Tips for Renting a Car Inexpensively in Zaragoza
- Looking for a cheap car rental in Zaragoza? 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 Zaragoza
- Zaragoza is a popular stopover between Madrid and Barcelona, so if you're planning to rent a car, it's a good idea to do so at Delicias train station.
- If you're visiting during the Fiestas del Pilar (in October) or on long weekends, the city gets crowded and rental demand spikes. Book your car early to avoid high prices or limited availability.
- Zaragoza Airport also has rental car offices, although options are more limited. If you're flying in, make sure to check pick-up and drop-off hours.
- The city center is easy to explore on foot, but if you're planning to visit nearby towns, head to the Monasterio de Piedra, or explore the Aragonese Pyrenees, renting a car will give you more flexibility.
Driving Tips in Zaragoza
- 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.
- On windy days (which are common in Zaragoza), keep a firm grip on the wheel, especially on open roads.
- Popular gas stations include Repsol, Cepsa, 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.
- Blue zone parking in Zaragoza is designed for short stays in the city center. It operates Monday to Friday (9 AM–2 PM and 5 PM–8 PM). On weekends and public holidays, parking is free. You can pay with apps like Zaragoza ApParca, Telpark, or EasyPark.
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.
The city’s urban mobility plan has reduced speed limits in many neighborhoods to prioritize pedestrians and cut emissions.
Road Signs
Road signs in Zaragoza follow the European standard: clear icons and limits in km/h. Low Emission Zones are marked with vertical signs and informative traffic lights. You'll see 30 km/h zones in residential areas and clearly marked bus and taxi lanes, especially downtown and on main roads like Paseo Independencia. Cyclists are well accommodated too, with marked bike lanes and signposted crossings.
Tolls and Restricted Zones
There are no toll roads within Zaragoza itself. However, a Low Emission Zone (ZBE) is being implemented in the historic center, with restrictions starting in December 2025. Only vehicles with an environmental sticker, bicycles, or specially authorized vehicles will be allowed to enter. The old town also has many pedestrian-only streets or limited-access areas, so it’s important to check the signs before driving in.
Discover Zaragoza by Car
Zaragoza is rich in Roman ruins, Mudéjar art, and a bold local cuisine. But it's also the perfect starting point for road trips across Aragón.
With a rental car, you can reach the Monasterio de Piedra, famous for its waterfalls and lush scenery; explore medieval villages in the Aragonese Pyrenees; or head south to the Matarraña region, often called the “Spanish Tuscany.” Roads are quiet, and the landscapes will surprise you.
When to Visit
- April–June: Pleasant weather and long days for exploring the old town.
- October: Enjoy the Fiestas del Pilar, a vibrant time with concerts, events, and a festive city vibe.
- November–February: Fewer tourists and a quieter experience, despite the chilly weather.
Languages & Communication
Spanish is the main language in Zaragoza. There is no co-official language here, although Aragonese is spoken in some rural areas, not in the city itself. Basic English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and services like hotels and car rental offices, though it's not as widespread as in larger tourist hubs.
Currency & Payments
The euro (€) is used throughout Zaragoza. Most places accept debit and credit cards, including public transport and museums. However, if you're heading to fairs, markets, or traditional bars, it’s a good idea to carry some cash. ATMs are easy to find in the city center and nearby neighborhoods.
Top Driving Routes from Zaragoza
- Monasterio de Piedra: Waterfalls, caves, and a beautiful natural setting, less than two hours away.
- Tarazona & Moncayo: A scenic route through one of the province's most charming towns and a nearby natural park.
- Huesca & Loarre Castle: A stunning Romanesque castle perched on a hill.
- Belchite Viejo: A preserved ghost town left in ruins after the Spanish Civil War, rich in historical value.
- Campo de Cariñena Wine Route: Vineyards, wineries, and charming villages surrounded by farmland.