Los Cristianos Car Rental

Where to drive

• Drive to Teide National Park: Experience the lunar landscapes and Spain's highest peak, Mount Teide. It's approximately a 1.5-hour drive (≈50 km) from Los Cristianos, offering stunning panoramic views.
• Explore Masca Village: Navigate winding mountain roads to the picturesque village of Masca, nestled in a dramatic gorge. Allow about 1.5 hours driving time (≈60 km) for this scenic, albeit challenging, route.
• Visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife: The island's capital offers historical sites, shopping, and culture. It's roughly a 1-hour drive (≈80 km) north from Los Cristianos via the TF-1 motorway.
• Discover Garachico and Icod de los Vinos: Head to the rugged north coast to see the natural pools of Garachico and the ancient Dragon Tree in Icod de los Vinos. This trip takes about 1.5 to 2 hours (≈100 km) each way.
• Relax at El Médano Beach: Known for its windsurfing and relaxed atmosphere, El Médano is a short 20-minute drive (≈15 km) east of Los Cristianos, perfect for a change of scenery.

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, depending on the rental company), 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 does not include a photograph, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended or may be required. The minimum age for rental is typically 21, with surcharges often applying for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Los Cristianos can vary significantly based on vehicle class and seasonality. Economy cars typically range from approximately 20-40 EUR per day in off-peak months, while SUVs and premium models can cost anywhere from 50-100+ EUR daily. Prices tend to be highest during the peak winter season and summer holidays.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

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

Parking

In Los Cristianos, parking can be a challenge, especially in the central areas near the beach and port. There are often blue zones (Zona Azul) which are paid parking areas, usually with time limits, and white zones (Zona Blanca) for free parking, though these are scarce. Underground car parks are available for a fee. Always check local signage carefully for restrictions and payment methods.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available across Tenerife, including in and around Los Cristianos. 'Gasolina' is petrol, and 'Diesel' is diesel. Prices are generally lower than on mainland Spain. Most stations accept major credit cards, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller, more remote stations. Self-service is common, but some full-service stations still exist.

Which car to choose

For navigating Los Cristianos' narrower streets and parking, an economy or compact car is often ideal. If you plan to explore the island's mountainous terrain, such as Teide National Park or Masca, a car with a slightly more powerful engine or an SUV might offer a more comfortable driving experience. An automatic transmission can make driving on hilly roads less strenuous.

Frequently asked questions