Typical: small car 5.5–6.5, SUV 7.5–9, electric 0 (but charging is different)
What this tool does
Spain has some of the cheapest fuel prices in Western Europe — €1.40–1.65/L for diesel and €1.55–1.75/L for gasolina 95 (October 2026). The catch: prices vary significantly by region and chain. Filling up in Catalonia costs ~12% more than in Castilla. Knowing where to fuel matters.
This calculator gives you a realistic fuel budget for your trip based on real regional price ranges, plus specific brand advice (some brands offer loyalty discounts up to 6 cents/L).
Where fuel is cheapest in Spain
- Castilla y León (Valladolid, Burgos, Salamanca) — often the lowest prices in mainland Spain.
- Extremadura (Badajoz, Cáceres) — consistently below average.
- Low-cost chains: Repsol Campsa, Cepsa, BP, and the supermarkets' petrol stations (Mercadona hasn't yet, but Alcampo, Carrefour and BonÁrea do).
- Avoid: Airport fuel stations (always +20% markup), motorway stations on autopistas (Repos service areas), and any station right at the French border.
- Most expensive: Catalonia (Barcelona), Navarra (Pamplona) and Basque Country. Even small savings compound on long trips.
Frequently asked questions
Diesel or petrol for a rental?
Most Spanish rentals default to diesel (cheaper per litre, more efficient). If your rental is petrol-only, fill with the cheapest 95 octane — 98 is unnecessary unless your engine specifically requires it.
Do I need a fuel card?
For short trips, no. For 2+ weeks, the Repsol "Más Sol" or Cepsa "Porque Tú Vuelves" loyalty cards give 2–4 cents/L off and accumulated points. Worth €5–15 in savings.
Should I bring fuel back in the tank?
No — Spanish rental companies charge a hefty refuelling fee (€30–60) plus the fuel at 2× market price. Always return with the tank as full as you got it. Budget the last 30 km of your trip around a petrol station.
Limitations
Prices are October 2026 averages. Spanish fuel prices change weekly and vary €0.10+/L between regions. The calculator uses regional averages, not station-specific prices. Real consumption depends on driving style, AC use, and luggage weight.