$48 Car Rental Santander

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Santander

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top Car Deals in Santander

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Santander
View all cars

What you need to know for your Santander car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santander

Renting a car in Santander offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the historic Palacio de la Magdalena and the impressive Santander Cathedral, both located within the city. Additionally, the Banco Santander provides an insight into the region's culture. The convenience of having a car allows you to manage your luggage effortlessly, making it easier to enjoy your adventures without the hassle of public transportation.

Moreover, a rental car gives you the opportunity to explore popular nearby destinations. Just 5 miles from Santander, you can discover Camargo, which features the Playa artificial de Punta Parayas and the stunning Cabarceno Natural Park. For those who crave coastal experiences, the Santander - Cantabrian Coast, located 7 miles away, offers beautiful beaches like Playa de los Locos and the scenic Dunas de Liencres. Whether you're seeking beach time, outdoor activities, or cultural experiences, having a rental car enhances your exploration of Santander and its surrounding areas.

Most popular car rentals in Santander

  • Mini: The Mini car is a popular choice for travelers in Santander, accommodating up to 4 individuals along with 2 small suitcases. This compact option is perfect for solo travelers or couples seeking an economical and easy-to-maneuver vehicle, especially in urban settings where parking can be limited.
  • Midsize SUV: If you're traveling with family, couples, or a small group, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option. It accommodates 5 travelers and provides ample space for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle combines comfort with practicality, making it ideal for those who appreciate extra room while exploring the scenic areas around Santander.
  • Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is another versatile choice for travelers in Santander, comfortably seating 5 passengers and allowing for up to 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle is suitable for solo travelers, couples, or families who want a bit more space without sacrificing maneuverability, making it a great option for both city driving and longer trips.

Top rated car suppliers in Santander

  • Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travelers in Santander, offering a reliable service with a single rental location in the area. Customers frequently choose Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, which are excellent for navigating the scenic routes of Cantabria. Alamo is recognized for its efficient pickup process and well-maintained vehicles, making it a great option for those looking to explore at their own pace.
  • Enterprise: Enterprise also operates one rental location in Santander and is favored for its top-notch customer service. Many renters opt for Midsize SUVs and Standard vehicles, ideal for both individual travelers and families. The company is praised for its friendly staff and flexible rental options, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish. This makes Enterprise a reliable choice for those planning their adventures in the region.
  • National Car Rental: National Car Rental has established a strong presence in Santander with its dedicated rental location. Travelers often select Economy and Compact vehicles, which offer great fuel efficiency while exploring the beautiful landscapes of Cantabria. Customers appreciate the straightforward rental process and the cleanliness of the cars, making National a solid option for those seeking convenience and affordability during their trip.

Where to stay in and around Santander

  • Santander City Centre: Located in the heart of Santander, this vibrant neighborhood is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of beach, culture, and outdoor activities. Enjoy the stunning views at El Sardinero Beach or explore the historic Banco Santander and Santander Cathedral. The City Centre offers a variety of dining options, including bars and cafes, making it a convenient base for your stay. With attractions like the marina nearby, you’ll be well-positioned to soak in the local culture and natural beauty.
  • Camargo: Just 5 miles from Santander, Camargo is ideal for those who appreciate outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes. Visit the Playa artificial de Punta Parayas for a relaxing beach day or explore the breathtaking Cabarceno Natural Park, perfect for nature enthusiasts. The area also features the Cave of El Pendo, providing unique outdoor experiences. With a range of restaurants and cafes, Camargo is a fantastic choice for travelers looking to enjoy both nature and local cuisine.
  • Somo: A charming village located 4 miles from Santander, Somo is known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. El Sardinero Beach is easily accessible, offering a great spot for sunbathing and swimming. For those interested in history, the Palacio de la Magdalena is a must-see, showcasing the region's cultural heritage. Somo also includes golf courses and a variety of dining options, making it a great base for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Santander

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for sunny days, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well; just be sure to return the car empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra expense.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extended road trips, search for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Santander

