Spain Car Rental Deals Save Big on Your European Road Trip

08/16/202508/19/2025

Spain Car Rental

Introduction: ¡Bienvenidos a España! Get ready to explore Spain’s vibrant cities, beaches, and countryside on your own terms with a rental car. AirportVanRental (AVR) is your trusted global OTA partner for car hire we compare top suppliers across Spain to guarantee you the best price and service, with no hidden fees. Renting a car gives you the freedom to discover Spain’s diverse charms, from Gaudí’s architectural wonders in Barcelona to the whitewashed villages of Andalusia, all at your own pace. We’ll help you find the perfect vehicle for your Spanish aventura, whether you’re cruising the Costa del Sol or road-tripping between historic cities. Book your Spain car rental with AirportVanRental, and enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellation, and 24/7 global support on the road. Let’s drive into the details and get you on the road in España, stress-free and affordably!

Quick Search & Book: Ready to hit the road in Spain? Use the search form above to find your ideal car. Enter your Spanish pick-up location (we serve all major airports like Madrid-Barajas, Barcelona-El Prat, Málaga, etc., as well as downtown locations), select your dates, and let our system compare real-time deals from multiple rental companies in Spain. In seconds, you’ll see options for every need: a mini or economy car for zipping through narrow city streets, spacious SUVs for family trips into the mountains, luxury sedans for cruising the coasts in style, even 9-seater vans for group adventures. Booking is fast and secure most rentals allow you to reserve now and pay later at pick-up, with free cancellation if your plans change. In just a few clicks, you’ll lock in a great rate for your Spain trip. With your wheels secured, you can focus on planning where to go perhaps a drive to the Alhambra in Granada, a vineyard tour in Rioja, or a coastal cruise to Valencia knowing your transportation is sorted.

Spain does have an excellent train and bus network between major cities, but there’s a lot that a car unlocks for you here. Depending on your plans, renting a car in Spain can be a game-changer for convenience, flexibility, and discovering hidden gems beyond the typical tourist path. Here are some top reasons to consider getting your own set of wheels in España:

  • Freedom to Explore Beyond the Big Cities: Madrid, Barcelona, and Sevilla are amazing, but Spain’s magic also lies in its smaller towns and rural landscapes. With a car, you can venture off the well-trodden path visit medieval hill towns, remote beaches, or national parks at your leisure. For example, instead of being confined to train routes, you can drive to Ronda’s cliffside vistas, the Pueblos Blancos (white villages) of Andalusia, or the volcanic landscapes of Cabo de Gata in Almería. Public transport can’t easily reach many of these spots, so a car lets you discover the real Spain that tour buses might skip.
  • Convenience for Multi-City Itineraries: If your Spain trip involves multiple cities and towns, a rental car is often the easiest way to string them together. Want to do a grand tour from Barcelona ➔ Valencia ➔ Granada ➔ Málaga? With a car, you’re on your own schedule no waiting on train timetables or schlepping luggage between stations. You can stop in quaint villages or scenic overlooks along the way. Traveling as a family or group, driving can be more cost-effective than buying several rail tickets, and it allows door-to-door travel (hotel to hotel) without transfers.
  • Coastal and Countryside Adventures: Spain’s coasts and countryside are best explored by car. The famous Costa Brava north of Barcelona, the rugged Costa da Morte in Galicia, or the rolling vineyards of La Rioja these areas beg for a leisurely drive, where you can pause at beaches, wineries, and viewpoints on a whim. Public transit won’t take you down winding country lanes to that secluded Catalan cove or mountain village. With a car, you can soak in Spain’s natural beauty and make spontaneous detours whenever something catches your eye.
  • Flexibility & Siesta-Friendly Schedule: Spain moves at its own rhythm shops close for siesta, dinners start late. Having a car means you’re not tied to bus or train schedules, so you can adapt to the local pace. Spend as long as you want touring the Alhambra or enjoying a long lunch in a small town; you won’t miss the last bus because you are your own transport. If you decide to change plans, no problem drive off to a different city on a whim. A rental gives you the ultimate flexibility to make the most of every day.
  • Comfort and Safety: In the post-2020 era, many travelers prefer the controlled environment of a private car over crowded buses or trains. With a rental car, you have your own space (great for families with kids carry all the snacks and strollers you need). Modern rental cars in Spain are equipped with AC (important in the summer heat!), and features like GPS, Bluetooth, and driver aids. Roads in Spain are generally modern and well-maintained, and driving is on the right-hand side (same as USA and most of EU). For peace of mind, you’re in control of pit stops, air circulation, and can travel at your comfort level.

