France to Spain by Car (2025 Guide): Routes, Stops & Tips

Driving from France to Spain by car is one of Europe’s most exciting cross-border road trips. It’s where two worlds meet — the charm of French wine regions blending into the sun-kissed coasts and mountains of Spain. Whether you prefer the Atlantic coast, the Pyrenees, or the Mediterranean route, this journey offers endless variety: medieval towns, scenic vineyards, mountain passes, and coastal highways that seem to never end.

The beauty of this road trip is freedom. You can start in Bordeaux or Toulouse, cross into Spain through San Sebastián, Andorra, or Barcelona, and design the route around your passions — food, history, or just the thrill of open roads. I’ve done this drive more than once, and every time feels completely different.

This guide covers the best routes from France to Spain, how long the trip takes, the top stops along the way, and my favorite driving tips to make it unforgettable.

How Long Is the Drive from France to Spain?

The France to Spain drive can take anywhere from 5 to 12 hours, depending on where you start and which route you choose.

• Bordeaux → San Sebastián (Atlantic route): 2.5 hours / 230 km
• Toulouse → Andorra → Barcelona (Pyrenees route):  about 185 km to Andorra (2½ h) + continuing to Barcelona (366 km), making the full trip around 5-6 hours with minimal stops; allow 7-8 hours or more for driving plus scenic detours.
• Montpellier → Perpignan → Barcelona (Mediterranean route): 3-4 hours / 340 km

Driving between the two countries is easy — both are in the Schengen Zone, so there are no formal border checks for most travelers. The highways are smooth, signposted in both French and Spanish, and packed with scenic rest areas.

I recommend allowing at least a few extra hours for scenic detours. On my last trip through the Pyrenees, I spent an unplanned afternoon in a mountain village eating cheese and honey from a roadside market — totally worth it./

Best Routes from France to Spain by Car

There isn’t just one way to drive from France to Spain — and that’s what makes this trip so amazing. You can cross through mountains, coastlines, or wine country, each offering its own rhythm and personality. I’ve driven all three major routes, and each one has its own magic.

1. Atlantic Coast Route: Bordeaux → Biarritz → San Sebastián → Bilbao

If you love ocean views, surf towns, and Basque food, the Atlantic Coast drive from France to Spain is for you.

Starting in Bordeaux, you’ll pass through pine forests and dune-covered beaches before reaching Biarritz, a seaside resort famous for waves and sunsets. Crossing the border at Hendaye/Irun, you’re immediately in Spain’s Basque Country — home to San Sebastián, one of Europe’s best culinary cities.

I still remember my first pintxo crawl in San Sebastián — hopping between bars with a glass of txakoli wine in hand, each stop better than the last. From here, continue to Bilbao, where the Guggenheim Museum and modern art scene make a perfect finale.

Highlights:

• Bordeaux vineyards and wine tastings
• Biarritz & Saint-Jean-de-Luz beaches
• San Sebastián’s old town
• Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum

2. Pyrenees Mountain Route: Toulouse → Andorra → Barcelona

For those who love mountains and winding roads, the Pyrenees route is pure adventure. Starting from Toulouse, drive south through rolling countryside before climbing into the Pyrenees. The road to Andorra offers spectacular alpine scenery — and bonus, it’s duty-free!

Crossing into Spain, you’ll descend through Catalonia’s mountain valleys until you reach Barcelona. It’s one of the most rewarding drives I’ve ever done — snow-capped peaks one day, Mediterranean beaches the next.

Highlights:

• Toulouse old town & markets
• Scenic mountain passes through the Pyrenees
• Andorra la Vella (tax-free shopping)
• Montserrat Monastery & Barcelona’s Gaudí landmarks

3. Mediterranean Coast Route: Montpellier → Perpignan → Costa Brava → Barcelona

This Mediterranean drive from France to Spain is perfect if you love warm weather, sea views, and easy coastal roads. Starting from Montpellier, follow the A9 through Perpignan, then cross into Spain near La Jonquera.

