How to find a cheap car hire deal in Barcelona (BCN)
Whether you need a compact for cruising the city streets or bigger wheels for bigger plans, we'll help you find a cheap Barcelona rental car. Pick from options averaging $476 a day and hit the road for less.
$11 is the cheapest daily price offered for a rental at Barcelona.
Planning an extended stay in Barcelona and want to explore beyond the tourist trail? $71 is the lowest rate for a weekly rental.
Timing is everything when it comes to finding a cheap BCN car hire. Book around four weeks before you travel to score the best price.
Check out the offers from Record Go, Goldcar and Nizacars Rent A Car. These are some of the better-known providers at Barcelona.
The coverage Record Go or another company offers for your Barcelona car hire can vary, so always read the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will provide it for an extra fee.
Booking one-way could snag you a bargain on your car hire. Providers sometimes offer lower prices when vehicles need to be moved around. Just select 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for hire in BCN.
Cut down on fuel costs by choosing a car hire in Barcelona with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You pick up your vehicle with a full tank and bring it back full, so you're only paying for what you use.
Hit the road without tracking every mile and racking up additional charges. Go to the 'Policies' filter and select 'Unlimited mileage' to find a ride that lets you roam without limits.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll get the best value with this company. Prices average $104 a day.
Next up is this provider, offering daily rates of around $79.
The third option won't dent your budget either. You'll pay roughly $104 a day with this supplier.
If you can't decide which ride is right for you, choose something from the Large rental category. It's the most frequently booked type of vehicle at BCN.
Compare car hire types from Barcelona (BCN)
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap Barcelona rental car puts you on the road for less. These compact, fuel-efficient rides are perfect for city driving and short trips.
Medium: Not too big, not too small, this is the Goldilocks of rentals! Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they offer a mix of fuel efficiency and interior space and are good for couples and small families.
Large: Offering greater driving comfort and advanced tech features, this BCN car hire option includes full-size cars. With roomier back seats and ample storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: SUVs are adventure on four wheels. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for urban streets and scenic backroads alike.
Van: Choose this vehicle category when you want a car for rent in Barcelona that can handle the big jobs. Featuring options like commercial vans and trucks, they're designed to transport more, whether that's equipment, luggage or whoever's along for the ride.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the cost you'd have to pay if your BCN car hire is damaged or stolen. While not mandatory, it's a safety net if something happens. Keep in mind that not all insurance policies are equal, so make sure you understand exactly what's included.
From navigation systems to mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, the right extras can make every mile feel easier. Consider which add-ons could enhance your trip when you rent a car in Barcelona.
Good to know
Typically, you have to be at least 21 years old to rent a vehicle in Spain. Being younger isn't always a deal-breaker — just be ready for a few added rules or costs. Check the suppliers' terms and conditions before booking.
If you're travelling with kids, check if you should add a child car seat to your BCN car rental reservation. Whether a legal requirement or not, they're always the safest way for youngsters to travel.
You'll be asked for a few things when picking up your rental car: a valid driver's licence, extra photo ID, and a credit card to cover the deposit amount. Debit cards aren't commonly accepted. Your booking will show the full list of what's required.
Driving in Spain can seem unfamiliar if it's your first time. Don't forget all vehicles travel on the right side of the road.
Make sure you follow the local speed limits. Most of the time that's around 20kph in urban areas and 110kph or so on highways, unless signed otherwise.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Spain is 0.05%. Because alcohol affects everyone differently, the only way to be certain you're safe to drive is to skip the drinks.
The euro (EUR) is the currency you'll be using for day-to-day expenses and excursions. Pay with your card when you can, but have some cash handy when electronic payments aren't possible.
Drive smarter from the start
Take the wheel and go once you've picked up your BCN car hire. Central Barcelona is about 13 kilometres to the northeast if that's on your route.
The drive from Barcelona to the centre in peak travel times can take up to 50 minutes.
One of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination is around 9am. Make things easy by driving outside rush hours in general.
If you don't need a set of wheels as soon as you arrive, consider picking up a car hire in Barcelona instead of at the airport. Collect your ride at a time that works for you and avoid paying for rental days you won't use.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Barcelona (BCN)
Before you go anywhere else, enjoy a bit of sightseeing around Barcelona first. Highlights such as Sagrada Familia and Museum of the Church of the Sagrada Familia are a great opening act for your trip.
Cunit is roughly 40 kilometres west of BCN and should earn a spot on your itinerary. Playa de Cunit is one of many reasons to visit.
Alternatively, hop in your Barcelona car hire and drive around 40 kilometres west to Castellet. Featuring Mirador de Castellet and Observatori d'aus del pantà del Foix, there's no shortage of attractions that demand a visit.
There's plenty of road left if you're up for more. Cruise on over to Santa Eulària des Riu, around 257 kilometres south of BCN. From Passeig de s'Alamera to Museo de Etnografia, it'll round out your trip nicely.
