Need to navigate the lively Spanish countryside in your free time? Renting a car is the key. Our guide includes simple steps to rent a car in Spain, from the main lawful requirements to choosing the right model for your trip. We will provide you with practical tips to ensure a hassle-free rental experience so that you can leave in no time and enjoy the emblematic destinations of Spain.
We have been using rental cars in Spain for years and have crossed this country from Barcelona and San Sebastian in the north to the Gibraltar border in the south. We have made mistakes in the past and even received an invoice from the owner when we returned. On our last trip to Spain, we rented a car and made sure we didn’t make the same mistakes twice. These are all the information and policies that we use to rent a car in Spain.
Getting the wheels moving: start your car rental journey in Spain
Renting a car in Spain is like unlocking the door of a treasure chest full of experiences. It gives you the freedom to venture into hidden gems off the overcome path, and it’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture. In addition, there is the added comfort and security of having your own space. Imagine yourself walking through the varied landscapes of Spain, from rolling hills with historical sites to breathtaking views of World Heritage sites – this is an opportunity for discovery not to be missed.
Exploring the north of Spain, especially the historical routes of Santiago de Compostela, by rental car adds a unique adventure to your trip.
Choosing the perfect rental car
It is essential to choose the right type of vehicle for your planned route, especially to navigate efficiently in busy cities or mountainous regions Of Spain. So, what size car should you rent? Obviously, small cars are becoming affordable and consume less gasoline. Gas prices in Europe are more expensive than in the United States and, yes, even in Canada. We rent small cars not only to save gas, but also to facilitate parking and traffic on narrow streets.
If you don’t drive a stick, book months in advance because they sell out fast. The lowest option in Spain is the rental of a standard transmission. In addition, it is much more fun.
Before finalizing this rental, take a moment to review the rental conditions. Pay attention to how you manage mileage, how your fuel policies look, if there are age limits that could affect you, and what you charge to add another driver. In addition, consider car rental requirements and tips, such as Age restrictions, required documents such as a valid driver”s license and possibly an international driver”s license, advance reservations, one-way rental options, international travel policies and additional fees for drivers under 25 years of age.
Understanding car rental offers
To increase the chances of getting a good deal and guarantee the availability of the car you want, you should make sure to book well in advance of your trip. Of course, this is what we suggest in everything related to travel nowadays. As a rule of thumb, the more you book in advance, the better the offers. With fierce competition between car rental companies in Spain, you will probably find good deals anyway.
The age factor: minimum age and additional costs
While the lawful age to drive in Spain is 18, the minimum age to rent a car in Spain is 21. But don’t party yet if you’re under 25! For drivers under the age of 25, an additional surcharge for young drivers is charged when renting a car. These fees can significantly increase the overall cost of car rental.