For most of the year, the roads in Spain are pretty quiet. When we lived near Mazarron, we’d be playing spot the car as we drove over the motorway bridge even though this was the autovia, the free motorway. The best route to drive from Cartagena to Mazarrón in Spain would be to take the N-332 and AP-7 motorways, but the stretch of the Autopista, which are often toll roads in Spain, was often trafficless because there are plenty of roads without any charges. The Yorkshireman in me meant we’d usually go the slightly longer route and avoid the tolls.
In 2021, Spain removed a lot of tolls, but the rumour mill is some of these may be reintroduced. Stay tuned for this!
In this guide, we will unveil the mysteries behind the toll system in Spain and equip you with all the knowledge you need to navigate these highways like a seasoned traveler.
So hop in, fasten your seatbelt, and let’s hit the road together!
Does Spain have tolls?
Yes, Spain does have tolls on certain highways. However, there are alternatives available if you prefer to avoid them. The toll roads in Spain require you to pay a fee for using designated highways, which help maintain and improve the country’s infrastructure. These toll roads are equipped with advanced technology that ensures smooth and efficient traffic flow.
To provide a sense of belonging, Spain has made efforts to offer toll road alternatives. You can choose to take non-toll routes that may be slightly longer but equally scenic, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful Spanish countryside while avoiding additional costs. Additionally, the funds collected from toll fees contribute towards the maintenance of these roads, ensuring they remain in optimal condition for your safe and comfortable journey.
Remember to plan your route accordingly and explore all available options before embarking on your Spanish adventure!
How does toll system work in Spain?
To drive on certain sections of motorways in Spain, you must pay a fee or toll based on the distance traveled. The toll collection methods in Spain vary depending on the road and the region. Some toll roads use traditional toll booths where you pay in cash or by card, while others have implemented electronic payment systems such as ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) or VIA-T to make the process faster and more convenient.
The toll road infrastructure in Spain is well-maintained and usually includes rest areas with services like gas stations and restaurants. When comparing toll rates, it’s important to consider factors like distance traveled, vehicle type, and time of day. These fees contribute to the maintenance of the roads and help improve traffic flow by reducing congestion during peak hours.
How do you pay tolls in Spain?
When it comes to paying tolls in Spain, you have a few options.
First, you can pay in cash at the toll control points. Just hand over the money and the barriers will lift for you to pass through.
Alternatively, you can use your card to make the payment, providing a convenient and secure option.
Another popular method is using Via-T, a contactless payment system that allows for seamless passage without stopping.
Payment in cash
If you prefer, you can simply insert your cash into the machine at the toll booth. Cash payment is one of the options available for paying tolls on Spain’s toll road network.
When you approach a toll booth, you will see machines where you can insert your cash to pay for the toll. This method of payment is convenient for those who prefer not to use electronic means or credit cards.
The toll rates vary depending on the distance traveled and the type of vehicle you are driving. It is important to have enough cash with you when using this method of payment, as some toll booths may not accept card payments.
Make sure to check the current toll rates before embarking on your journey so that you are prepared with the correct amount of cash.
Payment by card:
You can generally pay with the most widely accepted credit and debit cards in the world and work cards when traveling on toll roads in Spain. This convenient payment option ensures a seamless journey and saves you from carrying cash.
When approaching a toll booth, look for signs indicating the accepted payment options. For card payments you can use both contactless and chip and pin methods
Via-T
Via-T is a wireless payment method commonly used on Spanish toll motorways. With Via-T, you can pay your toll without even stopping your vehicle. It’s the perfect way to make your journey hassle-free and focus on enjoying the road. No need to worry about carrying cash or cards, or lowering your window to grab a ticket. Simply adhere to the speed limits for electronic tolling and let Via-T take care of the rest.
The other advantage is if you’re driving a right-hand drive car from the UK, no more getting out and then running around the car to set off before the barrier lowers again. And yes, that happened to Soph when she was in her UK-imported car, so don’t think the barrier stays up until car passes; it seems to be on a timer instead!
With Via-T as your trusted payment method, you’ll feel like you truly belong on Spanish toll motorways – enjoying seamless journeys with discounts, flexibility in payment options, and peace of mind knowing that safety is never compromised.
How much is it to use toll roads in Spain?
To find out how much you’ll be charged for tolls in Spain, simply check the type of vehicle you’re driving, the distance traveled, and the time of day. Toll rates in Spain vary depending on these factors.
For light vehicles, such as cars and motorcycles, toll fees are usually lower compared to heavy vehicles like trucks or buses. The distance you travel on the toll road also affects the amount you need to pay. Additionally, some motorways implement different toll rates during peak hours or off-peak hours.
It’s important to note that toll collection in Spain is typically done at toll plazas along the road where drivers can pay with cash or through electronic payment methods like credit cards or Via-T tags. Moreover, there are often toll discounts available for frequent users or specific types of vehicles.
Overall, Spain has a well-developed toll road infrastructure that ensures efficient collection and maintenance of these vital transport routes.
How to avoid toll roads in Spain?
If you want to avoid tolls in Spain, there are a few strategies you can try.
One option is to use the back roads instead of the major highways, as these routes often bypass toll plazas.
Additionally, it’s worth looking into any toll exemptions that may be available to you based on factors such as vehicle type or residency status.
Use the back roads
You can easily avoid toll roads in Spain by using the back roads. One of the advantages of taking these scenic routes is that you get to experience the true beauty of Spain. As you navigate through the countryside, you’ll come across hidden gems that are often missed when traveling on main highways.
Locals have insider knowledge and can provide helpful recommendations for must-visit places along these back roads. Imagine stumbling upon a charming village or a breathtaking viewpoint that only locals know about!
