Valencia

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Car Rentals

Sections

1. Available Rental Companies in Valencia

Valencia has a wide range of car rental companies, including international brands and local providers. Some of the most popular options include:

International Companies:

  • Hertz
  • Avis
  • Europcar
  • Enterprise
  • Sixt
  • Budget

Local Companies:

  • Goldcar (popular for budget rentals)
  • Record Go
  • Centauro
  • OK Rent a Car

You can find these companies at Valencia Airport (VLC), the main train station (Estación del Norte or Joaquín Sorolla for high-speed trains), and in various locations throughout the city.

2. Typical Costs

The cost of renting a car in Valencia depends on factors such as the type of car, rental duration, season, and additional services. Below are some general price ranges:

  • Economy Cars (e.g., Fiat 500, Seat Ibiza): €20–€40 per day
  • Compact Cars (e.g., Volkswagen Golf): €30–€50 per day
  • SUVs or Family Cars: €50–€80 per day
  • Luxury Cars: €100+ per day

Additional Costs:

  • Insurance: €10–€30 per day for full coverage (optional but recommended).
  • Fuel Policy: Many companies operate on a "full-to-full" policy, meaning you return the car with a full tank.
  • Young Driver Fee: Drivers under 25 may incur an additional fee of €10–€20 per day.
  • Extras: GPS (€5–€10/day), child seats (€5–€15/day), or additional drivers (€5–€10/day).

Booking in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (summer and major festivals like Las Fallas in March), can help you secure better rates.

3. Rental Procedures

Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting a car in Valencia:

  1. Book Online or In-Person:

    • Booking online is often cheaper and allows you to compare prices and options.
    • If you prefer flexibility, you can rent directly at the airport or city offices.

  2. Pick-Up Process:

    • Arrive at the rental office with your documents (see below).
    • Inspect the car for any pre-existing damage and ensure it is documented in the rental agreement.
    • Confirm the fuel policy and return conditions.

  3. Drop-Off Process:

    • Return the car to the agreed location (airport, city center, etc.).
    • Ensure the car is in the same condition as when you picked it up.
    • Keep a copy of the final receipt for your records.

4. Required Documents

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

  • Driver’s License:
    • EU citizens: A valid driver’s license from your home country.
    • Non-EU citizens: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, along with your original license.
  • Passport or National ID Card: For identification purposes.
  • Credit Card: Most companies require a credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit. Debit cards are not always accepted.
  • Rental Confirmation: If you booked online, bring a printed or digital copy of your reservation.

5. Insurance Options

Car rental companies in Valencia offer several insurance options:

  • Basic Insurance (Included): Covers third-party liability but often has a high excess (deductible) in case of damage.
  • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Reduces your financial liability for damage to the car. Costs €10–€20/day.
  • Super CDW or Full Coverage: Eliminates the excess entirely. Costs €20–€30/day.
  • Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers.
  • Theft Protection: Covers the cost of the car if it’s stolen.

Tip: Check if your travel insurance or credit card offers rental car coverage to avoid paying for duplicate insurance.

6. Local Driving Rules

Driving in Valencia is relatively straightforward, but here are some key rules to keep in mind:

  • Drive on the Right: Spain follows right-hand driving.
  • Speed Limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 90 km/h
    • Highways (Autopistas): 120 km/h
  • Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
  • Alcohol Limit: 0.05% BAC (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.

7. Parking Considerations

Parking in Valencia can be challenging, especially in the city center. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Blue Zones (Zona Azul): Paid parking areas. Look for blue lines on the road. Pay at nearby machines and display the ticket on your dashboard. Rates are around €1–€2/hour.
  • Green Zones (Zona Verde): Reserved for residents. Avoid parking here unless you have a permit.
  • Public Parking Garages: Available throughout the city, especially near major attractions. Rates are around €15–€25/day.
  • Free Parking: Hard to find in the city center but more common in suburban areas or near beaches.

Tip: Use parking apps like Parclick or Parkopedia to find available spaces and compare prices.

8. Tips for Navigating Valencia and Surrounding Areas

  • City Center: Valencia’s old town (Ciutat Vella) has narrow streets and limited parking. Consider parking outside the center and walking or using public transport.
  • Traffic: Traffic is generally light outside rush hours (8–10 AM and 5–7 PM). Be cautious of cyclists and scooters, which are common in the city.
  • Toll Roads: Some highways (AP-7) are toll roads. Use cash or a credit card to pay at toll booths.
  • Day Trips: A car is ideal for exploring nearby attractions like:
    • Albufera Natural Park: 20 minutes south of Valencia.
    • Sagunto: A historic town with a Roman theater, 30 minutes north.
    • Peñíscola: A picturesque coastal town, 1.5 hours north.

9. Cultural and Practical Advice

  • Driving Style: Spanish drivers can be assertive, especially in urban areas. Stay calm and follow the rules.
  • Road Signs: Most signs are in Spanish, but they follow international symbols.
  • Fuel Stations: Gasoline (gasolina) and diesel (gasoil) are widely available. Self-service is common, and attendants may assist in rural areas.
  • Eco Zones: Valencia has low-emission zones. Check if your rental car complies with environmental regulations to avoid fines.

10. Final Tips

  • Plan Ahead: Use Google Maps or a GPS device to plan your routes.
  • Inspect the Car: Take photos of the car before and after the rental to avoid disputes over damage.
  • Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for emergencies. Keep the rental company’s contact information handy.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to rent a car and explore Valencia and its beautiful surroundings with ease. Safe travels!