Car Rental Gran Canaria

Where to drive

• Drive from Las Palmas to Maspalomas Dunes: ≈ 50 km, 40-minute drive. Experience the dramatic desert landscape by the sea.
• Explore Puerto de Mogán: From Maspalomas, it's an ≈ 25 km, 25-minute drive to this charming 'Little Venice' of the Canaries.
• Journey to Roque Nublo: From Maspalomas, head inland for an ≈ 50 km, 1.5-hour drive to the iconic volcanic rock formation, a stunning hike awaits.
• Discover Firgas and Arucas: From Las Palmas, a scenic loop of ≈ 20 km (Firgas) and then ≈ 10 km (Arucas), taking about 30-40 minutes total driving, showcases traditional Canarian towns and rum distilleries.
• Visit Tejeda: From Las Palmas, an inland drive of ≈ 45 km, about 1 hour, to one of Spain's most beautiful villages nestled in the mountains.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Gran Canaria, you'll generally need a valid driving license from your home country, held for at least 1-2 years (check with the specific rental company), and a passport or national ID card. For non-EU citizens, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended or legally required alongside your national license. The minimum age for rental is typically 21, though some companies may charge a young driver's fee for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Gran Canaria vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from around 20-30 EUR per day in off-peak months, while SUVs or premium models can range from 50-100 EUR or more daily. Prices tend to be highest during the peak winter season (December-February) and summer holidays (July-August).

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

Driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways. It is mandatory for all occupants to wear seatbelts. Children under 135 cm must use an appropriate child seat. Headlights must be used in tunnels. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, or 0.03% for new drivers (less than 2 years experience).

Parking

In popular tourist areas and city centers like Las Palmas, parking can be challenging and often paid. Look for blue zones (Zona Azul) for paid street parking, usually with time limits, or underground car parks. White lines indicate free parking, while yellow lines mean no parking. In smaller towns and villages, free parking is more common.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available across Gran Canaria, especially along major routes and in larger towns. You'll find both gasoline (Gasolina 95 and 98) and diesel (Gasóleo A). Prices are generally lower than mainland Spain. Most stations accept credit and debit cards, though it's wise to have some cash for smaller, more remote stations.

Which car to choose

For navigating the island's varied terrain, an economy or compact car is often sufficient for most travelers, especially if you plan to stick to coastal routes and main roads. If you intend to explore the mountainous interior with its winding, narrower roads, a car with a slightly more powerful engine and manual transmission can offer better control. An SUV provides comfort and higher clearance for some unpaved tracks, but is not strictly necessary for most sights.

Frequently asked questions