Of course, if you’re only sticking to a couple of major cities (say, just Barcelona and Madrid), you might not need a car within those cities intra-city public transit and walking can suffice. But for regional exploration, flexibility, and reaching Spain’s best-kept secrets, renting a car is the way to go. And locals use rental cars too for weekend getaways or visiting rural family homes it’s not just for tourists. Read on for how AVR makes renting in Spain easy, affordable, and totally worth it.

Our Spain Car Rental Benefits (Why Book with AVR)

Why choose AirportVanRental for your Spain car hire? Simply put, we know car rentals inside-out and leverage our global network to give you unbeatable value in Spain. Here are some perks and AVR brand benefits you’ll enjoy when booking your Spanish rental with us:

  • Best Rate Guarantee: Spain is a popular destination, but your rental doesn’t have to break the bank. We work with all the major rental suppliers in Spain from international brands to reliable local companies to find you the cheapest rates. Our system filters through real-time prices at each location (airport or downtown) and highlights exclusive discounts. At AirportVanRental, we’re confident you won’t find a lower price for the same car and terms. If you do, let us know we’ll match it. AVR compares multiple suppliers side-by-side to ensure you get the best deal, saving you time and money.
  • Wide Vehicle Selection: Whether you need a compact car for Barcelona’s narrow Gothic Quarter lanes or a roomy van for a family road trip in Andalusia, we’ve got you covered. Thanks to our network, you’ll find all classes of vehicles available economy hatchbacks, standard sedans, SUVs, luxury models, and 7-9 passenger vans. Want to feel the wind on the coastal roads? Check out our convertibles. Prefer an automatic transmission? We have plenty (a relief for those not used to manuals). With AirportVanRental, you’re not limited to one company’s fleet; you get access to virtually every car on the market through one platform. That means more choice to find the perfect ride for your Spain adventure.
  • Convenient Pickup & Drop-off Options: We know convenience is key. That’s why AVR offers rentals at all major Spanish airports and city centers. Fly into Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga, Valencia, or even island destinations like Mallorca we have partners everywhere. You can pick up at one city and drop off in another if needed (one-way rentals), perfect for one-direction road trips (just check any drop fees). With hundreds of locations across Spain, you’re never far from an AVR rental point. Planning to land in Barcelona but depart from Madrid? No problem we make it easy to rent in one place and return in another. This flexibility is ideal for maximizing your itinerary without backtracking.
  • Free Cancellation & No Hidden Fees: Travel plans can change especially in a country as enticing as Spain, where you might decide to linger longer on the Costa del Sol! We offer free cancellation on most bookings up to 48 hours before pick-up. Plus, we never charge booking fees or sneaky hidden costs. All mandatory taxes and fees are clearly included in our quotes, so the price you see is the price you pay. AirportVanRental is committed to transparent pricing and global travel support no last-minute surprises at the counter. Need to modify your reservation? Easy online manage booking and responsive customer service mean you stay in control.
  • Trusted Global Support & Local Expertise: When you book with AVR, you’re getting more than just a car you’re tapping into a worldwide support network. We’re a global OTA with experience in destinations around the world, so we know how to take care of international travelers. Our customer support team is here 24/7 (and speaks multiple languages, including English and Spanish) to assist with any questions before, during, or after your rental. Worried about driving in a foreign country? We’ve got you this very page is packed with local driving tips for Spain, and we often send a handy pre-trip email with things like Spanish road rules or what to do at toll booths. If any issue arises on the road, AirportVanRental is just a call or click away to help, whether it’s extending your rental or contacting roadside assistance. Travel with confidence knowing AVR has your back across the globe.

By choosing AirportVanRental for your Spain car rental, you’ll get the best rates, top selection, and peace of mind that comes with a trusted global brand. It’s all about making your Spanish road trip easy and memorable from booking to drop-off, we’re here to help you drive happy.

