Car Hire in Málaga, Spain

Rent a car in Malaga with Europcar

Lying on the Costa del Sol and south-east of Seville, Malaga is a city that has come into its own in recent years. The 11th-century architecture sits comfortably alongside modern bars and boutiques in this red-roofed city, where the fine dining scene is being likened to Barcelona and there are enough museums and galleries to rival Madrid.

Within driving distance are stunning natural parks, as well as Marbella to the south, and the coast leading down to Gibraltar. 

The Europcar car rental experience in Malaga

There are two convenient Europcar pickup points in Malaga, one at Malaga Airport and another at the main train station, both perfectly situated to get you on your way quickly when you arrive. 

Looking for something small enough for one or two people? Choose the popular Volkswagen Polo or Fiat 500. If you are traveling with a larger group or just need more space, look to our station wagon options such as the Seat Leon or Peugeot 508. Planning a road trip? The 9-seater Mercedes Vito Tourer is an excellent choice for taking longer journeys in comfort. 

Europcar Malaga also offers a comprehensive selection of vans, and all our rentals are available on a short- or long-term basis. Plan your trip, and we will help you find a vehicle to suit. 

Driving in Malaga

In Malaga, the speed limit is 50 km/h. Outside the city, the limit on country roads is 90 km/h and on freeways 120 km/h. In residential areas it is 20 km/h. 

Parking in the historic center of Malaga is not advisable due to the protected areas and narrow streets; however, you can park in ‘blue zones’ where there are blue markings or signposting. On-street parking is enforced from Monday to Friday 9am-2pm and 4pm-8pm. The maximum stay in these spots is two hours. There is unlimited garage parking in off-street parking garages, and rates in these vary. You can pay with cash, credit/debit cards and mobile phone apps. 

Many freeways in Spain are subject to tolls charges. You can pay these with cash, credit/debit cards or via an automated electronic system. To use the automated system, you need a VIA T box in your car, which can be obtained from some banks. At the toll stations you must drive through the correct lane depending on how you will be paying. 

Discover Malaga and the surrounding area by car 

Malaga boasts many cultural attractions, including the house where Picasso was born. There is also La Térmica cultural center, the definitive hub for arts events and artist workshops; and the Automobile and Fashion Museum, a blend of high-end fashion and sleek vintage cars. Food-wise, tapas obviously reigns supreme, but there are also great Moroccan and world food offerings. 

Lose yourself in the beauty of the Spanish countryside with day trips to Ronda, a spectacular cliff-side city with incredible bridges and gorges, and Frigiliana, a stunning whitewashed town with beautiful views and great tapas restaurants, both just an hour away. 

Further away are Granada (70 miles), Gibraltar (85 miles) and Seville (105 miles), all fascinating destinations within driving distance. 

A picturesque seaside town just 45 minutes along the coast from Malaga, Nerja is an easily accessible day trip. The Nerja Caves are one of the most popular and spectacular historical attractions in Spain. Take a tour to see the ancient cave art, as well as the largest stalagmite in the world, 100 feet long! There are several different tours, including an eerie night-time version. Ample parking is available in and around the site of the Nerja Caves, so they’re a great place to travel to in your rental car.

Things to do in Malaga

Malaga is a melting pot of arts and culture. Start off with the big attractions, such as the Museo Picasso Málaga, with great year-round exhibitions and a permanent collection of over 200 impressive pieces; the Paris offshoot, Centre Pompidou Málaga, with works by Frida Kahlo, Francis Bacon and others; and MAUS, an entire district that was abandoned and then revamped by street artists. Then make sure you visit the Alcazaba, with its evocative gardens and fine examples of Moorish architecture. And the rewarding views of the city and coastline from atop the Catedral de Málaga are definitely worth the 200-step climb.

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