For tourists from other countries who travel around Catalonia by car in search of the beautiful landscapes of the Costa Brava, the Pyrenees or Barcelona, their trip can quickly be marred by an unpleasant surprise: a traffic fine. Whether you are a regular on Catalan roads or a novice, it is essential to be aware of the local rules to avoid unexpected expenses. This article will guide you through the obstacles to avoid, from ubiquitous speed cameras to fake fines, strict parking regulations and low-emission zones.
A higher density of speed cameras than in the rest of Spain
Catalonia is distinguished by a particularly high number of speed cameras, far more than in other Spanish regions such as Andalusia or Galicia. The AP-7 motorway, which connects the French border with Barcelona and beyond, is particularly full of these devices. According to data from the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT), Catalonia has around 22% of Spain’s fixed speed cameras, even though it only accounts for 16% of the country’s population. These speed cameras, which are often inconspicuous, monitor speed limits, which vary between 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on secondary roads and 120 km/h on motorways. Knowing the speed limits in Spain is the first step to avoiding surprises. Extra vigilance is required, especially on busy stretches such as the C-32 or N-340 along the coast.
Beware of scams: fake fines
Another danger lurks for drivers from other countries: fake fines. With the increase in car tourism, scammers are taking advantage of visitors’ lack of knowledge to send fraudulent notifications by post or email. These fake notifications often imitate official documents, mentioning an alleged offence (the most common are speeding and illegal parking) and requesting quick payment via a dubious link. The Spanish DGT and the Catalan police (Mossos d’Esquadra) remind drivers that legitimate fines are always notified by post and include a reference number that can be verified on their official website. If you receive a suspicious notification, do not pay without first consulting the authorities. A word of advice: real fines never require immediate payment by credit card online without the possibility of appeal. Be careful and protect your finances!
Respect speed limits to avoid most fines
Good news: most traffic fines in Catalonia can be avoided simply by paying attention to speed limits. Speed cameras are programmed to issue fines for speeds 5 to 10 km/h above the limit, depending on the area. For example, exceeding 120 km/h on the AP-7 motorway can cost between £100 and £600. Speed camera warning signs are well placed and are usually accompanied by a flashing light before fixed cameras. In cities such as Gerona and Tarragona, the 30 km/h speed limit is strictly enforced and offences carry fines starting at £100. Investing in an up-to-date GPS or an app such as Waze, which is widely used in Catalonia, can also alert you to speed cameras. Driving carefully remains your best bet for avoiding fines.
Special features of parking fines and low-emission zones in Barcelona
Barcelona, a top destination for tourists from all over the world, deserves special attention. Parking is a headache: there are many blue zones (paid, between £2.50 and £3 per hour) and green zones (reserved for residents or more expensive for visitors), and free spaces are scarce. A common mistake is to park without paying or exceed the allocated time, which results in a fine of €100, or even the removal of the vehicle (with an additional cost of €150-200). Always check the signs and opt for underground car parks (€15-25 per day) for peace of mind.
As for the Low Emission Zone (ZBE), in force from Monday to Friday from 7:00 to 20:00, polluting vehicles are prohibited from circulating in the Barcelona metropolitan area. You must register your vehicle with the DGT (Spanish traffic authority) before entering, or you will be liable to a fine of €200 (up to €1,800 for repeat offences). This system, designed to reduce pollution, often takes uninformed visitors by surprise. Plan your trip and check your car’s eligibility on the official ZBE website to avoid penalties.
Caution and preparation
Driving in Catalonia offers incredible freedom to discover the region, but it requires good preparation. With its numerous speed cameras, the risk of false fines and Barcelona’s strict rules, caution is your best ally.
Respect speed limits, be wary of dubious notifications and find out about local peculiarities before setting off. This way, your trip will remain a pleasure, without the burden of an unexpected fine. Have a good trip and enjoy Catalonia!