Tips for Renting a Car Inexpensively in Lanzarote
Looking for a cheap car rental in Lanzarote? With Economybookings, you can easily compare multiple providers to find the best rates across the island. Whether you're planning to explore volcanic landscapes or relax by the beach, a quick comparison can save you time and money.
- Compare pickup locations - Choose the full island, not just the airport, to unlock more rental options and lower prices.
- Slightly adjust pickup times and dates - Even shifting your booking by an hour can lead to a better deal.
- Choose compact cars - These are usually the most affordable and fuel-efficient for driving around the island.
- Book early - During high seasons like Christmas or summer, prices rise quickly. Booking in advance helps you secure better rates and availability.
Tips when renting a car in Lanzarote
- The most convenient option is to pick up your rental car at Lanzarote Airport (ACE), where you'll find the largest selection and extended hours. In summer, it's best to book ahead; economy cars sell out quickly.
- Main roads are in excellent condition. A compact car is enough for getting around the island. An SUV can be handy if you're carrying luggage or traveling with kids, but it's not necessary for the main routes.
- To visit Timanfaya National Park, follow the LZ-67 to the Islote de Hilario parking lot. Long queues are common at peak hours, so try to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Inside the park, access is only by official bus.
- For Papagayo Beaches (Los Ajaches), access is via an unpaved road with a small entrance fee. The track can be bumpy, so drive slowly, and check your rental agreement; some companies prohibit unpaved routes.
- In historic towns like Teguise or Haría, streets are narrow and parking is limited. Look for designated parking lots and always follow the signs and markings.
Driving tips in Lanzarote
- Always carry your driver's license, rental contract, and insurance documents.
- Drive on the right, overtake on the left, and always signal your intentions.
- Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks; make sure you stop for them.
- Roundabouts require attention. Pick your lane before entering: the inner lane for overtaking and the outer lane for exiting. Yield to traffic already in the roundabout and signal right when you exit.
- Watch out for cyclists, especially on coastal or mountain routes. In open areas, strong wind gusts are common; keep both hands on the wheel and slow down if needed.
- Popular gas stations include DISA, Cepsa, and BP.
- Spain has strict alcohol laws: the limit is 0.5 g/L (0.3 if your license is under two years old). Fines can easily exceed €500.
- In Arrecife, the capital, blue zone parking usually runs Monday to Friday (9 AM-2 PM and 4 PM-8 PM) and Saturday mornings. Parking is free on Sundays and public holidays. You can pay using apps like ElParking or EasyPark, without needing to return to the meter.
Speed limits
- 120 km/h (75 mph) on highways.
- 90 km/h (55 mph) on secondary roads.
- 50 km/h (31 mph) on city streets.
- 30 km/h (19 mph) on residential or narrow streets.
- 20 km/h (12 mph) in shared pedestrian zones.
Be especially cautious near volcanoes or beaches, and reduce your speed in windy or exposed areas to stay safe.
Road signs
Road signs in Lanzarote follow the European standard: clear icons and limits in km/h.
The island's roads are well signposted. In the north, especially around the mountains, look out for signs warning of sharp curves or strong crosswinds. Tourist signs pointing to beaches, hotels, and attractions are abundant, making it easy to navigate to all the main points of interest.
Tolls and restricted zones
There are no toll roads in Lanzarote—all roads are free to use. You won't need to pay to drive through Arrecife or to reach the island's main tourist sites. However, some areas in towns are pedestrian-only or have restricted access. These zones are clearly marked, so simply avoid entering with your car and look for nearby parking when visiting historic areas or promenades.
Discover Lanzarote by car
Lanzarote feels like another planet with its volcanic landscapes. Driving around the island is a pleasure thanks to calm, well-maintained roads. A rental car gives you the freedom to explore its many contrasts, from the Fire Mountains of Timanfaya to the lava vineyards of La Geria, or the breathtaking view from Mirador del Río.
In the south, you'll find white-sand beaches and turquoise waters like Papagayo, accessible via a dirt road. Every corner of Lanzarote offers something unique.
When to Visit
Lanzarote has a dry subtropical climate with warm temperatures all year and very little rain.
- Winter (December-March): Sunny and pleasant, perfect for escaping the cold.
- May-June and September: Warm weather and fewer crowds—ideal for exploring in peace.
- August: Hot and lively. Arrecife celebrates San Ginés with concerts, street parties, and a traditional regatta. It's also the busiest time of the year.
Languages & Communication
Spanish is the main language spoken in Lanzarote, but English and even German are widely understood in tourist areas like Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca, and Costa Teguise. Locals speak with a warm, soft Canarian accent and are known for being friendly, so even if you don't speak Spanish, you'll find communication easy.
Currency & Payments
The euro (€) is the local currency in Lanzarote. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in tourist businesses. Still, it's a good idea to carry some cash if you plan to visit local markets or small rural towns, where some stalls may be cash-only. ATMs are available in Arrecife and the island's main tourist spots.
Top driving routes from Lanzarote
Lanzarote is full of contrasts, and driving lets you discover its coastal and inland wonders:
- La Geria & volcanic vineyards: Drive between black-ash vineyards and visit local wineries to taste Malvasía wine in a truly unique lunar landscape.
- Volcano Coast (El Golfo): Head south from Yaiza to El Golfo, passing Timanfaya National Park. Stop at Charco de los Clicos (green lagoon) and Los Hervideros sea cliffs, lava-carved into dramatic shapes.
- Papagayo Beaches: In the island's far south, drive to these coves with golden sand and turquoise waters, inside a protected area (small entrance fee applies).
- Jameos del Agua & Cueva de los Verdes: Discover the island's famous volcanic tubes in the north. A stunning underground lake with albino crabs and illuminated caves you can walk through.
