Seville

🚗

Car Rentals

Sections

1. Rental Companies in Seville

Seville has a wide range of car rental companies, from international brands to local providers. Most rental offices are located at Seville Airport (San Pablo Airport), the Santa Justa Train Station, and in the city center.

Major Rental Companies:

  • International Brands:
    • Avis
    • Hertz
    • Europcar
    • Sixt
    • Enterprise
    • Budget
  • Local Companies:
    • Goldcar
    • Record Go
    • Centauro
    • OK Rent a Car

Where to Rent:

  • Seville Airport (SVQ): Most convenient for travelers arriving by air.
  • Santa Justa Train Station: Ideal for those arriving by train (e.g., AVE high-speed train).
  • City Center Locations: Suitable for tourists already in Seville.

2. Costs of Renting a Car

The cost of renting a car in Seville depends on factors such as the type of car, rental duration, season, and additional services. Below is a general breakdown:

Average Costs:

  • Economy Cars: €25–€50 per day
  • Compact Cars: €40–€70 per day
  • SUVs or Luxury Cars: €70–€150+ per day
  • Weekly Rentals: Discounts are often available, with economy cars starting at around €150–€250 per week.

Additional Costs:

  • Fuel Policy: Many companies operate on a "full-to-full" policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank.
  • Young Driver Fee: Drivers under 25 may incur an additional fee (€10–€20 per day).
  • One-Way Rentals: Dropping the car off at a different location may incur extra charges.
  • Extras: GPS (€5–€10/day), child seats (€5–€15/day), or additional drivers (€5–€10/day).

Seasonal Variations:

  • Prices are higher during peak tourist seasons (spring, especially during Semana Santa and Feria de Abril, and summer).

3. Required Documents

To rent a car in Seville, you’ll need the following:

  1. Driver’s License:
    • EU citizens: A valid EU driver’s license is sufficient.
    • Non-EU citizens: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, along with your home country’s license.
  2. Passport or National ID Card: For identification purposes.
  3. Credit Card: Most companies require a credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit. Debit cards are not always accepted.
  4. Proof of Reservation: If you booked online, bring a copy of your confirmation email.

4. Insurance Options

Car rental companies in Seville offer various insurance options. It’s important to understand what is included and what is optional.

Basic Insurance (Included):

  • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Covers damage to the rental car but often comes with a high deductible (€1,000–€2,000).
  • Theft Protection: Covers theft of the vehicle but not personal belongings.

Optional Insurance:

  • Full Coverage Insurance: Reduces or eliminates the deductible. Costs €10–€30 per day.
  • Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers.
  • Third-Party Liability Insurance: Usually included by default, as required by Spanish law.

Tips:

  • Check if your travel insurance or credit card offers rental car coverage to avoid paying for duplicate insurance.
  • Inspect the car thoroughly before driving off and take photos of any existing damage.

5. Local Driving Rules in Seville

Driving in Seville and Spain, in general, is straightforward, but there are some important rules and cultural considerations to keep in mind:

Key Rules:

  • Drive on the Right: Spain follows right-hand driving.
  • Speed Limits:
    • Urban areas: 30–50 km/h
    • Highways: 120 km/h
    • Rural roads: 90 km/h
  • Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
  • Alcohol Limit: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (lower for new drivers: 0.03%).
  • Mobile Phones: Using a phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
  • Roundabouts: Yield to traffic already in the roundabout.

Cultural Considerations:

  • Spanish drivers can be assertive, especially in urban areas. Stay calm and drive defensively.
  • Be cautious of scooters and motorcycles, which are common in Seville.

6. Parking in Seville

Parking in Seville can be challenging, especially in the historic city center, where streets are narrow and parking is limited.

Parking Options:

  1. Street Parking:
    • Blue Zones (Zona Azul): Paid parking areas. Rates are around €1–€2 per hour, with a maximum time limit of 2–4 hours.
    • Free Parking: Rare in the city center but more common in residential areas.
  2. Public Parking Lots:
    • Underground garages are available near major attractions like the Cathedral or Plaza de España. Rates are around €15–€25 per day.
  3. Hotel Parking:
    • Many hotels offer parking for guests, typically for €10–€20 per day.

Tips:

  • Avoid driving into the historic center (Casco Antiguo) unless absolutely necessary, as it is a maze of narrow streets with restricted access zones (Zonas de Acceso Restringido).
  • Look for signs indicating restricted areas to avoid fines.

7. Tips for Tourists and Newcomers

  • Plan Ahead: Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.
  • GPS or Maps: Use a GPS or a reliable map app to navigate Seville’s streets, as they can be confusing for newcomers.
  • Fuel Stations: Gasoline (gasolina) and diesel (diésel) are widely available. Fuel prices in Spain are around €1.60–€2.00 per liter.
  • Day Trips: Consider using the car for day trips to nearby attractions like the White Villages (Pueblos Blancos), Ronda, or Doñana National Park.
  • Public Transport Alternative: If you’re staying within Seville, the city’s public transport (buses, trams, and metro) is efficient and may be a better option than driving.

8. Summary

Renting a car in Seville is a great way to explore Andalusia, but it requires careful planning. Choose a reputable rental company, ensure you have the necessary documents, and familiarize yourself with local driving rules and parking options. While driving in Seville’s historic center can be tricky, having a car is ideal for exploring the region’s stunning landscapes and nearby towns. Always drive cautiously and enjoy your journey!