Apartment Rental in Spain – What You Should Know

How booking works

Standard: choose apartment and dates, pay deposit (20–30%), balance before arrival. Email confirmation with bank details and check-in instructions. Some platforms (Booking, Airbnb) charge upfront – check terms.

Refundable deposit

At check-in a security deposit (usually €150–300) is collected to cover potential damage. Refunded within 7–14 days after check-out if the apartment is in order. Document the condition on arrival – photos, notes. This protects both parties.

Check-in and check-out

Check-in from 4pm, check-out by 10am – standard. Early arrival or late departure – ask, often for a fee. Who hands over keys? Host in person, lockbox, or key holder – confirm in advance.

Contract and terms

Read the terms before booking. Cancellation policy – usually 14 days for free cancellation. Cancellation insurance – worth considering. What's included? Final cleaning, utilities, WiFi – often yes. Towels, bedding – check.

If problems arise

Breakdown, no hot water, noise – contact host immediately. Most issues can be resolved on the spot. Keep correspondence. In extreme cases – complaint to platform (Airbnb, Booking) or organiser.