Car Hire in Spain: What to Know Before You Book

Spain is one of the easiest and best-value countries in Europe for a hire car, whether you are touring Andalucía, driving the Costa Brava, or exploring an island like Mallorca or Tenerife. Competition at the big airports keeps prices low — but a few details are worth knowing before you book. Start with the general method in how to rent a car abroad without overpaying.

What to know

• Prices at major airports (Málaga, Alicante, Palma, the Canaries) are competitive, but the cheapest quotes sometimes come from local suppliers — check their reviews for that airport before booking.
• Watch the fuel policy: a "full-to-full" policy is best; some cheap island deals use "full-to-empty", which erodes the saving.
• Most cars are manual; book early if you need an automatic.
• Toll roads (AP-marked autopistas) exist alongside free A-roads; your satnav can usually avoid tolls if you prefer.

Islands vs mainland

On the islands a car is often the best way to reach quieter beaches and villages, and rates are usually low — but summer demand is high, so book well ahead. On the mainland, distances are large and the motorway network is excellent, making a hire car ideal for a multi-stop route. Either way, a free-cancellation rate lets you lock in early and re-shop as prices move.

Getting the best rate

Compare suppliers rather than booking one brand, and sort your excess cover in advance (see car rental insurance explained) so you are not upsold at the desk. Compare car hire in Spain on DiscoverCars, pick a well-reviewed supplier with a full-to-full, free-cancellation rate, and you will pay the market's best price.

Touring more of Europe by car? See car hire in Italy, and stay connected on the road with a travel eSIM for Europe.