Lapping Up Spain’s Northern Coast On A Spanish Road Trip

If you really want to get under the skin of a place, taking a road trip is one of the best ways to travel. Although many people may opt for an all-inclusive train pass when travelling through Europe, taking a car means you are fully in control of your itinerary. Hiring a car gives you infinite flexibility: you choose the route, the tunes, and the snacks! The only thing you really have to think about is making sure you’ve got your car hire excess insurance sorted and then you’re ready to go.

If you’re set on a road trip, there’s no doubt that Spain is one of the best destinations for a self-drive holiday. While there are gems throughout the country, the northern coast has to be one of the favourites. Renowned for its cuisine, culture and friendly vibe, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time.

Must-Visit Highlights

Magical Madrid

You can’t visit Spain without spending at least a day in the country’s magnificent capital. Buzzing with life and steeped in history, this city has something for everyone. Choose a few of these must-see attractions and you’re bound to fall in love.

Royal Palace

This impressive fortress has existed for thousands of years and it’s easy to see why. Not only beautiful, this palace has had many lives as a Roman fort, a Moorish alcazar, a gloomy Hapsburg castle and then, finally, a grand Spanish palace. 

El Retiro Park

The best way to explore the city is on foot, so when you feel like taking a little break head to this huge central park. With expansive lawns, grand monuments, a refreshing lake and even a stunning glasshouse, this is the perfect place to cool off in the shade.

Picos de Europa

If you’re in need of a break from all the city sightseeing, this mountainous region has to go on the list. You’ll be surrounded by awe-inspiring mountains (perfect for the nature-lovers who want to squeeze some hiking into the trip) picturesque villages and country landscapes. It’s a place of peaceful serenity.

Salamanca

This university city is something straight out of a history book. Home to the oldest university in the country, Salamanca’s old town is a photographer’s dream, with cobblestoned streets, medieval churches, as well as its municipal buildings, which are just as impressive.

Leon

We couldn’t talk about Northern Spain and not mention the food. Renowned for its pintxos (northern tapas), Leon is probably one of the best cities to sample the local cuisine. Take yourself to the narrow streets of the old town and you’ll find a seemingly infinite number of tapas bars suitable for all budgets.

Before You Go

So now you’ve got the inside information of where to go and what to see, all you need to do is pack your bags and hire a vehicle. Oh, and don’t forget to sort out car hire excess insurance before you leave home, because having it is essential if you want to avoid any nasty surprises at the end of your trip.

You have the tips so get ready, get set, go and explore Northern Spain by road!

Author Plate

Sam Walker is a specialist insurance expert at LowerHire, a company that offers low-cost single trip and annual multi-trip car hire excess insurance policies. Travellers can rest easy knowing they will be fully protected against any hidden hire car costs and look forward to a stress-free rental experience.