Car rental in Spain-Canary Islands

Tips for Renting a Car Inexpensively in Canary Islands

Looking for a cheap car rental in Canary Islands? With Economybookings, you can easily compare multiple providers to find the best possible deal across the country. Whether you're exploring major cities or venturing into rural regions, a quick comparison can save you time and money.

• Compare pickup locations – Select the broader city instead of a specific location to unlock more deal options, including off-airport savings.
• Slightly adjust pickup times and dates – Even changing your booking by an hour can reveal lower rates.
• Choose economy or compact cars – These vehicle types are usually the most budget-friendly.
• Book early – Especially during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays), advance booking helps secure lower prices and better availability.

Tips When Renting a Car in the Canary Islands

Renting a car in the Canary Islands is a smart way to explore, especially in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, or Lanzarote. While distances are short, public transport outside tourist zones is limited, so having a rental car makes a big difference.

The Canary Islands are a popular destination year-round, so booking your car in advance is a smart move, especially around Christmas, Easter, and summer. Flights tend to be full, and many travelers rent a car as soon as they land.

Picking up your rental car at the airport is the most convenient option and where you'll find the widest selection. Many local companies also offer competitive prices.

The islands are full of mountain roads. If you're planning to drive through high-altitude areas like Mount Teide or Roques de García, go for a car with decent power and reliable brakes. Roads are often narrow and winding, so take it slow and stay alert.

Outside of capital cities and busy downtown areas, parking is usually free and easy, another reason why renting a car is so practical.

Driving Tips in the Canary Islands

• Always carry your driver's license, rental contract, and insurance documents.
• Drive on the right, overtake on the left, and always signal your intentions.
• Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks; make sure you stop for them.
• Roundabouts require attention. Pick your lane before entering: inner lane for overtaking and outer lane for exiting. Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout and signal right before exiting.
• Mountain roads are often narrow and curvy. Drive slowly and stay alert.
• Popular gas stations include DISA, Repsol, Cepsa, and BP.
• Spain has strict alcohol laws: the limit is 0.5 g/L (0.3 if your license is under two years old). Fines can easily exceed €500.

Speed Limits

• 120 km/h (75 mph) on highways
• 90 km/h (55 mph) on secondary roads
• 50 km/h (31 mph) on city streets
• 30 km/h (19 mph) on residential or narrow streets
• 20 km/h (12 mph) in shared pedestrian zones

In tourist zones or mountain roads, limits are often lower; keep an eye on posted signs.

Road Signs

Road signs across the Canary Islands follow the European standard: clear icons and limits in km/h. In cities like Las Palmas and Santa Cruz, "Zone 30" areas are marked in residential neighborhoods, and bus/taxi lanes are well indicated. You'll also see signs for pedestrian zones or restricted areas in historic city centers. On inter-island roads, pay attention to warnings about strong winds or falling rocks: these are common in high-altitude areas.

Tolls and Restricted Zones

There are no toll roads anywhere in the Canary Islands. Driving is completely free across the archipelago. Also, cities like Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife don't currently have Low Emission Zones (ZBE), though some downtown areas may have limited access or be reserved for residents, so always watch for local signs.

Discover the Canary Islands by Car

The Canary Islands are perfect to explore by car, thanks to their stunning mix of volcanic landscapes, wild beaches, and scenic viewpoints. Each island has its own personality.

In Tenerife, drive up to Teide National Park; in Gran Canaria, head toward Roque Nublo through winding mountain roads; in Lanzarote, discover the surreal volcanic routes of Timanfaya. With a rental car, you'll have the freedom to hop between beaches, towns, and natural parks far from the crowds.

When to Visit

• November to March: Ideal for a winter escape with warm weather.
• April to June & September to October: Mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
• July and August: Peak season with lively beaches and a vibrant summer vibe, especially in spots like Maspalomas and Puerto de la Cruz.

Languages & Communication

Spanish is the official language in the Canary Islands, though locals have their own accent and some unique expressions. In tourist hotspots like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, or Lanzarote, many people working in hospitality speak English, German, or even French so communication isn't usually a problem for visitors.

Currency & Payments

The euro (€) is the currency in the Canary Islands. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, even at gas stations and tourist attractions. Still, it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially if you plan to visit local markets or small towns. ATMs are easy to find on all major islands.

Top Driving Routes from the Canary Islands

• Teide Route (Tenerife): Drive up to Teide National Park to explore moonlike landscapes, scenic overlooks, and mountain villages like Vilaflor.
• La Palma, North to South: Cross the "beautiful island" from Los Tilos forest in the north to the volcanic region of Fuencaliente in the south.
• Fuerteventura's Virgin Beaches: Go from Corralejo to Cofete, passing through dunes, remote beaches, and dramatic coastline.
• La Gomera Scenic Loop: Starting from San Sebastián de La Gomera, visit Garajonay National Park, panoramic viewpoints, and lush green valleys.
• Lanzarote Volcanic Tour: Explore Timanfaya, La Geria's vineyards, and the unique Jameos del Agua.