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Bilbao Airport (BIO) · Loiu

Car Hire & Rent a Car at Bilbao Airport

Every major supplier operates from the arrivals hall at Bilbao Airport. Compare Avis, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, Enterprise, Goldcar, Record Go and more side by side — real prices, free cancellation, no hidden fees.

BIOAirport code
12 kmTo city centre
10+Suppliers on-site
24/7Roadside assistance
Picking up a rental car at Bilbao Airport counter
Where to pick up

Where to Pick Up Your Rental Car

Bilbao Airport, designed by Santiago Calatrava, has a single passenger terminal. Rental car desks are located in the arrivals hall, a short walk from baggage reclaim — you won't need a shuttle bus for most suppliers, though a few economy operators run a courtesy shuttle to a nearby off-airport lot.

Follow the rental car signsDesks are clearly signposted from arrivals — look for supplier logos as you exit baggage reclaim.
Allow 15-20 minutesFor paperwork and the walk to the car park, even with a confirmed reservation.
Ask about fast-trackSome suppliers offer priority pickup for online bookings — worth requesting when you compare.
All suppliers, one search

Car Hire Suppliers at Bilbao Airport

International brands and Spanish low-cost operators both run desks at BIO — here's how they typically compare.

International

Avis

Wide fleet from economy to premium SUVs, with a desk in the arrivals hall.

International

Europcar

One of the largest fleets at BIO, strong for vans, estates and automatics.

International

Hertz

Well-known global brand with a broad range of newer models.

International

Sixt

Popular for premium and SUV categories at competitive rates.

International

Enterprise & Alamo

Known for flexible pickup windows and family-friendly vehicles.

International

Budget

Budget-friendly options, often with availability grouped alongside Avis.

Spanish low-cost

Goldcar

One of Spain's biggest low-cost suppliers — smaller fleet, lower base price, optional extras.

Spanish low-cost

Record Go

Spanish low-cost supplier with a strong presence at BIO and simple, no-frills booking.

Spanish low-cost

Cicar

Regional Spanish supplier, worth comparing for shorter rentals.

Pick your pickup point

On-Airport vs Off-Airport Pickup

Both options use the same fleets and insurance — the difference is convenience versus price.

At the airport (BIO)

  • Walk straight from arrivals to the desk
  • No shuttle or taxi needed
  • Best for late arrivals or heavy luggage
  • Includes an airport concession fee in the price

Off-airport / city centre

  • Usually 15-30% cheaper — no concession fee
  • Same fleet and insurance options
  • Some suppliers offer a free shuttle transfer
  • Best if you're staying in Bilbao before driving on
Rental agent handing over car keys to a customer in Bilbao
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Before you queue

What You'll Need at the Desk

Have these ready and pickup usually takes a few minutes.

01
Booking voucherPrinted or on your phone — most suppliers accept either.
02
Driving licenceHeld for at least a year; an International Driving Permit if your supplier asks for one.
03
Credit cardIn the lead driver's name, for the security deposit — some local suppliers accept debit cards.
04
Passport or IDMatching the name on the booking.
Good to know

Bilbao Airport Car Hire — FAQ

Where exactly are the car hire desks at Bilbao Airport?
Bilbao Airport has a single passenger terminal. Rental car desks are in the arrivals hall, a short walk from baggage reclaim — most suppliers don't require a shuttle bus.
Is there a shuttle bus to the rental car pick-up point?
Most suppliers hand over the keys right in the terminal. A few economy or off-airport suppliers run a short courtesy shuttle to a nearby lot — this is usually noted at the time of booking.
What time do rental desks open and close at Bilbao Airport?
Major international suppliers generally cover the airport's flight schedule, while some smaller or economy suppliers have reduced overnight hours. Filter for 24-hour desks if you're landing early or late.
Do I need an International Driving Permit at Bilbao Airport?
EU and UK licence holders don't need one to rent a car in Spain. Visitors from outside the EU should check with their chosen supplier, as some ask for an IDP alongside your home licence.
Can I return the car somewhere else, like San Sebastián or Madrid?
Most suppliers allow one-way returns within Spain for an extra fee — compare this option before booking if you're not doing a round trip back to Bilbao Airport.
Ready when you are

Compare Bilbao Airport Car Hire in 60 Seconds

Free cancellation. No hidden fees. Pay at pickup.

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