Best driving tours to discover Spain in summer
Not sure where to go this summer?
Whether you're a permanent resident, enjoying an extended stay in Spain, or considering a visit for a holiday, exploring the country by car is one of the best ways to experience its incredible diversity. From rugged coastlines to tranquil mountain valleys, sun-soaked vineyards to historic towns, Spain is a country made for exploring.
At Generali Expatriates, we want to share some of the most scenic and culturally rich summer driving routes – perfect for those who love to travel at their own pace, stop in hidden gems, and soak up the best of Spanish life.
What makes choosing a road trip in Spain so special?
Travelling by car gives you the freedom to explore remote areas, dodge the hustle and bustle, and experience genuine interactions that would be difficult to uncover if you were to fly or use a public transport system. You’re able to save money on the journey, carry everything you may need, move at a comfortable pace, and spend less on transfers and additional baggage fees.
But before hitting the road, make sure to check the vehicle's condition, plan a precise route, and have proper car insurance.
Top summer road trip routes in Spain
1. Costa da Morte, Galicia
Wild, dramatic and steeped in legend, the Costa da Morte (Coast of Death) is one of northern Spain’s best-kept secrets. Stretching along the Atlantic coast in A Coruña, this route offers lighthouses, towering cliffs, pristine beaches and picturesque fishing villages. Key stops include Finisterre – once thought to be the end of the world – Camariñas, and Laxe.
Local tip: Visit in summer when Galicia enjoys its sunniest weather. Be sure to check out traditional local fiestas like A Rapa das Bestas in Sabucedo (early July). This unique event, held on the first Saturday, Sunday, and Monday of July, involves rounding up wild horses from the surrounding mountains, cleaning them, and releasing them back into the wild. It's a centuries-old tradition that highlights the rich cultural heritage of Galicia.
2. The Aragonese Pyrenees
Ideal for lovers of hiking and mountain views, this route takes you through the lush valleys of Gistaín and Hecho, the stunning Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, and charming mountain towns like Fanlo, Broto and Torla. Adventurous travellers can even visit the ghost town of Jánovas.
Don’t miss: The colourful Fiestas de San Lorenzo in Huesca (10 August), with fireworks, concerts, and traditional dance.
3. Road trip through Asturias
Nestled between the Bay of Biscay and the Cantabrian mountains, Asturias offers dramatic coastal views, green valleys and quaint fishing towns. Main cities like Oviedo and Gijón are full of character, while coastal spots such as Rodiles beach, Ribadesella and Llanes invite you to slow down and unwind.
One must-see is Cudillero, often described as one of Spain’s prettiest villages, where colourful houses cascade down to the sea.
Food lovers: Don’t leave without tasting the region’s famous cider and cheese. Local festivals like the Fiesta del Pastor in Covadonga (July) add a cultural flavour to your journey.
4. La Rioja Wine Route
A perfect five-day trip for wine enthusiasts and history lovers alike. Explore the capital, Logroño, and discover UNESCO-listed monasteries and scenic vineyards. Stops to include Sierra de los Cameros, the natural park of Sierra Cebollera, Arnedo’s cave dwellings, and picturesque towns like Nájera, Calahorra and Santo Domingo de la Calzada.
Time your visit: Early summer brings wine festivals and local events, including Batalla del Vino in Haro (29 June), where locals and visitors engage in a friendly wine fight!
5. The Costa Brava, Catalonia
This Mediterranean coastal route runs from Blanes to Cap de Creus and is famous for its turquoise coves, pine-covered cliffs and historic seaside towns. Highlights include Lloret de Mar, Tossa de Mar, Begur, Cadaqués (a favourite of Dalí), Calella de Palafrugell, and the medieval town of Pals.
A 7-day itinerary is ideal, giving you time to relax on the beach and sample Catalan cuisine.
Local insight: Check for village festivals, such as Festa Major in Cadaqués (August), with fireworks, live music and sardana dancing.
6. Southern Spain – The Best of Andalucía
With vibrant cities, whitewashed villages, and some of the most stunning landscapes in Spain, Andalucía is a dream destination. This route can take up to 2–3 weeks and covers hotspots like Málaga, Granada, Seville, Córdoba and Huelva.
Don’t miss natural wonders like Cabo de Gata and Doñana National Park, or the renaissance gems of Úbeda and Baeza. In Cádiz and Almería, you’ll find unspoiled beaches and charming white villages.
Summer highlight: Don’t miss the vibrant Feria de Málaga (16–23 August), with its lively daytime festivities in the historic centre and evening celebrations at the fairground, featuring music, tapas, rides and more. Another great option is the Feria de las Colombinas in Huelva (30 July–4 August), which commemorates Columbus’ departure to the New World and includes concerts, food stalls, shows and cultural activities.
Before you set off...
Choosing the perfect destination is only part of the journey — it's just as important to prepare your vehicle and check a few key things before hitting the road. For a practical guide on what to look out for before your summer getaway, take a look at our blog article: Getting Ready for a Summer Road Trip in Spain?
Travel With Peace of Mind – Wherever the Road Takes You
At Generali Expatriates, we understand that moving around Spain – whether it’s for a holiday or part of your lifestyle – should be enjoyable and stress-free. That’s why we offer a wide range of insurance solutions tailored to expats, including car insurance that covers what matters most.
What makes us different? With a network of over 200 agents and brokers across Spain, many of whom are expats themselves, speak your language and understand your needs. Whether you need advice in English, German, Dutch or French, you’ll always find someone who’s been in your shoes.
Hit the road with confidence. Find out more about our car insurance and other cover in the insurance sections of our website: Car, Home, Life, and Other Products. You can also find your nearest broker or agent here, or request a quote and one of our experts will contact you as soon as possible.