Car Rental in Gandia

Where to drive

• Drive north along the coast to Valencia city, approximately 70 km (45 miles) and an hour's drive, to explore its historic center, City of Arts and Sciences, and vibrant markets.
• Head inland to the Sierra de Mariola Natural Park, around 60 km (40 miles) or a 1.5-hour drive, for hiking, natural springs, and picturesque mountain towns like Bocairent.
• Explore the Jalon Valley (Vall de Pop), approximately 40 km (25 miles) or a 45-minute drive, famous for its vineyards, almond blossoms (in late winter), and scenic cycling routes.
• Visit the medieval castle and charming streets of Xàtiva, just 30 km (20 miles) and a 30-minute drive southwest of Gandia.
• Discover the coastal towns of Denia and Jávea, roughly 45-60 km (30-40 miles) south, offering stunning coves, marinas, and excellent dining options.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Spain, you typically need a valid driving license from your home country, held for at least one year. If your license is not from an EU country or is not in Roman script, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required alongside your original license. A passport or national ID card is also essential for identification. The minimum age for rental is generally 21, though some companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25, and surcharges often apply for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Gandia vary significantly by season and vehicle class. Economy cars can start from around 20-30 EUR per day during off-peak winter months, while mid-range and SUV models typically range from 40-70 EUR. During the peak summer season (July-August), prices can increase substantially, with economy cars often starting from 50-80 EUR or more per day. Premium vehicles will, of course, command higher prices year-round, potentially exceeding 100 EUR daily.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Spain, speed limits are generally 120 km/h (75 mph) on motorways, 90 km/h (55 mph) on open roads, and 50 km/h (30 mph) in urban areas, unless otherwise signposted. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.05% (0.03% for new drivers). Headlights must be used in tunnels and during poor visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under 12 or shorter than 135 cm must use an appropriate child seat or booster in the rear of the vehicle.

Parking

In Gandia, parking can be found on the street, often marked with blue lines (zona azul), which requires payment via a meter for a limited time. There are also underground public car parks available, particularly near the beach and in the city center, which are paid. Free parking can be harder to find, especially during peak season, but might be available on the outskirts or in less central areas.

Fuel stations

Fuel (gasolina for petrol, diésel for diesel) is widely available at service stations throughout Gandia and the surrounding region. Most stations accept major credit and debit cards, though some smaller, unmanned stations might require cash or a Spanish card. Fuel prices are comparable to the European average, with approximate costs around 1.60-1.75 EUR per liter for petrol and 1.50-1.65 EUR per liter for diesel, subject to daily fluctuations.

Which car to choose

For driving in Gandia and exploring the immediate coastal area, an economy or compact car is usually sufficient. These are easy to park and navigate through narrower town streets. If you plan to venture into the mountainous regions or travel with more luggage or passengers, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV would provide more comfort and power, especially for winding roads.

Frequently asked questions