain?

Before you take to the roads and head south, you will need to make sure you have these documents with you – or you could face serious fines or legal action.

Also, for those of you looking at driving from the UK to Spain, the RAC’s European Breakdown Cover provides a wide range of benefits should you breakdown in Spain to ensure you stay safe.

To supplement this, RAC also offers travel insurance. Cover will include medical expenses, baggage, personal money, and belongings, among many other benefits.

In order to drive in Spain, you will need a full, valid UK driving licence, your UK passport, your car insurance certificate, and V5 registration form. The final two will only be needed if you are driving your own vehicle while in the country. You must be over the age of 18 to drive in Spain.

Last year, the national identifier displayed on vehicles registered in the United Kingdom that are driven abroad have changed from GB to UK.

This means that vehicles registered in the UK must display the letters “UK” when driven in Spain. In Spain, the sticker must be visible no matter what is on your number plate.

However, if you have hired a vehicle while in the country, check out the RAC’s Car Hire Excess Insurance.

According to the FIA, only domestic vehicles in Spain need to carry a V16 emergency beacon from January 2026 (accurate as of July 2026). Vehicles registered in the UK do not need one, so long as they are carrying a warning triangle for use following a breakdown or accident.

Preparing your car for a Spanish road trip

Before you set off on your Spanish adventure, there are some important things to remember when driving across the north of the nation.

In addition to required documents, British motorists in the country are required by law to carry the following items when driving to avoid hefty on-the-spot fines from the police.

In your car, you will need reflective jackets for yourself and all passengers. All vehicles will also need a warning triangle and headlamp beam deflectors with you on your journey. Make sure you have checked everything off the list to get through Spain without any hiccups.

For anyone driving a motorbike or taking a bicycle on the road, crash helmets are compulsory. Motorcycles on the road must have their lights on at all times.

Finally, around 20% of Spanish motorways will have tolls that cost up to €30 – so keep an eye out for the ‘autopistas’ and get in the correct lane.

If you are looking to drive your own vehicle in Spain, then make sure that your vehicle is up to the standard for a continental journey.

Ahead of your trip to northern Spain, carry out these 12 essential car maintenance checks to ensure for a trouble-free holiday. With the recent heatwave, you need to be extra vigilant, and take care of your vehicle to avoid a summer breakdown.

And remember, if you are driving abroad, then European Breakdown Cover can help take the stress away, should the worst happen.

• The best road trips in Spain
• Spanish road signs - know before you go
• Driving from the UK to Spain

Northern Spain – what can you expect?

Northern Spain has a wide range of cities, landscapes and must-see locations for you and your family.

Below are some of the major cities you could visit on your travels across the north of the country.

• Girona
• Zaragoza
• Huesca
• Pamplona
• Vitoria-Gasteiz
• Donostia-San Sebastian
• Bilbao
• Santander
• Burgos
• Valladolid
• León
• Oviedo
• Gijón
• Lugo
• Pontevedra
• A Coruña

Below we have profiled the five most popular cities in the north of the country and what you can expect.

Zaragoza

Capital of Spain’s Aragon region, this northeastern city overlooks the Ebro River, and is a famous pilgrimage site with a shrine to the Virgin Mary.

The city is littered with stunning Gothic and Islamic style architecture that are more than 800 years old.

And the history doesn’t stop there – as there some of the most impressive Roman remains in all of Europe. Spain’s fifth largest city has an impressive tapas and bar scene that is the envy of much of Europe.

Other must see historic sites include the Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pilar, Palacio de la Aljaferia, and La Seo del Salvador.

Bilbao

The largest city in the Basque Country, is an industrial port city surrounded by green mountains – a picturesque stop on your tour of northern Spain.

Known as the home of the Guggenheim Museum – one of the world’s most famous modern and contemporary art museums. Its eye catching modern design stands out with its shiny, metallic exterior, overlooking the river.

The city is filled with a range of museums in beautiful historic buildings and churches – as well as theatres and a thriving food district.

Donostia-San Sebastián

Also known as just San Sebastian, the city is the capital of the Gipuzkoa region of the Basque Country in northern Spain.

Just 12 miles from the French border in the Bay of Biscay, it is one of the country’s most popular holiday destinations.

An iconic coastline in the country – highlighted by the poplar La Concha Beach, Zurriola Beach, Ondarreta Beach, and Monte Urgull – it is a favourite for holidaymakers.

A former European Capital of Culture, it is home to an international film and jazz festival – bringing in people from all over the world

Barcelona

Known the world over as the home of FC Barcelona and the Camp Nou, this city in the northeast of Spain is the second most populous in the country.

As well as its famous coastline, the city is also known for the Basilica I Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Familia – a massive, unfinished church building in the centre of the city. This is one of several World Heritage Sites across Barcelona.

Several museums, parks, churches, and mediaeval historical sites are spread out across the city and bring in millions of tourists each year.

A Coruña

Also known as La Coruña, is based on the northwest point of Spain, and is another seaside city with a history that can be traced back before the Roman empire.

With four main beaches, and an increased number of hotels in recent years – the city has grown in stature as a holiday destination.

Popular attractions in the city include a Tower of Hercules (the world's oldest functioning lighthouse), Monte de San Pedro, Praza de Maria Pita, and the Castle of San Anton.

The many Celtic settlements are also very popular.

Where should you visit in northern Spain?

Alongside its major cities, there are also some hidden gems that you should visit on your journey across the northern half of the country.