The best value period to rent a car in and around Santander is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. March follows closely with low demand and slightly low prices, making it another good option. However, April tends to see higher prices and average demand, marking it as one of the most expensive months. June through August are also busy times, with high demand and slightly high prices during the summer season.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage
February49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
April54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May58.5°F (14.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July67.5°F (19.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyHighAverage
August68.4°F (20.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September66.4°F (19.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
October62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage
December52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Santander

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Santander into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Santander and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Santander

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Santander. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Santander

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $48.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$48
 
Our second best deal of the day
$57
 
Our third best deal of the day
$58
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Santander?
You can find cheap car rentals in Santander from $11 a day with OK Mobility's economy 4-5 door cars. Sixt and Enterprise offer economy SUV cars starting from $13 a day and economy elite 4-5 door cars starting from $13 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental in Santander that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Santander.
What are the best luxury car companies in Santander?
For luxury car rentals in Santander, Enterprise offers premium options like a luxury passenger van starting from $46 a day and a luxury SUV starting from $70 a day. These luxury rentals provide enhanced comfort and features for a more sophisticated travel experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Santander.
Can I rent a car one-way in Santander?
A one-way car rental in Santander is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $11 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise may have flexible one-way policies. These are good options for one-way car rental in Santander. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Santander.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Santander?
Santander is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $11 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring the region and returning to your starting point. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise also offer wide round-trip availability. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Santander.
What are the best car rentals in Santander?
Car rentals in Santander offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Economy SUV
  • Economy elite 4-5 door
  • Compact SUV
  • Fullsize elite SUV
  • Compact elite SUV
Most come with A/C standard, and both automatic and manual AWD transmissions are available. Families visiting attractions prefer SUVs or minivans for space; couples and solo travelers do fine with economy or compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Santander.

What are the best car rentals in Santander for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Santander for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy SUV, from $13 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact SUV, from $16 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you're planning longer drives, consider sizing up to a compact SUV for extra highway comfort. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Santander.

What are the best car rentals in Santander for couples?
The best car rentals in Santander for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize SUV, from $19 a day — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $16 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Santander.

What are the best car rentals in Santander for families?
The best car rentals in Santander for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, from $19 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Standard passenger van, from $40 a day — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and passenger vans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around Santander. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during the July-August peak, and consider adding GPS if you're new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Santander.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Santander?
Santander has excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options. Sixt offers hybrid vehicles from $11 a day, and Enterprise provides hybrid options starting from $11 a day as well. Alamo Rent A Car and Flizzr also carry hybrid vehicles from $11 a day. Multiple rental companies in Santander carry electric and hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia. Choosing an electric or hybrid vehicle can help save on fuel costs during your trip.
What is the best time to book a car in Santander?
From January, prices in Santander are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $13 a day during this period. July tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. The July-August period generally sees higher demand. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Santander?
Car rentals in Santander are available from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has economy and economy elite options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Enterprise offers economy and midsize vehicles with more space and stability for highways. Alamo Rent A Car rounds out the choices with mini and economy vehicles. Consider a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Santander.
What are good day trip destinations from Santander by rental car?
Exploring the beautiful region around Santander by car rental offers many fantastic day trip opportunities for families, couples, and small groups. Some top destinations easily accessible with a car rental in Santander include:
  • El Sardinero Beach, just 2 miles from Santander, is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
  • Palacio de la Magdalena, located 3 miles away, offers stunning architecture and scenic views, ideal for a leisurely visit.
  • Somo Beach, approximately 5 miles from Santander, is another excellent coastal option for beach lovers.
  • Laredo Beach, a bit further at 23 miles, provides a longer scenic drive and a beautiful expansive beach.
For these trips, a midsize SUV starting from $19 a day or a fullsize SUV starting from $23 a day provides ample space for luggage and passengers, making it ideal for car rental for families in Santander. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option for shorter distances, an economy SUV starting from $13 a day or a compact SUV starting from $16 a day is a great choice. Remember to fuel up before heading out, especially for longer drives to places like Laredo Beach. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Santander.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Santander?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Santander. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Santander?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Santander?
Budget car rental in Santander can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $48. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Santander?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Santander. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Santander car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Santander?
To rent a car in Santander, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Santander car rental?
If you need to cancel your Santander car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Santander with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia