What are the roads like in Spain?
Overall, the road network in Spain is excellent. The motorways in particular
are smooth and obstruction-free, although a few minor roads in rural
parts of the country haven't received the care and attention needed.
It's worth taking care further north towards the Pyrenees where there
are plenty of sharp bends to watch out for.
What are the drivers like in Spain?
It largely depends on where you drive. In the big cities, drivers tend
to be a little more aggressive, but in the country, you're significantly
less likely to encounter this. To be safe, it's always best to drive
conservatively and be courteous.
What are the best times to drive?
Traffic levels in Spain largely depend on the environment. In major
cities like Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia, rush hour is usually between
08:00 and 10:00 in the morning and 16:00 and 18:00 in the evenings.
Sometimes, for the siesta, there's one between 13:00 and 15:00, although
there's sometimes one between 20:00 and 22:00 for the rush home from
work.
What are the driving laws?
Be at least 18 and have a full driver's licence (provisional licences
are not accepted). Have a minimum of third party, fire and theft insurance.
Carry a warning triangle (two are recommended) and a spare tyre or tyre
repair kit & a replacement bulb kit - These are checked! Wear a
reflective jacket if driver and/or passenger(s) exit a vehicle that
is immobilised on a motorway or busy road. Ensure that all occupants
wear seat belts, if fitted. Seat children under 12 years of age and
under 135cm in height in the back using a child restraint system adapted
to their size and weight. Use dipped headlights in tunnels. Overtake
only on the left side of the car you want to pass (undertaking is illegal).
Do not have alcohol levels in the bloodstream exceeding 0.5g/l (the
same as Ireland - about one glass of wine or beer). Have a spare pair
of glasses (if required for driving) in the car at all times. Restrain
any pets travelling in the car. Do not use your horn in towns at night
and at any other time unless to prevent an emergency, you can flash
your headlights instead, although judging by the noise on Spanish streets,
drivers do not obey this law. Observe the priority-to-the-right rule
on roads that have equal status or whenever in doubt as to who has the
right of way.
