Santander Car Rental

Immediate Savings: Significant Price Reductions on Rentals for Today
Santander Car Rental Up to -35%

What to Expect: Car Rental Rates for Different Models in Santander

All you need to know about car hire in Santander

Hiring a car in Santander can be a convenient and flexible way to explore this beautiful coastal city and its surrounding areas. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process of car hire in Santander.

Why Hire a Car in Santander?

There are several reasons why hiring a car in Santander can enhance your travel experience:

  • Flexibility: A car allows you to explore at your own pace and visit off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • Convenience: Avoid the hassle of public transportation schedules and enjoy door-to-door service.
  • Comfort: Travel in comfort, especially if you have luggage or are traveling with family.

Where to Hire a Car

Car hire services are readily available in Santander. You can find rental agencies at:

  • Santander Airport (SDR): Most major car rental companies have desks at the airport, making it convenient to pick up a car upon arrival.
  • City Center: There are several rental agencies located in the city center, offering a range of vehicles to suit your needs.

Requirements for Car Hire

To hire a car in Santander, you will typically need:

  • Valid Driver’s License: An international driving permit may be required if your license is not in Spanish.
  • Credit Card: A credit card in the name of the main driver is usually required for the security deposit.
  • Age Requirement: Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some requiring a minimum age of 25.

Driving Tips

When driving in Santander, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Traffic Rules: Familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and regulations.
  • Parking: Parking can be challenging in the city center, so look for designated parking areas or use parking garages.
  • Navigation: Use a GPS or a reliable map to navigate the city and surrounding areas.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a smooth and enjoyable car hire experience in Santander, allowing you to make the most of your visit to this charming region of Spain.

All you need to know about car hire in Santander

Electric Car Rental Choices in Santander

Average daily rates for renting an electric car in Santander

Exploring Santander with an electric car is an eco-friendly and efficient way to enjoy the city. Several popular electric car models are available for rent, each offering unique features and benefits. Here are some of the top choices and their average daily rental rates:

  • Nissan Leaf: The Nissan Leaf is a popular choice for its reliability and range. The average daily rental rate is around €50.
  • Renault Zoe: Known for its compact size and efficiency, the Renault Zoe can be rented for approximately €45 per day.
  • BMW i3: This model combines luxury with sustainability, and its daily rental rate is about €70.
  • Tesla Model 3: For those seeking a high-performance electric vehicle, the Tesla Model 3 is available at an average rate of €100 per day.
  • Hyundai Kona Electric: This versatile SUV offers a comfortable ride and can be rented for around €60 per day.

These rates provide a general idea of the cost of renting an electric car in Santander, allowing you to choose the best option for your needs and budget while contributing to a greener environment.

Average daily rates for renting an electric car in Santander

Our advantages

24/7 support
24/7 support
Feel free to contact us 24/7 for any assistance you need.
Free cancellation
Free cancellation
You can modify or cancel your reservation up to 48 hours prior to pick-up.
No extra fees
No extra fees
There are no additional charges for making reservations.

One way car rental options in Santander

One way car rentals in Santander offer flexibility for travelers who wish to explore different parts of Spain without the need to return to their starting point. Many car rental companies provide this service, allowing you to pick up a vehicle in Santander and drop it off in another city. This is particularly convenient for those planning road trips or business travel across the country.

For example, renting a car in Santander and returning it in Madrid typically incurs an additional fee ranging from €50 to €100, depending on the rental company and the type of vehicle. Similarly, a one-way rental from Santander to Barcelona might cost an extra €70 to €120. These fees are in addition to the standard rental rates, which vary based on the car model and rental duration.

It's advisable to compare prices and terms from different rental companies to find the best deal for your travel needs. Many companies offer online booking options, making it easy to plan your trip in advance.

One way car rental options in Santander

Month-to-Month Variations in Car Rental Prices

Your Guide to Cost-Saving Tips for Car Rentals in Santander

1. Book in advance

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to save on car rentals is to book well in advance. This is particularly important in tourist-heavy locations, where demand for rental cars can spike during popular travel seasons. By booking ahead of time, you can take advantage of lower rates and ensure that your preferred vehicle type is available.


The Early-Bird Advantage

Many car rental companies in Santander offer "early-bird" specials to customers who book weeks or even months ahead of their planned rental dates. These deals can offer significant discounts, sometimes up to 20% or 30% off the regular price. Booking in advance is especially beneficial if you plan to travel during peak seasons when prices are likely to soar due to high demand.


Flexibility Pays Off

Booking ahead not only helps you save money but also gives you the flexibility to shop around and compare prices from different suppliers. If your travel dates are flexible, you can also adjust them to periods when rates are lower, ensuring even more savings.


R-TG.com: Your Go-To Source for Deals

For the best deals, consider using our website, r-tg.com. We aggregate rates from various suppliers, providing you with a one-stop shop for comparison. The site often features exclusive early-bird specials and promotional discounts that you won't find anywhere else. It's an excellent resource for locking in the lowest possible rate for your rental car in Santander.

2. Compare Various Suppliers

Scouring multiple sources for car rental rates is one of the best strategies to secure a cost-effective deal. Different rental companies have varying price structures, and the cost can differ widely even for identical vehicle categories.


The Importance of Comparing Rates

Let's say you're interested in a compact vehicle like a VW Polo. While you may initially lean toward established brands like sixt or budget, don't overlook smaller, local agencies. These lesser-known providers may offer enticing rates to lure customers away from larger competitors.


