The Cost of a Road Trip from Detmold, Nordrhein-Westfalen, to Tarragona, Katalonien: Navigating Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip between Detmold in Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany, and Tarragona in Catalonia, Spain, opens up a world of experiences, landscapes, and tastes. However, the cost of the journey can significantly influence travel plans, particularly due to the fluctuating price of gasoline. In this article, we will examine the different routes available, their distances, estimated costs based on current gas prices, and ultimately recommend the best path to take.

Overview of the Trip

The drive from Detmold to Tarragona spans approximately 1,700 kilometers (1,056 miles) and takes you through various countries, including Germany, France, and Spain. This journey offers an opportunity not only to explore diverse regions but also to experience a range of cultural and culinary delights. While several routes can lead you to your destination, the primary factors to consider are distance, estimated travel time, and the cost associated with fuel.

Current Gas Prices

Before diving into the specific routes, it's essential to understand current gas prices. As of October 2023, average gas prices in Germany hover around €1.85 per liter, while in France, they are approximately €1.90 per liter. Spain's fuel prices have recently stabilized at around €1.70 per liter. These prices significantly affect cost calculations for your trip. Given that gasoline consumption generally averages about 7 liters per 100 kilometers for a standard vehicle, we can estimate the total fuel costs for each route accordingly.

Route Options

The most practical routes between Detmold and Tarragona can be divided into three main options:

1. A44 and A1 through France
2. A2, A7, and A61 via Belgium and France
3. A2, A6, and A9 through France

1. A44 and A1 through France

This route requires you to drive southwest and is roughly 1,700 kilometers (1,056 miles) long. Starting on the A44 motorway, this route leads you through major cities such as Düsseldorf, Luxembourg, Metz, and Lyon before heading toward Spain.

• Distance: 1,700 km
• Average Fuel Consumption: 7 L/100 km
• Total Fuel Required: 119 L
• Cost of Fuel: €219 (at €1.85 per liter in Germany and €1.90 per liter in France)

Total Trip Time: Approximately 17-18 hours without significant stops, taking traffic conditions into account.

2. A2, A7, and A61 via Belgium and France

This option takes you on a more northern route through Belgium before you re-enter France. Entering Belgium at Aachen, you’ll continue through cities like Brussels and then back into France. This route is slightly longer than the previous route.

• Distance: 1,750 km
• Average Fuel Consumption: 7 L/100 km
• Total Fuel Required: 122.5 L
• Cost of Fuel: €226 (considering fuel prices in Belgium are comparable to those in France)

Total Trip Time: Roughly 18-19 hours without notable delays.

3. A2, A6, and A9 through France

This route travels more directly south through France, entering via the A2 and then connecting to the A6 heading toward Lyon and then taking the A9 down toward Spain. This route provides a more scenic drive through vineyards and rolling hills in southern France.

• Distance: 1,650 km
• Average Fuel Consumption: 7 L/100 km
• Total Fuel Required: 115.5 L
• Cost of Fuel: €215 (primarily German and Spanish costs, as you re-enter Spain)

Total Trip Time: About 16-17 hours, not accounting for rest or sightseeing stops.

Recommendation: The Best Route

Based on the comparative distances, costs, and travel times, the A2, A6, and A9 through France emerges as the best route. It is the shortest distance at 1,650 km, offers reasonably comparable fuel costs, and has a scenic advantage. Plus, with an estimated travel time of 16-17 hours, it provides an efficient journey without excessive delays. This route allows you to enjoy the charm of French towns while keeping your travel budget manageable.

Additional Costs to Consider

While fuel is a significant part of the trip’s cost, other expenses can add up quickly. Here are some considerations for your budget:

1. Tolls and Fees: Many of the highways in France and Spain charge tolls, which can sum up to €100-€150 for the trip.
2. Food and Snacks: Plan for meal breaks. Depending on where and how often you stop, budget around €30-€50 per day for food.
3. Accommodation: If you decide to break the journey into two days (recommended for safety), account for overnight lodging. Average hotel prices in France vary but expect costs around €80-€120 per night.
4. Incidental Costs: Consider any local sights, attractions, or roadside stops you wish to enjoy, which can also present costs.

Conclusion

Planning your road trip from Detmold to Tarragona requires careful consideration of distances, costs, and travel comforts. The A2, A6, and A9 through France stands out as the most efficient choice, providing both shorter distance and a chance to appreciate the beautiful landscapes of southern Europe. Expect the journey to take about 16-17 hours. Balancing fuel costs at an estimated €215 with additional expenses like tolls, food, and accommodation ensures that you’re well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure from Germany to Spain. With careful planning, your road trip can become a memorable experience filled with stunning views, local flavors, and enriching cultural encounters along the way.