The moment you hit Costa Brava, the landscape turns dramatic — cliffs, coves, and fishing villages like Cadaqués and Tossa de Mar. End your trip in Barcelona, where tapas and seaside promenades await.

Highlights:

• Montpellier’s old town
• Perpignan & the Catalan countryside
• Costa Brava beaches
• Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter

Each route has its own rhythm — the Atlantic is about surf and gastronomy, the Pyrenees about nature and adventure, and the Mediterranean about sunshine and culture. Personally, I think every traveler should do at least one coastal and one mountain route in their lifetime — they show two totally different faces of Southern Europe.

Best Stops on the France to Spain Road Trip

One of the best things about driving from France to Spain is that the journey itself becomes the adventure. Whether you follow the Atlantic, the Pyrenees, or the Mediterranean route, every stop has its own story — from seaside surf towns to medieval villages and vibrant cities.

Atlantic Route Highlights: Bordeaux to Bilbao

If you’re taking the Atlantic coast road trip from France to Spain, you’ll pass through some of the most charming towns in western France before crossing into the Basque Country.

Bordeaux – France’s wine capital and one of my favorite cities to explore before hitting the road. Wander the riverfront, visit Cité du Vin, and don’t leave without tasting local wines.

Arcachon & Dune du Pilat – Just an hour from Bordeaux, this area offers a quick detour to Europe’s tallest sand dune and breathtaking ocean views.

Biarritz – A lively surf town where France feels a bit like California. Stop for lunch by the sea or stroll along the promenade.

San Sebastián (Spain) – Once across the border, reward yourself with pintxos (Basque tapas) and a walk up Monte Urgull for panoramic views.

Bilbao – End the route here with modern art at the Guggenheim Museum and a taste of northern Spain’s urban culture.

Pyrenees Route Highlights: Toulouse to Barcelona via Andorra

For travelers who love mountain roads and fresh air, this is the most scenic France to Spain drive.

Toulouse – The “Pink City” is full of color, history, and charm. I recommend starting early so you can enjoy breakfast at one of the riverside cafés before heading south.

Foix – A small medieval town at the foot of the Pyrenees with a dramatic castle overlooking the valley.

Andorra la Vella – Nestled high in the mountains, this tiny principality is great for tax-free shopping and alpine views.

Montserrat Monastery – Before reaching Barcelona, take a short detour to this mystical mountain sanctuary. The views are unforgettable.

Barcelona – End your road trip in Spain’s cultural capital. Park the car, hit the Gothic Quarter, and celebrate with tapas and sangria.

Mediterranean Route Highlights: Montpellier to Barcelona via Costa Brava

If your dream France to Spain road trip itinerary includes beaches, sunny towns, and seafood, this route delivers all of that and more.

Montpellier – A lively student city with Mediterranean vibes and outdoor cafés. Perfect for a relaxed start.

Perpignan – The last major French city before the border, full of Catalan influence and palm-lined streets.

Cadaqués – One of the most beautiful villages on Spain’s Costa Brava and once home to Salvador Dalí.

Tossa de Mar – A coastal gem with medieval walls right by the sea.

Barcelona – Your final stop, where art, architecture, and nightlife blend perfectly.

Car Rental & Driving Tips for France to Spain by Car

Renting a car for your France to Spain road trip is easy, but there are a few details that can make a big difference — especially when crossing borders.

Renting a Car in France

Most travelers start their journey in major French cities like Paris, Bordeaux, Toulouse, or Montpellier, where all the big rental companies operate (Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, Avis). I usually pick up my car from the airport — it’s less stressful than driving out of the city center and usually cheaper.

Before you book, make sure your rental allows cross-border travel into Spain. Most companies do, but it’s always good to double-check.

👉 If you’re dropping your car off in another country, some companies charge extra — but there are ways to avoid it. Check out our detailed guide on One-Way Car Rental in Europe (No Fee Guide).

