Cheap Car Rental in Oviedo

Tips for renting a car inexpensively in Oviedo

Looking for a cheap car rental in Oviedo? With Economybookings, you can easily compare multiple providers to find the best possible deal across the country. Whether you're exploring major cities or venturing into rural regions, a quick comparison can save you time and money.

• Compare pickup locations – Select the broader city instead of a specific location to unlock more deal options, including off-airport savings.
• Slightly adjust pickup times and dates – Even changing your booking by an hour can reveal lower rates.
• Choose economy or compact cars – These vehicle types are usually the most budget-friendly.
• Book early – Especially during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays), advance booking helps secure lower prices and better availability.

Tips when renting a car in Oviedo

• Oviedo is a peaceful city, but if you're visiting in summer or during the San Mateo festival (mid-September), it's a good idea to book your rental car in advance to secure availability and better rates.
• Although Asturias Airport is actually in Avilés, about 40 km from Oviedo, many travelers pick up their rental car there to explore the region. You can also rent a car at Oviedo's train station if you're arriving by rail.
• If you want to explore Asturias, from the Picos de Europa to the coastline, a rental car is a must. A mid-size vehicle is fine for most routes, though if you're planning to drive through mountain areas or rural roads, an SUV might be more comfortable.
• Oviedo's city center is mostly pedestrian, so it's best to park on the outskirts or use nearby parking lots and explore the historic old town on foot. Many central streets are restricted to traffic, so double-check access zones before driving through the center.

Driving tips in Oviedo

• 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: inner lane for overtaking and outer lane for exiting. Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout and signal right before exiting.
• Rain and fog are common in Asturias. Drive slower and keep a safe distance when visibility is low.
• Popular gas stations include Repsol, Moeve, BP, and Shell.
• 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.

Speed limits

In Oviedo, typical speed limits are:

• 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.

Some areas might differ, so keep an eye on posted signs.

Road signs

The historic center has restricted access, which is marked. "Zone 30" signs are common in residential neighborhoods and narrow streets. You'll also see dedicated bus and taxi lanes, especially on main avenues. On the outskirts, watch for signs warning of steep slopes and sharp bends, typical of Asturias' mountainous terrain.

Tolls and restricted zones

There are no toll roads or active low-emission zones (ZBEs) in Oviedo, so driving is unrestricted within the city and its surrounding areas. However, most of the old town is pedestrian-only or has limited access, especially around the center. The city council plans to introduce a Low Emission Zone around mid-2026, so it's worth keeping an eye out for future restrictions.

Discover Oviedo by car

Oviedo is a calm and well-connected city, ideal for exploring Asturias by car. With your rental, you can easily visit the Covadonga Lakes, drive along the coast to charming fishing villages like Cudillero and Lastres, or relax on beaches like Gulpiyuri or Rodiles. You can also head into the Picos de Europa mountains or enjoy local cider in a traditional Asturian cider house. The freedom of having a car makes all the difference in discovering the region.

When to Visit

• May to July: Longer days and mild temperatures make it perfect for walking around the old town.
• September: The San Mateo festival brings free concerts, cider, and cultural events to the streets.
• Winter: Rain is common, but the city retains its charm, even under grey skies.

Languages & Communication

In Oviedo and throughout Asturias, Spanish is the main language. Asturian, or "bable," is a culturally recognized regional language, but it's not official, and you don't need to speak it. English isn't as widespread as in larger cities, but in the city center and tourist areas, you'll usually find staff who can assist you in English.

Currency & Payments

The euro (€) is the currency used in Oviedo. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most shops, cafes, and restaurants. Still, it's smart to carry some cash if you plan to visit traditional areas or local markets. ATMs are easy to find in the old town and around shopping streets.

Top driving routes from Oviedo

• Cudillero & the western coast: A postcard-perfect fishing village and wild beaches like Playa del Silencio.
• Covadonga Lakes: Drive through the Picos de Europa to one of Spain’s most iconic mountain landscapes.
• Cider route in Nava & Villaviciosa: Visit traditional cider houses and taste Asturian sidra straight from the barrel.
• Taramundi & Los Oscos: Green hills, old mills, and traditional stone houses tucked into the mountains.
• Avilés & the Niemeyer Center: Modern architecture, a charming old town, and local cuisine by the estuary.