Summer Road Trip to Spain & Portugal 2025: Sun, Culture & Coastal Escapes by Car
There’s something magical about a summer road trip across the Iberian Peninsula. From the fiery festivals of Spain to the golden coastlines of Portugal, travelling by car gives you the freedom to discover both countries at your own pace, and plenty of sun-soaked adventure along the way.
With an Emovis tag, you can glide through toll roads in Spain and Portugal without stopping, making your journey smoother, quicker, and less stressful, especially during those peak summer weeks.
Here are some must-visit destinations and events for your summer road trip to Spain and Portugal in 2025:
1. San Sebastián, Spain – Surf, Pintxos and Sea Breezes
Drive time from Bilbao: ~1 hour
Tucked in Spain’s Basque Country, San Sebastián is famed for its crescent beach, gourmet tapas (known locally as pintxos), and lively old town. Spend your days hopping between beach bars or catching waves at Playa de la Zurriola.
Event to catch:
Jazzaldia (19th to 27th July 2025): One of Europe’s longest-running jazz festivals, held in stunning seaside venues across the city.
2. Salamanca, Spain – Golden Stone and Vibrant Vibes
Drive time from Bilbao: ~4 hours
This historic university city dazzles in the summer sun. Stroll through its sandstone plazas, admire the Roman bridge, and watch the world go by from a terrace café. Salamanca’s youthful energy makes it perfect for a lively evening stop.
Top tip:
Enjoy a sunset picnic in Huerto de Calixto y Melibea garden, with views of the cathedral.
3. Lisbon, Portugal – Hills, Trams and Ocean Views
Drive time from Salamanca: ~4.5 hours
Lisbon mixes grand history with a laid-back, coastal feel. Ride the famous tram 28, visit the Time Out Market for local eats, and explore the Belém district for pastries and maritime history.
Event to catch:
Festival ao Largo (6th to 27th July 2025): Free classical music and opera performances in the open-air square of Teatro Nacional de São Carlos.
4. Algarve, Portugal – Coves, Cliffs and Endless Sunshine
Drive time from Lisbon: ~2.5 hours
The Algarve offers dramatic coastlines, hidden beaches, and traditional towns like Lagos, Tavira and Albufeira. Perfect for a few lazy days by the sea.
Event to catch:
Festival MED in Loulé (26th to 29th June 2025) – A world music festival with Mediterranean flair, great food, and an infectious summer atmosphere.
5. Extremadura, Spain – Off the Beaten Path and Full of Surprises
Drive time from Algarve: ~3 hours to Mérida
For something a little different, head to Spain’s hidden gem: Extremadura. The ancient Roman city of Mérida features one of the best-preserved amphitheatres in Europe.
Event to catch:
Festival Internacional de Teatro Clásico de Mérida (July & August 2025): Classical plays staged in the Roman amphitheatre under the stars. A one-of-a-kind experience.
Travel Smart with an Emovis Tag
Crossing borders and exploring toll roads in Spain and Portugal is easy with an Emovis tag. Simply attach it to your windscreen and breeze through dedicated VIA-T (Spain) or Via Verde (Portugal) lanes: no queuing, no coins, no stress.
Whether you’re beach-hopping in the Algarve, exploring ancient cities or road-tripping through vineyards and valleys, the freedom of the open road is unbeatable.
Order your Emovis tag today and make your Iberian summer road trip smoother than ever: Order Now.