The Canary Islands are one of Europe’s easiest destinations for renting a car. With excellent road infrastructure, short distances between major attractions, and diverse landscapes ranging from beaches to volcanic mountains, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to explore the islands exactly as you wish. Whether you want a beach-hopping holiday, a mountain adventure, or village-to-village cultural trip, renting a car makes the experience smoother, faster, and far more flexible.
Why Renting a Car Is the Best Option
Public transportation in the Canary Islands is reliable, but it does not reach every beach, hiking area, or small village. A rental car allows you to plan your day without depending on bus schedules and discover hidden gems on islands like Tenerife, Lanzarote, La Palma, or Fuerteventura.
- Total freedom: Stop wherever you want, whenever you want.
- Perfect for nature lovers: Best for exploring parks, volcanoes, and mountain routes.
- Ideal for families: Easier with luggage, strollers, and beach gear.
- Affordable prices: Fuel is cheaper than mainland Spain.
- Short distances: Most routes range from 15 to 45 minutes.
Major Car Rental Companies
The Canary Islands offer a mix of global brands and trusted local companies with competitive prices:
- Cicar — Most popular local company; no hidden fees; generous insurance.
- TopCar — Affordable and reliable, especially in Gran Canaria and Tenerife.
- PlusCar — Good value; easy pickup and drop-off system.
- AutoReisen — Known for hassle-free policies and clean vehicles.
- Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt — Available at all major airports.
Where to Rent a Car
The easiest place to begin your trip is directly at the airport. All major airports—Tenerife South, Tenerife North, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and La Palma—have rental offices inside the terminal.
Airports
City Centers & Resorts
Popular tourist hubs such as Costa Adeje, Las Palmas, Playa Blanca, Corralejo, and Puerto del Carmen also offer numerous rental stands. However:
- Airport pickup = Cheapest.
- City pickup = Slightly more expensive but good if you're already settled.
Driving Conditions in the Canary Islands
The road network is modern and well-maintained. Highways along the coast are smooth, while mountain routes can be narrow and winding—especially around Masca (Tenerife), La Gomera, and Gran Canaria’s interior.
General Road Quality
- Motorways: Free, excellent, and not crowded.
- Coastal roads: Wide with scenic views.
- Mountain roads: Curvy but safe with guardrails.
Parking Tips
Parking rules are simple if you understand the color codes:
- White lines: Free parking
- Blue lines (Zona Azul): Paid parking (usually €1–€2/hour)
- Yellow lines: No parking
In resort towns, parking can get busy between 18:00–21:00. Arriving earlier or choosing a hotel with parking is recommended.
Rental Requirements
- Minimum age: 21 (some companies require 23)
- Driver’s license: Any EU/UK license or International Permit for non-EU
- Credit card: Required for deposit (local companies have lower deposits)
- Passport/ID: Needed for verification
Insurance Options
Insurance policies vary significantly between companies. Local firms like Cicar or AutoReisen are famous for offering all-inclusive insurance with zero excess, which makes the process stress-free.
- Basic Insurance: Included in most rentals.
- Full Coverage: Highly recommended.
- Glass/Tyre Insurance: Useful for mountain driving.
Fuel & Costs
The Canary Islands enjoy lower taxes than mainland Spain, making fuel prices significantly cheaper.
- Petrol: €1.20–€1.40 per litre
- Diesel: €1.10–€1.25 per litre
- Rental cost: €20–€40 per day (season dependent)
Best Islands for Scenic Drives
Tenerife
Iconic drives include the road to Mount Teide National Park and the dramatic Masca Valley route.
Gran Canaria
Known as a “mini continent,” offering coastal highways, pine forests, and volcanic mountains.
Lanzarote
Home to surreal volcanic roads around Timanfaya National Park.
Fuerteventura
Long, empty coastal roads and golden dune routes—great for beach lovers.
Tips for a Smooth Driving Experience
- Avoid mountain roads at night if you're not confident.
- Always carry water—temperatures are warm year-round.
- Use Google Maps; navigation is accurate across all islands.
- Watch for cyclists on mountain roads.
- Respect speed limits—fines are strict and automated.
Where to Go Next
Renting a car in the Canary Islands is one of the most rewarding choices you can make for your trip. With modern roads, affordable fuel, and endless scenic routes, it’s the perfect way to discover the archipelago’s natural beauty and hidden landscapes at your own pace.