Top Spain Car Rental Deals

To give you an idea of pricing, here are some typical Spain car rental deals by vehicle class. (These “from” rates are based on recent averages for a 3-day rental in Spain, picking up at a major location. Actual prices vary by season and city summer and holidays can be higher, while off-peak months see lower rates. Always search for your specific dates to get the latest deals.)

  • Economy Car from €10/day:Example: Fiat 500 or Toyota Aygo (2-4 door). Perfect for solo travelers or couples, these minis are easy to park on crowded city streets and sip fuel (great for touring on a budget). Why so cheap? In Spain’s off-season you can often snag mini/economy cars for under €15 per day, especially in big rental markets like Madrid or Alicante. They’re popular for city hopping ideal if you plan to navigate Barcelona’s urban core or weave through mountain villages. Despite the low price, you still get A/C (a must in Spain’s summer) and enough oomph for highway driving, though luggage space is limited.
  • Compact Car from €15/day:Example: Volkswagen Golf or Seat León. A step up in space and comfort, compact hatchbacks and sedans are great for small families or groups of 3-4. At ~€15-€25 a day in many locations, they’re a tremendous value for the versatility easier on longer drives between cities while still manageable in town. A VW Golf, for instance, offers a nice balance of fuel efficiency and trunk space (fit 2-3 suitcases). These are super common in Spain, often making up the bulk of rental fleets, which keeps prices competitive. Plus, driving a local brand like a Seat León gives you an authentic Spanish motoring experience!
  • SUV from €25/day:Example: Nissan Qashqai or Renault Kadjar (compact SUV). When you want a higher driving position, extra cargo room, or plan to venture into mountainous regions, an SUV is the way to go. In Spain, we frequently see mid-size SUVs for around €25-€40/day outside peak periods. An SUV is perfect if you’re, say, exploring the Sierra Nevada mountains or doing a surf trip along the Basque coast you’ll appreciate the space for gear and the stability on varied road conditions. Many models include modern features (backup camera, CarPlay) which can be handy for navigating unfamiliar roads. Despite Spain’s fuel prices (~€1.45/L for petrol), these SUVs are fairly efficient diesels or crossovers, so road-tripping won’t break the bank.
  • Minivan/Passenger Van from €50/day:Example: Ford Transit 9-Seater or Mercedes Vito. Traveling with a big family or a crew of friends? 7-9 passenger vans let everyone ride together. In Spain, a minivan might run ~€50-€70/day, but remember you’re splitting that cost among many people often it works out cheaper per person than trains. Vans are popular for group tours think a friends’ wine tour in Rioja or a multi-generational family vacation along the Mediterranean. They have ample luggage capacity (no need to pack light!), and many come with dual A/C zones to keep all rows comfortable. Because these can sell out in summer, we advise booking early for van rentals. Pro tip: Spanish cities have some tight streets, so consider a slightly smaller 7-seat MPV if you’ll be driving inside old town centers.
  • Luxury & Convertible from €50/day:Example: BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, or a VW Golf Cabrio. Want to make your trip extra special? Spain has a selection of luxury cars and convertibles that are surprisingly affordable off-peak sometimes starting around €50-€60/day for an entry-level luxury model. Imagine driving a BMW through the scenic Costa Blanca, or a convertible along the palm-lined roads of Marbella it’s doable without a celebrity budget, especially in spring or fall. These cars often include premium GPS, leather interiors, and top-notch safety features. Treat yourself for a portion of the trip; for instance, some travelers rent a luxury car just for a couple of days to drive the stunning Montserrat mountain roads or the coastal highway to Cadaqués. With AVR, you can filter for luxury vehicles and find deals that let you indulge for less.

Pricing note: Car rental rates in Spain depend on demand and season. Summer (June–August) and holiday periods (Easter, Christmas) are peak season expect higher prices and book well in advance. In contrast, winter months or shoulder seasons can yield ultra-cheap deals (especially in non-resort areas). For example, the average daily price in Spain was about €30 in summer 2023, rising to €32 in 2024. Always use our search to see real-time prices for your specific dates. And remember, with AirportVanRental’s price transparency, the rate we show already includes the mandatory taxes/fees so you can truly compare apples-to-apples between suppliers. No matter when you travel, we aim to find you a cheap car rental that fits your budget, without sacrificing service.

