How to find a cheap car rental deal in Barcelona
Pick up a cheap rental car in Barcelona for an average of AED 472 a day and drive off happy. We do the hard work for you by searching all the major providers, so you can easily compare prices and book.
AED 25 is the cheapest daily price offered for a rental in Barcelona.
Making it more than a quick visit? Pick up a weekly rental from AED 151 and explore more than just the top attractions.
Timing makes all the difference when it comes to finding the best price on a Barcelona car hire. Try booking around four weeks before you go.
Record Go, Nizacars Rent A Car and Goldcar are some of the most reliable providers in the city. They're a great starting point for comparing offers.
The coverage Record Go or another company offers for your Barcelona car rental can differ, so always go over the fine print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will charge extra for it.
Booking one-way could land you a cheaper deal on your rental. Providers sometimes offer lower rates when vehicles need to be relocated. Simply select 'Return car to a different location' when searching the range of cars for rent in Barcelona.
Avoid any unexpected charges by booking a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Start your journey with a full tank and return it the same, paying only for what you use.
Want to explore freely without worrying about how many miles you clock up? Search for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and travel as far as you like without the extra charges.
Best value car rental options right now
Taking first place for value is this company, with prices averaging AED 317 a day.
Offering daily rates of around AED 187, this provider is next in line.
The third option won't break the bank either. You'll pay roughly AED 349 a day with this supplier.
The Compact rental category is a reliable option if you're not sure what sort of ride you need. It's also the car type that's rented the most in Barcelona.
Flying to Barcelona? Think about an airport pick-up
Keep arrival day hassle-free by booking a car rental at Barcelona Airport. If you're flying to Barcelona through this hub, simply pick up your ride after landing and roll out. The drive to the city center is about 13 kilometers and takes around 25 minutes.
Compare car rental types in Barcelona
Small: Whether you're darting along city streets or taking a quick trip, this car category delivers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can expect easy handling and excellent fuel efficiency.
Medium: Not too big, not too small, this just-right ride is calling your name. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they strike a balance of fuel efficiency and interior space and are good for small families and couples.
Large: Offering greater driving comfort and improved tech features, this Barcelona car hire category includes full-size cars. With roomier rear seats and ample storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: SUVs are ready whenever wanderlust hits. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and scenic backroads alike.
Van: Go for this vehicle category when you need a car for rent in Barcelona that makes light work of heavy loads. Featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're built to carry more, whether that's supplies, suitcases or the whole travel crew.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but is something to think about. If you're in a collision, no matter how minor, it can help you avoid paying a hefty excess fee. Different Barcelona car rental providers have varying insurance policies and cover levels, so check the details before booking.
Level up your ride with nifty extras like mobile Wi-Fi or a reverse camera. These features can make your trip easier and more enjoyable when you rent a car in Barcelona.
Good to know
The minimum age to rent a car in Spain is generally 21 years old. However providers may have their own rules, so always read your rental company's policy to know where you stand.
Add a car seat to your Barcelona car rental reservation if you're planning to travel with the kids. Requirements change from one place to another, but using a child seat suited to their age, weight and size is always the safest option.
You'll be asked for a few things when collecting your rental car: a valid driver's license, another form of photo ID, and a credit card to cover the deposit amount. Debit cards are generally not accepted. Any additional requirements will be listed in your booking.
Take a few moments to get used to your rental. Check your seat and mirrors, test the brakes and turn signals, and get used to how it handles before you set off. And don't forget to stay on the right side of the road in Spain.
Follow the local speed limits. Usually that's around 20kph in built-up areas and 110kph or so on highways, unless signed otherwise.
In Spain, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.05%. If you intend to have a couple of drinks, leave the driving to someone else or arrange a ride-share or cab instead.
One of the busiest times to be out on the roads in this destination is around 9am. Make travel easier by steering clear of peak periods.
The euro (EUR) is the currency you'll be using for everyday expenses and activities. Pay with your card when it's convenient, but have some cash ready when electronic payments aren't available.
Best hotels in Barcelona for drivers
Spend less time circling for a parking space and more time enjoying the comfort of Barcelona Olympic Apartment. About 2 kilometers from central Barcelona, it comes with parking, a golf course and an airport shuttle.
Or take advantage of the parking at Sercotel Barcelona El Prat. The city center is roughly 8 kilometers from this option, which also features tour services and a lobby bar.
Explore the full lineup of hotels in Barcelona and choose the stay that suits your travel style. Filters make it easy to tailor your search to your needs — like 'Parking,' 'Outdoor parking,' or 'Valet parking.' There's even an 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to find hotels with charging access.
After you've locked in a car rental deal in Barcelona and your hotel, the only thing left to decide is where to explore first. Get started with top attractions like Sagrada Familia, Museum of the Church of the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Barcelona
Travel 48 kilometers southwest of central Barcelona to Cunit, known for sights like Playa de Cunit.
Go-to accommodation options with parking in Cunit include Hotel Canada Palace and 4R Miramar Calafell.
Alternatively, pick up your cheap car rental in Barcelona and then take off to Castellet. Roughly 48 kilometers west of Barcelona, Mirador de Castellet and Observatori d'aus del pantà del Foix are top attractions that make the drive worthwhile.
Castellet has some great places to stay including Hotel Basic and Hotel Canada Palace. Both are practical choices for guests with cars.
Want to head even further out? Santa Eulària des Riu is a popular road trip destination that's about 274 kilometers south of Barcelona. Make a few pit stops at Passeig de s'Alamera and Museo de Etnografia.
All that's left to do now is sleep. Leonardo Royal Hotel Ibiza Santa Eulalia and Aguas de Ibiza Grand Luxe Hotel - Small Luxury Hotel of the World have space for both you and your wheels while visiting Santa Eulària des Riu.
