Barcelona is one of the most fascinating cities in Europe and well worth a visit. While the public transportation system is pretty good, it can be helpful to have a car to save time in getting around to some of the more popular tourist sights located outside of the main downtown corridor. And, a rental car would be ideal if you’re interested in getting out into the countryside or to the coast.
Renting a car in a foreign city can be intimidating. But taking just a few steps to prepare can make all the difference. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you plan on renting a car in Barcelona.
1) Consider the size of the car based on the number of people traveling with you and the amount of luggage you’ll have. Cars in Europe are far smaller than those in the U.S. so you may need to get used to a vehicle with less space.
2) Make your reservation online well in advance. This will allow you to book in English, know exactly what you’re getting and have the possibility of getting better advance rates. Trying to book in person or by phone can cause all sorts of problems if you’re not fluent in Spanish. Book your car through Enterprise which has a new spiffy website with their European car rental options.
3) Stick shift cars are far more common than automatics. If you don’t know how to drive a manual, make sure your rental is an automatic, otherwise you may be stuck with a vehicle you can’t drive.
4) In Spain, you must be at least 21 years old to rent a car.
5) Do be safe, get an international drivers permit in case you need to show something other than you drivers license from your home country.
6) In Barcelona, be prepared for lots of traffic. Barcelona reportedly has the second largest number of motorbikes and scooters in Europe so you’ll navigate around more than just other cars.
7) Make sure you’re covered by insurance. Whether it’s from your own insurance company or through the rental car agency, this is important when you’re renting in a foreign country. For one, you won’t be used to the way locals drive so that in itself can be a bit scary. But because of the traffic and number of motorbikes, it’s not unusual for vehicles to get scratched up–whether while you’re driving or the car is parked. It may not be your fault but you will be responsible for it.
8) Be aware that there may be a mileage limit on your rental car. If you’re planning on doing a lot of traveling around the country, factor this into the cost.
9) Also budget for toll booths that are found on the motorways (the autopistas). The highways tend to have more traffic than the autovias (which are free) but the traffic tends to move faster.
Spain is a really fabulous country and Barcelona is spectacular. It would be well worth renting a car and exploring the region on your own.
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Photo credits:
Plaza de Espana Barcelona: Seth Lemmons via Flickr
Driving Stick Shift Rental: Jordi Payà via Flickr
Barcelona Traffic: Mercedes-Benz F-Cell via Flickr