Barcelona Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Barcelona

Renting a car in Barcelona offers freedom and flexibility for your travel plans, allowing you to explore the city and its attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting iconic sites such as the Sagrada Familia, a remarkable church that showcases the rich cultural experiences of the area. You can also take a leisurely drive to La Rambla, a vibrant street perfect for city experiences, or visit Plaça de Catalunya, a lively square ideal for immersing yourself in the local culture.

The convenience of a rental car extends beyond the city limits, making it simple to explore popular neighborhoods like Downtown Barcelona, which features La Rambla and the historic Barcelona Cathedral, or the charming Gothic Quarter, steeped in history and culture. Families, business travellers, and those seeking unique experiences will appreciate the ease of navigating between destinations such as the Eixample, where you can find the iconic Sagrada Familia and other attractions. Overall, a rental car provides the opportunity to tailor your itinerary and discover the diverse offerings of Barcelona and its surroundings.

Most popular car rentals in Barcelona

• Economy: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers and can fit 2 medium suitcases. The Economy option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families looking for an affordable and efficient vehicle. It's perfect for navigating the streets of Barcelona and offers flexibility to explore at your own pace.
• Compact: Similar to the Economy, the Compact car can also accommodate 5 travellers but offers space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for solo adventurers, couples, and families who want a balance between comfort and efficiency. Compact cars are great for city driving, allowing for easier parking and better fuel economy.
• Midsize SUV: Designed for families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for 3 large suitcases. This vehicle offers a spacious interior, making it a comfortable choice for longer drives or when you have extra luggage. If you're planning to travel with more gear or simply want extra room, this option is ideal for your trip around Barcelona.

Top rated car suppliers in Barcelona

• Hertz: With 4 rental locations throughout Barcelona, Hertz is a popular choice among travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. Known for their reliable service, the most booked cars from Hertz are Compact and Economy models, making it easy for you to navigate the vibrant streets of Barcelona at your own pace while managing your luggage effortlessly.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo features 3 rental locations in the Barcelona area, catering to those looking for comfortable transportation options. Their most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, providing ample space for both passengers and luggage. With Alamo, you can explore the stunning attractions of Catalonia with ease and convenience.
• Enterprise: With an impressive 10 rental locations in and around Barcelona, Enterprise stands out for its extensive network. This supplier offers a diverse selection of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs being the most popular choices. Renting from Enterprise ensures that you have a reliable vehicle to explore Barcelona and its surroundings comfortably.

Where to stay in Barcelona

• Eixample: Eixample is a vibrant district in Barcelona known for its impressive architecture and cultural landmarks. Here, travellers can explore iconic sites such as the Sagrada Familia, which is perfect for a culture holiday, and Plaça de Catalunya, a bustling square ideal for city-themed experiences. The area offers an array of shopping opportunities and public markets, making it suitable for families and business travellers alike. Eixample also features various dining options, including wineries and sweet treat shops, ensuring a delightful culinary exploration.
• Downtown Barcelona: Downtown Barcelona is a lively neighbourhood that serves as a hub for city-themed adventures. Visitors can enjoy the famous La Rambla street, offering a unique urban experience, and the impressive Plaça de Catalunya. This area is filled with shopping centres and markets, catering to both families and business travellers. Additionally, there are numerous wine bars and pubs nearby, providing a great opportunity for socialising after a day of exploration. Downtown Barcelona's vibrant atmosphere makes it a must-visit location.
• Gothic Quarter: The Gothic Quarter is a historic neighbourhood steeped in charm, perfect for those seeking a city-themed experience. Here, you can wander through narrow streets and explore significant landmarks such as La Rambla and the Barcelona Cathedral, which is ideal for a culture holiday. The area features various shopping options and public markets, making it suitable for families and business travellers alike. With plenty of wine bars and pubs nearby, the Gothic Quarter offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and social atmosphere.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for warm weather, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to locate the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to access lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and simpler to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is generally the most advantageous. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental 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 plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Barcelona

The best value period to rent a car in and around Barcelona is November, when both prices and demand tend to be lower. You may also find good options in February and March, which have slightly lower prices and average demand. However, July and August are the most expensive months, with high demand making rentals busier and pricier. June also sees slightly elevated prices as demand starts to climb, while October remains steady with moderate pricing and demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	48.9°F (9.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
February	49.8°F (9.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
March	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	71.8°F (22.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	77.0°F (25.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	77.4°F (25.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	65.8°F (18.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	51.1°F (10.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average