Car Rental Vitoria

Cars are not allowed in the very center of the city, specifically the old town, to avoid congestion. Therefore, the best way to access the city is to park further out and either walk in or take public transport.

Hiring a car in Vitoria allows you to explore not only the rest of the Álava province and the Basque Country, but the rest of northern Spain too. Even France isn’t far off; the surfing city of Biarritz is only 150km north on the AP-8. Bilbao is a 45-minute trip north via the N-622 and AP-68, Pamplona is only 100km east on the A-1 and A-10 and the foodie paradise of San Sebastian is also just 100km away.

In Spain, road users drive on the right and overtake on the left. The maximum speed allowed on Spanish freeways, known as ‘autopistas’, is 120 km/h. Built-up areas cap speed at 50 km/h. Mobile phone use is not allowed while driving, and everyone in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt.

Almost all ‘A’ and ‘M’ roads that you'll use are free to drive on, but ‘R’ roads do charge a fee if you want to use them. As always, you can ask any questions you may have about driving in Spain or Vitoria at our pick-up desk.

Whether you’re visiting to enjoy pristine plazas, marvel at the towering Gothic cathedral or simply want to soak up the atmosphere of this bustling Mediterranean city, you can do all that and more in Vitoria. Delve into the beauty and culture of this historic metropolis and get ready to fall in love.

Say ¡hola! to the Catedral de Santa María

Built by King Alfonso VIII of Castile in the 12th century, the cathedral de Santa Maria is a towering example of imposing yet delicate Gothic architecture. Following a recent renovation, the cathedral has been restored to it’s former glory and is now an awe-inspiring building, inside and out.

With its huge arches and decorative stained-glass windows, this opulent Roman Catholic cathedral is fascinating for two reasons. Firstly, of course, the sheer weight of history that comes with the building is incredible. But secondly, as the guided tour demonstrates, the scope and quality of the restoration is a thing of beauty in itself.

Browse Mirós and Picassos

Spain has produced some of the world’s most revered and famous artists down the centuries, but if there’s one area that really captures the nation and sees them dominate - it’s modern art.

From the original surrealist masters like Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali to more contemporary artists, Vitoria’s palace of modern art, The Artium, has them all. It tells the complete story of the cultural movement and with style and panache too. With so many excellent collections to its name, it’s no surprise this is considered one of the finest galleries of its kind – perhaps better than any other in the Basque region.

Enjoy a dose of greenery

Named the Green Capital of Europe in 2012, Vitoria takes its environmental responsibility seriously, which adds a whole new dimension to your visit. Although the centre is rich with incredible stone architecture, the outskirts are a thriving green area, where forests and wetlands are nurtured. Head a little further out of the city and you’ll come across gorgeous vineyards stretching in every direction. Stop on your journey to enjoy the rugged yet charming Mediterranean landscapes of Spain.

Take in the beauty and culture of the city, or head further afield to discover the local region. Whatever you plan to do on your trip, your car rental in Vitoria will give you the freedom to go further and see much more.