Planning to rent a car in Spain and explore the beautiful countryside, vibrant cities, and picturesque villages? In this guide, we'll cover road quality, routes, and fees to help you navigate your way through Spain.

Quality of Roads in Spain

The quality of roads in Spain is generally excellent, with well-maintained highways and motorways that make for a smooth driving experience. There are no vignettes in the country, meaning you won't need to purchase any stickers or passes for your car.

Toll Roads and Fees in Spain

While many roads in Spain are free, some major highways have tolls. Here's what you need to know about them:

  • AP-7 (Autopista del Mediterráneo): Running along the Mediterranean coast, this highway connects the French border to Algeciras. It's worth using if you want to travel along the coast quickly, bypassing crowded coastal roads. Toll fees range from €2 to €35 depending on the distance (approx. €0.16 to €2.70 per kilometer).
  • AP-2 (Autopista del Nordeste): This highway connects Zaragoza with Barcelona, ideal for those traveling between these two cities. Tolls range from €6 to €22 (approx. €0.15 to €1.75 per kilometer).
  • AP-9 (Autopista del Atlántico): Connecting Ferrol to the Portuguese border, this highway is useful for those traveling through the northwestern part of Spain. Tolls range from €3 to €20 (approx. €0.10 to €1.45 per kilometer).

Payment options for toll roads include cash, credit/debit cards, or electronic devices like the VIA-T system. Some rental cars are equipped with a VIA-T device, but it's best to check with your rental company.

Car Ferries in Spain

Spain offers several car ferry options, particularly for travelers wishing to visit the Balearic or Canary Islands:

  • Balearic Islands: Car ferries operate from Barcelona, Valencia, and Denia to various destinations, including Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca. Prices vary depending on the route, season, and type of vehicle, starting from €40 per passenger and €60 per car.
  • Canary Islands: Car ferries connect the islands to mainland Spain (mainly from Cadiz) and other Canary Islands. Prices vary depending on the route, season, and type of vehicle, starting from €35 per passenger and €85 per car.