There are excellent options for transportation in Spain. In fact, Spain is an easy and economical country to get around, whichever method you choose. Whether you are driving, using public transport, or flying, we have the information you need. Here is our guide to how to get around Spain.
Using A Car In Spain
Driving in Spain
Spain has a well-developed road network, with over 17,000 kilometers of highways and motorways. The main roads are divided into two categories: autopistas and autovías. Autopistas are toll roads, while autovías are free.
Don’t forget that, like most of the world, Spain drives on the right side of the road.
The speed limit on both autopistas and autovías is 120 kilometers per hour for cars and motorcycles. In built-up areas, the speed limit is 50 kilometers per hour, or as signed. On secondary roads, the limit is typically 90 km/h, though always check posted signs as limits can vary based on road conditions.
Overall, it is a delight to drive on Spanish roads. Away from the cities and busy coastal strips, the roads are rarely congested. Driving from Barcelona to Madrid or the South is a real pleasure. It is like a road trip from the past with very little traffic to slow you down. Possibly my favorite method when I consider how to get around Spain.
If you are a resident of Spain, you need to check if you need a local driving license. Please read our full article about Spanish driving licenses here.
Need Car or Moto Insurance?
When searching for our own car insurance, we approached multiple brokers as regular customers to ensure we got an authentic experience without any special treatment or insider perks. From this process, we’ve identified a great broker to help you find the best policy.
Renting a Car
Car hire can be a fantastic way to get around. If you book in advance from a broker such as Doyouspain or Zest, you can often rent a car for under 100 Euros per month. Obviously, these prices can soar in high season. But for off-peak times, it is an extremely economical way of motoring.
Cashless tolls and how to pay
If you use toll roads on a regular basis, it is best to sign up for VIA-T. This is an electronic toll payment system. To use VIA-T, you must purchase a device you attach to your windshield. The device communicates with the toll gates; your bank automatically deducts the toll from your account. You can purchase a VIA-T device at most banks and service stations. There is a discount applied compared to paying as you go. This discount increases the more you use the tolls.
If you arwe an occasional user, you can simply pay by credit or debit card at the toll.
Good News: Some Toll Roads Are Now Free
Several major autopistas that previously charged tolls are now free to use, which can save you significant money on road trips:
Free former toll roads include:
- AP-7: Various sections along the Mediterranean coast
- AP-4: Seville-Cádiz
- AP-2: Sections in the northeast
- AP-1: Sections in the north
While approximately 20% of Spanish motorways still have tolls, you can always use the parallel free autovías as an alternative. The trade-off is typically an extra 15-45 minutes of travel time and heavier truck traffic, but the autovías are well-maintained and comfortable to drive.
VIA-T International Compatibility
It’s worth noting that your VIA-T device isn’t just for Spain. The system works seamlessly on toll roads in:
- Portugal (Via Verde system)
- France (southern toll roads with the “t” logo)
- Italy (for light vehicles)
This makes VIA-T particularly valuable if you’re planning to explore multiple countries in your vehicle.
New Technology: Free Flow Tolling
In the Basque Country (Gipuzkoa and Bizkaia regions), some toll roads now use “Free Flow” or “Sin Barreras” (without barriers) technology. These systems use automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), so there are no toll booths at all. If you have a VIA-T device, tolls are automatically charged. If not, the system photographs your license plate and bills you later – so make sure your vehicle registration details are current.
