Car Rental Costa Brava: Everything You Need to Know Before You Book

See more and stress less than with car rental. Costa Brava rewards the curious and the mobile.

Car rental allows you to explore the Costa Brava at your own pace. Photo by Why Kei.

Hire a car on the Costa Brava and you’ll unlock a side of the region you’ll never see from a bus window. Winding coastal roads, tucked-away coves and quiet hilltop villages become part of your trip — not just scenery in the distance. With your own wheels, you’re free to go where the mood takes you, without checking train timetables or waiting for the next connection.

Freedom to explore

The Costa Brava isn’t just about the big-name resorts like Lloret de Mar or Tossa de Mar. Some of the most memorable spots are those that aren’t served by public transport. Calas (small coves), Roman ruins, vineyards, mountain trails, and medieval villages like Peratallada or Pals are easiest reached by car. A hire car means you can be on the beach in the morning and in the mountains by the afternoon — no waiting for the next bus or planning your whole day around train schedules.

Public transport limitations

While the train line connects the main cities – Blanes, Girona, Figueres – and the most northerly coastal towns – Colera and Portbou – mostly it doesn’t run along the coast itself. Many picturesque coastal towns are either hard to reach or require multiple connections. Buses can be infrequent outside peak season, often run behind schedule and frequently don’t offer a late service. This can make connections difficult, and day trips a bit of a juggling act. If you’re travelling with kids, luggage or a beach tent, this quickly becomes a hassle.

Ideal trip types

A rental car is especially useful for:

• Family holidays where flexibility and extra space matter
• Couples looking for hidden spots and day trips off the tourist trail
• Photographers or nature lovers who want to catch the sunrise in Cap de Creus or hike inland trails
• Foodies keen to reach out-of-the-way restaurants, wineries and food markets inland

While it’s entirely possible to enjoy a Costa Brava trip without a car, hiring one lets you do it your way — on your schedule.

Where to rent your car in Costa Brava

You can rent a car in several locations across the Costa Brava, but the best choice depends on your arrival point, your itinerary, and whether you plan to return to the same location.

Airport pickups: Girona vs Barcelona

If you’re flying into the region, the two main entry points are Girona–Costa Brava Airport and Barcelona El Prat. Girona Airport is the most convenient for accessing Costa Brava towns — it’s around 30–40 minutes to the coast. Most major rental companies have desks inside the terminal, making it an easy choice for a quick getaway.

Barcelona El Prat, though farther away (about 90–120 minutes’ drive), often has cheaper flight and car hire options thanks to its size. If you’re planning a two-centre holiday, with time in Barcelona as well as the Costa Brava, this can make sense. Just be aware that driving out of Barcelona can be stressful, especially if you’re not used to city traffic.

In-town locations

You’ll also find car rental offices in towns like Girona city, Figueres, Lloret de Mar, and even some of the larger resort towns like Platja d’Aro. This is a good option if you’re only renting for part of your trip — say, three days in a seaside resort followed by a few days of exploring.

Just keep in mind:

• Opening hours are more limited than airport branches.
• Availability of certain car types (e.g. automatics, SUVs) may be lower.
• Prices may be slightly higher than airport rentals, though you may save on taxes or fees.

One-way rentals: picking up in one place and dropping off in another

Some companies allow one-way rentals, like picking up a car in Girona and dropping it in Barcelona. This can be useful if you’re flying in and out of different airports, or planning a linear road trip. However, one-way fees can be steep — sometimes €50–€100 extra — so always check this in advance.

If you’re planning to do a loop — start and finish at the same airport or town — you’ll have more rental options and avoid extra charges.

What type of car should you choose?

Choosing the right car for your trip can make a big difference to your comfort, parking options, and overall driving experience. Think about who you’re travelling with, how much luggage you’ll have, and the kinds of roads you’ll be driving.

Small cars: ideal for coastal towns

If you’re planning to stick mostly to coastal towns, a compact or economy car is your best bet. Many Costa Brava towns — like Cadaqués, Tossa de Mar and Begur — have narrow, winding streets and limited parking. Smaller cars are easier to manoeuvre and often cheaper to hire and refuel.

