Spain vacations aren't necessarily what you'd expect! The popular image of sipping sangria while watching a bull fight or flamenco is giving way to images of a vibrant multifaceted country and culture. Discover the green hills of Cantabria, the medieval towns of the interior, and the innovative culinary and design scene of Barcelona. Definitely visit the Alhambra and Mezquita, soak up the sun on Costa Brava beaches, but to really make the most of the Spanish holidays, spread your wings.

Do you want to travel to Spain in your car?

Tourists travelling in their own vehicles should be aware that the following documentation is required:

Driver’s license: see previous section on “What documentation is required to drive in Spain?”

Motor insurance:

If you are a citizen of an EU member state, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra or Croatia, you only need to carry your insurance policy along with a payment receipt showing validity of the policy.

If you are travelling from one of the following countries (Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, El Salvador, the USA, Guatemala, Honduras, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, Nicaragua, New Zealand, Panama, Paraguay, Republic of Korea, San Marino, the Vatican, Singapore, Uruguay or Venezuela): you must present a valid passport, which will allow you to remain in Spain for a maximum period of 90 days.


If you come from another country, you should apply for a visa from the Spanish Consulate in your place of residence, subject to criteria established by the EU. You will also require a valid passport. You may be required to specify the reason for your application for entrance to Spain. Furthermore, if considered opportune, the Spanish authorities may require a document showing the establishment of accommodation in Spain, confirmation of booking on an organised tour, a return ticket or ticket for a tourist itinerary, or an invitation by a third party. In addition, they may also require you to show that you are in possession of sufficient funds for maintenance during your stay in Spain.


It is advisable to take out travel insurance for your trip.


Given that conditions may vary, we suggest that you contact the Spanish Embassy or Consulate to verify these requirements before you start your trip.