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Hertz car rental in Bilbao
Planning a trip to Bilbao? The port city rewards you for having your own wheels. With a Hertz car rental in Bilbao, you can pick up right where it's convenient, choose the vehicle that fits your trip, and skip the hassle of working around trains and tour schedules.
Base yourself in the city to explore Casco Viejo's old streets and the Guggenheim's striking architecture, then drive out whenever you're ready. The Basque coastline, its fishing towns, and mountain roads are all close enough for an easy day trip.
That flexibility is the real advantage of renting a Hertz vehicle in Bilbao: a fast pickup, a car that suits how you're traveling, and the freedom to set your own pace, whether you're staying in the city or heading out along the coast.
Pickup locations in Bilbao
- Bilbao Airport
- Plaza Pio X
- Bilbao - Bilbao Abando Railway Station (Cargo Vans Only)
- Baracaldo - Pol Trapaga Ugarte
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Benefits from day one.
- Up to 10% off the base rate on rentals in select countries
Up to 10% discount applies to base rates in the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and Benelux. 5% applies for the rest of the world. The discount applies to the base rate quoted (excluding taxes and any other charges). It does not apply to affiliated rates or rates that are already discounted.
- Add your spouse as a second driver without an extra fee
- Earn points redeemable toward free rental days and upgrades
Points are earned on per day time and mileage charges only. Free rental days cover base rate (time and mileage) only. Taxes, optional extras and any other fees are excluded. One-car-class upgrade applies to Compact, Intermediate, Standard & Full-size rentals with a maximum upgrade to a Premium. Additional terms and exclusions apply
- Skip the counter and go straight to your car
You can skip the counter once your membership is activated after your first rental. Available at select locations only.
Driving guide: Car rental in Bilbao
Parking information
- Aparcamiento Interparking Plaza Euskadi - Parking 24 Horas Bilbao comes in handy if you visit the Guggenheim Museum and the Abandoibarra waterfront. It has more than 400 parking spots.
- Parking Indigo, Arenal is a convenient choice for when you are around Casco Viejo and Plaza Nueva. It has more than 468 parking spots and is open 24/7.
- Indautxu Car Park is the right fit for when you are in Bilbao's main shopping district and Azkuna Zentroa. It's open 24 hours and has more than 500 parking spots.
Key roads in Bilbao
- AP-8 (Autopista del Cantábrico) is the main motorway if you're leaving Bilbao. It takes you east towards San Sebastián and the French border, or west towards Cantabria.
- N-637 (Txorierri Corridor) is a useful route if you're travelling between Bilbao Airport and the city. It also connects you with Erandio, Leioa, and several major motorways around the Bilbao metropolitan area.
- BI-30 (Bilbao Northern Bypass) helps you get across the Bilbao metropolitan area without driving through the city centre.
Electric car hire
Thinking about going electric on your trip? Bilbao makes it easy, with a growing public charging network that keeps your EV powered up wherever the road takes you.
With Hertz EV car rental in Bilbao, you can rent an electric vehicle at selected locations and explore the city and the wider Basque Country without giving up any convenience. Whether you're driving through town or heading out for a coastal or countryside day trip, an EV rental with Hertz keeps things just as smooth as a standard car hire with Hertz.
Charging points
Bilbao has around 24 active charging locations across the city, including Abando, Casco Viejo, Deusto, Indautxu, Uribitarte, and near Bilbao Airport. Charging speeds, connector types, access hours, and live availability vary between stations, so it's worth checking the details before you set off.
Congestion charges
Bilbao does not have a congestion charge, but it does operate a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) in the city centre. Restrictions apply to the most polluting vehicles during designated hours, while electric vehicles can continue to circulate under the current regulations. If your route takes you into central Bilbao, it's worth checking the latest LEZ guidance before you travel.
Getting from Bilbao to Gaztelugatxeko Doniene
Gaztelugatxeko Doniene is approximately 39.8 kilometres from Bilbao, and the drive usually takes around 58 minutes. To get from Bilbao to Gaztelugatxeko Doniene with a car rental in Bilbao:
- Join AP-8 from central Bilbao.
- Continue on BI-631 towards Mungia.
