Car Rental in Puerto de Santiago

Where to drive

• Drive to Masca Village: Navigate the winding roads to the picturesque village of Masca, approximately 25 km (16 miles) and a 45-minute drive from Puerto de Santiago, offering breathtaking mountain views.
• Explore Teide National Park: Journey to the majestic Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, about 50 km (31 miles) or a 1-hour 15-minute drive, to witness Spain's highest peak and a unique volcanic landscape.
• Visit Garachico and Icod de los Vinos: Head north along the scenic coastal road to Garachico and Icod de los Vinos, roughly 30 km (19 miles) or a 40-minute drive, known for their natural pools and the ancient Dragon Tree.
• Discover Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas: Drive south to the bustling resorts of Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas, around 25 km (16 miles) or a 30-minute drive, for vibrant nightlife and extensive beaches.
• Go to El Médano: Experience the laid-back surf town of El Médano, approximately 45 km (28 miles) or a 45-minute drive, popular for windsurfing and its golden sand beach.

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 one year. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-EU license holders and may be required by some rental agencies. You will also need your passport or a valid EU national ID card and a credit card in the main driver's name. The minimum age to rent is typically 21, though some companies may require drivers to be 23 or older, with surcharges for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Puerto de Santiago vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 15-20 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium models might range from 40 EUR to 80 EUR or more daily. Expect prices to be considerably higher, potentially doubling, during peak tourist months like July, August, and the winter holiday season.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Spain, traffic drives on the right. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads, and 120 km/h (75 mph) on motorways, unless otherwise signposted. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, or 0.03% for new drivers. Headlights are mandatory in tunnels and during poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and children under 135 cm (4 feet 5 inches) must use an appropriate child seat.

Parking

Parking in Puerto de Santiago can be a mix of free and paid options. In popular areas and near beaches, you'll often find blue zones (zona azul) which require payment via parking meters or apps for limited durations. White lines usually indicate free parking, while yellow lines signify no parking. It can be challenging to find free spots during peak season, especially in the town center.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available across Tenerife. You'll find both petrol (gasolina) and diesel (gasóleo) options. Prices are generally lower than mainland Spain but can fluctuate. Most stations accept credit and debit cards, though having some cash is advisable for smaller, more remote stations. Self-service is common, but some stations offer attendant service.

Which car to choose

For exploring Puerto de Santiago and the island's diverse terrain, a compact or economy car is ideal for navigating narrow village streets and finding parking. If you plan to tackle mountainous roads to places like Teide National Park or Masca, a car with a slightly more powerful engine is beneficial. An automatic transmission can make driving more comfortable on the island's hilly routes, though manual cars are more common and often cheaper.

Frequently asked questions