Approximate driving times between major Spanish cities
| Destination City | From Barcelona (Approx. Hours) | From Madrid (Approx. Hours) | From Seville (Approx. Hours) | From Valencia (Approx. Hours) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barcelona | – | 6h 15m | 10h | 3h 30m |
| Madrid | 6h 15m | – | 5h 30m | 3h 45m |
| Seville | 10h | 5h 30m | – | 7h 15m |
| Valencia | 3h 30m | 3h 45m | 7h 15m | – |
| Malaga | 9h 15m | 5h 15m | 2h 45m | 6h 30m |
| Bilbao | 5h 45m | 4h | 9h | 6h |
| Granada | 8h 45m | 4h 30m | 3h | 5h 45m |
| Zaragoza | 3h | 3h 15m | 8h | 4h |
| Cordoba | 8h 30m | 4h | 1h 45m | 6h |
| Santiago de Compostela | 11h 30m | 6h 45m | 9h | 10h |
| Salamanca | 8h | 2h 30m | 4h 30m | 6h |
| A Coruña | 11h 45m | 6h 30m | 8h 45m | 9h 30m |
Please note: these are approximate driving times and can vary based on specific routes taken, road conditions, speed limits, and other factors. We suggest that you always consult a mapping service (we use Google Maps) for the most accurate and up-to-date driving durations when planning your road trip.
Public Transportation in Spain
When considering transport in Spain, remember that Spain has an excellent public transportation system, including trains, buses, metro, and tram networks. This is a great way to get around major cities and between smaller towns. It is very fairly priced, with most rides costing between € 1.50 and € 4.00 for journies of up to an hour. In fact, in some cases, it is free to use until December 2023 as part of a bid by the government to tackle the cost of living crisis. Read on for more information.
Spain Train System
The Spanish rail network is one of the most extensive in Europe, with over 16,000 kilometers of track. Renfe, the Spanish national railway company, operates the network.
The Spanish rail network is divided into three main types of services:
- High-speed trains (AVE): AVE trains are the fastest trains in Spain, with speeds of up to 310 kilometers per hour. These train lines connect major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia.
- Long-distance trains (Larga Distancia): Long-distance trains connect smaller cities and towns across Spain. They are typically slower than AVE trains, but they are more affordable.
- Regional trains (Cercanías): Regional trains connect cities and towns within a particular region. They are the most affordable option for travel within Spain.
The Spanish rail network is a great way to get around the country. It is comfortable and reliable, and train tickets are affordable. Train stations vary in facilities – in the city center you’ll find ticket offices manned by English speakers. At smaller stations, a working ticket machine can be a surprise! If you are planning a trip to Spain, be sure to consider taking the train.
Discounted Train Travel in Spain
Spain continues to offer significant discounts on public transport to encourage sustainable travel and help with cost of living. As of July 2025, the system has transitioned from free passes to heavily discounted monthly tickets.
Current System (From July 1, 2025)
The Spanish government now offers affordable monthly passes for regular commuters:
For Cercanías and Rodalies (Commuter Trains):
- Standard monthly pass: €20 for unlimited travel within your zone
- Youth discount (born January 1, 1999 – December 31, 2010): €10 per month (50% discount)
- Children (born January 1, 2011 or later): Free through December 31, 2025 (registration required)
For Media Distancia (Medium-Distance Trains):
- Approximately 40% discount on standard fares for frequent travelers
- Specific pricing varies by route
For Avant High-Speed Trains:
- 50% discount on all multi-journey tickets throughout 2025:
- Tarjeta Plus Pass (30-50 journeys)
- Tarjeta Plus 10
- Tarjeta Plus 10-45
You can buy these discounted passes through:
- The Renfe website (Renfe.com)
- The Renfe Cercanías app (available for iOS and Android)
- Ticket machines at train stations
- Ticket offices at major stations
These discounted tickets cover:
- Cercanías: Local commuter trains in major Spanish cities (Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Málaga, Valencia, Bilbao, etc.)
- Rodalies: Catalonia’s commuter train network
- Media Distancia: Conventional trains covering routes up to 300km between cities and towns
- Avant: Medium-distance high-speed services on specific routes
Travel Distance:
With these passes, you can travel significant distances. For example, commuter services can take you up to 100km from city centers, reaching mountains, coastal towns, and rural areas that are perfect for day trips. Media Distancia trains connect smaller cities across Spain, making inter-city travel very affordable.
