Car Rental in Bilbao
Car rental in Bilbao turns a standard trip into a more dynamic and rewarding experience. The city itself is compact and walkable, but to see the most interesting and scenic places, you need to travel beyond it. With a rental car, you can easily reach coastal villages in Biscay, explore the Basque mountains, or visit nearby cities within a couple of hours.
Bilbao offers modern architecture, a vibrant atmosphere, and access to rich natural landscapes and historical heritage. By car, you can explore everything—from the Guggenheim Museum to quiet seaside streets and mountain viewpoints that are difficult to access by public transport.
What to See Around Bilbao
If you rent a car in Bilbao, your travel options extend far beyond typical tourist routes.
Recommended destinations:
- Getxo — a coastal area with a port, long beaches, and the famous Vizcaya Bridge;
- Santander — a lively coastal city in Cantabria with a scenic promenade and historic center;
- Santillana del Mar — a well-preserved medieval village with cobbled streets and stone houses;
- Lekeitio — a quiet seaside town with a picturesque waterfront and historic charm;
- Basque Mountains — scenic routes through small villages and viewpoints overlooking valleys and the coast. A car with at least a 1.4L engine is recommended for these drives.
With a car, you can combine coastal towns, historic villages, and mountain routes in a single day, including stops at less touristy locations.
Car Rental Prices in Bilbao
Car rental prices in Bilbao depend on the vehicle class and season. During peak periods (summer and holidays), prices are higher due to increased demand. Spring and autumn offer more affordable options, while winter is typically the cheapest season.
Average car rental prices in Bilbao:
- economy and compact cars: €20–50 per day;
- mid-range cars: €50–75 per day;
- SUVs and minivans: from €60 per day;
- luxury cars and convertibles: from €130+ per day.
Final pricing also depends on extras and rental duration. Short-term rentals (1–2 days) usually have a higher daily rate compared to longer bookings.
Driving in Bilbao
Bilbao’s city center is compact, with narrow streets and one-way traffic in older districts, so extra attention is needed, especially when parking. Main roads and highways around the city are in good condition, with clear markings and well-organized traffic.
For trips outside the city—toward coastal towns in Biscay or the Basque mountains—expect winding roads and elevation changes. For these routes, a car with an engine size of at least 1.4L is recommended.
Rental Requirements in Bilbao
To rent a car in Bilbao, you typically need:
- a valid Category B driver’s license;
- a passport or ID card;
- a booking confirmation (voucher received by email).
The minimum driver age is usually 21, with at least 1–2 years of driving experience. Requirements may vary depending on the vehicle.
Fuel policy is standard: the car must be returned with the same fuel level as at pickup. If not, the rental company will charge the difference plus a service fee.
Optional extras such as child seats, an additional driver, or roof racks are available for an extra charge and should be selected during booking.
You can also choose different pickup and drop-off locations—for example, pick up the car in Bilbao and return it in another city—if arranged in advance.
Deposit and Payment
In Bilbao, it is relatively easy to find rental options without a credit card, as many companies accept debit cards. However, a deposit is almost always required.
The deposit can typically be paid using either a credit or debit card and is held as a security guarantee during the rental period.
FAQ – Car Rental in Bilbao
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
If your license is issued outside the EU or not in Latin script, an IDP may be required. EU licenses are usually sufficient.
Can I rent a car without a credit card?
Yes, many companies accept debit cards for payment and deposit, but having a card is still usually necessary.
Can I rent a car without a deposit?
No, a deposit is almost always required. It can be paid by credit or debit card.
Are child seats available?
Yes, they are available as an extra option for an additional fee. It is recommended to book them in advance.
Who pays for fuel, parking, and toll roads?
All these expenses are covered by the renter. The car must be returned with the same fuel level as at pickup.
Can I travel outside Bilbao?
Yes, you can freely travel across Spain on paved roads.
Can I rent a car for a few hours?
The minimum rental period in Bilbao is usually one day.applies for adding a second driver to the rental agreement.