Plan Your Trip

Car Rental in Tenerife

A rental car costs less in Tenerife than almost anywhere in Western Europe and opens up half the island that no excursion bus reaches. Here's how to do it well.

Where to book

Local operators (Cicar, Autoreisen, Plus Car) consistently beat international chains on price and include the windshield/wheels insurance the big chains charge extra for. Book direct, not through aggregators, to avoid surprise fuel and deposit policies.

What it costs

From €25/day in low season for a compact, €45 in August. Most rentals include unlimited mileage and second driver free. Deposit (~€600) only ring-fenced if you decline the full insurance — local operators often include it.

Practical tips

Petrol is 30% cheaper than mainland Spain (~€1.20/L). Watch road TF-21 to Teide for ice in winter mornings. Park in resort hotel garages overnight (security, scratch risk).