Car Rentals in Bilbao, ESP

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Bilbao

Renting a car in and around Bilbao offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and tailor your travel plans to fit your interests. This convenience is ideal for those seeking a mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and beach outings. You can visit key attractions such as the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, located in the heart of the city, or enjoy the atmosphere at Plaza Nueva and the historic Bilbao City Hall, all within a short drive from each other. Additionally, exploring nearby destinations like Getxo, with its lovely Playa de las Arenas and Abra Getxo Marina, becomes hassle-free. Families can appreciate the ease of travelling with children, as you can leave essentials in the car while enjoying the local sights. Whether you're drawn to the rich culture of Bilbao's city centre or the charm of the Old Town, a rental car allows you to discover these areas comfortably. Embrace the opportunity to uncover the Basque Country's beauty and attractions with the convenience of your own transport.

Most popular car hires in Bilbao

• Midsize SUV: This versatile vehicle accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. With a Midsize SUV, you can enjoy comfortable travel while having ample space for luggage, perfect for exploring the beautiful surroundings of Bilbao without compromising on comfort.
• Compact: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, this option accommodates up to 5 travellers and up to 3 medium suitcases. The Compact car is practical for navigating the streets of Bilbao, offering a balance between space efficiency and comfort. It's particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a blend of convenience and flexibility during their journey.
• Economy: This option, accommodating 5 travellers with up to 2 medium suitcases, is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or small families. The Economy car is a cost-effective solution that provides the essential features for an enjoyable trip while ensuring you have enough room for your luggage. It's an excellent choice for those looking to explore Bilbao without the need for excessive space.

Top rated car suppliers in Bilbao

• Budget: Budget provides excellent value for travellers looking to rent a car in Bilbao, with 2 convenient rental locations in the area. Known for their popular Compact and Midsize SUVs, Budget is a preferred choice for those seeking flexibility and affordability while exploring the beautiful Basque Country at their own pace.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car is another top option for visitors in Bilbao, boasting 2 rental locations in the vicinity. Travellers frequently opt for their Compact and Midsize SUVs, making it a great choice for those who desire a comfortable and spacious vehicle to navigate the attractions and scenic routes of the region with ease.
• Avis: Avis offers a reliable car hire service with 1 rental location in the Bilbao area. Their Midsize SUVs and Compact cars are highly sought after, providing a solid option for tourists looking to enjoy the flexibility of driving in and around Bilbao. With Avis, you can count on quality vehicles and efficient service for your journey.

Where to stay in Bilbao

• Bilbao City Centre: The vibrant heart of Bilbao, this neighbourhood offers a rich cultural experience with attractions such as the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and Bilbao City Hall, both ideal for culture enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere of Plaza Nueva, a charming square perfect for socialising. With nearby options for food and drink, including local wineries, Bilbao City Centre is a great base for exploring the arts and leisure activities, especially during the summer months when outdoor events are plentiful.
• Deusto: Known for its cultural and entertainment offerings, Deusto is a lively area featuring notable sites like the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and the picturesque Plaza Moyua. This neighbourhood caters to those seeking a mix of music, education, and opera performances. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a variety of cafes, making it a pleasant spot to unwind after exploring nearby attractions. Deusto’s city-themed experience is particularly enjoyable in the spring and autumn, when the weather is mild.
• Getxo: Situated by the coast, Getxo is perfect for those who adore beach activities and outdoor pursuits. With highlights such as Playa de las Arenas and the scenic Abra Getxo Marina, this city provides a picturesque setting for relaxation and adventure alike. The area is also home to various restaurants and wineries, offering delightful dining options. Getxo is best visited in late spring to early autumn, when the weather is ideal for beach outings and outdoor exploration.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Bilbao

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting specific vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the perfect fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid incurring extra charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, although the convenience may justify the additional cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected charges and provides peace of mind if anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. It is straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bilbao

The best value period to rent a car in and around Bilbao is February, when both prices and demand are low. This month offers a quiet experience for travellers. Following closely, October also presents slightly low prices with average demand. From July through August, however, prices tend to rise and demand peaks, making it the most expensive time to rent a car. April and May show slightly high prices while still maintaining average demand, indicating a busier period for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	48.6°F (9.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	54.1°F (12.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	67.8°F (19.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	50.9°F (10.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average