Christmas travel in Spain and what drivers need to know as millions hit the roads

Spain’s Christmas getaway began this afternoon, with traffic authorities preparing for one of the busiest holiday periods of the year. From 3.00 pm today, the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) activated a nationwide road safety operation as millions of drivers set off for family reunions, winter escapes, and seasonal shopping trips.

Over the next two and a half weeks, 22.4 million journeys are expected on Spanish roads — a figure that reflects both long-distance travel and the shorter, late-night trips typical of the festive season.

Three holiday peaks to watch out for

Rather than one single surge, traffic volumes will rise in waves. The DGT has divided the operation into three distinct phases, each linked to key holiday dates.

The first phase runs from F

riday 19 to Thursday 25 December, with an estimated 8.5 million journeys as families travel for Christmas gatherings. Traffic will then intensify again between 26 December and 1 January, before a final spike from 2 to 6 January, when Three Kings celebrations bring the holiday period to a close.

Drivers can expect congestion not only on motorways but also on secondary roads leading to second homes, mountain resorts and popular winter tourism areas.

Mountain trips, shopping routes and short journeys

Traffic officials warn that Christmas driving is not just about long-distance travel. Many incidents occur on short, familiar journeys, often at night and after celebrations where alcohol is present.

Routes to ski resorts, rural accommodation, coastal towns and large shopping centres are all expected to see heavy use — particularly at weekends and on public holidays.

Weather can change quickly — even within Spain

One key message this year is the importance of checking weather conditions both where you live and where you are going. Spain’s geography means drivers can encounter sunshine in one region and snow, fog or strong winds in another — sometimes within the same journey.

Mountain areas may face ice or snowfall, while heavy rain and reduced visibility can affect coastal and inland routes. The DGT warns that sudden weather changes remain one of the biggest risks during winter travel and urges drivers to plan accordingly.

Extra measures on the roads

To manage the volume safely, the DGT is deploying its full resources nationwide. This includes Guardia Civil traffic officers, control centres, helicopters, drones and roadside monitoring systems.

During peak periods, reversible lanes and alternative routes may be introduced to ease congestion. Roadworks will be paused where possible, certain events restricted, and lorry movements limited on specific routes and at certain times.

Speed checks, alcohol and drug controls will be stepped up, with mobile phones and seatbelt use also under close scrutiny through cameras and unmarked vehicles.

Real-time information before and during your journey

Drivers are encouraged to stay informed before setting off and while travelling. Up-to-date traffic information is available via the DGT’s official traffic website, social media channels and the 011 traffic information line.

Checking conditions in advance — including forecasts for snow, rain or fog — can make a critical difference during the busiest travel days of the year.

A festive reminder behind the wheel

The DGT’s message is simple but firm: do not mix alcohol and driving, take extra care on short and night-time journeys, and adapt driving to weather conditions that can change without warning.

With millions sharing the road over the coming days, patience, planning, and caution remain the best tools for arriving safely.