Driving in Spain: Road Rules, Tolls, and Tips

Driving in Spain is generally a pleasure the highways are modern and well-marked, and it’s a fantastic way to see the country. That said, driving in a foreign country means new rules and customs to learn. Here we breakdown the essential things to know about driving in Spain, from speed limits and fueling up to parking and local driving etiquette. With these tips, you’ll feel confident behind the wheel:

  • Road Rules & Speed Limits: In Spain, you drive on the right-hand side of the road (same as most of Europe). Always wear your seatbelt it’s mandatory for all passengers. Speed limits are standardized nationally: 120 km/h on autopistas (highways), 90 km/h on most rural roads, and 50 km/h in urban areas unless posted otherwise. Note that many town centers now have 30 km/h zones on smaller streets for safety, so watch for signs. Speed cameras are common on highways and entering towns. Spain has strict drunk driving laws the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (even lower, 0.03%, for drivers with <3 years of license), which means even one glass of wine can put you at risk. It’s safest to not drink at all if you’re driving. Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is illegal (fines up to €200), so if you need navigation, use a hands-free mount. Also, by law you should carry two warning triangles and a reflective vest in the car (rental cars in Spain are typically equipped with these) if you have to pull over on a highway, put on the vest and place the triangles to warn other drivers.
  • Fueling Up (Gasoline/Diesel): Fuel in Spain is reasonably easy to find service stations (gasolineras) are frequent even on rural routes. Unleaded petrol is called “Sin Plomo 95” (95 octane, regular) or 98 (premium) and diesel is “Gasoil”. Most cars will specify whether they need gasoline or diesel double-check before pumping (the pump nozzles are usually green for gasoline and black for diesel). As of August 2025, prices are around €1.45 per liter for petrol and €1.42 for diesel on average higher than U.S. prices, but moderate for Europe. Many stations are self-service; some require paying at a kiosk or machine first (especially after-hours). Major credit cards are widely accepted for fuel, but have some cash or a debit card as backup in case the machine asks for a PIN or doesn’t take foreign cards. Pro tip: turn off your engine and electronics when refueling (it’s actually enforced: even your radio and phone should be off while pumping, per Spanish safety regs). Also, note that in smaller towns, gas stations might close for lunch (siesta) typically ~1–3pm and Sunday afternoons, so plan accordingly if driving in remote areas during those times.
  • Toll Roads: Spain has a mix of toll roads and free highways. Toll highways are marked with “AP-” (for Autopista de Peaje), whereas free highways are often “A-” (Autovía) or “N-” (National) roads. For example, the AP-7 along parts of the Mediterranean coast is a toll road, whereas A-7 sections are free. Tolls can range from a few euros to €30 for long distances. You can pay tolls in cash or with a credit card at the toll booths just look for the lane with a manned booth or card symbol (a green arrow or “Manual” sign means cash/card accepted). Some newer toll sections use electronic tolling (via a device or automatic license plate billing) for those, rental cars may come with a device or the plate gets charged. The good news: in recent years, many toll concessions expired, and Spain eliminated some tolls (for instance, large portions of AP-7 and AP-2 became toll-free). Still, be prepared around certain areas (like the AP-6 towards northwest of Madrid, or AP-8 in Basque Country) to encounter tolls. We advise asking at the rental desk if your route will have tolls, and if the car has an electronic transponder. If not, no worries just don’t use the express “telepeaje/Via-T” lanes which are reserved for tag holders. Stick to lanes with a ticket icon or cashier. Tip: When possible, taking the toll road can save a lot of time (they’re usually less congested and more direct) but if you’re not in a rush, the parallel toll-free roads often offer more scenery and local flavor.
  • Parking in Cities: Parking in Spain’s major cities can be a challenge, as historic centers have narrow streets and limited spots. Most cities use color-coded curb zones. Blue zones (Zona Azul) indicate paid street parking you’ll need to buy a ticket from a machine or use a parking app (look for signs). These typically have time limits (e.g. 2 hours) during business hours, but are free overnight. Green or orange zones might be residents-only or pricier for non-residents. Always check the signs when you park if it says “Reservado” or “Residentes”, avoid it. Never park where you see a continuous yellow line on the curb that’s no parking (you risk being towed). In Madrid and Barcelona, consider using public parking garages, which are widely available (look for “P” signs). Garages in city centers cost roughly €20-30 per day, but it’s worth it for the security and peace of mind. Many hotels in Spain offer parking (sometimes at an extra fee) or have arrangements with nearby garages it’s wise to inquire ahead if you plan to have a car. One quirky rule: by law, you must park in the direction of traffic on that side of the street (so no facing oncoming traffic when parked). Also, in some older towns, parking is prohibited near intersections (within 5 meters). If you park illegally, you might get a boot (“cepo”) or the car towed fines must be paid to retrieve the vehicle. So, when in doubt, use designated lots. Outside the big cities, parking is usually easier smaller towns often have free public lots just outside the historic center, allowing you to walk in.
  • Driving Etiquette & Traffic: Spanish drivers are generally calm yet confident. On highways, keep right except to pass; faster cars will flash headlights to signal they want to overtake. In cities, you’ll encounter many roundabouts yield to traffic already in the circle (coming from your left) and use your turn signal when exiting. At larger city intersections, be mindful that a blinking green light means it’s about to turn yellow/red soon. Honking is not very common except to alert someone of a light change or hazard. Rush hour traffic in metropolitan areas like Madrid, Barcelona, or Valencia can be heavy on weekdays (roughly 7:30–9:30am and 5:00–7:30pm). Plan extra time if driving into or out of major cities then. Additionally, August is vacation month highways toward coastal areas (e.g., from Madrid toward the coasts on Fridays, and back on Sundays) can be congested in late July/August as locals head to the beach. In rural areas, watch out for slow farm vehicles on roads and for animals crossing especially in mountainous or park regions. One cultural note: the Spanish are generally courteous drivers. You might see the occasional fast driver on the autovía, but road rage is rare. If you let someone merge, don’t be surprised if they flash their hazard lights briefly that’s a “thank you”! Overall, follow the rules, stay alert (especially when merging on some older ramps you may have to yield to highway traffic), and you’ll find driving in Spain quite enjoyable.

