Bilbao Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bilbao

Renting a car in Bilbao offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Plaza Nueva, and Bilbao City Hall, all located within the city. The convenience of managing your luggage and maintaining flexible travel plans enhances your sightseeing experience.

A rental car is particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or beach-related activities. You can drive to nearby destinations like Getxo, known for Playa de las Arenas and Abra Getxo Marina, or explore the charming streets of Bilbao Old Town. Having a vehicle allows families to stay together while accommodating strollers and luggage, making day trips both comfortable and enjoyable. With easy navigation and a variety of attractions to discover, renting a car in Bilbao ensures you maximize your travel experience in 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: With 2 rental locations in the Bilbao area, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice among travellers seeking flexibility during their trip. The most booked vehicles with this supplier include Compact SUVs and Midsize SUVs, making it an ideal option for those looking for comfort and space while exploring the beautiful Basque Country.
• Budget: Budget also features 2 convenient rental locations in Bilbao, catering to tourists wanting an economical option. Known for offering great value, Budget’s most popular vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Compact cars. This supplier is an excellent choice for those looking to balance cost with quality and performance on the road.
• Hertz: With 2 rental locations situated throughout the Bilbao area, Hertz is another trusted name for car rentals. Offering a range of vehicles, the most booked options are Compact and Economy cars. Hertz is well-suited for travellers who prioritize efficiency and ease of navigation while exploring the sights and attractions surrounding Bilbao.

Where to stay in Bilbao

• Bilbao City Centre: Experience the heart of Bilbao in this vibrant neighbourhood, perfect for culture enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Enjoy visits to the iconic Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Bilbao City Hall, and Plaza Nueva, all within a short distance. The area also provides access to local wineries and excellent dining options. Ideal for those seeking a blend of cultural experiences, art, and city life, Bilbao City Centre is bustling year-round, but especially lively during summer.
• Deusto: Known for its rich cultural and entertainment offerings, Deusto is an exciting neighbourhood for visitors. Explore the nearby Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Plaza Nueva, and Plaza Moyua, which showcase the city’s artistic and historical landmarks. With a variety of cafes to relax in, Deusto caters to those looking to enjoy music concerts and operas. This area is particularly vibrant in the spring and fall, making it an excellent choice for cultural immersion.
• Getxo: A charming coastal city, Getxo invites travellers to enjoy its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. Key attractions include Playa de las Arenas and Abra Getxo Marina, perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers. The area is also home to cultural sites like the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, ensuring a well-rounded experience. With various dining options, including wineries and restaurants, Getxo is especially delightful in the summer when the beach atmosphere comes to life.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid balance of affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions 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 fees. This is typically the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the car empty in this circumstance.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports; however, the convenience might justify the extra cost.
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 unforeseen expenses and provide you with peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when making your booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a vehicle.

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 prices and demand are both slightly low. January and February also offer low demand, making them quieter months for rental. Moving into the summer, June through August see higher prices and demand, with August being the most expensive month. September is another busy time, with average prices but high demand, creating a contrast to the calmer months earlier in the year.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	54.1°F (12.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
July	67.8°F (19.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	50.9°F (10.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average