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Car Rental in Spain: Find and Compare Deals

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Things to Know Before Renting a Car in Spain

  • Driver’s License & Documentation: Bring your valid driver’s license, passport or ID, and credit card for the deposit. Travelers outside the EU will also need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

  • Minimum Age: Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21, with a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

  • Insurance Options: Basic insurance is usually included, but additional coverage like a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is considered for peace of mind.

  • Cross-Border Travel: If you plan to drive to neighboring countries, check with your rental company for cross-border permissions and any extra fees.

  • Fuel Policies: Many rentals follow a "full-to-full" policy. Refuel before returning to avoid extra charges.

  • Traffic Rules: Drive on the right-hand side, wear seat belts, and follow speed limits—20–50 km/h in cities and 100–120 km/h on highways.

  • Toll Roads: Spain’s highways often have tolls, so carry cash or a credit card for payment.

  • Child Safety Seats: Required for children under 12 or shorter than 1.35 meters. Book in advance to ensure availability.

  • Parking: Look for blue zones in cities for paid parking. Avoid yellow lines, which indicate no parking.

  • Fuel Costs: Gas prices average around €1.35 per liter, with diesel slightly cheaper. Fill up before heading to remote areas.

hire Free Cancellation

Change of plans? Rent with confidence, cancel anytime. No fee. Finalrentals does not believe in charging any cancellation fee.

hire Fair Fuel Policy

You can return the car at the same fuel level as it was handed over to you and there will be no charges at all.

hire No Hidden Charges

Pay full rental amount at the counter. No need to pay online. We work on clear pricing policy, what you see is what you pay.

Madrid Airport Car Rentals

Rental counters at Madrid Airport are located in Terminals 1 and 4, making it convenient for travelers arriving by flight.

Choose from various vehicles, from economy cars for solo travelers to SUVs for families.

One-way car rentals allow you to pick up your car at the airport and return it at another location.

Pre-booking online ensures the best rates and vehicle availability, especially during peak travel seasons.

Enjoy easy access to major highways, perfect for road trips to nearby destinations like Toledo or Segovia.


Car Rentals at Atocha Train Station

Conveniently located in the heart of Madrid, Atocha Station offers several car rental options.

Perfect for travelers continuing their journey by road after arriving via train.

One-way rentals let you return the car to another city or airport for flexibility.

Compact cars are ideal for navigating Madrid’s narrow streets, while larger vehicles suit families or long road trips.

Nearby gas stations, like Repsol on Paseo de la Infanta Isabel, make refueling easy before returning the vehicle.

Book online now and discover the joy of stress-free car rental in Spain tailored to your travel needs.

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  •   Adolfo Suarez Barajas Airport

Car Rental in Spain: FAQs

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  • What documents do I need to rent a car in Spain?
    You’ll need a valid driver’s license, a credit card in the renter’s name for the deposit, and your ID or passport for identification. Non-EU travelers also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their original license. Make sure your documents are valid for the entire rental period. Some rental companies might also request proof of travel plans or accommodation details. Double-check requirements with your chosen company before booking to avoid delays at the counter.
  • What is the minimum age for renting a car in Spain?
    The minimum age is usually between 21 and 23, depending on the rental company. Drivers under 25 often face a young driver surcharge, typically from €10 to €25 per day. Some companies may restrict younger drivers from renting luxury or high-end vehicles. Always check the rental provider’s age policy before booking to understand any additional charges or restrictions.
  • Can I rent a car in Spain with my non-EU driver’s license?
    You can rent a car in Spain with a non-EU license, but you must also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP translates your license details into Spanish, making it valid for rental purposes and driving. Ensure your original license and IDP are current and valid for the trip. Without these, rental companies may deny you a vehicle.
  • Are there toll roads in Spain, and how do I pay for them?
    Spain has many toll roads, especially on highways (autopistas). Payment can be made at toll booths using cash, credit cards, or electronic toll devices like Via-T. The average cost is around €1 per 8 km. Plan your route in advance to avoid unexpected tolls or consider alternative routes marked as “free roads” (carreteras gratuitas).
  • Can I take my rental car outside Spain?
    Cross-border travel is allowed by most rental companies, but you need prior approval. Some companies charge additional fees or require extra insurance for international travel. Restrictions might apply to luxury vehicles or cars rented in islands like the Canary Islands or Balearic Islands. Confirm cross-border permissions and costs in your rental agreement to avoid fines or complications.
  • What insurance is included with my car rental in Spain?
    Basic insurance, such as third-party liability coverage, is usually included in the rental price. However, this may come with high deductibles. Additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection, and Full Coverage are available for an extra fee. These reduce your financial responsibility in case of damage or theft. Read the terms carefully and verify if your travel insurance or credit card covers rental cars to avoid duplicate charges.
  • Are there toll roads in Spain, and how do I pay for them?
    Spain has toll roads (autopistas) marked with an "AP" prefix. Fees average €1 per 8 km (5 miles) and can be paid using cash, credit cards, or electronic tags (Telepeaje). Ensure your rental car is equipped with a tag if you plan to use toll roads frequently. Some tolls also have manual booths for payment. Avoid fines by carrying cash or confirming payment methods in advance.
  • What should I know about parking in Spain?
    In cities, blue zones indicate pay-and-display parking, which costs around €0.70–€1 per hour. Yellow lines mean parking is prohibited. In rural areas, parking is often free. Many cities also have private parking garages offering secure but pricier options. Always read local signs to avoid fines and note that parking is typically free on Sundays and public holidays in marked zones.
  • Can I book a one-way rental in Spain?
    Most companies offer one-way car rentals in within the Spain, allowing you to pick up the car in one location and return it in another. This is ideal for road trips or airport transfers. However, one-way rentals often incur additional fees based on distance and destination. Confirm the drop-off process and costs with your rental provider when booking to ensure smooth planning for your trip.
  • Are child safety seats required when renting a car in Spain?
    Spanish law mandates child safety seats for children under 12 years old or shorter than 1.35 meters (4 feet 6 inches). Rental companies provide these seats for an additional fee, usually around €10–€15 per day. Pre-booking ensures availability, especially during peak seasons. Confirm that the seat meets legal standards and is installed correctly before starting your journey.

When to Rent a Car in Spain?

The best time to rent a car in Spain depends on your travel plans, budget, and weather preferences. Spain’s peak season runs from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, averaging 25–30°C (77–86°F). During this time, coastal areas like Costa del Sol and popular cities like Barcelona and Madrid are buzzing with tourists.

Renting a car in peak season can be pricier, but it gives you the freedom to explore crowded destinations at your own pace and access less touristy spots like hidden beaches and quaint villages.

From November to February, the low season offers cooler temperatures (5–15°C or 41–59°F) and lower rental costs, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers. This is a great time to explore historic cities like Seville or Granada without large crowds.

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to October) are the best balance of mild weather (15–25°C or 59–77°F) and affordable rates. These seasons are perfect for road trips through Spain’s vineyards, countryside, and cultural landmarks like the Alhambra.

Booking in advance during any season ensures better rates and availability. Renting a car year-round allows you to explore Spain’s diverse landscapes comfortably, from coastal roads to mountain drives.

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Finalrentals is Clear in Terms of Rental Policy

"One of my friends, Jack, recommended hiring a car at Madrid Airport through Finalrentals, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience! The booking process was seamless, and the car was in excellent condition. Picking it up at the Madrid Airport was convenient, and the team was professional and friendly."

Jack Burch. Finalrentals customer in Spain