Car rental in Barcelona

Compare prices on Visitteo. Rental prices in Spain fluctuate wildly between providers. Visitteo simplifies the search, letting you browse top car rental companies in seconds, compare diverse rates, and easily pinpoint the best offers for your Barcelona adventure.

Book in advance. With Barcelona’s high demand, rentals can quickly run out. Securing your car early guarantees the best price and an ideal vehicle match. Please don’t leave it to chance, book as soon as you finalize your travel plans.

Inspect the car thoroughly. Before hitting the Barcelona streets, take time to carefully inspect your car. Capture photos of any scratches or dents you find, avoiding potential charges for pre-existing damages when the car is returned.

Choose a full-to-full fuel policy. Policies vary, but a full-to-full approach often proves most cost-effective. Fill the tank yourself upon return, gas station prices usually beat the rental company rates, offering a more economical solution for fuel in Barcelona.

Bring your GPS. Skip pricey rental GPS add-ons, and use your smartphone instead. Navigation apps like Google Maps let you travel seamlessly, providing reliable directions throughout Barcelona without any additional costs to your rental agreement.

Navigating Barcelona’s bustling roads demands attentiveness, particularly in the central Zona de Baixes Emissions, which restricts access for certain vehicles on weekdays from 7:00 to 20:00 to reduce pollution. The city itself enforces a strict 30 km/h (18.6 mph) speed limit on urban streets, while rural roads permit up to 100 km/h (62 mph) and highways up to 120 km/h (75 mph). Morning congestion builds around 8:00 to 10:00 and resurfaces from 17:00 to 19:00, and assertive local drivers often use headlight signals to communicate quick lane shifts or passes. Staying proactive, using a reliable GPS app, and adjusting for swift lane changes will help minimize delays and navigate Barcelona’s vibrant traffic landscape efficiently.

Parking in Barcelona requires careful planning, especially near the bustling city center. The city offers both on-street parking and numerous public and private garages with secure options, particularly around tourist spots like Plaça de Catalunya and La Sagrada Família. On-street parking is marked by distinct color zones: the “blue zone” for short-term paid parking, accessible to everyone, and the “green zone,” largely reserved for residents, where non-residents may only park for limited times at higher rates. Additionally, yellow zones indicate loading and unloading spaces, restricted during weekday business hours. Free parking is scarce in central Barcelona but more accessible in peripheral areas like Montjuïc. Avoid unauthorized spots or bus lanes to prevent fines and towing fees.

La Sagrada Família. Behold the grandeur of La Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s visionary yet unfinished basilica in Spain. Its soaring spires and intricate facades blend Gothic and Art Nouveau elements, crafting a spiritual experience that’s awe-inspiring and essential to visit.

Park Güell. Roam the colorful, surreal world of Park Güell, a garden wonderland that showcases Gaudí’s artistry in vibrant mosaics and unique stone structures. Perched on a hill, this space offers breathtaking views over Barcelona’s sprawling landscape.

Gothic Quarter. Wander through Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, where narrow medieval streets wind toward hidden plazas, ancient churches, and bustling cafes. This atmospheric area, rich in history, includes the majestic Barcelona Cathedral among its architectural treasures.

Casa Batlló. Marvel at Gaudí’s Casa Batlló on Passeig de Gràcia, an imaginative masterpiece known for its wave-like facade and stunning mosaics. Often called the “House of Bones,” this structure embodies Gaudí’s nature-inspired and whimsical design.

Montjuïc Castle. Explore Montjuïc Castle, a historic 17th-century fortress atop Barcelona’s Montjuïc Hill. Its panoramic views over the city and sea, combined with its cultural significance, make it a captivating site for visitors.

Sitges. Just 45 minutes from Barcelona, Sitges shines as a lively Mediterranean gem. With its beautiful beaches and vibrant art scene, this seaside town south of Barcelona invites visitors to unwind and enjoy authentic Spanish coastal charm.

Montserrat. In 1 hour, escape to Montserrat’s striking landscapes and ancient monastery. Towering over Catalonia, this serene retreat offers breathtaking views and scenic trails, perfect for those seeking Spain’s natural beauty and the spiritual calm of this holy site.

Tossa de Mar. Just 1 hour and 30 minutes away, enchants visitors with its medieval allure and coastal vistas. Once a fishing village, it now boasts winding paths, historic castles, and mesmerizing sea views along the Costa Brava.

Costa Brava. Within 1 hour and 30 minutes, Costa Brava’s dramatic coastlines await. Visit villages like Calella de Palafrugell, explore pristine beaches, and savor Spain’s Mediterranean allure in this idyllic getaway, seamlessly blending relaxation with natural beauty.

Figueres and the Dalí Theatre-Museum. Located 1 hour and 50 minutes from Barcelona, Figueres is a treasure for art lovers. Here, the surreal Dalí Theatre Museum, designed by Salvador Dalí, offers an immersive experience into his imaginative world, making it a must-visit in Spain.