Do you want to rent a car in Malaga? Renting a car in Málaga is a popular and convenient option for both tourists and locals. With a car you can easily explore the city and discover the beautiful surrounding region of Andalusia. In this comprehensive overview, we’ll cover everything you need to know about car hire in Málaga, including the available car hire companies, car hire requirements, rates and insurance, tips for driving around the city, and important considerations to ensure a smooth car hire experience.
Car rental companies in Málaga
Málaga has a wide range of car rental companies, both national and international, offering a wide selection of vehicles, from compact cars to luxury cars and SUVs. Some of the best known car rental companies in Málaga are Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Budget and Enterprise. These companies often have multiple locations scattered around the city, including at Málaga Airport, making it easy to pick up a car on arrival.
Car rental requirements Malaga
Before you can rent a car in Málaga, you must meet certain requirements set by the car rental company. The most common requirements are:
Age
The minimum age to rent a car in Málaga is usually 21 years, but some car rental companies may have a higher minimum age. Drivers under the age of 25 can also expect a young driver allowance.
Driving licence
You must have a valid driver’s license that is at least one year old. For foreign drivers, an international driver’s license in combination with the national driver’s license is often required.
Identification
Please make sure to bring a valid passport or national ID card as this is required when picking up the rental car.
Payment
Usually a credit card in the name of the main driver is requested for the payment of the rental car and any deposit.
Insurance and coverage
When renting a car in Málaga you should consider which insurances you want to take out. Most car rental companies offer the following insurances:
Third Party Liability Insurance
This is the basic insurance that covers the damage to third parties, including bodily injury and property damage, caused by the rented vehicle. It is usually required by law and included in the rental price.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
This insurance covers the cost of damage to the rental car in the event of an accident. Please note that a deductible often still applies.
Theft Protection (TP)
This insurance covers the costs in case of theft of the rental car.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
This insurance provides coverage for medical expenses and personal injury of the driver and passengers.
It is essential to carefully read and understand the terms and coverage of the insurance policies before signing the rental agreement. Also, keep in mind that some insurance policies may overlap with your existing travel insurance or credit card insurance, so taking out additional insurance may not be necessary.
Fees and surcharges
When renting a car in Málaga you have to take into account various costs and surcharges, such as:
Basic rental price
This is the daily rental price of the car. The price may vary depending on the type of vehicle, the duration of the rental and the car rental company.
Bail
The car rental company may require a deposit that will be blocked on your credit card during the rental period. This deposit will be returned if you return the car without damage and with a full tank of fuel.
Fuel costs
Car rental companies have different fuel policies. Some companies deliver the car with a full tank and expect you to return the car with a full tank as well. Other companies charge a fuel surcharge based on the fuel level when picking up and returning the car.
Additional drivers
If you plan to share the car with other drivers, there may be a cost to add additional drivers to the rental agreement.
Other fees
Depending on the car rental company, other fees may apply, such as airport surcharges, cross-border surcharges, or car pick-up and drop-off fees at different locations.
Make sure you understand the total cost, including all fees and insurance, before signing the rental agreement. It’s also a good idea to compare prices between different car rental companies to find the best deal.
Driving in Málaga can be a great way to explore the city and the surrounding region. Here are some tips to make your driving experience in Málaga as smooth as possible:
Traffic rules and signs
Make sure you are aware of the local traffic rules and road signs in Spain. Certain rules may differ from what you are used to in your own country. Adhere to the indicated speed limits and other traffic regulations to avoid traffic fines.
Driving around the city center
The historic centre of Málaga has narrow streets and limited parking facilities. If you are not familiar with the area, consider parking your car outside the city center and continuing on foot.
Parking spaces
Parking spaces are often scarce in the centre of Málaga, especially during busy tourist seasons. However, there are several public car parks scattered throughout the city, where you can park your car safely. Pay attention to parking indications and rates to avoid fines.
Blue zones and street parking
In some parts of Málaga there are blue zones for street parking, where you have to buy a parking ticket at a parking meter. These zones usually have limited parking times. Make sure you follow the rules to avoid having your car towed away or fined.
Driving on the highway
The motorways (autopistas) in Spain are generally well maintained and of good quality. Please note that some highways are toll roads, so make sure you have cash or a credit card on hand to pay the toll.
Defensive driving
Be alert and drive defensively, especially in busy traffic conditions. Be considerate of other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists, and avoid distractions such as cell phones while driving.
Petrol stations
Make sure to refill the tank of your rental car on time. There are plenty of petrol stations in and around Málaga, but it’s a good idea to refill the tank before heading to remote areas.
GPS or navigation app
If you are not familiar with the roads in Málaga, consider using a GPS system or downloading a navigation app on your smartphone to help you navigate.
Spanish Traffic Police Malaga
The Spanish Traffic Police (Guardia Civil de Tráfico) conducts regular traffic checks, so make sure you have all the required documents with you, such as your driver’s license, ID and insurance documents.
Night driving
If you drive at night, be careful on roads with low lighting, especially in rural areas. Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
Peak hours
Avoid driving during rush hours (8:00 am – 9:30 am and 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm) when traffic is usually busy and it can be difficult to find parking spaces.
Navigating the city
Some streets in Málaga can be one-way, so be careful when navigating and follow the road signs.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy a pleasant and safe driving experience in Málaga and make the most of your car rental to explore all that this beautiful city and its surroundings have to offer.
Driving in Málaga can be both exciting and challenging, especially if you are not used to the local traffic rules and conditions. Here are some tips to make your driving experience in Málaga as smooth as possible:
Do I need a car in Malaga?
It depends on your plans and preferences during your stay in Malaga whether you need a car. If you plan to stay mainly in the city and explore the sights in the center of Malaga, then there is no need to rent a car. Public transport in Malaga is well developed and you can easily reach the main attractions by bus or metro.
However, if you are planning to explore the surroundings of Malaga, such as the beaches along the coast, the white villages in the mountains, the wine region around Ronda, or the natural parks nearby, then a car can be useful. A car gives you more flexibility and freedom to go where you want, when you want and you can easily travel outside the city limits.
Keep in mind that parking in the center of Malaga can sometimes be difficult and can lead to extra costs. Also, the narrow streets and bustle in the city can be challenging for some drivers.
In short, if you plan to stay mainly in the center of Malaga, you do not need a car. However, if you are planning to explore the surroundings of Malaga, then a car can be useful. It is advisable to weigh your plans and budget and decide whether renting a car is necessary for your stay in Malaga.