Illustrative Pricing

For example, renting a VW Polo from sixt could set you back €23 per day, with basic insurance included. In contrast, budget might charge €76 per day for the same car, but with a limited mileage allowance. A more thorough search could reveal a local vendor offering the VW Polo at a daily rate of just €12, with unlimited mileage to boot.

3. Utilize Discount Codes

Using discount codes can significantly reduce your car rental costs in Santander, offering you the chance to upgrade your vehicle class, extend your rental period, or simply save money. These promotional codes or coupons are not just for the savvy coupon-clipper; they are a mainstream and widely accepted practice in the car rental industry.


Types of Discounts

There is a wide array of discounts you might be eligible for. For instance, AAA members often enjoy reduced rates or additional perks like a free additional driver. Military personnel and their families can also benefit from special rates. Even holding a particular type of credit card could make you eligible for specific discounts or additional coverage. Always check what types of discounts you might qualify for, as they can stack up and result in substantial savings.


Where to Find Codes

Discount codes can be found on a variety of platforms, including:

  1. The rental company’s own website
  2. Third-party travel deal websites
  3. Membership platforms like AAA
  4. Direct mailing lists
  5. Social media platforms, where car rental companies occasionally post special promo codes.


Caveats to Consider

While discount codes can offer significant savings, they may come with specific terms and conditions, such as blackout dates or limited vehicle classes. Always read the fine print to ensure the discount applies to your specific rental needs.

4. Decline the Prepaid Fuel Option

The prepaid fuel option may seem like a convenient choice at first glance. After all, who wants to rush to find a gas station right before returning a rental car? However, this convenience often comes at a premium, and refueling the car yourself can lead to significant savings.


How Prepaid Fuel Works

When you choose the prepaid fuel option, you're essentially paying for a full tank of gas at the rates set by the rental company. This rate often includes a markup, making it more expensive than what you'd pay at a local gas station. Additionally, if you don't use the entire tank, you usually won't receive a refund for the unused fuel, leading to even more wastage.


Plan Ahead

It's wise to plan your refueling strategy in advance. Look up local gas stations near your drop-off location and check their rates using apps or websites. Some mobile apps even offer real-time gas price comparisons, allowing you to find the cheapest rates nearby.


Consider Your Itinerary

If you're not planning to drive much during your rental period, you might end up returning the car with a nearly full tank, making the prepaid fuel option an even less economical choice. Always consider your driving itinerary and needs when making this decision.


Time Versus Money

While skipping the prepaid fuel option can save money, it may require extra time and planning on your part. Weigh the cost savings against the value of your time to determine if it's worth the effort.


In summary, while the prepaid fuel option offers convenience, it often does so at a higher price. By doing some quick math and planning your fuel stops, you can save money and ensure you're getting the best deal on your car rental.

5. Choose Economy Cars

Choosing an economy car can save you significantly on both rental and fuel costs, which is crucial in areas with high gas prices or for extended journeys.


Economy Cars: A Smart Choice

Economy cars are not only cheaper to rent but also fuel-efficient. They are also more manageable in crowded or tight spaces.


Electric Cars for Extra Savings

Consider an electric vehicle (EV) for additional fuel savings and a smaller carbon footprint. While the rental rate might be higher, fuel savings can offset it.


An Electric Example

An EV like the KIA E-Niro could negate fuel costs if you find free charging options.

Electric Car Perks

Some cities allow EVs in carpool lanes, saving you time on the road.


In summary, economy and electric cars are both cost-efficient and eco-friendly options. Compare rental and estimated fuel costs to find the best fit for your trip.

6. Look for Package Deals

Many travel websites provide package deals that encompass flights, hotels, and car rentals. By combining these services, you can frequently secure substantial savings.

7. Reserve the Smallest Car and Upgrade Later

Reserving the cheapest, smallest car can be a smart strategy for securing a free upgrade, especially if you wouldn't mind a better vehicle.


The Upgrade Strategy

Rental agencies often run out of economy cars, leading to free upgrades for those who booked them. You might get a midsize or even a sedan for the price of an economy car.


Risks and Rewards

There's no guarantee, but the odds are better during busy seasons. You'll still save money if you end up with the small car.


Tips for Success

  1. Timing: Book during high-demand periods.
  2. Early Arrival: Check in early to beat the crowd.
  3. Ask: Politely inquire about upgrade possibilities.
  4. Loyalty: Membership can increase upgrade chances.
  5. Specials: Look for cheap upgrade deals at the counter.
8. Verify Your Auto Insurance

Before choosing the rental company's insurance, review your own auto insurance policy to determine if it covers rentals. If it does, you can avoid the extra cost.

9. Monitor Seasonal Promotions

Rental car companies in Santander often offer special deals and discounts, especially during holidays or quieter seasons. To stay informed about these time-sensitive offers, consider signing up for their email updates or frequently visiting their websites. Social media is another platform where they might post unique offers.


Utilizing these tips in your travel preparations significantly increases the likelihood of securing a cost-effective car rental. Being a knowledgeable and savvy shopper in this bustling environment can help you manage your spending more effectively.

10. Be Aware of Mileage Limits

Be aware of mileage limits when renting a car in Santander to avoid extra charges.


Mileage Policies

Options often include unlimited mileage, daily limits, or a total trip limit. Understand what you're getting to avoid hidden fees.


Cost of Overages

Exceeding limits can cost $0.25 to $0.75 per extra km, quickly adding up.


Negotiate Limits

Discuss mileage policies at pickup; sometimes you can negotiate a better deal upfront rather than pay overage fees later.


Staying informed about mileage helps you manage costs and enjoy a stress-free rental experience.

Reviews and ratings