Below, we have highlighted a few that you could check out on your holiday while you are driving across northern Spain.

Picos de Europa National Park

The first national park in Spain is based is a popular destination for hikers and campers – and its white stone with endless green grass is a picturesque location for travellers.

Rioja Wine Region

Perfect for all wine enthusiasts, travellers to this region can enjoy more than 500 wineries and vineyards – where the world famous wine is created and sold across the globe.

Gaztelugatxe

A small island in the Bay of Biscay that resembles a castle – it is accessible from land via a footbridge and has a small chapel dedicated to St John.

Pamplona

A historic city known for the San Fermin festival where people try to outrun herd of bulls running through the town.

Food festivals in Gijon

Unlike a lot of northern Spain, Gijon is not known for its historic architecture of storied past. Visitors enjoy its modern attractions and is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for food enthusiasts.

Pyrenees

The mountainous region that covers southern France, Andorra and northeastern Spain, this region is filled with rugged ravines, green valleys, waterfalls, and many small villages with their own unique character.

Northern Spain road trip

By now, I am sure that you are raring to go on your Spanish adventure! But before you set off, check out these Spanish road trips – some of the best in Europe.

Within the list of journeys, there are several that cover northern Spain – including one along the coast, the Basque Country loop, and the Catalunya region – starting in Barcelona.

However, despite the amazing sites that you will see from your car window – there are some important things to remember when behind the wheel in Spain.

Although you may get caught up in the scenery and excitement of travelling across the country, knowing how the motorways and tolls work in Spain will make your life a lot easier.

Alongside this, please take care when driving and respect the speed limits in Spain.

Finally, before heading off, make a note of the Spanish road signs you will come across on your journey.

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Northern Spain road trip itinerary

A week is the perfect amount of time to experience the highlights of northern Spain by car, combining world-class cuisine, dramatic coastlines, vibrant cities and spectacular mountain scenery.

Begin your journey in Bilbao, the largest city in the Basque Country. Spend a day exploring the iconic Guggenheim Museum, wandering through the charming Old Town and sampling traditional pintxos before heading east to San Sebastián.

Day two is all about San Sebastián, one of Spain's most beautiful coastal destinations. Relax on La Concha Beach, stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy the city's renowned food scene.

Continue west to Santander, a stylish seaside city known for its sandy beaches, elegant architecture and picturesque bay. From here, venture inland to the breathtaking Picos de Europa National Park, where winding mountain roads, dramatic limestone peaks and scenic viewpoints make it a must-visit stop for road trip enthusiasts.

Next, head to Oviedo, the historic capital of Asturias, famous for its medieval old town, cider culture and rich heritage. Then follow the rugged Atlantic coastline towards A Coruña in Galicia, home to the Tower of Hercules and a lively waterfront.

Finish your adventure exploring Galicia's dramatic coastal landscapes before beginning your return journey, having experienced some of the finest driving roads, unforgettable scenery and cultural attractions that northern Spain has to offer.

Best driving roads in Northern Spain

Here are a selection of the best roads to drive down when on your Northern Spain holiday:

N-634 coastal road

Stretching along much of Spain's northern coastline, the N-634 is one of the country's most scenic driving routes. The road links charming fishing villages, golden beaches and dramatic cliff-top viewpoints while offering stunning views across the Bay of Biscay. It's an ideal choice for motorists looking to explore the region at a relaxed pace and discover hidden gems beyond the major tourist hotspots.

Desfiladero de la Hermida

The Desfiladero de la Hermida is the longest gorge in Spain and provides an unforgettable driving experience through the Cantabrian Mountains. Carved by the Deva River, this spectacular route winds between towering rock faces and dense greenery. The combination of dramatic scenery, twisting roads and access to nearby mountain villages makes it a favourite among road trip enthusiasts.

Picos de Europa mountain roads

The roads around the Picos de Europa National Park offer some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in Spain. Drivers can expect winding routes, steep valleys and panoramic viewpoints overlooking rugged limestone peaks. Popular stretches include the journey to the Lakes of Covadonga and roads connecting traditional Asturian and Cantabrian villages, making every mile a memorable part of the adventure.

Rioja Wine Route

For a more relaxed road trip, the Rioja Wine Route combines beautiful countryside with world-famous vineyards and wineries. Rolling hills, medieval villages and historic wine estates line the route, creating plenty of opportunities to stop and explore. Towns such as Haro, Laguardia and Logroño are highlights, offering visitors a chance to experience the culture, cuisine, and heritage of Spain's most famous wine-producing region.

Basque coastal routes

The Basque coastline is packed with spectacular driving roads that connect vibrant cities and picturesque seaside towns. Routes between Bilbao, San Sebastián and the fishing villages scattered along the coast offer dramatic sea views, rugged cliffs, and excellent local cuisine. Motorists can enjoy a mix of coastal scenery and cultural attractions while discovering some of the most distinctive landscapes in northern Spain.

Are you planning on moving to northern Spain? Be prepared

Earlier this year, new rules came not force in Spain that now means that expat British drivers are now banned from driving in the country.

Following a breakdown in talks between the two counties, if you have been resident for more than six months and have not exchanged your UK licence for a Spanish one, you will no longer be able to drive using your UK licence.

However, if you moved south after January 1st 2022, your UK licence will only be recognised for another six months from the date you took up residence in Spain.

The law applies to UK, Gibraltar, Jersey, Guernsey, or Isle of Man licence.