Car Rental in Playa de las Americas

Where to drive

• Drive to Teide National Park: A must-do, this stunning lunar landscape is about a 1.5-hour drive (≈50 km) from Playa de las Americas, offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
• Explore Los Gigantes Cliffs: Head west along the coast for about 30 minutes (≈25 km) to witness the magnificent 'Cliffs of the Giants' rising dramatically from the ocean.
• Visit Masca Village: Navigate the winding mountain roads (allow ≈1.5 hours, ≈60 km) to this picturesque, remote village nestled in a deep ravine, offering incredible photo opportunities.
• Discover the North: Journey to the charming towns of La Orotava and Puerto de la Cruz (allow ≈1 hour, ≈80 km) to experience a different side of Tenerife, with lush greenery and historic architecture.
• Relax at El Médano: A short drive east (≈20 minutes, ≈20 km) takes you to El Médano, a more laid-back town known for its wide sandy beaches and watersports, a refreshing contrast to the bustle of Playa de las Americas.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Spain, you will generally need a valid passport or national ID card, a driving license held for at least one year (some companies require two years), and a credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit. For non-EU citizens, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national license. The minimum age for rental is typically 21, though surcharges may apply for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Playa de las Americas vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from around 10-15 EUR per day in the quieter months, while SUVs or premium models can range from approximately 40-80+ EUR daily. During peak tourist seasons like summer and winter holidays, prices for all categories can easily double or even triple due to high demand.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Spain, traffic drives 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 (autopistas). The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (0.03% for new drivers). Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under 135 cm must use an appropriate child seat. Headlights must be used in tunnels and in poor visibility. Hands-free mobile phone use is permitted, but holding a phone is strictly forbidden.

Parking

Parking in Playa de las Americas can be a mix of paid and free options. Many hotels offer private parking for guests. Public street parking may be metered (blue zones) or restricted (yellow lines indicating no parking). There are also several underground public car parks available for a fee, particularly around popular commercial areas. Always check signs carefully to avoid fines or towing.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available across Tenerife, especially on main roads and near towns. The price of fuel is generally lower than on mainland Spain due to special tax regimes. As of 2026, expect petrol (gasolina) and diesel (gasóleo) to be around 1.30-1.60 EUR per litre, though prices fluctuate. Most stations accept major credit cards, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller, more remote stations.

Which car to choose

For exploring Tenerife's varied terrain, an economy or compact car is often sufficient for coastal drives and city parking. However, if you plan to venture into the mountainous regions like Teide National Park or Masca, a car with a slightly more powerful engine or an SUV might offer a more comfortable and confident driving experience, especially on steep, winding roads. An automatic transmission can also make driving on these roads less strenuous.

Frequently asked questions