Unforgettable road trip through Spain: By campervan to the treasures of the Iberian Peninsula
Spain, the land of passionate dancing, delicious tapas and endless coastal roads, is a dream destination for an unforgettable road trip. And what better way to explore the beauty of this country than in a cosy campervan? Join us on a Spanish road trip that will take you through breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities and picturesque villages.
Route
Barcelona - Costa Brava - Valencia - Granada - Sevilla - Malaga (Costa del Sol)
Route Length and Duration
The exact duration and length of the route may vary depending on traffic, road conditions and personal breaks. This is therefore a rough estimate based on the distances between each stop.
1. Barcelona to Costa Brava (Cadaqués):
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Route Length: approx. 170 kilometers
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Travel Time: about 2,5 to 3 hours
2. Costa Brava (Cadaqués) to Valencia:
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Route Length: approx. 350 kilometers
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Travel Time: about 4 to 4,5 hours
3. Valencia to Granada:
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Route Length: approx. 450 kilometers
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FahrdaueTravel Time: about 4,5 to 5 hours
4. Granada to Sevilla:
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Route Length: approx. 250 kilometers
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Travel Time: about 2,5 to 3 hours
5. Sevilla to Malaga:
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Route Length: approx. 220 kilometers
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Travel Time: about 2,5 to 3 hours
Total route (route length without local journeys): approx. 1,440 kilometres
Total journey time (without breaks): approx. 14 to 16 hours
Stop 1 (starting point): Barcelona
The journey begins in Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia and one of the most exciting cities in Europe. Once you arrive, the first thing to do is to explore the city's wonderful sights. From the majestic Sagrada Família to the lively La Rambla, there is plenty to experience. For comfortable accommodation, we recommend the Barcelona campsite, with its excellent facilities and proximity to the city's attractions.
A culinary must during your Spain road trip is paella in the restaurant "Can Solé" in Barceloneta and churros con chocolate for dessert. A visit to the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria to discover local specialities and a stroll through the charming Gràcia district are also recommended.
A little tip on the side: In Barcelona, it is advisable to observe the local parking regulations, as wild camping is prohibited.
Camping Barcelona: This campsite is located just a few minutes from the city centre and offers excellent public transport connections. Perfect for exploring the city.
Camping Tres Estrellas: Another great campsite located right on the beach. Here you can enjoy the sound of the sea as you fall asleep. Make sure you book in advance as this campsite is very popular.
- Find out about parking regulations in the city to avoid parking tickets.
- Wild camping is not allowed in Barcelona, so it is important to use a regular campsites
- Try the famous paella at the "Can Solé" restaurant in Barceloneta.
- For dessert, we recommend the traditional churros con chocolate, a sweet dessert offered at the numerous street stalls in the city.
- Sagrada Família: Dieses Meisterwerk von Antoni Gaudí ist ein absolutes Muss. Die beeindruckende Basilika wird dich in ihren Bann ziehen.
- La Rambla: Eine lebendige Promenade, auf der Straßenkünstler und Marktstände für eine einzigartige Atmosphäre sorgen.
- Visit the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, a lively market near the Rambla, to discover fresh food and local specialities.
- Explore the Gràcia neighbourhood, known for its relaxed atmosphere and diverse gastronomy.
Stop 2: Costa Brava
The journey continues along the spectacular Costa Brava, where there are endless coastal roads to discover. Along the way, we recommend stopping off in charming fishing villages such as Cadaqués and Tossa de Mar to savour fresh fish and swim in the turquoise waters. For outdoor enthusiasts, the coastal landscapes are a true paradise and you can stop at some of the best viewpoints for spectacular photos.
A little tip on the side: explore the breathtaking bays and beaches of the Costa Brava by choosing smaller roads that run slightly off the main roads.
Camping Cala Llevadó: This picturesque campsite is surrounded by nature and offers access to beautiful bays, such as Cala Llevadó beach, which is very close by.
Camping Internacional de Calonge: Located directly on the beach, this campsite offers views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Wild camping is not permitted in many coastal towns, so you should book campsites in advance.
- Pay attention to environmental protection rules and don't leave any rubbish in the countryside.
- Taste the fresh seafood and fish in the restaurants along the coast.
- Get to know traditional Catalan dishes such as "Crema Catalana" and "Butifarra" in local restaurants.
