Arriving at Tenerife South Airport and planning to explore the island by car is a great idea. This guide will walk you through the rental process, from finding your car to understanding the roads, and help you avoid any unexpected costs. Renting a car gives you the freedom to discover Tenerife at your own pace, but it’s good to be prepared for the pickup procedures, insurance options, and local driving conditions.
Rental desks are generally located within the arrivals hall at Tenerife South Airport. You’ll likely find a range of companies offering vehicles, including well-known names. Follow the signs for ‘Car Rental’ or ‘Rental Cars’ after you collect your luggage. Some companies operate a shuttle service to off-airport pickup locations, which can add a little time to the process. Be sure to confirm the pickup location when you book.
Tenerife’s roads vary from coastal highways to winding mountain routes, so choosing the right car is important. Here are some popular options:
| Economy (e.g., Fiat 500) | $25 - $40 / day |
| Compact (e.g., VW Golf) | $35 - $55 / day |
| Intermediate (e.g., Ford Focus) | $45 - $65 / day |
| SUV (e.g., Nissan Qashqai) | $60 - $90 / day |
| Minivan (e.g., Renault Grand Scenic) | $80 - $120 / day |
| Luxury (e.g., BMW 3 Series) | $100+ / day |
Prices change by season and availability.
To rent a car in Spain, you’ll generally need a valid driver’s license (held for at least a year), a passport, and a credit card in the main driver’s name. The minimum age is usually 21, but drivers under 25 may face an additional fee. Rental companies will require a deposit, typically held on your credit card, to cover potential damage or excess mileage. The amount varies depending on the car type, but expect several hundred dollars. Be aware of the fuel policy – full-to-full is common, meaning you return the car with a full tank.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is often included, but it usually has an excess – the amount you’re responsible for in case of damage. Theft Protection is also common. You can often reduce the excess by purchasing additional insurance at the rental desk, but consider whether your credit card or travel insurance already provides coverage. Don’t hesitate to ask the rental agent to clearly explain the terms of each insurance option before you agree.
Spain has a network of toll roads, though Tenerife has relatively few. Parking can be challenging in larger towns and cities; look for blue or green zones, which indicate paid parking. Speed limits are generally 120 km/h on highways, 90 km/h on conventional roads, and 50 km/h in urban areas. Be prepared for winding roads in the mountainous interior, and drive cautiously.
Typically, you’ll need a valid driver’s license, a passport, and a credit card.
For many nationalities, an International Driving Permit isn’t required if your license is in English or Spanish, but it’s always best to check the specific requirements based on your country of origin.
The minimum age is usually 21, but drivers under 25 may pay an extra fee.
CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers damage to the rental car, but usually has an excess amount you’re responsible for.
The excess is the amount of money you have to pay towards any damage to the car, even with CDW.
Most rental companies require a credit card for the deposit.
Full-to-full is typical – you collect and return the car with a full tank.
Tenerife has a limited number of toll roads.
They drive on the right side of the road in Spain.
Parking can be challenging in towns and cities; look for designated parking zones.
Report any damage to the rental company immediately and follow their instructions.
Yes, but you’ll usually need to pay an extra fee and the additional driver must meet the rental requirements.