Traveling to Spain by car: rules, toll roads, and tips
Spain is calling! Time for sun, tapas, and an unforgettable vacation. Whether you're heading to the Costa Brava, traveling through the countryside, or planning a city trip to Madrid, with a rental car from DIKS, you can set off without a care in the world.
Are you traveling to Spain in one of our vehicles? Then it's useful to know in advance which rules you need to take into account. These include environmental zones, toll roads, and mandatory safety equipment. We have listed the most important points for you below.
Well prepared for your trip
A successful trip starts with good preparation. Therefore, always check the current travel advice on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
It can also be useful to plan your route in advance. Will you be driving through large cities or on toll roads? Then you will know immediately what to take into account along the way. Consider, for example, toll roads, places to refuel, or possible traffic rules in different countries.
A little preparation ensures a relaxed start to your vacation. Below are a number of useful tips.
Environmental zones in Spanish cities
Environmental zones apply in various Spanish cities. In Madrid and Barcelona, this is called the Zona de Bajas Emisiones (ZBE), or low-emission zone.
Only vehicles that meet certain environmental requirements are allowed to drive in these areas. Therefore, check in advance whether your rental vehicle complies with local regulations before entering the city. This will help you avoid a fine.
Toll roads in Spain
There are two types of highways in Spain:
Autopistas – usually toll roads
Autovías – toll-free
Paying tolls is easy at the toll gates. You can pay in cash, with your debit card (Maestro), or with a credit card. Want to get through the toll gates faster? Then you can arrange a toll badge through the ANWB. This allows you to pay electronically and often also use parking facilities at parking garages.
Breakdown on the road? Don't panic
Are you unexpectedly stranded on the road? Don't worry. With our 24/7 breakdown assistance service, you will receive prompt assistance even when abroad. We also recommend taking out comprehensive travel insurance to avoid unexpected costs while traveling. For more information about our breakdown assistance, please visit the 24/7 Roadside Assistance page.
Please note: when making your reservation, indicate in advance which foreign zone you will be traveling to. If you have not reported this in advance, you will be responsible for any costs incurred in the event of a breakdown abroad.
Good to know
When driving in Spain, you must have a number of safety items in your car. These include:
V16 emergency signal light
Since 2026, Spain has been using the V16 emergency signal lamp: an orange warning lamp that you place on the roof of the car in case of a breakdown. This is mandatory for Spanish vehicles and recommended for foreign cars.Safety vest
At least one reflective safety vest for the driver is mandatory. Keep it within reach. Extra vests for passengers are not mandatory, but are recommended.Spare wheel or repair kit
A spare wheel or tire repair kit with the appropriate tools must be present in the car.
Traveling to Spain with DIKS: ready to go?
Whether you choose the beach, the city, or the mountains, with DIKS your vacation starts the moment you get in the car. With us, you can travel flexibly, affordably, and carefree, with added benefits:
Unlimited mileage from 7 days
24/7 roadside assistance throughout Europe
Change or cancel until the last minute
So put on your sunglasses, start your favorite playlist, and enjoy every kilometer on the way to Spain. Buen viaje!
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