Renting a Vehicle in Ibiza: What You Should Know Before Signing
Renting a car or motorbike is probably the most comfortable way to explore every corner of the island at your own pace. But as someone who knows Ibiza well, there are important things you should know before signing a rental contract to ensure your experience is perfect and hassle-free.
When to Book and How Much It Costs
The golden rule is simple: the earlier you book, the better price you'll find. During peak season, from June to September, prices skyrocket and availability drops dramatically.
Approximate Summer Prices
- Small car (Fiat 500 type): €30–50/day booking in advance, up to double for last-minute
- 125cc scooter: €25–40/day, perfect for moving around with agility
- License required for 125cc motorbike: car license (Category B) with 3 years driving history, or A1/A2 motorcycle license
My recommendation: compare prices between local companies and major international chains. Local companies usually offer better service, more flexibility, and often include services that big companies charge as extras.
The Insurance Question
This is extremely important and where I see the most problems every summer. The basic insurance included in the rate usually has a high deductible, between €800 and €1,500. This means if you have a minor bump, you pay the first hundreds of euros yourself.
What You Should Always Do
- Pay for comprehensive insurance with no deductible (supplement of €8–15/day): the roads are narrow, with tight curves and heavy summer traffic
- Take detailed photos of the entire vehicle before picking it up, especially tires and bumper damage
- Make sure any pre-existing damage is noted in writing on the contract
Honest advice: that extra daily cost for full insurance will give you peace of mind that's worth its weight in gold. Parking scratches are very frequent.
The Island's Roads
Ibiza has a network of main roads in good condition that connect the four municipalities. The highways between Ibiza and Sant Antoni and between Ibiza and Santa Eulària are modern and comfortable.
Problems start when you leave the main roads to find coves or rural restaurants:
- Narrow, unpaved roads with considerable potholes
- Complicated access to coves like Cala d'Hort, Cala Xarraca, or Aigües Blanques
- If you plan to explore these areas, a vehicle with reasonable ground clearance is preferable
Parking in Ibiza
Parking in Dalt Vila and Ibiza city in summer is a real nightmare. Here are the tricks:
- Blue parking zones: your best option, but they fill up quickly
- Underground parking: at the port and near the center, €2–3/hour
- Sant Antoni: parking somewhat easier, though August also gets complicated
- Santa Eulària: large free parking next to the promenade, usually has spaces even in summer
Local tip: park in the Botafoc area or Talamanca and walk down or take the bus to the center. You'll save yourself a lot of stress.
Rules and Fines You Should Know
- Urban speed: 30 or 50 km/h
- General roads: 90 km/h
- There are fixed and mobile speed cameras, especially on the Sant Antoni and Santa Eulària roads
- Breathalyzer checks are frequent in summer, especially weekend nights
- Fines for rental vehicles are charged directly to your credit card, plus an administrative charge of about €30
Quick Summary
- Book in advance for better prices and availability
- Always pay for comprehensive insurance with no deductible
- Take photos of the vehicle before and after
- Compare local companies with international ones
- Watch out for unpaved roads to remote coves
- Fill up the tank before returning the car
- On a motorbike: always wear a helmet, closed-toe shoes, and watch out for sand on the curves