Birmingham Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Birmingham

Renting a car in Birmingham offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily navigate to popular attractions such as Broad Street, known for its vibrant city experiences, and the Black Country Living Museum, perfect for a taste of local culture. Families will appreciate the convenience of visiting outdoor spaces like Coombe Abbey Country Park, where you can enjoy a day in nature without the hassle of public transport. The car also allows for quick trips to nearby destinations such as Coventry, home to the impressive Coventry Cathedral and Warwick Castle, or Solihull, featuring the National Motorcycle Museum. Furthermore, having a vehicle simplifies luggage management and lets you plan your travel itinerary without being restricted by bus or train schedules. Whether you're seeking family-friendly activities, business-related experiences, or simply want to enjoy the entertainment options in Birmingham City Centre, renting a car enhances your travel experience by providing easy access to all these opportunities.

Most popular car rentals in Birmingham

• Compact: This car type is perfect for accommodating 5 travellers with up to 3 medium suitcases. The Compact option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for a nimble vehicle that’s easy to handle in urban settings. Its smaller size makes it easier to navigate Birmingham's streets and find parking, while still providing enough space for luggage and travel essentials.
• Midsize SUV: If you’re travelling with family, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV is a great choice. This vehicle accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases, offering ample room for both passengers and luggage. The Midsize SUV provides a comfortable ride for longer journeys and is well-suited for exploring the Birmingham area with ease, ensuring everyone travels in comfort.
• Economy: The Economy car option is another excellent choice for those travelling in groups of up to 5, with capacity for 2 medium suitcases. This car is particularly appealing for solo travellers, couples, or small families who want to keep rental costs low while enjoying the flexibility to explore Birmingham. Its efficient design makes it a practical option for navigating both city streets and surrounding areas.

Top rated car suppliers in Birmingham

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice for travellers looking for a smooth rental experience in Birmingham. With 1 rental location in the area, Alamo is well-regarded for its quick pickup process and friendly staff. The most booked vehicles include Compact SUVs and Midsize SUVs, making it ideal for those seeking comfort and space. Customers appreciate the cleanliness of the cars and hassle-free returns, positioning Alamo as a reliable option for exploring Birmingham and its surroundings.
• Enterprise: With over 15 rental locations throughout Birmingham, Enterprise stands out for its exceptional customer service and extensive vehicle selection. Travellers often choose Compact and Economy cars, which are perfect for navigating the city and nearby attractions. Enterprise is praised for its helpful staff and smooth check-in process, ensuring a pleasant rental experience. The flexibility in rental options makes it a great choice for both families and business travellers looking to explore at their own pace.
• Hertz: Hertz offers 3 rental locations in Birmingham, providing convenient access to their fleet of vehicles. The most popular options among customers are Midsize SUVs and Compacts, catering to varying travel needs. Hertz is recognized for its well-maintained vehicles and efficient rental process, which enhances the overall experience for travellers. Their presence in the area ensures that you can easily find a rental location, making it a solid choice for your visit to Birmingham.

Where to stay in Birmingham

• Birmingham City Centre: This vibrant neighbourhood is perfect for families and business travellers alike. It boasts an array of entertainment options, including theatres and an arena entertainment facility. Key attractions nearby include Victoria Square, a picturesque piazza suitable for cultural exploration, and Brindleyplace, a bustling street for shopping and dining. With a variety of breweries and sweet treat options available, Birmingham City Centre is an exciting hub for visitors.
• Coventry: Located close to Birmingham, Coventry offers a mix of family-friendly and entertainment-themed experiences. Notable attractions include the historical Coventry Cathedral and the scenic Coombe Abbey Country Park, ideal for outdoor activities. Visitors can also explore Warwick Castle for a touch of romance and culture. The area features numerous food and drink options, including distilleries and sweet treat establishments, making it a delightful choice for your stay.
• Solihull: This city, situated near Birmingham, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and business opportunities. Popular attractions like the National Motorcycle Museum cater to culture enthusiasts, while Blythe Valley Park offers a lovely outdoor space for relaxation. With a variety of shopping centres and entertainment venues, Solihull provides plenty of options for dining and leisure, including local distilleries and sweet treat shops.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Birmingham

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to access lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best choice. Others may have full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience can often justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Birmingham

The best value period to rent a car in and around Birmingham is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. This can be followed by January and March, which also offer similar pricing and demand characteristics. April through June see average prices and demand, while July stands out as the most expensive month, with higher demand levels. August and September continue with moderate demand and average prices, making them less ideal compared to the earlier months.