Have you thought “Is it worth hiring a car in Gran Canaria” while planning your getaway there?
You are in the right place and trust me, you are not alone!
I have spent 10+ years hiring cars across Europe and have travelled around Gran Canaria with and without a car.
I have learnt over the years that in some destinations having a car rental has zero benefits whilst in others, your trip is ten times better.
To help you decide if renting a car in Gran Canaria is the best option, let’s look at everything you need to consider before clicking that “Reserve My Rental Car Now” button.
By the end of this article, you will have all the information to make you feel confident getting around Gran Canaria with or without a car!
Short On Time?
Let’s get to the point! –renting a car is totally worth it.
But it’s not the only way to get around GC!
These are the best ways to get around:
Discover Cars– The only car hire company I use
🚌Green Buses– The top budget-friendly option
✈️ Airport Transfer.Com– Great for airport transfers
🤩 VIP Highlights Tour of Gran Canaria– for seeing the Island in style
Is It Worth Hiring A Car In Gran Canaria?: Quick Guide
I have rented a car in Gran Canaria and used public transport to get around. Honestly, It’s worth renting a car here, even if it’s just for a day.
Exploring Gran Canaria by road is just amazing. There are so many mountain views that you would be unable to see without a car or paying a stupidly high taxi price.
A rental car also provides you with so much more flexibility and convenience, especially if you want to explore remote areas or go to lots of things in one day.
Time is money and all that and not only does it save you money on airport transfers and allows you to set your own schedule and not rely on anyone else!
One of my favourite things about getting around the Island is that you have great car rental options for all needs that do not cost a fortune.
🤩 For the best rates and car options, I highly recommend using Discover Cars.
I always use them wherever I’m renting a car in Greece because they have so many benefits. One thing I love is that they check all car options from international companies to tiny local ones. So you get the best price every time!
🏆 Gold Cars – Best overall option and one of the cheapest to book with! (I have personally used this company and thought they were great)
Why Should I Hire A Car In Gran Canaria?
Hiring a car in Gran Canaria has many advantages and after my experience, I think it’s the best way to get around. Without a rental, I would not have been able to have seen half of the stuff I did!
The main pro of hiring here is that you can visit off-the-beaten-path locations, beautiful viewpoints, and small villages that may not be easily accessible by public transportation. This is the case for many of the mountain locations which have the best views and amazing restaurants.
It is also super helpful if you don’t have much time. You can efficiently move from one attraction to another without waiting for buses or dealing with the constraints of fixed routes.
A key advantage for me though is it saves you money. If you’re travelling with a group or family, buying multiple public transportation tickets quickly adds up!
It’s also super helpful if you stay in self-catering accommodation like I did. You can easily jump in the car and fill up with provisions from Super Dino (my fave supermarket there) without lugging everything in the heat.
How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Car In Gran Canaria?
There isn’t a set price as they will change depending on the time of year, vehicle type and how long you have the car.
You are looking at paying anything between €6-€20 per day. You can also add extras to some vehicles like an extra driver and WI-FI which will add to your overall costs if you select these services.
💡 Discover Cars will help you compare prices and vehicle options before your trip!
What Are The BEST Car Rental Options In Gran Canaria?
Like any popular getaway destination, you will be flooded with so many options for hire cars- it can get pretty overwhelming to know where to start!
To help you out, these are the top car rental options to consider when in Gran Canaria:
✅ Gold Cars– I have personally used this company and they are super friendly and want to get you on the road fast!
✅ Top Cars– A super popular company to use with 2 different pick-up locations.
✅ Record-go – Covers you for unlimited mileage and has a free shuttle service.
9 Things To Know Before Renting A Car In Gran Canaria
Renting a car in Gran Canaria is a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the island. However, there are some important things to know before you rent a car to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience:
- Driving Requirements:
- Make sure you meet the minimum age requirement for renting a car, which is usually 21 or 25 years old, depending on the rental agency.
- Have a valid driver’s license. International driving permits are not always required, but it’s a good idea to check with the rental agency.