With these pointers in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Spain by car. Always keep an updated GPS or map road signage in Spain is good, but having navigation helps with complicated city layouts or finding obscure village turn-offs. And don’t hesitate to ask locals if you’re unsure about a parking sign or need directions; Spaniards are friendly and often happy to help (sometimes with animated hand gestures for directions!). Now let’s talk about some incredible road trips you can take once you’re comfortably behind the wheel…

Popular Road Trips from Spain

One of the best parts of renting a car is the ability to embark on epic road trips. Spain offers everything from coastal drives to mountain adventures. Here are three exciting road trip ideas that showcase the country’s diversity including driving routes, highlights, and tips:

  • Andalusian Explorer (Moorish Cities Route)Route: Seville ➜ Córdoba ➜ Granada. Distance: ~530 km total (around 330 miles).

Highlights: Start in Seville, the vibrant capital of Andalusia, known for flamenco and the stunning Alcázar palace. From Seville, drive 1h 45m (140 km) east through olive groves to Córdoba don’t miss the Mezquita, the magnificent mosque-cathedral. Enjoy Córdoba’s charming old town and perhaps lunch by the Roman bridge. Next, continue 2h 15m (200 km) southeast to Granada, nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada. The drive offers views of rolling hills and distant mountains. In Granada, the jewel is the Alhambra, a sprawling Moorish fortress-palace reserve tickets in advance. Beyond the historic sites, each city has its own flair: Seville’s tapas bars and flamenco clubs, Córdoba’s flower-filled patios, Granada’s bohemian Albaicín quarter with tea houses and hilltop views of the Alhambra.

Tips: Try to allocate at least 4-5 days for this trip (2 nights in Seville, 1 in Córdoba, 2 in Granada works well). Parking in old town Seville and Granada is tricky use hotels with parking or public garages on the outskirts, then walk/taxi within the city centers. The best time for this drive is spring or fall summer can be extremely hot (40°C). With a car, you could add a side trip to Ronda (from Seville, a 2-hour detour south to see its famous bridge over the gorge) or stop in Antequera on the way to Granada to see its prehistoric dolmens and unique rock formations.

