How and where to hire a car in Madrid

Madrid

If you're planning to hire a car in Madrid soon, the information below will be of great interest to you. Madrid offers a wide range of car hire options, and choosing the right one can significantly enhance your experience. At DoYouSpain, we have compiled the best tips, tricks, and essential information on how and where to hire a car in Madrid—so you can explore the city with total comfort and at the best price.

Where to hire a car in Madrid

Madrid is a large and well-connected city, offering several convenient car hire locations based on your point of arrival.

Aeropuerto de Madrid-Barajas

Si aterrizas en el Aeropuerto Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas, encontrarás oficinas de alquiler en cada una de sus terminales. Alquilar desde el aeropuerto es la mejor opción si tu objetivo es empezar el viaje cuanto antes.

Train stations

You can also hire a car at Madrid’s main train stations, such as Atocha and Chamartin, where several car hire companies operate. This is an excellent choice if you're arriving in Madrid by AVE (high-speed train) or long-distance rail and need a vehicle to continue your journey.

Car hire offices in Madrid’s city centre

If you are already in the city and prefer to hire a car close to your accommodation, there are numerous offices in centric areas. Also, one of the biggest advantages of DoYouSpain is that it offers the possibility to pick up the car at one point and return it at another, which can be useful depending on your itinerary.

How to find the best car hire deal in Madrid

Renting a car in Madrid is a straightforward process, and finding the best deal is easy with DoYouSpain. The key is to compare prices in advance using an online comparison site like DoYouSpain, which provides real-time deals from various providers.

When selecting a car, consider the type of vehicle that best suits your trip:

• Small cars – Ideal for navigating the city and finding parking easily.
• SUVs – More comfortable for long-distance journeys outside Madrid.
• Vans and minivans – Perfect for large groups or families requiring extra space.

DoYouSpain makes the car hire process easy—with just one click, you can filter and choose the best vehicle for your journey.

Tips for driving in Madrid

Driving in Madrid requires awareness of local traffic rules and restrictions:

Low Emission Zones

The city has a Low Emission Zone (ZBE), known as Madrid 360, where only vehicles with an environmental label can enter. Before renting a car, check that the model complies with these regulations to avoid fines.

Speed limits

Speed limits in Madrid are strictly enforced. Within the city, drivers can travel at speeds of 30–50 km/h. On regional roads and motorways, the limits range from 90–120 km/h.

Toll motorways

Madrid has several toll motorways, including the AP-6 and AP-41, which may be useful if you're travelling to other cities. It’s advisable to check toll rates and plan your route in advance.

Where to park in Madrid

Parking in Madrid can be challenging, especially in the city centre. However, there are various options to park your car:

• Public car parks – Available in multiple areas of the city.
• SER Zone (Regulated Parking Service) – The rates depend on the zone: green or blue. However, note that since 2016, parking is limited to a maximum of two hours in the green zone and four hours in the blue zone. Also, rates may vary depending on the type of vehicle.
• Hotels with parking – Many hotels offer parking for guests.
• Free parking – Although limited, there are areas in Madrid where you can park for free. Examples include places outside the M-30, with good connections to the city centre. Additionally, Paseo de Extremadura and Ciudad Universitaria offer options. You can also try Calle Mendez Alvaro near Atocha or Legazpi, where there’s a public space next to the metro.

Best places to visit from Madrid

Hiring a car in Madrid offers the perfect opportunity to explore some destinations nearby, with incredible road trips:

Toledo, just an hour's drive away, is known as the ‘City of Three Cultures’. Its historic quarter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with must-visit landmarks such as the Catedral Primada, Alcazar, and the Church of Santo Tome, where El Greco’s The Burial of the Count of Orgaz is displayed.

Segovia, an hour and 15 minutes from Madrid, is famous for its Roman aqueduct, one of the best-preserved engineering works of ancient Rome. Also, explore the Alcazar of Segovia, a stunning castle that inspired Disney’s Cinderella. The Sierra de Guadarrama, an hour's drive from Madrid, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking scenery and a range of activities, including hiking and cycling. Lastly, Ribera del Duero, a two-hour drive away, is renowned for its wineries, where you can enjoy guided tours, wine tastings, and pairings with local produce.

The best car hire options in Madrid with DoYouSpain

As you can see, hiring a car in Madrid is simple, and with DoYouSpain, it’s even easier. Our comparison tool allows you to compare prices and rental options quickly, ensuring you get the best deal.

You can pick up your car at various locations, with Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport and Atocha Train Station being customer favourites.

At DoYouSpain, we guide you throughout the car hire process, and if you have any questions, our Customer Service team is available to help. Simply visit the Customer Area or call +34 964 83 09 95 for assistance.