Autumn Road Trips to Spain & Portugal: Culture, Adventure, and Scenic Routes

With summer crowds gone and cooler temperatures setting in, autumn is the perfect time to explore Spain and Portugal by car. From vibrant cities and historic towns to dramatic coastlines and rolling vineyards, the Iberian Peninsula offers diverse landscapes and unforgettable experiences. With an Emovis tag, travelling through Spanish and Portuguese toll roads is easy, letting you focus on adventure and discovery.

 

🍇 1. Wine and Harvest Routes – La Rioja, Douro & Alentejo

Autumn is harvest season, perfect for wine lovers. Drive through La Rioja in Spain for wine tastings and winery tours, or explore Portugal’s Douro Valley and Alentejo regions, where terraced vineyards and autumn colours create a spectacular backdrop. Many wineries offer seasonal harvest events and tasting experiences that bring the local culture to life.

 

🏛 2. Historic Cities – Toledo, Granada, Lisbon & Porto

Spain and Portugal are full of history and culture. Wander the medieval streets of Toledo, admire the Alhambra in Granada, or soak up the charm of Lisbon’s hills and Porto’s riverside streets. Autumn brings fewer tourists, so you can enjoy museums, palaces, and local markets at a leisurely pace.

 

🏞 3. Mountains and Nature – Pyrenees & Serra da Estrela

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Spanish Pyrenees offer hiking, cycling, and scenic drives through colourful forests. In Portugal, the Serra da Estrela mountains provide stunning autumn landscapes, glacial valleys, and traditional villages. Both regions are ideal for discovering nature off the beaten path.

Highlight: The Ruta de los Lagos de Covadonga in Asturias and the Torre peak in Serra da Estrela showcase breathtaking fall scenery.

 

🌊 4. Coastal Escapes – Costa Brava, Galicia & Algarve

Spain and Portugal boast beautiful autumn coastlines. Drive along Spain’s Costa Brava or Galicia’s rugged northern coast, then head to Portugal’s Algarve for quiet beaches, cliff walks, and spectacular sunsets. Autumn light and fewer tourists make these coastal drives perfect for photography and relaxation.

 

🎨 5. Festivals, Culture, and Local Cuisine

Autumn is festival season across Iberia. Experience La Vendimia wine festivals in Spain, Portuguese chestnut fairs in Trás-os-Montes, or local harvest celebrations. Enjoy seasonal cuisine like roasted chestnuts, jamón ibérico, seafood, and regional wines, making every stop an authentic cultural experience.

 

🚗 Make the Most of Your Road Trip

Travelling by car through Spain and Portugal gives you flexibility to explore hidden gems, scenic routes, and historic towns. With an Emovis toll tag, you can breeze through toll roads in both countries, saving time and enjoying a smooth, stress-free journey.

Start Your Autumn Adventure: From vineyards and mountains to coastal escapes and vibrant cities, Spain and Portugal offer endless possibilities for an unforgettable autumn road trip.

Get your Emovis Tag today ➜