Tourism in 2026 is defined by one clear idea: travel with freedom. After years of rushing and quick getaways, this year the trend is to enjoy the journey, discover inland Spain, and travel at your own pace. And nothing embodies that freedom better than exploring the country by car. We'll tell you about the trends that are shaping this year and our recommendations for making the most of them.

The travel trends that will shape 2026

1. Slow travel: fewer kilometers, more experiences

In contrast to the trend of "seeing ten cities in a week" tourism, there is a growing trend towards slow travelStaying in one area for a few days, really getting to know it, and experiencing it without feeling overwhelmed. A car is the perfect ally, because it allows you to stop wherever you want and change plans on the fly.

2. Rural Spain is filling up with travelers

Charming villages, rural tourism, and inland destinations are the big trend of the year. Places like the Sierra de Gredos, Las Médulas, the Ribeira Sacra, and the white villages of Andalusia have become fashionable, and many of them are already popular. It is only easily accessible by car.

3. Local and weekend getaways

You don't need to travel the world to disconnect. Short getaways—a long weekend or a bank holiday—continue to be on the rise, especially from Madrid to destinations just a couple of hours away: Toledo, Segovia, Ávila, Cuenca, or the mountains.

4. Traveling out of season

To escape the crowds and high prices, more and more travelers are choosing the shoulder season. Spring and autumn are ideal for a road trip: good weather, fewer people, and spectacular scenery.

Our recommendations for traveling around Spain (and Portugal) by car

Routes worth taking

The green north: From Madrid to Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country. Coast, mountains and top-notch gastronomy.
Monumental Andalusia: Cordoba, Granada and Seville, linked at your own pace and with stops in white villages.
Castile and its jewels: Toledo, Segovia, Salamanca and Ávila, all less than two hours from Madrid.
Jump to Portugal: with the car you can crossing the border without complications and reach Lisbon or Porto. There are no border limits.

Practical tips before you go out

Environmental label and ZBE: Many cities have Low Emission Zones. If you rent a car, it already has an environmental sticker, so you can drive without worry.
Mileage: Calculate your route. At Carmove we include 300 km per day, and if you anticipate more, this can be increased upon request.
Tolls and fuel: Check the toll motorway sections and plan refueling stops on long routes.
Documentation: Have your driver's license handy and, if you are coming from outside the EU, your international driving permit.

The most convenient way to get around: have it delivered.

The best news is that starting your route has never been easier. With the Car rental with delivery wherever you want You don't waste time at counters or queues: we'll take the car to the airport, the station or the door of your accommodation, with full insurance coverage. without franchise and the tank is full. You choose. the model of our fleet Choose the one that best suits your trip and get going.

Madrid is just your starting point: from there, the car is yours to explore all of Spain and even cross into Portugal. So, you know what to do: choose your route, plan ahead, and enjoy the trip at your own pace.

Ready for your next getaway? Book your car with Carmove and it starts rolling.

Travel trends 2026: the best routes to discover Spain by car