Car Rental Altea, Spain — from €62/day

Car Rental in Altea

The mild autumn is arguably the finest season to rent a car in Altea, as the summer crowds dissipate yet the Mediterranean sun still gleams on the white dome of the Church of Our Lady of Consolation. With cooler temperatures perfect for scenic drives along the Costa Blanca, you can effortlessly navigate to hidden coves and charming hillside villages.

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Car Rental in Altea

Altea, Spain

Where to drive

Drive to the Fuentes del Algar waterfalls, a natural park with refreshing pools, approximately 20 km (25 minutes) inland from Altea.
Explore the historic town of Guadalest, perched high in the mountains, about 25 km (40 minutes) from Altea, offering breathtaking views and a unique castle.
Take a scenic coastal drive south to Calpe, known for its Peñón de Ifach rock and beautiful beaches, roughly 10 km (15 minutes) away.
Head north to Javea and Denia, picturesque towns with lovely old quarters and marinas, approximately 30-40 km (35-50 minutes) drive.
Discover the bustling city of Benidorm, famous for its skyscrapers and vibrant nightlife, just 12 km (20 minutes) south of Altea.
Visit the charming village of Polop de la Marina, nestled in the hills, about 15 km (20 minutes) inland, offering traditional Spanish atmosphere.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Spain, you typically need a valid driving license (held for at least one year), a passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name. If your license is not from an EU country, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required. The minimum age to rent is generally 21, though some companies may have a higher age requirement or charge a young driver fee for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Altea vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 15-25 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles might range from 40-80 EUR or more. During peak summer months (July-August), prices can easily double or even triple across all categories due to high demand.

Price by month, €

20€

Jan

22€

Feb

28€

Mar

35€

Apr

45€

May

60€

Jun

85€

Jul

90€

Aug

70€

Sep

40€

Oct

25€

Nov

30€

Dec

Demand by month

30%

Jan

35%

Feb

50%

Mar

65%

Apr

75%

May

85%

Jun

95%

Jul

100%

Aug

80%

Sep

60%

Oct

40%

Nov

45%

Dec

Traffic rules and fines

In Spain, you drive on the right. Speed limits are typically 120 km/h on motorways, 90 km/h on most other roads outside urban areas, and 50 km/h in urban areas, unless otherwise signposted. The legal blood alcohol limit is approximately 0.05% (0.03% for new drivers). Headlights are mandatory in tunnels and during poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and children under 135 cm must use an approved child seat appropriate for their size and weight.

Parking

In Altea, parking can be found in designated areas. Blue zones (zona azul) usually require payment via parking meters for a limited time during working hours. White zones are generally free. There are also underground parking garages in the town center, which are paid. Finding free street parking, especially in the old town or during peak season, can be challenging.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available in Altea and along major roads. Both petrol (gasolina) and diesel (gasoil) are common. Prices are comparable to the European average, generally paid by card or cash. It's advisable to refuel before returning your car, especially if you chose a 'full-to-full' fuel policy.

Which car to choose

For exploring Altea's narrow old town streets and coastal drives, a compact or economy car is often ideal due to ease of parking and maneuverability. If you plan extensive trips into the mountainous interior or have more luggage, an SUV offers better comfort and clearance. An automatic transmission can make driving more relaxed on winding roads, though manual cars are more widely available and often cheaper.

Pros

Freedom to explore hidden coves and mountain villages beyond Altea.
Convenient access to Alicante Airport (ALC) for arrivals and departures.
Flexibility to set your own itinerary and schedule.
Opportunity to visit nearby cities like Valencia or Murcia at your leisure.
Easier transport of luggage, beach gear, or shopping.

Cons

Parking in Altea's old town and during peak season can be difficult and expensive.
Narrow streets in some older towns can be challenging for larger vehicles.
Fuel costs can add up, especially with extensive driving.
Traffic can be heavy during peak summer months, particularly on coastal roads.
Navigating unfamiliar roads and Spanish road signs can be daunting for some.

Frequently asked questions

Can I cancel my car rental reservation in Altea?

Most car rental bookings through platforms like RentoRika offer free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before pickup. Always check the specific terms and conditions of your booking and chosen provider.

Do I need a credit card to rent a car in Altea?

Yes, a valid credit card in the name of the main driver is almost always required for the security deposit. Debit cards are generally not accepted for this purpose.

What type of driver's license do I need for Altea, Spain?

A valid national driving license from your home country is usually sufficient if it's from an EU country. For non-EU licenses, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is often legally required alongside your national license.

What is the best place to pick up my rental car for Altea?

The most convenient pick-up point for Altea is usually Alicante Airport (ALC), which has a wide range of rental companies and competitive prices. Some local agencies also operate directly in Altea.

Is it expensive to rent a car in Altea?

Prices vary greatly by season and car type. In the low season, you can find economy cars from around 15-25 EUR per day. During peak summer, prices can be significantly higher, so booking in advance is recommended.

Available cars — Altea