  • Mediterranean Coast DriveRoute: Barcelona ➜ Tarragona ➜ Valencia. Distance: ~350 km (about 4 hours total driving, not counting stops).

Highlights: Begin in Barcelona, enjoying the city’s culture and coastline (maybe pick up your car after a few days of urban exploration). Head south on the AP-7/A-7 along the Costa Daurada. After ~1 hour (100 km), your first stop is Tarragona, a port city famed for Roman ruins like the seaside amphitheater. Stroll the Rambla Nova and grab a coffee overlooking the Mediterranean. Continue ~1.5 hours (150 km) through orange groves and along sparkling sea vistas to Peñíscola, a gem of a town perched on a rocky promontory (the castle here was a setting in Game of Thrones!). This is a great lunch stop enjoy fresh seafood by the beach. The final leg is ~1 hour 20 min (130 km) to Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city. Valencia offers a mix of the ultramodern City of Arts and Sciences and a charming old town plus it’s the birthplace of paella, so be sure to try the authentic dish here.

Tips: This route is all about balancing driving with leisure. It can be done in a long day, but better to stretch it over 2-3 days. There are tolls on AP-7 for parts of this journey (between Barcelona and Tarragona, and some sections toward Valencia) have some euros or a credit card handy for those. If you have more time, consider detouring into the interior after Tarragona to visit Priorat wine country or stopping at the Ebro Delta nature reserve for birdwatching. In summer, the coastal highway can be busy with holiday traffic, so start early in the day to avoid congestion. Valencia has plenty of parking garages; once there, park and explore on foot or by its easy bike-share system.

  • Northern Spain Road Trip (Basque & Cantabrian Coast)Route: Bilbao ➜ San Sebastián ➜ Picos de Europa (Asturias). Distance: ~400 km (250 miles) from Bilbao to Picos, plus local driving.

Highlights: Experience the green, rugged coast of “España Verde” (Green Spain) with this journey. Kick off in Bilbao, a city transformed by the iconic Guggenheim Museum. After savoring some pintxos (Basque tapas) in Bilbao’s old town, drive 1 hour (100 km) east to San Sebastián (Donostia) via the A-8 freeway (or take the scenic coastal N-634 route for smaller villages). San Sebastián will steal your heart with its golden beach (La Concha) and world-famous food scene it has some of Europe’s best cuisine, from Michelin-starred restaurants to bustling pintxo bars in the Parte Vieja. Next, head westward along the coast and into Cantabria a 2.5-hour drive (~240 km) to reach the Picos de Europa National Park area. You’ll pass cities like Santander (worth a stop if time permits for its waterfront and palace at Magdalena Peninsula) and then go inland. Base yourself in a mountain village such as Potes or Cangas de Onís. The Picos de Europa are spectacular limestone mountains with deep gorges take the cable car at Fuente Dé for breathtaking views, or drive the winding road up to the lakes of Covadonga (note: in peak summer, private car access to Covadonga Lakes is restricted midday go early or late).

Tips: Weather can be misty on the northern coast summer is the sunniest, while spring and fall can see rain (which makes everything so green!). Roads in the Picos are steep and narrow; an SUV can be nice but not necessary just drive cautiously and be prepared for switchbacks. Also, fill up on fuel before heading into the mountains; gas stations are fewer in rural areas. This trip gives you a taste of Basque, Cantabrian, and Asturian cultures all in one different cuisines, languages (you’ll see Basque and Spanish on signs), and landscapes, all within a few hours’ drive. It’s a reminder of just how diverse Spain is.

These are just a few of the many unforgettable road trips you can enjoy across Spain. Whether you’re tracing the Mediterranean, conquering mountain roads, or hopping from village to village, having a car empowers you to see more. Don’t hesitate to mix and match destinations to create your perfect route Spain’s well-developed road network connects medieval castles, beach towns, and everything in between. And wherever you drive, be sure to take breaks, enjoy the local cuisine (roadside diners or “ventas” can surprise you with great local meals), and soak up the scenery. ¡Buen viaje! the open road in Spain awaits.