Map of Spain’s Train System
| Destination City | From Barcelona (Approx. Hours) | From Madrid (Approx. Hours) | From Seville (Approx. Hours) | From Valencia (Approx. Hours) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barcelona | – | 2h 30m | 5h 30m | 3h 15m |
| Madrid | 2h 30m | – | 2h 30m | 1h 45m |
| Seville | 5h 30m | 2h 30m | – | 4h |
| Valencia | 3h 15m | 1h 45m | 4h | – |
| Malaga | 5h 45m | 2h 30m | 2h 15m | 4h 15m |
| Bilbao | 6h 15m | 5h | 7h 30m | 6h |
| Granada | 6h 30m | 3h 15m | 3h | 4h 45m |
Buses in Spain
The bus system in Spain is extensive and efficient. It covers all of the country’s major cities and many of its smaller towns and villages. The two largest bus companies in Spain are Alsa and Avanza, which operate a network of intercity and regional buses. A number of smaller bus companies also operate in specific regions or areas and can be a quick and affordable way to get around.
Flying in Spain
Spain’s well-connected network of airports, including major hubs like Madrid’s Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas and Barcelona’s El Prat, ensures easy accessibility to both its bustling cities and serene coastal towns. Domestic flights are frequent and affordable, making it possible to hop from the historic streets of Seville to the vibrant nightlife of Ibiza in just a few hours.
The experience in Spain’s airports can vary – fly over a public holiday and major delays are common. In our experience, flying outside of these times is simple and smooth out of Barcelona El Prat airport.
Here are some of the airlines that offer domestic flights in Spain from both regional and major airports in Spain:
- Air Europa
- Iberia
- Vueling
- Ryanair
- EasyJet
Where we can, we tend to use Vueling for regional and domestic flights. Their service is reliable, and the planes are comfortable enough for a low-cost airline. It feels less cattle-class than Ryanair, for example!
Flying is obviously the fastest option if you fly to any Spanish islands (Balaerics or Canaries). Some of these low-cost airlines can be really cheap, but check the train fare – it can be quicker and easier! And, of course, causes less harm to the environment.
Spain is also a prominent international airline hub strategically positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Its major airports, such as Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas (Spain’s busiest airport) and El Prat, not only cater to a vast array of domestic routes but also service many of international flights connecting Spain to destinations worldwide.
This global connectivity is further enhanced by Spain’s historical and cultural ties with Latin America, making it a preferred gateway for transatlantic travel. Additionally, its proximity to Africa and the Middle East positions Spain as a key transit point for travelers journeying between continents. With state-of-the-art facilities, frequent flight options, and a commitment to passenger experience, Spain solidifies its reputation as a pivotal international airline hub.
Flight times from Spain to international destinations
| Destination Hub | From Barcelona (Approx. Hours) | From Madrid (Approx. Hours) |
|---|---|---|
| Amsterdam (AMS) | 2h 15m | 2h 30m |
| Atlanta (ATL) | 9h 30m | 9h |
| Bangkok (BKK) | 12h 30m | 12h |
| Beijing (PEK) | 11h 30m | 11h |
| Chicago (ORD) | 9h 15m | 8h 45m |
| Doha (DOH) | 6h 45m | 7h 15m |
| Dubai (DXB) | 7h | 7h 45m |
| Frankfurt (FRA) | 2h 15m | 2h 30m |
| Hong Kong (HKG) | 13h | 12h 30m |
| Istanbul (IST) | 3h 45m | 4h |
| Johannesburg (JNB) | 11h | 10h 30m |
| Kuala Lumpur (KUL) | 13h 15m | 12h 45m |
| London (LHR) | 2h 15m | 2h 30m |
| Los Angeles (LAX) | 12h | 11h 30m |
| Mexico City (MEX) | 12h | 11h 30m |
| Miami (MIA) | 9h 45m | 9h 15m |
| Moscow (SVO) | 4h 30m | 5h |
| Mumbai (BOM) | 9h 30m | 9h |
| New York (JFK) | 8h 30m | 8h |
| Paris (CDG) | 1h 45m | 2h |
| Rio de Janeiro (GIG) | 11h 30m | 11h |
| San Francisco (SFO) | 12h 15m | 11h 45m |
| São Paulo (GRU) | 11h 45m | 11h |
| Seoul (ICN) | 12h 45m | 12h 15m |
| Shanghai (PVG) | 12h 45m | 12h 15m |
| Singapore (SIN) | 13h | 13h 15m |
| Sydney (SYD) | 22h (with stopovers) | 21h 30m (with stopovers) |
| Tokyo (HND) | 13h 30m | 13h |
| Toronto (YYZ) | 8h 45m | 8h 15m |
| Zurich (ZRH) | 1h 45m | 2h |
Taxis and Cabs in Spain
Taxis are a convenient and reliable way to get around in Spain. They are widely available in all major cities and towns and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.