- Booking in Advance:
- It’s often cheaper to book your rental car in advance online. This gives you a chance to compare prices and choose the best deal.
- Insurance:
- Understand the insurance options offered by the rental company. Basic insurance is usually included, but you may want to consider additional coverage for comprehensive protection.
- Fuel Policy:
- Pay attention to the fuel policy. Some companies provide a full tank of gas and expect you to return the car with a full tank, while others may charge you for a full tank regardless of how much gas is left.
- Car Inspection:
- Before accepting the car, thoroughly inspect it for any existing damage. Take pictures and report any scratches or dents to the rental company. This can help you avoid being charged for damage that was already present.
- Driving Rules and Regulations:
- Familiarize yourself with local driving rules and regulations, including speed limits, parking regulations, and any specific rules applicable to Gran Canaria.
- Navigation:
- Make sure you have a reliable navigation system or GPS app on your phone. This will help you navigate the island’s roads easily.
- Parking:
- Understand the parking situation in different areas. In cities or tourist spots, parking may be limited, so plan accordingly.
- Road Conditions:
- Be aware of the road conditions, especially if you plan to explore the mountainous areas. Some roads may be narrow and winding.
Can You Get Around Gran Canaria Without A Car?
There are so many great things you will want to do in Gran Canaria that are made easier to see with a car. However, driving may not be something you want to do when on your getaway.
These are the best ways to get around the Island without a car:
🚌 Green Buses– This is the most popular transport option if you do not have a car. However, it does not go to some mountain areas.
✈️ Airport Transfer.Com– Great to compare transfer options to and from the airport.
⭐️ VIP Highlights Tour of Gran Canaria– If you want to see Gran Canaria from a local and not drive, this is your best option (It has glowing reviews!)
Is It Worth Hiring A Car In Gran Canaria? FAQs
I’m sure you have a few more questions before booking your transport. To help you out, these are the most commonly asked questions travellers in your shoes have asked:
Yes! Renting a car in the Canary Islands is recommended for anyone seeking flexibility. While public transportation is available, having a car allows convenient access to secluded beaches, volcanic landscapes, and charming villages.
Driving in Gran Canaria is generally easy, with well-maintained roads and clear signage. However, some areas may have winding mountain roads and steep terrain. Familiarize yourself with local traffic rules, and be cautious in busy urban centres.
Tenerife is often considered the best Canary Island to explore without a car. It has well-developed public transportation, including buses and taxis, offering access to major attractions and beaches.
Yes, you can drive in Gran Canaria with a UK driving licence. The United Kingdom and Spain have reciprocal agreements allowing visitors with a valid UK licence to use it for driving in Spain, including Gran Canaria.
For convenience and flexibility, renting a car is the best to explore the diverse landscapes. Even though the Island has taxis and buses, you have to rely on others to get around and they may not take you to your exact destination.
Is It Worth Hiring A Car In Gran Canaria? Final Thoughts
Hiring a car in Gran Canaria proves to be the most cost-effective way for many to travel as a group or do a lot of exploring.
It is also the most efficient way to explore the island, providing the freedom to venture into remote areas (bring a camera to these areas, they are stunning! 😍)
And you don’t have to wait on buses or taxi drivers to do it!
However, for those who don’t fancy driving, don’t panic. There are some great alternatives for getting around the Island like taxis and buses. Just remember it can take longer to get buses and taxis during the peak travel months because of the high demand.
I hope you found this article useful! To help you have the best time, here are some relevant posts:
✔️What To Wear In Europe By A European( & What To Avoid)
✔️ The 5 Best Cabin Baggage For Ryanair Options
✔️ Best EasyJet Cabin Bag Options
✔️ The Ultimate 3-week European Road Trip Itinerary
Lowri Thomas is the founder of Many Other Roads. She lives and travels in Europe and has explored more than 40 countries. She is joined on her travels with her dog Scout and they explore Europe mostly by road. Born in Wales, she also shares the best things to do in Wales, UK and beyond. She helps over 50,000 people per month plan epic Europe adventures and road trips.
