Fodor's Travel Talk Forums

Fodor's Travel Talk Forums (https://www.fodors.com/community/)
-   Europe (https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/)
-   -   Spanish car rental (https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/spanish-car-rental-85270/)

john Sep 2nd, 2000 06:14 PM

Spanish car rental
 
Does anyone have an idea if a car rental cost is cheaper if the arrangements are made prior to arriving in Spain or should we wait until we have arrived. Thanks for any advise

C Sheen Sep 3rd, 2000 03:22 AM

John; All the travel books tell you that it is much cheaper to book from the states. I took their advice and booked for Spain in June. Start on the internet for the time you want the car and go from there. The rates can vary greatly. Also, I understand that booking as early as possible may save you some money. Good luck.

Maira Sep 3rd, 2000 03:46 AM

We booked w/Avis at their 1-800 and got a very good rate for a 10-day med size, unlimited miles; $204.00. Their counter is inmediately to the left of the exit of the baggage claim area.

MaureenGP Sep 5th, 2000 08:07 AM

The prevailing wisdom is that it is always cheaper to book from the States. <BR>We used AutoEurope to reserve our car in Spain this summer, and it was actually an Avis agency. We got a very good rate with them.

Maribel Sep 8th, 2000 09:15 AM

John, <BR>For a 1 week rental in mid-June, pick up Madrid-Atocha station, drop-off Seville-Santa Justa station, I paid $134 (including VAT) for a compact (manual transmission) through Avis, arranged prior to my arrival in Spain. I was upgraded to a Renaul Elf, which was a bit too large for my liking but admittedly comfortable for a long day's drive. For the past 6 yrs. I've rented with Avis after considerable comparison shopping. They've given me vehicles that are practically brand new, efficient service, and the pick up and drop off have been trouble free (plus no pre-payment required). Arranging your rental before you leave the U.S. is always the most economical way to go.

Maira Sep 8th, 2000 09:19 AM

Hey Maribel!! WELCOME BACK!!!! You were missed!!

Janet Sep 19th, 2000 02:50 PM

We rented a car through the internet with Budget for a 20 day trip this June/July. I paid $300 total. That included the 16% tax etc. I reserved the smallest car I could with manual drive but with AC. We ended up with a Renault station wagon, really didn't need the AC even in June, early July. AND car was way too big to manage spanish streets and garages. We only had 2 carryons so did not need the car for lots of luggage and it was WAY TOO BIG for the streets but is was a great deal. Check around as the rates really do vary. I made my reservations in March for the June trip. Enjoy.

Mari Sep 20th, 2000 12:16 PM

We rented a car from the states because we don't drive stick shift. If you need an automatic car you MUST make reservations in advance as they have a very limited number of automatic cars


All times are GMT -8. The time now is 06:56 AM.