Taxis in Spain are typically yellow or black, and they have a distinctive checkered pattern on the roof. All taxis are licensed and regulated by the government, so you can be sure that you are getting a safe and reliable service. Taxi company quality does vary considerably. Taxis are quick and easy in our town, but 15 minutes up the road in the neighboring village, taxis are notoriously tough to find on the weekends!
Ride-Hailing Apps: Uber, Cabify, and Alternatives
The landscape for ride-hailing apps in Spain has changed significantly over recent years and varies considerably by region.
Barcelona – Major Restrictions
Barcelona has implemented some of the strictest regulations in Spain. A new Catalan law passed in 2025 is phasing out urban ride-hailing services:
- VTC (vehicle with driver) licenses reduced from approximately 900 to just 300 by the end of 2026
- Remaining VTC services restricted to intercity trips only (between different municipalities)
- Trips must be booked at least 2 hours in advance
- Minimum trip duration of 1 hour
- Uber operates in Barcelona but only partners with traditional taxi drivers using their app
Bottom line for Barcelona: Traditional taxis are your best bet, along with the excellent metro system.
RIDE-HAILING APP AVAILABILITY BY CITY IN SPAIN
| City | Uber | Cabify | Bolt | FREE NOW | Notes |
| Madrid | ✅ Limited | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Best availability in Spain; all apps function reasonably well |
| Barcelona | ⚠️ Taxi-only | ❌ Withdrawn | ⚠️ Very Limited | ✅ Yes | Major restrictions; Uber only partners with taxis; VTC services being phased out by 2026 |
| Valencia | ⚠️ Very Limited | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Few Uber drivers; ongoing taxi protests |
| Seville | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Moderate availability |
| Málaga | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Good options overall |
| Zaragoza | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Multiple options available |
| Bilbao | ⚠️ Limited | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No | Very limited ride-hailing; rely on traditional taxis |
| Alicante | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Cabify and FREE NOW are best bets |
| Granada | ⚠️ Very Limited | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | FREE NOW or traditional taxis recommended |
| Marbella | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No | Cabify available; otherwise use taxis |
| Murcia | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No | Limited options |
| Santander | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No | Limited options |
| A Coruña | ⚠️ Very Limited | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No | Very limited availability |
| Benidorm | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No | Limited options |
| Castellón | ⚠️ Very Limited | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Very limited options |
| Asturias (region) | ⚠️ Very Limited | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Limited availability across region |
Uber: While Uber is legal in Spain, availability is limited in most cities outside Madrid. The company has faced ongoing regulatory challenges and protests from traditional taxi drivers. In many locations, Uber partners with licensed taxi drivers rather than private drivers.
Important Notes:
- Regulations continue to evolve, with taxi associations pushing for tighter restrictions nationwide
- Always have multiple apps downloaded before your trip
- In smaller towns and rural areas, traditional taxis or car rental are your only options
- Prices on traditional taxis are government-regulated and generally reasonable
Alternative: BlaBlaCar
For longer journeys between cities, BlaBlaCar remains a popular ridesharing option. This is a carpool service where you share rides with verified drivers. It’s extremely economical and includes a booking function where you can even choose your preferred level of conversation with the driver!
