Top Car Hire Deals During Valencia’s Festivals

Valencia, Spain, is a city known for its vibrant festivals, stunning architecture, and rich history. When festival season hits Valencia, the city transforms into a lively spectacle filled with color, music, and tradition. For visitors coming to Valencia, renting a car can be a game-changer, providing flexibility and convenience to explore both the city and its surrounding areas. If you're planning to visit Valencia during one of its many festivals, you'll want to know where to find the best car hire deals and how to maximize your experience. In this guide, we’ll explore top car hire deals during Valencia’s festivals, how to find them, and tips for making the most of your rental.

1. Why Hire a Car in Valencia During Festivals?

Valencia is home to numerous cultural events, but two of the most famous festivals are Las Fallas in March and La Tomatina in August. These events draw thousands of tourists every year, resulting in crowded public transport and increased demand for taxis. Renting a car during these festivals allows for greater flexibility, enabling you to visit the festival sites at your leisure, explore nearby areas, and travel at your own pace without depending on public transportation.

The surrounding countryside of Valencia, with its scenic routes, vineyards, and beaches, is also worth exploring, and having a car allows for spontaneous trips away from the city. If you’re planning to visit nearby towns like Sagunto, Cullera, or the Albufera Natural Park, renting a car is a smart option.

2. When to Book Your Car Hire

Timing is crucial when renting a car during Valencia’s festival season. Car hire prices tend to surge around the time of major festivals due to high demand. Therefore, booking your car in advance is highly recommended. This not only ensures you get the best price but also gives you a wider range of vehicles to choose from.

The best time to book is at least a few months before your intended travel dates, especially if you're coming for Las Fallas (March 15-19) or La Tomatina (last Wednesday of August). Early bookings often come with discounts and promotional deals, which can save you a significant amount of money.

3. Top Car Hire Companies in Valencia

Several reputable car hire companies operate in Valencia, offering a wide range of vehicles from budget-friendly options to luxury cars. Below are some of the top-rated companies:

• Avis: Avis is known for its excellent customer service and a large fleet of vehicles. They often offer discounts for early bookings, and their cars come with unlimited mileage, making it a great choice if you plan to travel outside Valencia.

• Europcar: Europcar is another reliable option with convenient pick-up locations at Valencia Airport and in the city center. They offer vehicles ranging from economy cars to premium models and frequently provide special deals during festival seasons.

• Sixt: Sixt offers a wide variety of modern cars with flexible rental terms. Their pick-up points are located at the airport and near popular areas, including festival venues, making them a convenient choice.

• Enterprise: Known for competitive pricing and customer satisfaction, Enterprise frequently offers discounts on long-term rentals, ideal for those staying for an extended period during festival season.

• Budget Car Hire: Budget provides affordable car rental options without compromising on service. They often have seasonal offers and are a solid choice for travelers on a budget.

• Blanca Cars: Blanca Cars stands out for its easy online booking process and no-hidden-fee policy. They are particularly popular for offering all-inclusive car hire packages, which cover insurance and taxes, making it a hassle-free option for festival-goers. Their fleet includes everything from compact city cars to larger family-friendly vehicles.

4. How to Get the Best Car Hire Deals During Festivals

While booking early is one way to secure a good deal, here are some additional tips to get the best car hire deals during Valencia’s festivals:

• Compare Prices Online: Use comparison websites such as Rentalcars.com, Kayak, and Skyscanner to compare prices from different companies. These platforms often display discounted rates and promotions.

• Look for Package Deals: Some travel agencies or booking websites offer package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and car hire. These can be an excellent way to save money during the busy festival season.

• Use Loyalty Programs: Many car hire companies offer loyalty programs that reward frequent renters with discounts and upgrades. If you have a membership with any of the major car hire companies, make sure to take advantage of these benefits.

• Consider Off-Airport Pick-Up: While it’s convenient to pick up your car at the airport, it may be cheaper to hire from a city-center location. Avoiding airport taxes and fees can result in substantial savings.

5. Types of Cars to Hire

When choosing a car for your visit to Valencia during festivals, it’s essential to consider the type of vehicle that will best suit your needs. Here are a few options to consider:

• Compact Cars: Ideal for solo travelers or couples, compact cars are fuel-efficient and easy to park, which is essential during the busy festival season when parking spots may be scarce.

• SUVs: If you’re traveling with a group or planning to explore rural areas around Valencia, an SUV may be a better option. It offers more space and comfort, especially for long drives.

• Convertibles: For those looking to enjoy the Mediterranean sun in style, renting a convertible can add a touch of luxury to your festival experience.

• Electric Vehicles (EVs): Environmentally-conscious travelers might opt for electric cars, which are becoming more common in Valencia. The city has a growing network of charging stations, making it easier to drive an EV.

6. Navigating Valencia’s Festivals by Car

Driving in Valencia during festival times can be both exciting and challenging. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Road Closures: During festivals like Las Fallas, many streets in the city center are closed to accommodate the festivities. Make sure to check for road closures and detours in advance. GPS apps like Google Maps or Waze can be useful for real-time updates.

• Parking: Parking can be tricky during festivals, especially in the city center. It’s a good idea to book accommodation with parking facilities or use public parking garages. Valencia also has a park-and-ride system where you can park on the outskirts of the city and take public transport to the festival venues.

• Driving in Rural Areas: If you plan to venture outside the city to explore the countryside, driving is generally easier, with less traffic and plenty of parking options.

7. Insurance and Extras

When renting a car during Valencia’s festivals, don’t forget to consider insurance coverage. Most car hire companies offer basic coverage, but you may want to opt for additional coverage such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) to protect against accidents.

You can also add extras such as a GPS, child seats, or additional drivers to your rental agreement, depending on your needs.

Conclusion

Renting a car during Valencia’s festivals is a convenient way to explore the city and its surrounding areas without relying on public transport. With a little planning and research, you can find excellent car hire deals that suit your budget and travel needs. Remember to book early, compare prices, and consider the type of vehicle that will make your festival experience in Valencia unforgettable.