Hiring an Electric Car in Barcelona: All of Its Advantages

Barcelona

Hiring a 'Zero Label' car in Barcelona isn’t just about being eco-friendly; it’s mostly about your own comfort and some pretty big savings. In Catalonia, you can take advantage of one of the best charging networks in Europe and say goodbye to sky-high fuel costs.

Driving in Barcelona in 2026: ZBE Restrictions

The Low Emission Zone (ZBE) in Barcelona isn't just a city centre thing anymore; it's spread out over 95 square kilometres. Areas like L'Hospitalet, Esplugues, and Badalona are all part of these zones now.

2026 brings even stricter rules:

• Vehicles without a label: Completely banned from entering or driving from Monday to Friday (07:00 to 20:00).
• B Label (Yellow): Cars with a B label face restricted access as soon as high pollution alerts are activated, which is quite often during the anticyclone months.

When you hire a car with DoYouSpain, you don't have to spend your holiday checking calendars or environmental alerts. You’ve got a green light to drive through every corner of the city without the constant fear of getting a fine.

The Perks of the Zero Label

Having that blue sticker on your windscreen is a big advantage. It saves you both time and money.

Parking in Blue and Green Zones for Free

Here’s a top tip: most people will be spending £30 or £40 a day for private car parks, while parking an electric car on the street is practically free. In almost all the Blue and Green zones across the city, zero-emission cars get massive discounts or, quite often, don't pay a penny.

Zero-emission vehicles hold a privileged spot, especially when it comes to parking. Although you still need to 'validate' your ticket through apps like smou (Barcelona's mobility app), the cost for an electric car is usually zero or heavily subsidised in Blue zone spaces. Unlimited access to the city centre While many cars are restricted from the most iconic parts of the old town, with a Zero label, you can move around with total freedom.

Unlimited access to the city centre

While many cars are restricted from the most iconic parts of the old town, with a Zero label, you can move around with total freedom.

Charging Your Car in Barcelona: Public Points and Top Tips

Lots of people are still worried about 'running out of charge,' but in Barcelona, that’s actually quite complicated. The city has a massive public charging network called Endolla Barcelona.

Where to plug in while you explore

There are over 1,000 charging points dotted all over Barcelona. At DoYouSpain, we recommend a few of the best spots:

• Public Car Parks: Most community car parks have reserved spaces with chargers. It’s perfect, leave the car charging while you grab dinner in the Gothic Quarter or wander through the centre, and your car is ready to go when you get back.
• Shopping Centres: If you fancy an afternoon of shopping or a film at places like Westfield Glòries, La Maquinista, or L'Illa Diagonal, make use of their chargers. They’re usually quite fast, so the car gets a decent boost in just a couple of hours.
• Supermarkets: Many supermarket chains now offer charging points (some are even free for a limited time for customers). It’s a brilliant way to top up your battery while you grab some bits.

Why Hiring a Car is the Smartest Way to Get Around

When people visit Barcelona, they always wonder if it’s better to use a car or public transport. The Metro is a good option, but having your own car gives you that level of freedom and flexibility that a bus or taxi just can’t compare with.

• Day trips out of town: Want to catch the sunset in Sitges or head up the Montserrat mountains? On holiday, the last thing you want is to be a on top of all the train timetables. With your own car, you go where you want, when you want, for half the price.
• Comfort and luggage: Getting out of El Prat airport, throwing the suitcases in the boot, and driving straight to your accommodation without dragging bags through the Metro is priceless.
• Drive in peace: With an electric car, you’ll travel through the city quietly, without stressing about which streets you’re allowed into.

How to Find the Best Price for Your Electric Hire with DoYouSpain

Hiring a car in Barcelona is much easier when you aren't wasting time or worrying about your budget. That’s where DoYouSpain comes in, the car hire comparison site that does all the 'boring work' for you.

They are a leading company that compares offers from every agency in and around the city in real-time. You’ll thank them for saving you from the chaos of having 15 tabs open on your laptop trying to do it yourself. With DoYouSpain, you always get the cheapest option without the hassle. It’s the simplest way to secure the best price for 2026, no drama involved.

Tips for Finding The Ideal Car (and Saving Some Cash)

To find the perfect electric car, just follow these simple steps on the DoYouSpain website:

• Filter: Use the 'Electric' filter in the search engine. The great thing about the platform is that it doesn't get things mixed up; if you tick this, you’ll only see Zero Label vehicles.
• Car hire is about more than just comfort, it’s about enjoying the adventure at your own pace. With DoYouSpain, you can compare all prices instantly and pick the most budget-friendly option in minutes.

If you have any questions along the way, the team is available 24/7. You can call them on +34 964 83 09 95, head to the Customer Service Area, or have a chat with the new Virtual Assistant.