Bilbao Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bilbao

Renting a car in Bilbao offers a practical solution for exploring this vibrant metropolis and its surroundings with ease. With a rental car, you gain the freedom to visit key attractions such as the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Plaza Nueva, and Bilbao City Hall at your own pace. This flexibility is particularly valuable for those travelling with luggage or planning a full day of sightseeing. You can easily navigate through the Bilbao City Centre or the charming streets of Bilbao Old Town, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture without the constraints of public transport schedules.

Additionally, a rental car makes it convenient to venture beyond the city limits. You can drive to nearby destinations like Getxo, where you can relax at Playa de las Arenas or explore Abra Getxo Marina. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or beach-related outings, having a car ensures that you can create your own itinerary. This is especially beneficial for families or groups wanting to maximize their time and comfort while discovering the beauty of the Basque Country.

Most popular car rentals in Bilbao

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. Its spacious interior ensures comfort during your travels, allowing you to explore the attractions around Bilbao at your leisure.
• Compact: The compact car is suitable for 5 travellers and can carry up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families seeking a versatile vehicle that balances ease of driving in the city with enough space for your luggage. It’s a great fit for navigating Bilbao's streets.
• Economy: Accommodating 5 travellers with the capacity for up to 2 medium suitcases, the economy car is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for a budget-friendly option. Its smaller size makes it easy to manoeuvre, providing a practical choice for exploring the area while keeping costs low.

Top rated car suppliers in Bilbao

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo offers an excellent rental experience with two convenient locations in the Bilbao area. Known for their quick pickup process and friendly staff, travellers often highlight the cleanliness of their vehicles and hassle-free returns. The most booked options with Alamo include Compact SUVs and Midsize SUVs, making them a solid choice for those seeking comfort and reliability during their travels. Alamo stands out with a commitment to customer satisfaction, ensuring a smooth journey through the Basque Country.
• Budget: Budget also operates two locations in the Bilbao vicinity, providing flexible rental options to suit various traveller needs. Their most popular vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, perfect for navigating both urban areas and scenic routes. Customers appreciate Budget for its competitive pricing and efficient service, making it a great option for those looking to explore at their own pace while managing their luggage easily. Their reputation for value makes Budget a popular choice among travellers.
• Hertz: Hertz, with two rental locations in the Bilbao area, is another top choice for car rentals. They are well-regarded for their wide selection of vehicles, including Compact and Economy models, making it easy for travellers to find a suitable option for their journey. Hertz is praised for its smooth rental process and reliable service, allowing visitors to focus on enjoying their trip rather than worrying about logistics. This supplier is ideal for those seeking a straightforward and efficient car rental experience.

Where to stay in Bilbao

• Bilbao City Centre: A vibrant neighborhood perfect for culture enthusiasts, Bilbao City Centre boasts attractions such as the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, located within walking distance. Visitors can explore the historic Bilbao City Hall and relax at Plaza Nueva, a charming piazza ideal for soaking up local culture. This area also offers various dining options, including local wineries, making it a great base for exploring the city's cultural and outdoor activities.
• Deusto: Known for its rich cultural and entertainment offerings, Deusto features the renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and the picturesque Plaza Nueva. This neighborhood is vibrant with music concerts and educational events, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors. With numerous cafes nearby, Deusto invites you to unwind after a day of exploring its city-centric attractions, including Plaza Moyua, also within the area.
• Getxo: If you’re seeking a beach experience, Getxo is the place to be. This coastal city is home to Playa de las Arenas, a beautiful beach perfect for outdoor relaxation. The Abra Getxo Marina adds a touch of adventure, while the proximity to the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao means you can enjoy both culture and nature. Getxo's restaurants and wineries enhance the experience, especially during the warmer months when outdoor activities are at their peak.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Bilbao

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and can be easier to park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may incur higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are also acceptable, but ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the added cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Rental car insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bilbao

The best value period to rent a car in and around Bilbao is November, when both prices and demand are low. January and February follow closely, also offering low demand but slightly higher prices. March sees prices drop again, with average demand. However, August is the most expensive month, marked by high demand and slightly high prices, making it a busier time to secure a rental. September continues this trend with average prices but high demand.