Your Guide to Driving in Málaga: Do You Need a Car, Local Laws & More

We haven't owned a car in nearly three years, but every now and then, when we feel the need to get out of the city and explore, we rent one to drive in Malaga.

There's just something about hitting the road in southern Spain, discovering whitewashed hilltop villages, pulling over for long lunches with a view, and having the freedom to go where buses don't.

If you're visiting the city for the first time and considering renting a car as one of your means of transportation in Malaga, this guide covers everything we've learned from experience: when it makes sense, what to watch out for, and how to make your road trip smooth and stress-free.

Should You Drive in Malaga?

Great reasons to rent a car

• Explore beyond the city: Day trips to Ronda, Nerja, Mijas, Caminito del Rey, and more

• Flexibility: No fixed transport schedules

• Family-friendly travel: Pack strollers, snacks, car seats, and travel at your own pace

• Hidden gems: Visit white villages and remote beaches not served by public transit

When you might not need a car

• You're only staying in Malaga city or nearby beach towns (Fuengirola, Torremolinos)

• You're using trains or buses to visit Seville, Granada, or Cordoba

• You're staying in the historic centre, where parking is limited and costly

• Avoid renting cars during festivals or religious holidays, as many roads are closed during this time.

Where to Rent a Car in Malaga

Malaga Airport (AGP)

• Most convenient: pick up your car right after you land

• Major brands: Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, Avis

• Some budget companies offer shuttle service to nearby depots

Malaga City Centre & Train Station

• Ideal if you're exploring the city first, then renting a car later

• Companies: Enterprise, Record Go, Goldcar, MalagaCar, Sixt

Insider Tip

Book in advance, especially for summer! Use comparison platforms like DiscoverCars to get the best price, filter by features (like automatic cars or debit card acceptance), and avoid hidden fees.

What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Malaga?

• Driving Licence

EU/UK: Your standard licence is accepted

• USA/Canada/Others: You may need an International Driving Permit (IDP)

• Passport or National ID

• Credit Card

Most rental agencies require it for the security deposit

• Some accept debit cards, so check the terms

• Minimum Age: 21

Surcharges may apply for those under age 25

• Luxury or SUV rentals may require an age of 25+

• Extras (Optional):

Child seats (legally required for kids under 135cm)

• GPS / extra driver/booster seats

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in Malaga?

Time of YearPrice Range (Per Day)Off-Season (Nov–Mar)€5 – €20Shoulder Season (Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct)€15 – €35Peak Season (Jul–Aug)€30 – €60+

Other Costs to Consider:

• Extra drivers: €5–€10/day

• Child seats: €7–€12/day

• Fuel: Full-to-full is cheapest

• Insurance: See below

Car Hire Insurance in Malaga: What You Need to Know

Included by Default

• Third-party liability

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), which usually comes with a high excess (€1,000–€2,000)

Should You Get Full Coverage?

• Yes, especially for peace of mind

• Rental desk upgrades: €15–€30/day

• Better option: Full coverage via DiscoverCars for €7–€10/day, which covers damage, theft, keys, and roadside support

Pro Tip: Even with full coverage, the rental company may still block the excess on your credit card. If anything happens, you'll be reimbursed after filing a claim.

Driving in Malaga & Andalucia: Rules and Tips

Basic Rules

• Drive on the right side of the road

• Seatbelts are mandatory

• No mobile phones unless hands-free

• No flip-flops or barefoot driving (it's illegal)

• Child seats are mandatory for kids under 135cm

Speed Limits

• Urban areas: 50 km/h

• Country roads: 90–100 km/h

• Highways (Autopistas): 120 km/h

Alcohol Limits

• General: 0.5 g/l (blood) or 0.25 mg/l (breath)

• New/Professional drivers: 0.3 g/l or 0.15 mg/l

Parking

• Blue zones = paid parking

• Underground car parks = safe, but cost €1–€2/hour

• Avoid green zones (resident only)

Driving in Spain: What It's Actually Like

• Roads are in great condition, signage is clear, and drivers are generally polite.

• You'll need to carry ID, license, and rental documents in the car at all times.

• Roundabouts are frequent, and parking rules are strict (especially in small towns).

Helpful Apps

• Google Maps or Waze for navigation

• ElParking or Parkopedia for finding parking

• Repsol app to find petrol stations

• ViaMichelin for planning longer drives with toll info

If you find yourself on the receiving end of a fine at the end of your trip, read our article on how to handle driving fines in Spain to resolve it quickly, and hopefully with a discount.

Road Types & Toll Roads

Road TypeName PrefixToll?NotesMotorwayAPYesPay by cash/card at boothHighwayANoOften slower, scenicRuralMANoNarrow, but beautiful

Best Day Trips by Car from Malaga

Rental Car Checklist (Pre & Post Pickup)

Before Pickup (At the Rental Desk)

• Valid driver's license (International Driving Permit if required)

• Passport or national ID

• Credit card in the driver's name (debit often not accepted)

• Booking confirmation or voucher (printed or digital)

• Insurance documents (if purchased separately)

• Confirm what's included (mileage, fuel policy, insurance coverage)

• Ask about toll roads, road assistance, and late return policies

• Check for any additional charges (GPS, additional drivers, young driver fees)

• Confirm pickup and return locations and times

Vehicle Inspection (Before Driving Off)

• Take a video of the entire car as well as photos of existing scratches, dents, or damage (wide and close-up)

• Inspect wheels, mirrors, bumpers, and windshield for issues

• Confirm fuel level matches what's on the contract

• Test lights, brake lights, and turn signals

• Check the AC, heating, and electric windows

• Test wipers and check washer fluid

• Inspect tyre condition and confirm spare tyre/tools are in the trunk

Before Returning the Car

• Fill the fuel tank if required (keep the receipt as proof)

• Remove trash and all personal belongings

• Take new photos of the car from all angles

• Note the odometer reading and fuel level

• Get a drop-off receipt or have a staff member sign off on the return

• Ensure you receive the final invoice or email confirmation

• General emergency: 112

• Medical: 061

• Police (Local): 092

• Traffic/Roadside: 011

Final Tips for a Smooth Car Hire Experience

• Download Google Maps offline

• Book early in the summer

• Avoid upsells unless necessary

• Choose a full-to-full fuel policy

• Check drop-off time to avoid late fees

• Return the car clean and fueled

• Most rental cars in Spain are manual, and automatics are limited and more expensive. Book well in advance if you need an automatic, especially in peak season.

Ready to Hit the Road?

With your rental car sorted, you're ready to explore Andalucia at your own pace. Whitewashed villages, winding mountain roads, stunning coastline, and unforgettable sunsets await.

Now that you're behind the wheel, make sure you understand where to park in Malaga, so you avoid any nasty fines.

P.S.

We know driving in a new country, and sometimes the "wrong" side of the road, can be daunting. Malaga is a small city, so if you're planning on staying local, then getting around the city by taxi is definitely a viable option. And if you're seeing "small city" and wondering if a taxi is the right option, don't forget about the versatile e-scooter as a way to get around the city, too!