Quick Facts for Car Rental in Spain:

  • Driving Side: Right-hand side (use caution at roundabouts and when turning, especially if you’re used to left-side driving).
  • Speed Limits: 120 km/h on highways; 90 km/h on most rural roads; 50 km/h in urban areas (and 30 km/h on many city center streets). Always follow posted signs.
  • Currency: Euro (€). Major credit cards are accepted for rentals, fuel, and tolls. Carry some cash for small tolls or rural gas stations just in case.
  • Fuel: Unleaded petrol (“Sin Plomo 95” or 98) ~ €1.47/L, Diesel (“Gasoil”) ~ €1.42/L as of Aug 2025. You must turn off the engine and phone when refueling. Fuel is self-service at most stations; pay at pump or cashier.
  • Tolls: Yes, on some Autopistas (marked “AP”). Payment: cash or card at toll booths. Many highways (Autovías “A-” roads) are toll-free. No general vignette needed in Spain.
  • Rental Requirements: Valid driver’s license (minimum driving age 18 in Spain, though 21+ to rent in most cases). Passport or ID for identification, and a credit card for the deposit. IDP (International Driving Permit) is recommended for non-EU license holders officially required if your license isn’t from EU.
  • Insurance: Basic insurance (CDW and theft coverage) is usually included with rentals in Spain, but it often has an excess/deductible. You can opt for extra coverage or use a credit card that provides rental insurance. Liability insurance is mandatory and included. Always review what coverage your booking includes.
  • Top Rental Hubs: Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), Barcelona-El Prat (BCN), Málaga (AGP), Alicante (ALC), Valencia (VLC), Seville (SVQ), plus island airports like Palma de Mallorca (PMI). City center locations also available in major cities (often at train stations).
  • Driving Tips: In cities, watch out for “Zonas de Bajas Emisiones” (Low Emission Zones) e.g., central Madrid and Barcelona have restrictions on older vehicles. Rental cars are usually new enough to enter, but be mindful of signage about environmental stickers. Always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks (they have the right of way). Keep a portable GPS or use offline Google Maps to help navigate some rural areas have sparse signage. And remember, 112 is the emergency number anywhere in Spain (for police, ambulance, etc.). Enjoy the drive ¡Buen viaje!

Frequently Asked Questions

Rental prices in Spain vary by season and car type. On average, a car rental costs around €30–€35 per day in summer, though you can find cheaper deals in the off-season or for economy cars. For example, an economy car might be as low as €10-€15/day in low season, whereas an SUV or van in peak August could be €50+/day. Booking in advance can secure better rates, and renting from major airports (like Madrid or Barcelona) often yields competitive prices due to more competition. Keep in mind that automatic vehicles and larger cars tend to cost more than manuals and compacts. Always compare on AirportVanRental our search will show you the best available price for your dates. Tip: The rate you see will generally include basic insurance and taxes; optional add-ons (GPS, child seat, full insurance) will be extra. We pride ourselves on no hidden fees, so the price quoted is transparent.

Yes, Spain has toll roads (autopistas marked with AP-). They are mostly found on some stretches of the Mediterranean coast, around Madrid, and heading into France. Examples include AP-7 (parts of it), AP-6 (northwest of Madrid), AP-8 (Bilbao to French border), among others. Many other highways (A- roads) are free. When you do use a toll road, payment is usually collected at toll plazas. How to pay: Take a ticket when you enter a tolled section (if required), then pay when exiting that section. You can pay with cash or credit card most toll booths are attended or have automated machines that accept major cards. Look for signs above lanes: a coin icon or manned booth icon for cash/card, or a toll badge (TELEPEAJE/VIA-T) for electronic device users (avoid those unless your rental car provided a toll transponder). The cost depends on distance and location a short stretch might be a few euros, while a long intercity toll could be €20+. For instance, driving from Madrid to Segovia on AP-6 costs about €8, and some coastal routes can total €30+ if you take them end-to-end. In recent years, Spain has removed fees on several major routes when concessions ended (yay, more free highways!). However, some new “free flow” toll systems (with no booths) exist around Barcelona and other areas cameras scan the license plate. In those cases, the rental company will get the bill and likely charge your card (plus possibly a small admin fee). To simplify, ask the rental agent if your car has a toll tag or how they handle toll charges. Many rentals in Spain do not come with a toll transponder by default (unlike Portugal where it’s common), but you can still drive on any road; you’ll just either pay on the spot or the bill comes via the plate. If you prefer to avoid tolls entirely, you can set your GPS to “avoid toll roads” you’ll just take slower routes. But overall, using an occasional toll road can save time and the process is straightforward.