- Visit local markets to buy fresh produce such as olive oil, cheese and wine.
- Cadaqués: A picturesque fishing village that was loved by artists such as Salvador Dalí.
- Tossa de Mar: Famous for its well-preserved medieval old town, impressive city walls and beautiful beaches.
- Hike along the coastal paths and discover hidden coves.
- Visit the Dalí Museum in Figueres to immerse yourself in the surreal world of the famous artist.
Stop 3: Valencia
The next stop is Valencia, the city of arts and sciences. Valencia, the third largest city in Spain, is known for its perfect blend of historical charm and modern architecture. The city is particularly famous for the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, a futuristic complex that includes an opera house, a science museum and Europe's largest aquarium.
Another highlight of Valencia is the Mercado Central, one of the largest and oldest market halls in Europe, where visitors can enjoy an authentic shopping experience with a variety of fresh produce and local delicacies. The old town with its narrow streets, Gothic buildings such as Valencia Cathedral and the La Lonja Silk Exchange, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a fascinating insight into the city's past:
Valencia is also the home of paella, probably the most famous Spanish dish. The city offers numerous restaurants and bars where you can enjoy authentic Valencian paella.
The city is located on the Mediterranean Sea and therefore also offers beautiful beaches that invite you to relax and sunbathe. The long, sandy beach of Malvarrosa and the beach of Las Arenas are favourite spots for locals and tourists alike.
Valencia is also known for its green spaces, especially the Jardín del Turia, a dried-up river that has been transformed into a huge park. This provides an ideal place for walks, bike rides and picnics.
Camping Valencia: A well-equipped campsite with good transport links and just a few minutes from the city centre.
Camping Malvarrosa: Located directly on the beach, this campsite offers a dreamlike setting. Book a pitch with a sea view for an unforgettable experience.
A little tip on the side: note that in Valencia, parking for motorhomes in the city centre can be limited, so a campsite close to the city is a practical choice.
- Taste the authentic Paella Valenciana in the restaurant "La Pepica"
- Try the delicious horchata and fartons, a local dessert.
- Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias: A futuristic architecture and science complex that offers breathtaking photo opportunities.
- The Oceanogràfic, a marine aquarium, is particularly impressive.
- La Lonja de la Seda: A Gothic commercial building that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Malvarrosa beach: Relax on Valencia's famous city beach and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea.
- Visit the Mercat Central, one of the oldest food and weekly markets in Europe, to discover local delicacies.
- Explore the El Carmen neighbourhood with its narrow streets and trendy bars.
Stop 4: Granada
The journey continues to Andalusia, where there is Granada and Seville to discover. Start in Granada, a city famous for its rich history and culture. A visit to the Alhambra, a breathtaking Moorish palace complex, is a must. Here you should take plenty of time to explore the stunning gardens of the Generalife and the impressive Nasrid palaces.
After a hearty lunch in one of the local restaurants, where you can sample traditional Andalusian cuisine, take a stroll through the historic Albaicín neighbourhood. This neighbourhood is known for its narrow streets and white houses and offers a magnificent view of the Alhambra.
Finally, we recommend a visit to a flamenco bar in Sacromonte, the traditional gypsy neighbourhood of Granada.
A little tip on the side: book your ticket for the Alhambra in advance, as they are often sold out.
Camping Alhambra: This campsite offers a wonderful view of the Alhambra and is only a short walk from the old town.
Camping Sierra Nevada: If you love the outdoors, this campsite in the mountains is perfect for you. The Sierra Nevada offers great opportunities for hiking and skiing, depending on the season.
- Try the tapas in one of the traditional restaurants such as "Bodegas Castañeda".
- Try the Andalusian soup "Salmorejo" and the typical dish "Rabo de Toro" in local restaurants.
- For those with a sweet tooth, we recommend churros with hot chocolate in one of the local cafés.
- Try the local speciality "Tinto de Verano" (summer wine) in a street café.
A little tip on the side: note that tapas are traditionally generous in Granada, so one order is usually enough.
- Alhambra: A Moorish masterpiece that impresses with its gardens and palaces.
- Generalife: The beautiful gardens of the Alhambra offer a relaxed atmosphere.
- Albaicín: A historic neighbourhood with narrow streets and breathtaking views.
- Visit the Mirador de San Nicolás for an unforgettable view of the Alhambra.
