Benidorm Car Rental — from €46/day

Car Rental in Benidorm

From the vibrant sands of Levante Beach to the breathtaking vistas from Mirador del Mediterráneo, Benidorm beckons with endless exploration. Unlock the full beauty of this Costa Blanca gem and its surrounding towns with the convenience of your own wheels, making every scenic drive and spontaneous detour a cherished memory.

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Car Rental in Benidorm

Benidorm (Alicante), Spain

Where to drive

Altea: Drive north along the coast for about 15 km (20 minutes) to reach Altea, a picturesque town known for its whitewashed old town, blue-domed church, and artisan shops.
Guadalest Valley: Head inland approximately 20 km (30 minutes) to the breathtaking Guadalest Valley, home to a historic castle perched on a rock and stunning reservoir views.
Calpe: A scenic 25 km drive (30 minutes) north brings you to Calpe, famous for its Peñón de Ifach natural park and beautiful sandy beaches.
Villajoyosa: Just 10 km (15 minutes) south of Benidorm, this colorful fishing village offers a charming promenade, chocolate factories, and quiet coves.
Fonts de l'Algar: Drive about 15 km (25 minutes) inland to the natural waterfalls and pools of Fonts de l'Algar, perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Spain, you generally need a valid driving license from your home country, held for at least 1-2 years, a passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name. If your license is not in a Roman alphabet or from a non-EU country, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required. The minimum age for car rental is typically 21, though some companies may have a higher minimum for certain car categories or charge a young driver fee for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Benidorm vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars might start from around 10-15 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium models can range from 40-80 EUR or more daily. Prices can easily double or triple during the peak summer months, especially for popular vehicle types.

Price by month, €

18€

Jan

17€

Feb

20€

Mar

25€

Apr

30€

May

45€

Jun

60€

Jul

65€

Aug

40€

Sep

30€

Oct

22€

Nov

20€

Dec

Demand by month

30%

Jan

35%

Feb

45%

Mar

60%

Apr

70%

May

85%

Jun

95%

Jul

100%

Aug

80%

Sep

65%

Oct

40%

Nov

35%

Dec

Traffic rules and fines

In Spain, drive on the right. Speed limits are generally 120 km/h on motorways, 90 km/h on conventional roads, and 50 km/h in urban areas, unless otherwise signposted. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (0.03% for new drivers). Headlights must be used in tunnels and in poor visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Children under 135 cm must use an appropriate child restraint system.

Parking

In Benidorm, parking can be challenging, especially in the central areas and during peak season. You'll find a mix of paid underground parking garages, blue zones (zona azul) for street parking which are paid via meters for limited durations, and some free parking areas further from the center. Always check signage carefully for restrictions and payment requirements.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Benidorm and the surrounding areas. Diesel (gasóleo) and unleaded petrol (gasolina sin plomo 95 or 98) are standard. Fuel prices are comparable to other Western European countries, typically paid by card or cash at the pump or kiosk. Most stations are self-service, though some may offer attendant service.

Which car to choose

For exploring Benidorm's immediate surroundings and coastal drives, an economy or compact car is often sufficient and easier to park. If you plan to venture into the mountainous regions like Guadalest or further afield, a car with a slightly more powerful engine or even a small SUV might be more comfortable for the inclines. Automatic transmission vehicles are widely available and can make driving easier for those accustomed to them.

Pros

Freedom to explore diverse attractions at your own pace, from beaches to mountains.
Access to traditional Spanish villages and natural parks not easily reached by public transport.
Convenient for day trips to nearby cities like Alicante or Valencia.
Ability to carry luggage and beach gear without hassle.
Flexibility to adjust your itinerary spontaneously.

Cons

Parking in Benidorm's busy center can be difficult and costly.
Traffic can be heavy during peak tourist season, especially in urban areas.
Navigating narrow streets in older towns can be challenging for some drivers.
Toll roads (AP-7) can add to travel costs for longer journeys.
Rental costs, especially in summer, can be a significant expense.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cancellation policy for car rental in Benidorm?

Cancellation policies vary by rental provider and booking terms. Many companies offer free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before pickup, especially if you book through platforms like RentoRika. Always check the specific terms of your reservation.

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

Yes, a major credit card in the main driver's name is almost always required for the security deposit, even if you pay for the rental itself with a debit card or another method. Ensure you have sufficient credit available.

Can I pick up my car at Alicante Airport and drop it off in Benidorm?

One-way rentals are generally possible between Alicante Airport (ALC) and Benidorm, but they usually incur an additional 'one-way fee'. It's often more cost-effective to pick up and drop off at the same location, like Alicante Airport, which is the closest major hub.

What type of driving license is accepted in Spain?

A valid driving license from an EU country is accepted. If your license is from outside the EU or not in a Roman alphabet, an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your national license is usually required by law and rental companies.

Is it better to book my car rental in advance for Benidorm?

Booking in advance, especially for peak seasons (summer, Easter), is highly recommended. This ensures better availability, a wider choice of vehicles, and often more favorable prices compared to last-minute bookings.

Available cars — Benidorm (Alicante)