If you have a European Union driver’s license, you do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP) your EU license is valid in Spain. For travelers from the United States, Canada, and other non-EU countries: officially, Spain requires an IDP in addition to your home license. In practice, many rental car counters in tourist areas will rent to you with just a valid passport and your domestic license (especially if it’s in English), but it’s highly recommended to carry an IDP. It’s a small booklet that translates your license into Spanish and other languages. Some police might ask for it if you’re pulled over. The cost is typically $20 from AAA (for U.S. residents) and it’s valid for one year. So, while not always asked for, an IDP is an easy safeguard and required by law for non-EU licenses. Note that an IDP is only a supplement; you must also have your original driver’s license with you. If your license is printed in a non-Roman alphabet (e.g. Chinese, Arabic, Cyrillic), an IDP or official translation is definitely required. Bottom line: To be safe and legal, get an IDP before your trip if you’re coming from outside Europe.

Yes! Most rental companies in Spain allow you to drive into neighboring countries like Portugal, France, and Andorra. In fact, cross-border road trips are common and one of the perks of having a car in Europe (no border checkpoints between EU countries, generally). Important: You should inform the rental agency at pick-up that you plan to go into another country. They’ll advise if any additional insurance or documentation is needed. Often, there’s no extra charge for driving into Portugal, France, or Andorra with a Spanish rental, but some companies might charge a cross-border fee (around €30-€50) or limit which countries are allowed. Always check the terms on AVR’s site, any cross-border fee or restriction would be shown in the rental details. If you drop the car off in a different country than Spain (one-way international rental), that’s usually a substantial extra fee, but just driving and returning to Spain is usually fine. Tip: If you plan to visit Gibraltar (UK territory at Spain’s southern tip) you may need to park in Spain and walk across, as some Spanish rental insurance doesn’t cover Gibraltar. For France/Portugal, your Spanish rental car will need the standard safety equipment (which it already has) and your documents. There are no routine border stops, but carry your passport/ID as required by law. Lastly, be mindful of toll systems change by country (France has toll tickets, Portugal has electronic tolls on some roads), and driving rules (e.g., speed limits will differ slightly). But millions of travelers do Barcelona to French Riviera drives or Seville to Lisbon road trips with rental cars it’s a smooth process. Enjoy the freedom of multiple countries at your pace!

Generally, yes driving in Spain is safe and comfortable for tourists. Spain ranks well in road safety within Europe. Highways are modern and well-maintained, and signage is plentiful (major signs are in Spanish and often use international symbols). Spanish drivers are mostly courteous. You’ll find that outside the big cities, driving can be very relaxing think empty country roads in Extremadura or scenic coastal routes with sea views. In cities, the challenges are typical of Europe: narrow streets in old quarters, scooters zipping around, and limited parking. New drivers might feel a bit stressed in dense city traffic (Madrid’s multi-lane roundabouts or Barcelona’s one-way grids), but if you drive defensively and use a GPS, you’ll manage. We recommend newcomers avoid driving in city centers if possible park on the outskirts or use a garage, then use public transport or walk to explore urban cores. The biggest safety considerations are: speeding (don’t, as there are cameras and fines can be hefty), and staying alert for unexpected things (a tractor on a rural road, a cyclist on a mountain curve, or pedestrians jaywalking in a village). Also remember the strict DUI limit police do random alcohol checks, especially in nightlife areas or during festivals, so it’s not worth the risk at all to drink and drive. If you’re from the US, you might find Spanish driving style a bit faster on highways but more disciplined in cities (for example, fewer giant SUVs, more compact cars). Adapting usually takes just a day or two. Emergency: the number 112 works EU-wide for any serious issues. And with AirportVanRental’s support plus included roadside assistance from the rental company, you’re never alone help is a call away if you have a breakdown or need assistance. So buckle up, use common sense, and enjoy the journey thousands of tourists safely self-drive Spain every year and often say it was the highlight of their trip!