Stop 5: Sevilla
Nur drei Autostunden entfernt befindet sich die Hauptstadt Andalusiens, Sevilla. Besuche die beeindruckende Kathedrale von Sevilla, das größte gotische Bauwerk der Welt, und steige auf die Giralda, den Glockenturm, um einen Panoramablick auf die Stadt zu genießen.
Danach geht es weiter zum Real Alcázar, einem prächtigen königlichen Palast mit beeindruckenden Gärten. Ein Spaziergang durch das malerische jüdische Viertel Santa Cruz mit seinen engen Gassen und farbenfrohen Häusern darf nicht fehlen.
Für das Mittagessen bietet sich die lokale Spezialität "Tinto de Verano" an, ein erfrischendes Weingetränk, ideal in Kombination mit Tapas in einem der vielen Straßencafés.
Den Nachmittag könntest du im Maria Luisa Park verbringen, einer grünen Oase in der Stadt, bevor du deinen Stopp in Sevilla mit einer entspannten Bootsfahrt auf dem Guadalquivir ausklingen lässt.
Camping Villsom: This campsite offers a relaxed environment and is only 20 minutes by bus from the city centre. Use public transport to reach the centre as parking in the old town can be difficult.
Camping Sevilla: Located near the Guadalquivir River, this campsite is ideal for nature lovers. Plan a visit to the flamenco shows in Seville to experience the passionate music and dance of this region up close.
- Taste "Gazpacho", typical Andalusian soups, and enjoy a bottle of Tinto de Verano in one of the tapas bars.
- Visit a flamenco club to experience the passionate music and dance of the region.
- Try "Salmorejo", a delicious Andalusian soup, in the restaurant "Casa Manolo León".
A little tip on the side: Sevillian food is often spicy, so be prepared for a flavourful experience.
- Seville Cathedral: the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Visit the tomb of Christopher Columbus and climb the Giralda Tower for a fantastic view over the city.
- Real Alcázar: An impressive royal palace with beautiful gardens. Immerse yourself in Moorish architecture and explore the palace grounds.
- Explore the historic centre of Seville on foot to experience its unique atmosphere.
Stop 6: Malaga (Costa del Sol)
You have reached the end of your road trip in Spain and are being guided along the Costa del Sol to beautiful beaches and picturesque coastal villages. Your adventure comes to an end in Malaga, the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. Relax on the sun-drenched beaches and visit the Picasso Museum, which is housed in a beautiful 16th century palace and exhibits some of the artist's most important works.
Málaga is also known for its lively gastronomic scene, from traditional tapas bars to upscale restaurants. Local specialities such as fresh fish and seafood, as well as the sweet Málaga wine, are a must for visitors.
The city also offers beautiful beaches such as La Malagueta, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the Mediterranean sun. For nature and hiking enthusiasts, a trip to the nearby mountains of the Axarquía or a visit to the Montes de Málaga is well worthwhile.
On El Pino you will find the perfect backdrop for your last campfire and the memories of this unforgettable road trip.
Camping El Pino: A beautiful campsite that offers peace and nature. Allow time to explore Malaga's historic old town, which is nearby.
Camping Valle Niza Playa: Located directly on the beach, this campsite offers pure relaxation. Enjoy long walks on the beach and water sports activities.
A little tip on the side: Check parking regulations as parking can be difficult in some cities.
- Try "Pescaíto Frito", fried fish, at one of the beach restaurants.
- Enjoy the sweet churros with a cup of hot chocolate.
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Try “Boquerones en Vinagre,” marinated anchovies, a local delicacy.
A little tip on the side: Make sure that you take the Spanish siesta time into account, as many shops and restaurants are closed in the afternoon.
- Picasso Museum: Immerse yourself in the life and works of famous painter Pablo Picasso.
- Alcazaba: A Moorish fortress that reflects the history of Malaga.
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Visit the Castillo de Gibralfaro for breathtaking views over Malaga.
A road trip in a campervan through Spain is a trip you will remember forever. From the lively cities to the stunning coastal landscapes and charming villages, Spain has it all. So grab a PIA camper and set off on your own four-wheeled Spanish adventure!
After enjoying Spain's vibrant cultures and stunning coastline, it's time to continue our adventure. Southern Italy awaits us with equally tempting views, culinary delights and historical treasures. Get inspired by our road trip through southern Italy!
¡Buena aventura!
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