- Follow BI-2101 towards Bakio and continue following the signs for Gaztelugatxeko Doniene.
- The final stretch includes a restricted access road, so follow the local signs to the designated parking areas before continuing on foot. Access to Gaztelugatxe may require a free advance reservation on selected dates.
Getting from Bilbao to Gernika-Lumo
Gernika-Lumo is approximately 33.5 kilometres from Bilbao, with a typical journey time of around 38 minutes. And when you rent a car in Bilbao, you can get to Gernika-Lumo if you:
- Leave Bilbao and join E-70.
- Continue on AP-8 before following N-634.
- Take the BI-635 exit towards Gernika-Lumo.
- Stay on BI-635 and follow the local signs into the town centre, where you'll find public parking close to the main attractions.
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A quick guide to Bilbao
The Artist Grand Hotel of Art
Mazarredo Zumarkalea, 61, Abando, 48009 Bilbao
A luxury hotel overlooking the Guggenheim Museum, making it a great base if visiting Bilbao's most iconic landmark is at the top of your itinerary.
Hotel Carlton
Pl. ElĂptica, 2, Abando, 48009 Bilbao
One of Bilbao's most recognisable historic hotels, located on Plaza MoyĂşa with easy access to Gran VĂa, Casco Viejo, and the city's leading museums.
Radisson Collection Hotel, Gran VĂa Bilbao
Diego Lopez Haroko Kale Nagusia, 4, Abando, 48001 Bilbao
A modern five-star hotel in the heart of Bilbao, within walking distance of the Guggenheim Museum, Fine Arts Museum, and the city's main shopping district.
Nido Bilbao
Kalea, Barroeta Aldamar Kalea, 3, Abando, 48001 Bilbao
A contemporary restaurant showcasing seasonal Basque cuisine, conveniently located near the riverfront and Bilbao's cultural district.
VĂctor Montes
Pl. Berria, 8, Ibaiondo, 48005 Bilbao
A crowd-favorite pick overlooking Plaza Nueva, offering traditional Basque cuisine in the heart of Casco Viejo.
ETXANOBE
Calle Juan Ajuriaguerra Kalea, 8, Abando, 48009 Bilbao
One of Bilbao's best-known Basque restaurants, serving contemporary regional cuisine just a short walk from the Guggenheim Museum.
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Abandoibarra Etorb., 2, Abando, 48009 Bilbao
Designed by Frank Gehry, this world-famous museum transformed Bilbao into one of Europe's leading cultural destinations and is widely regarded as the city's most iconic attraction.
Vizcaya Bridge (Puente Bizkaia)
Puente de Vizcaya Zubia, 48930 Areeta / Las Arenas
Just outside Bilbao, this remarkable transporter bridge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's first bridge of its kind still in operation.
Casco Viejo (Old Town)
Zazpikaleak, Ibaiondo, Bilbao
The historic heart of Bilbao is home to the city's original seven streets, centuries-old buildings, and many of its most important landmarks, making it one of the first places visitors choose to explore.
FAQs about car hire
Do I need to reserve a Hertz car in advance in Bilbao?
Not necessarily. While booking your car rental in Bilbao ahead of time is recommended during summer, holidays, and busy travel periods, you're also welcome to walk in and choose from the vehicles available that day. Please note that walk-in rentals are subject to same-day availability.
What do I need to rent a car in Bilbao?
If you're planning to rent a car in Bilbao, make sure you bring a valid driving licence that's been held for at least one year, a credit card in the main driver's name, and a valid passport or national ID. If your licence is not in English, you'll also need an International Driving Permit.
What is the minimum age for Hertz car hire in Bilbao?
The minimum age for car hire in Bilbao is generally 21. Drivers under 25 may need to pay a young driver surcharge, and some vehicle groups may have age restrictions.
Can I return my Bilbao rental car to another location?
Yes, Hertz offers one-way rentals where you can collect your vehicle in Bilbao and return it to another participating Hertz location. Simply choose a different return location when booking or let the collection office know. Additional charges may apply.
Can I add a child seat to my booking?
Yes. When you hire a car in Bilbao with Hertz, you can opt for a child seat as an optional extra. This is offered in order to help keep younger passengers safe during the journey.