Car Rental in Santiago de Compostela

Where to drive

• Finisterre (Fisterra) and the Costa da Morte: Drive approximately 90 km (1 hour 15 minutes) west to the 'End of the World,' where the Romans believed the sun set. Explore dramatic cliffs, historic lighthouses, and remote beaches.
• Rías Baixas Wine Region: Head south about 60-80 km (45 minutes to 1 hour) to explore charming towns like Cambados or O Grove, famous for Albariño wine and fresh seafood. Enjoy vineyard tours and tasting sessions.
• Lugo and its Roman Walls: Drive east approximately 100 km (1 hour 10 minutes) to Lugo, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its remarkably preserved Roman walls, which you can walk atop.
• A Coruña and the Tower of Hercules: Journey north approximately 75 km (50 minutes) to A Coruña, a vibrant coastal city featuring the ancient Tower of Hercules, the oldest working lighthouse in the world.
• Ribeira Sacra: For a more extensive day trip, drive southeast about 140 km (1 hour 45 minutes) to the dramatic Ribeira Sacra, known for its terraced vineyards along river canyons and ancient monasteries.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Spain, you typically need a valid driving license from your home country, a passport or national ID card, and a major credit card in the main driver's name. If your license is not in a Roman alphabet (e.g., English), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally required. Drivers must generally be at least 21 years old, and some companies require drivers under 25 to pay a young driver surcharge. A minimum of one year's driving experience is usually necessary.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Santiago de Compostela vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 20-30 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles might range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Expect prices to be considerably higher during the peak summer months and major holidays.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Spain, driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 120 km/h on motorways, 90 km/h on main roads, and 50 km/h in urban areas, unless otherwise signposted. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (0.25 mg/l in breath), or 0.03% for new drivers (less than two years' experience). Headlights must be used in tunnels and in conditions of poor visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under 1.35m tall must use an appropriate child seat.

Parking

Parking in Santiago de Compostela's historic center is highly restricted, often requiring resident permits or being designated for loading/unloading. It is best to use underground public parking garages (aparcamientos subterráneos) located just outside the old town, such as Parking Plaza de Galicia or Parking Xoán XXIII. These are paid and can be expensive, especially for longer stays. Free parking is rare and usually found further out from the city center, requiring a walk or bus ride.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Santiago de Compostela and the surrounding region. Most stations offer both 'Gasolina 95' (unleaded 95 octane) and 'Gasolina 98' (unleaded 98 octane), and 'Diésel' (diesel). Prices are comparable to the European average, and payment can typically be made with cash or major credit/debit cards. Self-service pumps are common.

Which car to choose

For exploring Santiago de Compostela's narrow city streets and navigating rural Galician roads, a compact or economy car is often the most practical choice. Its smaller size makes parking and maneuvering easier. If you plan to venture into more mountainous or unpaved areas, or if you require more space for luggage and passengers, an intermediate SUV could be beneficial. Manual transmission is very common in Spain, but automatic options are available, though often at a higher price.

Frequently asked questions