Compare cheap car hire at Girona Airport with Ireland flights, rental desk locations, pickup advice, prices and Costa Brava driving tips.
Girona Airport is a practical arrival point for the Costa Brava, Girona city and parts of Catalonia that are easier to enjoy by car than by public transport. It is smaller and simpler than Barcelona, which can make collection quicker and less stressful, especially in summer.
A hire car from Girona Airport is popular with travellers heading to Lloret de Mar, Tossa de Mar, Begur, Cadaqués, Girona city or inland countryside stays. It can also work for onward trips to Barcelona if prices are better or flights are more convenient.
Direct Flights from Ireland to Girona
Girona has had seasonal direct flights from Dublin, Cork, Shannon and Knock at different times, mainly with low-cost carriers. Routes can change by season, so always check current schedules before booking.
Car Hire Companies at Girona Airport
The airport has a dedicated rental area close to the terminal. Most desks are inside the arrivals building or in offices directly outside.
- Hertz: Desk in the terminal arrivals area. Cars collected from the nearby signed rental parking zone.
- Avis / Budget: Shared desk in arrivals. Short walk to the collection bays outside.
- Europcar: Inside the terminal. Vehicles parked in the airport car hire area beside the terminal.
- Goldcar: Airport desk or nearby office depending on season. Follow signs after exiting arrivals.
- Record Go: Collection point close to the terminal, sometimes with shuttle support in peak periods.
- Sixt: Desk in terminal or adjacent office with nearby vehicle handover.
Finding the Pickup Area
- Leave baggage reclaim and enter arrivals.
- Follow signs for Car Rental / Rent a Car.
- Complete the rental agreement at your desk.
- Exit the terminal.
- Walk to the signed car hire parking area or take the supplier shuttle if instructed.
Which Car Suits Girona Best?
| Car Type | Good For | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Small Hatchback | Couples, resort stays | Easy for narrow streets and beach-town parking. |
| Compact Automatic | Relaxed holiday driving | Simple option for mixed city and coastal routes. |
| Family SUV | Families, luggage | Extra space for beach gear and longer drives. |
| Estate Car | Road trips | Useful boot space without a large vehicle footprint. |
| Convertible | Leisure breaks | Popular for scenic Costa Brava drives. |
Typical Daily Prices
| Season | Small Car | Family Car | SUV / Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov–Mar | €16–€34 | €34–€60 | €60–€110 |
| Apr–Jun | €24–€48 | €48–€82 | €82–€150 |
| Jul–Aug | €42–€80 | €80–€145 | €145–€260 |
| Sep–Oct | €26–€50 | €50–€88 | €88–€160 |
Driving from Girona Airport
The airport connects quickly to the AP-7 and C-25 routes. Most Costa Brava resorts and Girona city are easy drives.
- Girona city: around 20 minutes
- Lloret de Mar: around 30 minutes
- Tossa de Mar: around 40 minutes
- Begur: around 45 minutes
- Barcelona: around 1 hour 15 minutes depending on traffic
You drive on the right in Spain. Speed limits are in km/h and some routes may include tolls.
Useful Booking Tips
- Automatic cars usually have the lowest availability in summer.
- Check hotel parking costs before arrival.
- Inspect the car fully before leaving the airport.
- Book child seats in advance during school holidays.
- Compare full-to-full fuel policies where possible.
Useful Official Links
Girona Airport official website
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Girona Airport good for Costa Brava car hire?
Yes. It is one of the most convenient airports for many Costa Brava resorts.
Are there direct flights from Ireland to Girona?
Yes, seasonal direct services have operated from several Irish airports depending on year and airline.
Where are the rental desks at Girona Airport?
Most are in arrivals or immediately outside the terminal, with cars in the nearby rental parking area.
How far is Girona Airport from Lloret de Mar?
Usually around 30 minutes by car.
Do I need a credit card?
Usually yes for the security deposit.
Which side of the road do they drive on?
Driving is on the right-hand side.
Is an automatic car available?
Yes, but early booking is recommended in peak season.
Can I drive to Barcelona?
Yes, it is a straightforward motorway journey.
Are toll roads used in the area?
Some Catalonia routes may include toll sections.
What is the cheapest time to rent?
Winter and shoulder seasons are usually the lowest-priced periods.