Tolls & Fuel Costs

Both France and Spain have excellent highways, but they’re not free. Expect tolls (péages) on most motorways, especially the A63, A9, and AP-7 routes. For the full breakdown, see our resource on European Toll Roads Guide for Travelers.

Fuel prices in France are generally higher than in Spain, so I always fill up just after crossing the border. That small trick can save you around €10–15 on a full tank.

Driving Rules & Documents

Both countries drive on the right-hand side, and you’ll need your driver’s license, car rental contract, and insurance documents with you at all times. If you’re from outside the EU, carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well.

• Speed limits in France: 130 km/h on highways, 80–90 km/h on secondary roads.
• Speed limits in Spain: 120 km/h on highways, 90 km/h on rural roads.

Keep an eye out for speed cameras — they’re frequent, and automatic fines can be mailed internationally.

Parking Tips

Finding parking in big cities like Barcelona or Bilbao can be tricky, so it’s best to book a hotel with private parking or use paid garages. In smaller towns, parking is usually free and safe if you avoid the main squares.

Travel Insurance for Road Trippers

Before any long drive, I always make sure I’m covered for car rental damage, delays, and medical emergencies. Here’s our detailed guide to the Best Travel Insurance for Europe Road Trippers.

Best Time to Drive from France to Spain

The great thing about a France to Spain road trip is that you can do it any time of year — but each season gives a completely different vibe. I’ve driven these routes in both summer and autumn, and trust me, the scenery changes dramatically from one season to another.

Spring (March–May)

Spring is one of the best times for driving from France to Spain. The weather is mild, the vineyards are coming back to life, and the Pyrenees still have a touch of snow on the peaks. You’ll enjoy lighter traffic than in summer and lower hotel rates.

Best for: nature lovers and relaxed travelers.

Route tip: The Pyrenees route is at its most beautiful in late May when mountain meadows are in bloom.

Summer (June–August)

Summer is when most travelers hit the road, and it’s easy to see why — long days, beach weather, and lively towns everywhere. It’s also the busiest season on the France to Spain by car routes, especially along the Mediterranean coast.

Best for: beach lovers and families.

Route tip: Book hotels in advance if you’re visiting Biarritz, San Sebastián, or Barcelona. Early morning drives help you avoid traffic and the midday heat.

Autumn (September–November)

Personally, I think autumn is the perfect time for a France to Spain road trip. The weather is still warm, vineyards are golden, and the crowds have disappeared. On my last fall drive through the Basque Country, I stopped at small wineries and local festivals that felt wonderfully authentic.

Best for: wine enthusiasts and scenic photography.

Route tip: The Atlantic route is gorgeous in October, with harvest season and mild coastal breezes.

Winter (December–February)

Winter means fewer tourists and cheaper prices — but also shorter days and colder weather, especially in the Pyrenees. The mountain roads can get icy, so always check conditions before heading to Andorra or high passes. The coast, however, stays pleasant year-round.

Best for: quiet trips and off-season explorers.

Route tip: Stick to the Mediterranean route for mild weather and clear roads.

👉 My personal pick: Late spring and early autumn are the sweet spots — warm enough for beaches, cool enough for mountain driving, and fewer crowds on the road.

FAQs About Driving from France to Spain

Conclusion: Why the France to Spain Drive Is Worth It

Driving from France to Spain isn’t just a journey between two countries — it’s a true European adventure. From Bordeaux’s vineyards to Andorra’s mountains and Barcelona’s beaches, every route offers a mix of culture, food, and scenery that you can’t experience from a train or plane window.

I’ve taken this trip several times, and what I love most is the contrast — one morning you’re sipping espresso in a French café, and by afternoon you’re enjoying tapas on a Spanish terrace. The landscapes, languages, and flavors change, but the feeling of freedom on the open road stays the same.

So whether you choose the Atlantic, Pyrenees, or Mediterranean route, take your time, stop often, and let Europe surprise you — one road at a time.