The cycling world is buzzing as the 80th edition of the Vuelta a España rapidly approaches. Kicking off on August 23, 2025, in Turin, Italy, and culminating in a traditional finish in Madrid on September 14, this year’s route promises thrilling mountain battles, a historic start abroad, and a journey through four countries.
At Sports Tourist, we know that experiencing the Vuelta a España in person is unlike any other sporting event. It’s a movable feast of athleticism, culture, and stunning landscapes. To help you plan your unforgettable adventure, we’ve broken down the essentials for following the peloton.
The Route: A Grand Tour from Italy to Madrid
The 2025 Vuelta a España is set to be a classic, traversing Italy, France, Andorra, and Spain.
Key Highlights of the Route:
- Grand Départ in Turin (August 23-25): The race begins with three stages in Italy’s Piedmont region, offering early sprint opportunities and a chance to soak in the northern Italian atmosphere before the race crosses the border.
- The Pyrenees (Early-to-Mid Race): The peloton quickly moves into the formidable Pyrenees, with brutal climbs and summit finishes including stops in France and Andorra, providing the first major mountain test of the race.
- The Angliru (Stage 13): The legendary L’Angliru returns. With its gradients soaring well into the double digits, this climb is widely regarded as one of the hardest in cycling. The atmosphere here, with fans lining the roads for hours, is electric.
- Bola del Mundo (Stage 20): The final mountain stage is a brutal one, culminating with the punishing Bola del Mundo climb just a day before the finish. This is the last chance for climbers to gain time and could easily shake up the podium.
- Final Showdown in Madrid (September 14): The Tour returns to its traditional and most prestigious finish with the final stage culminating in a celebratory parade and circuit race in Madrid. This final day promises a spectacular sprint finish!
For the full, detailed stage-by-stage route, check out the official Vuelta a España website.
Where to Watch: Picking Your Perfect Spectator Spot
Being roadside for the Vuelta a España is an incredible experience, offering free access to one of the world’s greatest sporting spectacles.
- The Start/Finish Lines: These are the most exciting, but also the most crowded. Arrive early (very early!) to secure a good spot. You’ll see the team buses, riders warming up, and the thrilling sprint or final time trial effort.
- Mountain Climbs (Cols): This is where the legends are made! Find a spot on a steep gradient to witness the agony and ecstasy of the riders. The atmosphere here, with fans lining the roads for hours, is electric. Bring a picnic, enjoy the carnival atmosphere, and prepare for a long day.
- The “Caravane Publicitaire”: Don’t miss the famous “Caravane Publicitaire” – a parade of advertising vehicles that precedes the peloton by about an hour, throwing out freebies to the crowd. It’s an event in itself!
- Top Tip: Always check official road closures and spectator access points well in advance. The official Vuelta a España app and local tourist office websites are invaluable resources.
Where to Stay: Your Base Camp for the Vuelta
Accommodation fills up incredibly fast along the route, so booking early is crucial.
- Stay in a Host City: If you want to experience the full spectacle of a Grand Départ or a stage finish (especially in Madrid!), book accommodation directly in that city. Be prepared for higher prices and limited availability.
- Stay in Nearby Towns: A more budget-friendly and often less chaotic option is to base yourself in a town a short drive or train ride from the stage route. This allows you to easily access the route for a day, then retreat to a quieter base.
- Rural Gîtes/B&Bs: For those following mountain stages, a charming gîte or B&B in a nearby village can offer an authentic Spanish experience and easier access to the climbs (though expect some walking or cycling to your chosen spot!).
How to Travel: Following the Peloton
- Car: A car offers the most flexibility, allowing you to follow the race over several stages. However, be aware of extensive road closures on race days. Parking can be a significant challenge, especially in mountain areas. Plan your approach well in advance, and be prepared to park miles away and cycle or walk to your desired viewing spot.
- Train: Spain has an excellent train network (Renfe). This is a great option for reaching start/finish cities or larger towns near the route. You can then use local transport or cycle to the roadside. Booking high-speed tickets in advance is essential.
- Cycling: For the true cycling enthusiast, cycling to a viewing spot on a mountain pass is part of the tradition! Many roads are closed to cars hours before the peloton arrives, allowing cyclists to ride up. Just remember to pack supplies and be respectful of other spectators.
Navigating Road Closures: This is the biggest challenge for spectators. Roads along the route close hours before the peloton arrives and remain closed for a while after. Always check the official Vuelta a España website or local authorities for specific closure times for your chosen stage.
The 2025 Vuelta a España promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe. With a bit of planning and an adventurous spirit, you can be part of cycling history.
Are you planning to follow the Vuelta a España this year? Let us know which stages you’re hoping to catch in the comments below!
Last Updated on August 23, 2025 by Sports Tourist