Alternative Transportation
Cycling
There are many cycle lanes in Spain, and the number is increasing all the time. In fact, Spain has one of the most extensive networks of cycle lanes in Europe.
The majority of cycle lanes in Spain are located in urban areas. However, there are also a number of cycle lanes in rural areas, and some long-distance cycle routes also exist.
The quality of cycle lanes in Spain varies. Some are well-maintained and well-signposted, while others are in poor condition and not well-signposted.
In general, cycle lanes in Spain are a safe and convenient way to get around. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and obey the traffic laws.
Here are some of the most popular cycle lanes in Spain:
- The Vía Verde de Ojos Negros: This is a long-distance cycle route that runs for 160 kilometers along an old railway line. It is a popular route for cyclists of all levels.
- The Greenways of Catalonia: This network of cycle paths covers over 1,000 kilometers of routes in Catalonia. It is a great way to explore the region’s stunning scenery.
- The EuroVelo 1 Atlantic Coast Route: This long-distance cycle route runs from Norway to Portugal. It passes through Spain on its way south.
- The Camino de Santiago: This pilgrimage route runs from France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. It is a popular cycling destination and offers a unique opportunity to experience the history and culture of Spain.
No matter what your skill level or interests, a cycle lane in Spain is perfect for you. So get out there and explore!
Walking
Walking is a great way to explore Spain. The country has a lot to offer walkers, from its stunning scenery to its rich history and culture. Spanish cities are generally compact and perfect for walking around, too.
Here are some of the best places to go walking in Spain:
The Camino de Santiago: This famous pilgrimage route runs from France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. It is a popular walking destination and offers a unique opportunity to experience the history and culture of Spain.
The Pyrenees: The Pyrenees are a mountain range that runs along the border between Spain and France. They offer some of the most challenging and rewarding walking in Europe.
The Costa Brava: The Costa Brava is a beautiful coastline in northeastern Spain. It is home to a number of scenic walking routes, as well as charming villages and small towns throughout.
The Basque Country: The Basque Country is a region in northern Spain. It is known for its rolling hills, lush forests, and charming villages.
How To Get Around Spain
Spain is a delightful country to explore, no matter how you make the journey. From empty roads to dedicated cycle trails and affordable trains, it will be a joy to discover. Transportation in Spain is nearly always a pleasant surprise for most travelers.
FAQ – Transportation in Spain
What is the best way to travel within cities in Spain?
The best way to travel within cities in Spain is by using public transport such as buses, metro, or tram. Most cities have an extensive public transport system with affordable prices and efficient services. In some cities, you can also rent a bicycle or use electric scooters to get around.
How can I travel between cities in Spain?
You can travel between cities in Spain by using various modes of transportation such as trains, buses, and planes. The train system in Spain is extensive and reliable, with high-speed trains connecting major cities. Long-distance buses are also a popular and affordable option. If you need to travel quickly, you can consider flying with one of the many airlines that operate domestic flights in Spain. The highways are well-maintained, and tolls are reasonable.
What is the best way to travel to remote areas in Spain?
You may need to rent a car if you need to travel to remote areas in Spain. Spain has an excellent road network, and driving is generally easy and safe. However, keep in mind that parking can be difficult in some cities, and you may need to pay for parking in public areas.
Is Uber reliable in Spain in 2025?
Uber availability in Spain is limited and unreliable in most cities due to ongoing regulatory restrictions. Barcelona has essentially phased out Uber’s traditional service, restricting ride-hailing to intercity trips only with 2-hour advance booking requirements. In Madrid, Uber has better availability but still faces constraints.
What should I know about using public transport in Spain?
When using public transport in Spain, make sure to buy a ticket before boarding, as most services do not have ticket machines on board. You can usually buy tickets at ticket offices, vending machines, or online. It’s also important to keep your belongings with you at all times and be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas such as metro stations and buses during rush hour.