Examples: Fiat 500, Peugeot 208, Renault Clio

Estate cars and SUVs: for families or longer stays

If you’re travelling with kids, have lots of luggage, or plan to do longer drives inland, an estate or SUV offers more space and comfort. Some inland roads, especially around the Pyrenees or rural farmhouses (masias), are uneven, so higher ground clearance can be useful. Just be prepared for trickier parking in older towns.

Examples: VW Passat Estate, Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage

Automatic vs manual: what’s available?

Manual transmission is the standard in Spain, and it’s what most locals drive. If you want an automatic, you’ll usually pay more and may have fewer models to choose from — especially at smaller rental locations.

If you’re not confident with a manual, book well in advance to guarantee an automatic. Don’t assume they’ll have one at the desk if you didn’t specifically reserve it.

Electric vehicle rental: is it practical?

Electric cars are available to rent, but charging infrastructure in Costa Brava is still limited. Larger towns like Girona or Figueres have public charging stations, and some hotels offer them too. But in smaller coastal or rural areas, they’re far less common.

If you’re staying in one place with access to a charger, it might work — but for exploring the region freely, petrol or diesel is still more practical for now.

What documents and requirements do you need?

Renting a car in Costa Brava is fairly straightforward, but there are a few essential documents and conditions you’ll need to meet. Missing just one can derail your booking, so it’s worth checking in advance.

Driving licence: post-Brexit rules for UK travellers

If you hold a UK photocard driving licence, you can still drive in Spain without needing an International Driving Permit (IDP), as long as your trip is under 90 days and your licence is valid. Paper licences without a photocard may require an IDP, so double-check if yours is an older version.

EU licence holders can drive in Spain without any additional documents.

Credit cards and deposits

Most car rental companies will ask for a credit card in the driver’s name, even if you’ve prepaid online. This is for the security deposit, which can range from €500 to €1,500 depending on the car and insurance level.

Debit cards may be accepted by some companies, but usually come with restrictions — like needing to buy full insurance. If you’re relying on a debit card, contact the rental company in advance to confirm their policy.

Age requirements: minimum age and surcharges

The minimum age to rent a car in Spain is usually 21, and you’ll need to have held your licence for at least one year. However:

• Drivers under 25 often pay a young driver surcharge, which can be €10–€30 per day.
• Some car categories (like large SUVs or luxury models) may require drivers to be at least 25.

If you’re travelling with multiple adults, it might be cheaper to list an older driver as the main one.

International Driving Permit: do you need one?

For most UK and EU drivers, the answer is no — not for short stays. But if your licence is from a non-EU country, or written in a language other than Roman script (e.g. Arabic, Cyrillic), then an IDP is typically required.

It’s a good idea to check the Spanish Traffic Department (DGT) or your own country’s travel advice page for the latest.

Understanding insurance and hidden fees

Car rental insurance in Costa Brava — like much of Europe — can be confusing. What’s included, what’s not, and what happens if you scratch the car? Here’s how to avoid the common traps and decide if third-party insurance is worth it.

Basic insurance vs full cover

Most car rentals in Spain include basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Third Party Liability by default. But CDW often comes with a high excess — typically €1,000 to €2,000 — meaning you’ll have to pay that much if the car is damaged, even slightly.

At the rental desk, staff will usually offer full coverage or super CDW to reduce your excess to zero. These policies are often inflated in price — sometimes €20–€30 per day — and don’t always cover everything (like tyre or underbody damage).

Excess amounts: what could you be liable for?

The excess is the maximum you’ll pay out of pocket if something happens to the car. Even a minor scrape can result in a hefty charge if you’re only on basic cover. That’s why many travellers take out separate third-party excess insurance instead of buying the full cover from the rental company.

Third-party insurance providers: are they worth the saving?

Yes — for many people, third-party excess insurance is the smart move. These policies reimburse you if you’re charged for damage, and they often cover parts excluded from rental company policies (e.g. tyres, windows, roof, undercarriage).

Here’s how the two main options compare:

Single-trip policies

• Best for: One-off holidays or occasional renters
• Cost: £4–£6 per day (typically much cheaper than rental desk options)
• Where to buy: UK-based providers like ReduceMyExcess, iCarhireinsurance, or TravelSupermarket

Annual policies

• Best for: Frequent travellers (more than 2 rentals per year)
• Cost: Around £40–£60 per year

Both types of third-party cover are far cheaper than buying full insurance at the desk — but you’ll still need to leave a credit card deposit, and handle any claims directly with your insurer later. Some may not cover cars hired outside your country of residence, so check the terms.

