It’s no secret that Spain’s busiest period is the Summer holidays. It’s when families can take time away, the sun is at its hottest, and many attractions and amusements offer extended opening hours. But for those with some flexibility, autumn is the best time to visit, with its warm evenings, tourist-free attractions, and the opportunity to save money on flights and accommodation.
You probably won’t take much convincing that autumn is the ideal time to head to Spain. So, now that you’ve made your decision, how are you going to get around? Where exactly do you want to visit, and how long are you staying in ‘The Land of the Bull’? Well, we’ll answer all these questions and provide much more in-depth information about the best transport options for exploring Spain in autumn.
Hit the Road for the Ultimate Freedom
Once you do your first self-drive holiday, there’s simply no going back. The freedom of the open road, totally personalised itineraries, and cool stops off the beaten path are just a few reasons to hire a car and hit the road when visiting Spain in October. The celebrated Wine Route of La Rioja is magnificent during harvest, with autumnal colours dazzling visitors in cooler temperatures. Visit wineries like Marqués de Riscal and López de Heredia, where you can book intimate tasting experiences without the bustle of summer crowds.
Andalucia’s iconic Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos is another popular choice. Pass through whitewashed villages like Ronda and Arcos de la Frontera, stopping at family-run restaurants and cute cafes whenever possible.
In northern Spain, the Pyrenees region offers spectacular mountain scenery, with the N-260 through Ordesa National Park offering breathtaking views year-round. One of the most attractive perks of driving the N-260 is its proximity to the UK. If you drive from London, you can be here in just fifteen hours, passing through France as you go.
Travellers should be mindful of increased traffic during national holidays like Día de la Hispanidad on 12 October and All Saints’ Day on 1 November. While toll motorways like the AP-7 and AP-6 provide efficient travel between major destinations, alternative scenic routes such as the C-31 coastal road offer equally rewarding journeys without the associated costs.
Quickly Fall in Love with Slow Travel
There’s something so romantic about cruising through a country in the same way that people have done for some 200 years. The efficiency of Spain’s high-speed rail network makes it even more comfortable and reliable, and you’ll also find far fewer passengers than you’d expect in the middle of Summer.
The AVE high-speed service operates at speeds up to a staggering 310 km/h, with the Madrid-Barcelona route being celebrated for its efficiency, covering the distance in just 2 hours and 30 minutes. Early bookings can secure fares below €30, representing astonishing value. For reference, the cheapest rail fares between Manchester and London, a similar distance, rarely fall below £70.
Regional routes offer their own unique charms and challenges during autumn. The Euskotren service connecting Bilbao to San Sebastián provides stunning coastal views, while the Media Distancia line between Córdoba and Ronda winds through Andalusia’s striking landscapes. If you’re considering passing through the Fiestas del Pilar in Zaragoza, you should book well in advance. This popular October festival drives up prices as Spaniards from across the country descend on the city.
Recent developments in Spain’s rail offerings include Renfe’s budget Avlo service, which provides basic high-speed connections for as little as €15.
Cheap and Cheerful Coach Services
Spain’s comprehensive bus network provides an economical alternative for those travelling on a budget, with reputable operators like ALSA and FlixBus maintaining modern fleets equipped with amenities including WiFi and power outlets. One of the nation’s best examples of great value is the Granada-Córdoba route, covering the distance in just 2 hours for about €12.
Another under-appreciated perk of coach travel is the opportunity to hop across the borders to France and Portugal. Direct services like the Santiago de Compostela to Porto route facilitate seamless cross-border travel in about 4 hours for €10. Expand your Spain itinerary to make the most of these cross-country deals.
While service frequencies remain robust throughout autumn, travellers should note that operations may be reduced during traditional siesta hours in smaller towns and rural areas.
Take Flight for Maximum Efficiency
Domestic flights offer significant time savings for those looking to combine destinations across Spain’s diverse regions. Key routes include Madrid to Palma de Mallorca (1 hour, from €50), Barcelona to Málaga (1 hour 30 minutes, from €35), and Bilbao to Seville (1 hour 25 minutes, from €40). These connections make it possible to experience northern and southern Spain within a single trip.
If your budget allows, consider a private jet charter for your trip. Private charters enable visitors to map out their own itineraries and see so much more of Autumnal Spain than any other options on our list. Fly into Madrid for art and fine dining, then jet to San Sebastián for gourmet cuisine. Explore Barcelona’s architecture and Ibiza’s beaches. Visit Mallorca’s serene coves, Valencia’s City of Arts, and end in Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum. It sounds unbelievable, right? Well, this is the access that private jet travel affords.
Spoiled for Choice in Spain this Autumn
It’s hard to exaggerate just how magical Spain is in the autumn, and the incredible access presented by these travel options makes it all the more exciting. There’s a transport option for every budget and preference here, so you’ve no excuse not to maximise your experience when you visit Spain this Autumn.