To make your journey even more enjoyable, consider using navigation apps that allow you to select ‘avoid tolls’ as a preference. This way, you can explore at your own pace and soak up all the wonders Spain has to offer while feeling like a part of the local community.
Toll exemptions
Vehicles belonging to the Armed Forces, Security Forces and Corps, fire service, judicial authorities, emergency or civil protection, ambulances, toll operators and road inspectors, and traffic management equipment maintenance personnel are exempt from paying tolls. This toll exemption ensures that these essential services can carry out their duties without any financial burden. It is a way of recognizing the importance of their work in maintaining safety and order on the roads.
For other drivers not covered by these exemptions, toll collection is an integral part of using Spain’s extensive toll road network. Toll prices vary depending on the distance traveled and the type of vehicle. To make payment convenient for everyone, various toll payment methods are available such as cash payments at toll booths or using electronic payment systems like credit cards or prepaid transponders.
Understanding the various toll exemptions and payment methods will help you navigate Spain’s toll road network with ease while ensuring your contribution to its maintenance and operation.
Active Tolls
Below is a list of the motorways in Spain on which paying a toll is compulsory in 2023, but do be aware that this seems to be subject to an almost seemingly constant update.
- Autopista AP-46, Alto de las Pedrizas – Málaga(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Autopista AP-51, AP-6, conexión con Ávila(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Autopista AP-53, Santiago de Compostela – Alto de Santo Domingo(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Autopista AP-6, Villalba – Villacastín – Adanero(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Autopista AP-61, AP-6, conexión con Segovia(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Autopista AP-66, Campomanes – León(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Autopista AP-68, Bilbao – Zaragoza(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Autopista AP-7, Alicante – Cartagena(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Autopista AP-7, Estepona – Guadiaro(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Autopista AP-7, Málaga – Estepona(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Autopista AP-71, León – Astorga(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Autopista AP-9, Ferrol – Frontera portuguesa(Abre en nueva ventana)
- M-12 Eje aeropuerto (Abre en nueva ventana)
- R-2 Madrid-Guadalajara (Abre en nueva ventana)
- R-3 Madrid-Arganda del Rey (Abre en nueva ventana)
- R-4 Madrid-Ocaña(Abre en nueva ventana)
- R-5 Madrid-Navalcarnero (Abre en nueva ventana)
- AP-36 Ocaña-La Roda(Abre en nueva ventana)
- AP-41 Madrid-Toledo(Abre en nueva ventana)
- AP-7 Circunvalación Alicante(Abre en nueva ventana)
- AP-7 Cartagena-Vera(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Autopista AG-55, A Coruña-Carballo(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Autopista AG-57, Puxeiros-Val Miñor(Abre en nueva ventana)
- AP-1 Eibar – límite con Araba-Álava(Abre en nueva ventana)
- AP-1/AP-8 (Behobia -límite con Bizkaia)(Abre en nueva ventana)
- AP-1 Vitoria-Gasteiz-Eibar (tramo Alava)(Abre en nueva ventana)
- AP-8 Behobia-Traparagan (Tramo Vizcaya)(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Tuneles de Artxanda (Vizcaya)(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Variante sur Metropolitana (Vizcaya)(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Autovia A-636 Beasain-Bergara(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Tramos con peaje para camiones A-15 y N-1 en Gipuzkoa(Abre en nueva ventana)
- AP-15 AP-68 – Irurzun(Abre en nueva ventana)
- C-16 Sant Cugat-Manresa(Abre en nueva ventana)
- C-32 Castelldefells-El vendrell(Abre en nueva ventana)
- C-32 Montgat-Blanes(Abre en nueva ventana)
- C-33 Barcelona-Montmeló(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Túnel del Cadí(Abre en nueva ventana)
- Túneles de Vallvidrera(Abre en nueva ventana)
Vehicles subject to tolls
Drivers must pay tolls for motorcycles, cars, vans, buses, coaches, and lorries when using toll roads in Spain. However, there are certain toll exemptions that you should be aware of.
For example, some vehicles used by disabled people or emergency services may be exempt from paying tolls. If you want to avoid paying tolls altogether, you can consider taking alternative routes that do not require payment.
It is also important to note that the toll rates in Spain vary depending on the type of vehicle and the distance traveled. To make your journey more convenient, there are different toll payment options available such as cash payments or electronic payment systems like credit cards or prepaid cards.
Frequently Asked Questions: Toll Roads in Spain
Are Tolls in Spain Mandatory for All Vehicles?
Tolls in Spain are mandatory for all vehicles. They help fund toll road infrastructure, generate revenue for maintenance, comply with toll road regulations, and impact traffic flow. It’s important to understand their role when driving in Spain.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Rates Available for Frequent Toll Road Users in Spain?
If you’re a frequent toll road user in Spain, there are discounts and special rates available for you. With discount programs and loyalty rewards, you can enjoy toll road savings and the benefits of being a loyal customer, through the Via-T options.
Can Toll Roads in Spain Be Paid Using Credit Cards or Only in Cash?
You can pay tolls in Spain using credit cards or cash. Toll booth locations are clearly marked with signage. Make sure to have enough cash on hand or a functioning credit card to cover the toll road fees.
Are There Any Toll-Free Alternatives or Scenic Routes That Can Be Taken Instead of Using Toll Roads in Spain?
You’ll be glad to know that there are scenic alternatives and toll-free routes available in Spain. These offer a chance to explore the country’s beauty while avoiding toll roads. Planning a toll-free road trip can add an adventurous touch to your journey.
Are There Any Toll Roads in Spain That Have Different Rates Depending on the Time of Day or Season?
Yes, there are toll roads in Spain that have different rates depending on the time of day or season. Peak hour toll rates, seasonal toll rates, and time-based toll rates are common in Spain.