Extras and surcharges

These are where many travellers get caught out. Watch for:

• Fuel policies: Full-to-full is best — you fill up before returning. Avoid full-to-empty (you’ll pay inflated fuel prices).
• Additional drivers: Often €5–€10 per day per driver.
• Car seats, GPS, roof racks: Booking in advance is usually cheaper.
• Late returns or out-of-hours pickups: May incur fees unless pre-arranged.
• Cleaning fees: Some companies charge if the car isn’t returned in “reasonable condition”.

Always read the small print, and photograph the car at pickup and drop-off to avoid disputes.

Driving in Costa Brava: local rules and advice

Driving in Costa Brava is generally stress-free, especially outside the major cities. Roads are well-maintained, signposted, and less congested than those in southern Spain. Still, there are a few local quirks and rules worth knowing before you set off.

Speed limits, road signs and fines

Standard speed limits in Spain are:

• Motorways: 120 km/h
• Main roads: 90 km/h
• Urban areas: 50 km/h (sometimes 30 km/h in residential zones)

Speed limits can change suddenly, especially when entering small towns, so keep an eye on signs. Cameras are common, both fixed and mobile, and fines can be steep — even for small infractions.

Fines can follow you home via your hire company, so don’t assume they’ll disappear after you leave.

On motorways, slower traffic should stay right, and overtaking on the right is illegal. Use your indicators early and expect tailgaters — especially on the AP-7.

Parking tips in tourist hotspots

Parking in Costa Brava towns can be tricky, especially in July and August. Here’s what to look for:

• Blue zones (zona azul): Paid street parking. Use nearby machines or apps (some towns use “EasyPark” or “TelPark”).
• White lines: Free parking (if not restricted by signs).
• Yellow lines or zig-zags: No parking — tow risk is high.
• Underground car parks: Found in most towns, usually €1–€2 per hour, safer and more reliable.

Early morning or late evening is the best time to find a spot in places like Cadaqués or Calella de Palafrugell.

Fuel stations and hours

Most petrol stations are open from 7am to 10pm, though larger ones near motorways operate 24 hours. Fuel is sold by the litre, and labels are different from the UK:

• Gasolina 95 / SP95: Regular unleaded
• Gasolina 98: Premium unleaded
• Gasoil / Diesel: Diesel

Many stations are self-service, and it’s common to pay before filling up, especially at night or in rural areas. Keep your receipt, especially if using a company fuel card or need to claim expenses.

Trusted rental companies in Costa Brava

Not all car rental companies operate with the same level of transparency or customer service. Some offer genuinely low prices with no catches, while others are known for aggressive upselling or hidden fees. Knowing who to book with — and who to avoid — can make or break your experience.

Well-known brands vs local outfits

You’ll find all the big international names operating in Costa Brava, especially at Girona and Barcelona airports:

• Sixt – Reliable service, modern cars, and a reputation for efficiency. Prices tend to be mid-range.
• Europcar – Solid all-rounder, often with good coverage in smaller towns.
• Avis/Budget – Competitive prices and decent vehicle selection, though some users report pushy upselling at the counter.
• Enterprise – Good customer service, especially if you’re already a UK customer.

Then there are the local or budget-focused providers:

• RecordGo – Low upfront prices, but mixed reviews on customer service. Watch for insurance upselling.
• OK Mobility – Gaining popularity, often with new cars, but deposit terms can be steep.
• Goldcar/Rhodium – Cheap headline prices, but often flagged for hidden charges, long queues, and hard-sell tactics. Many experienced travellers avoid them.

Which ones have hidden fees?

Hidden charges usually crop up around:

• Fuel policies (full-to-empty is a red flag)
• Insurance upselling (e.g. claiming your third-party cover is “not valid”)
• Extra cleaning or administration fees
• Credit card deposit demands (especially from budget brands)

Check Trustpilot or Google reviews specifically for the location you’re using, not just the brand overall. A good experience in Barcelona doesn’t always mean the same in Girona or Figueres.

