Car Hire at Barcelona Airport (BCN)
Compare car hire at Barcelona El Prat for 2026. Find great deals for your trip to Catalonia, from the city to the Costa Brava.
Landing at Barcelona-El Prat Airport? A hire car offers the freedom to explore beyond the city, from the beaches of Sitges to the mountains of Montserrat. At ashdub.cars, we make it easy to compare prices from trusted partners like Sixt and Europcar, so you can book the right car at the right price. Most car hire desks are conveniently located within both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2B. Once you have the keys, you will be driving on the right-hand side of the road. Be aware of Barcelona's Low Emission Zone (ZBE) if you plan to drive into the city centre on weekdays.
What you need to know
Desks for major suppliers are located on the ground floor of Terminal 1 and in the main arrivals hall of Terminal 2B. Check your voucher to confirm your terminal and desk location.
For visits up to six months, your UK photocard driving licence is sufficient. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required for Spain, but can be a useful backup.
Drive on the right. Speed limits are strictly enforced by cameras. On roundabouts, traffic already circulating has priority. Watch out for the many scooters and motorcycles in the city.
The main coastal motorway, the AP-7, has sections that require tolls ('peatge'). You can pay with cash or credit card, or your car may have an electronic tag for express lanes.
Good questions
Do I need a special sticker for Barcelona's Low Emission Zone?
As your hire car will be Spanish-registered, it will already have the required DGT sticker if it meets the emission standards. You do not need to do anything extra, but be mindful of the zone's operating hours.
Can I take my hire car to France or Andorra?
Yes, cross-border travel is usually permitted but you must declare it at the time of booking or collection. A cross-border fee will apply to extend the insurance cover.
What is the typical fuel policy in Spain?
The standard and fairest policy is 'full-to-full'. You receive the car with a full tank and are expected to return it full. Avoid pre-purchase options unless you are certain you will use the entire tank.
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