Spain offers great beaches, fantastic weather and, for Brits, it’s quite affordable. No wonder it tops the list of countries we love to go to. With over 18 million visitors traveling there from the UK each year between 2017 and 2019, it’s almost twice as popular as France.
Now, with pandemic restrictions easing, more and more people are considering driving to their vacation destinations. In the case of Spain, it is also usually cheaper to drive than to fly. We take a look at how the rules have changed since Brexit and everything you need to know before you head out on a road trip to Spain.
Getting your documents in order should be the first step in preparing for a trip abroad, you should keep the following points in mind when traveling to Spain:
In summary you will need your:
There have been some changes since the UK left the EU. All UK registered vehicles are now required to display a ‘UK’ sticker instead of the previous ‘GB’ sticker when traveling abroad.
The UK is no longer subject to the EU’s cross-border directive, which means that EU countries can no longer prosecute speeding offenses committed by UK drivers abroad.
UK residents can travel to Spain (or any European country) for up to 90 days in a 180-day period without a visa; however, from May 2023, UK travelers will need an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System). ) visa waiver to enter EU countries.
If you have been vaccinated against Covid, please bring proof of it, as the rules and regulations in this regard are an ever-changing target.
Driving to Spain will take you through a large part of France, so it’s important to keep a few things in mind:
All routes to Spain involve a trip across the English Channel to Calais, you can take the ferry from Dover which takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, or use the Channel Tunnel which takes about 35 minutes but costs more . There are many ways to drive around France and we’ve listed a few options below. Please note that the estimated time and distance start from Calais.
This route is mainly on the motorway and includes a series of tolls.
This route avoids all toll roads; however, it will take at least 3 hours longer than the fastest route and will involve areas of single lane roads that can significantly slow progress.
The scenic route is longer and slower than the more direct options, so spending the night in Limoges (to see the medieval houses and impressive porcelain and glass wares) or Bordeaux (to stock up on fine wines) is a great way to break the trip.
5. Familiarize yourself with Spanish driving laws
The fastest route from Calais to San Sebastian can be done in just under 11 hours. The ferry from Dover to Calais takes 90 minutes, while the Channel Tunnel takes 35 minutes. Budget at least 14-15 hours for the entire journey if you live in the south of the UK and plan to travel further inland than the Spanish border.
The distance from Dover to San Sebastian is 732 miles.
The distance between the two capitals, London and Madrid, is 1,070 miles.
Yes. Your UK license is legal in Spain
No. If you have a photo driver’s license, you do not need an IDP (International Driving Permit). If this is not your case, check this government portal to see what the requirements are.
As of May 2023, UK travelers will need an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) visa waiver to enter EU countries. You will need to display a ‘UK’ decal on the rear of any car registered in the UK.
You will need to confirm with your insurance company that you are covered to travel abroad.
The Spanish drive on the right side of the road, and you should too.
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