Booking direct vs aggregator sites

Aggregator sites like Rentalcars.com, Discover Cars, or Zest Car Rental let you compare deals across multiple companies — and often include customer ratings, cancellation policies, and clear details on what’s included.

Booking direct through the rental company’s own website can sometimes offer loyalty discounts or better excess terms, especially if you’re already a member.

Tip: If you book through an aggregator, make sure you know who the actual car rental provider is, and where their desk is located — some are off-site and require shuttle buses.

Tips for getting the best deal

Car rental prices on the Costa Brava can vary widely depending on timing, location, and even the booking site you use. A few simple strategies can help you avoid overpaying — or worse, ending up with a bad deal.

When to book: how far in advance is best?

As a rule of thumb, the earlier you book, the better the price — especially for travel in July and August. Booking 4–8 weeks in advance tends to offer the best balance between price and availability. Last-minute bookings, especially at smaller airports like Girona, can be both expensive and limited in choice.

If you need an automatic, larger vehicle, or extras like a child seat, book even earlier.

Best comparison sites: where to start looking

Start your search with comparison sites — they pull in results from multiple providers and let you filter by fuel policy, insurance, and user rating. Trusted options include:

• Zest Car Rental – Known for excellent customer service and clear T&Cs
• Rentalcars.com – Huge range, but sometimes vague on deposit amounts
• Discover Cars – Simple filters and reliable rating system
• Kayak or Skyscanner Cars – Useful for price checking but often redirect to less transparent providers

Once you’ve found a deal you like, check the provider’s website directly to compare price and terms.

Discount codes and loyalty schemes

Many car hire companies run seasonal promotions or offer discount codes via email or affiliate websites. Some airlines (like Ryanair or EasyJet) and travel insurance providers also partner with rental firms to offer discounted rates.

If you’re a member of a loyalty scheme (e.g. Avis Preferred, Sixt Express), you may get perks like queue-skipping, free upgrades or reduced excess.

Tip: Sign up for a loyalty programme before booking — benefits often only apply to members, not third-party bookings.

Avoiding airport premiums

Airport rentals are convenient but can include extra charges. If you’re staying nearby, consider:

• Booking from a downtown location (e.g. Girona city) instead
• Taking a short taxi or shuttle to an off-airport provider
• Comparing prices for pickup in town vs the airport — it can save €30–€50 for the same car

Just be mindful of opening hours and whether your flight arrives late — in which case airport pickup might still be worth the extra.

Final checklist before you drive off

It’s tempting to jump in and hit the road as soon as you’ve got the keys, especially after a flight. But taking 10 minutes to check the car properly can save you time, money and stress later.

Inspecting the vehicle and taking photos

Before leaving the car park:

• Walk around the car and check for scratches, dents, chips or scuffs, especially on bumpers and alloys.
• Check the windscreen and mirrors for cracks.
• Look inside for any stains or damage.
• Open the boot, test the locks, and check the spare tyre or repair kit.

Take clear photos and/or video of the car from multiple angles. Do it in daylight or under good lighting. If there’s anything not already marked on the rental form, go back and get it added in writing.

Emergency equipment: what must be in the car by law

Spanish law requires all rental cars to carry certain items:

• Reflective safety vest (must be accessible from inside the car)
• Warning triangle (often two)
• Spare tyre or repair kit
• Car manual and insurance paperwork

Most rentals will include these, but double-check before you leave. Fines can be issued for missing items, even if it’s not your fault.

Understanding the fuel policy

Make sure you know whether you’ve agreed to full-to-full or full-to-empty.

• With full-to-full, return the car with a full tank — save the receipt in case they query it.
• With full-to-empty, you’ll pay for a full tank upfront (often at inflated rates) and return it as empty as possible. This is rarely the better deal.

Confirm which side the fuel cap is on and which fuel type to use — usually marked on the key fob or fuel cap itself.

Double-checking the insurance and contact info

Before driving off, confirm:

• What number to call in case of accident or breakdown
• What’s covered by your insurance — including whether tyre/glass/undercarriage damage is included
• Where to return the car and what the after-hours procedure is, if relevant

Keep the rental agreement, emergency number and fuel receipts with you during the hire — just in case.

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