Compare automatic car hire prices at Palma de Mallorca Airport, check availability and pick the right size for your group before you travel.
Why Choose Automatic Car Hire
Automatic cars take the stress out of island driving. They are easier to use in busy arrivals traffic and on short journeys between resorts.
At Palma de Mallorca Airport most major rental desks are in the arrivals hall. Many providers also hold cars in the adjacent multi-storey car park for quick collection.
What Types of Automatic Cars Are Available
You can find compact automatics for couples and city driving, medium family cars, and larger people carriers for families and groups. Some suppliers list 7 Seater and 8 Seater options for bigger groups.
Expect a mix of petrol, diesel and hybrid automatic models. Book in advance for specific features such as a child seat or GPS as these sell out in summer.
| Car Type | Typical Manual Cost | Typical Automatic Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Economy (small) | £18–£30/day | £22–£35/day |
| Compact / Family | £30–£45/day | £35–£55/day |
| 7 Seater / 8 Seater | £60–£90/day | £70–£105/day |
Main takeaway. Automatics usually cost slightly more than manuals. The premium is greater on smaller fleet or peak dates.
What to Expect When Renting an Automatic
At PMI you will usually go to the desk in the arrivals hall. Some companies operate off-airport and use a courtesy shuttle bus to the car lot. Confirm which you have booked so you go to the correct meeting point.
Allow 15 to 30 minutes after baggage reclaim for paperwork in normal seasons. Expect longer waits in July and August. AENA reports record summer passenger peaks, so plan for queues in the busiest weeks.
- Bring passport, driving licence, and the credit card used for booking.
- Inspect the car and photograph any damage before you leave the lot.
- Check fuel policy and return instructions on your agreement.
Tips for Driving Abroad (Mallorca specifics)
The airport sits about 8 km east of Palma. Access is straightforward by the MA-19 motorway. Use the MA-19 to reach Palma or the Ma-20 ring road when driving west. Expect 15 to 25 minute drives into the city depending on traffic.
Local notes:
- Palma’s old town has narrow streets and limited parking. Use designated car parks rather than attempting to park on cobbled lanes.
- The city introduced a Low Emission Zone. Check whether your vehicle needs a badge before entering the restricted area. Enforcement and rules have been phased in since 2025.
| Driving Situation | Is Automatic a Good Choice? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| City traffic in Palma | Yes | Smoother and less tiring in stop-start conditions |
| Coastal roads and narrow lanes | Yes | Better focus on steering and hazards |
| Long motorway runs | Yes | Comfort at higher speeds and easier overtaking |
Main takeaway. Automatic cars suit most Mallorca itineraries, including family trips and island drives.
How Much Does Automatic Car Hire Cost
Rates vary by season, supplier, and vehicle size. Automatics add a modest premium over manual equivalents. Peak weeks in July and August push prices higher and reduce availability.
Extra costs to watch for include:
- Airport collection fees for some off-airport providers.
- Additional drivers and child seats.
- Insurance excess and optional excess waivers.
| Item | Why It Matters | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel policy | Affects final refuelling cost | Prefer Full-to-Full |
| Collection point | Saves time on arrival | On-terminal desk vs off-site shuttle |
| Insurance excess | May leave you with a large liability | Consider an excess waiver if budget allows |
Main takeaway. Compare total cost not just headline rate. Check what is included before booking.
Final Advice Before Booking
Book an automatic early for travel in high season. Verify whether your booking is on-airport or off-airport and confirm collection hours. Allow extra time for queues after busy flights.
Check the airport car hire page and Palma council mobility notices for up-to-date local rules and restrictions.
Frequently asked questions — Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI)
- Q: Are car hire desks inside the terminal at Palma Airport? A: Yes. Most major companies have desks in the arrivals hall on Floor 0.
- Q: How far is the airport from Palma city centre? A: About 8 km, typically 15 to 25 minutes by car depending on traffic.
- Q: Do some companies use shuttle buses? A: Yes. Off-airport providers usually run a courtesy shuttle from the arrivals level.
- Q: When is the busiest time for car hire at PMI? A: Summer months, especially July and August, are the busiest. Plan and book early.
- Q: Are automatic cars widely available? A: Yes. Expect a broad selection from economy to 7 Seater and 8 Seater models.
- Q: Is there a low emission zone in Palma? A: Palma introduced a ZBE covering the central area. Check badge rules before driving there.
- Q: Where do I return the hire car at the airport? A: Follow the rental company return signs. Returns are usually in the car hire parking areas near the terminal.
- Q: Can I pick up a hire car late at night? A: Some companies offer after-hours collection or key drop boxes. Confirm opening times with your provider.
- Q: Should I take extra insurance? A: Consider an excess waiver if you want to reduce financial risk from damage or theft. Read the policy carefully.
