Bristol Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bristol

Renting a car in Bristol offers the freedom and flexibility to explore both the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially convenient for tourists with luggage or families needing extra space. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, the fascinating SS Great Britain maritime museum, and the vibrant Aztec West Business Park. Each of these locations provides unique cultural and outdoor experiences within the city.

A car also allows you to venture beyond Bristol to nearby destinations like Wotton-under-Edge, where you can explore the beautiful Westonbirt Arboretum and Highgrove House and Gardens, or Clevedon, known for its charming beach and historic Clevedon Court. The convenience of having your own vehicle means you can manage your travel plans without the constraints of public transportation. Whether you are seeking adventure, scenic views, or cultural experiences, a rental car in Bristol provides an easy way to make the most of your trip.

Most popular car rentals in Bristol

• Compact: This car type accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 medium suitcases, making it an ideal choice for solo travellers, couples, or families. The compact size is perfect for navigating the city streets of Bristol, allowing for easy parking and fuel efficiency, which can enhance your overall travel experience.
• Midsize SUV: With a capacity for 5 travellers and space for up to 3 large suitcases, the midsize SUV is a great option for families, couples, or small groups. This vehicle provides a comfortable ride, ample luggage space, and the versatility needed for both city driving and exploring the countryside around Bristol, ensuring a pleasant journey for all passengers.
• Economy: The economy car accommodates 5 travellers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking for a budget-friendly choice. With its smaller size, the economy car is easy to manoeuvre in Bristol's urban environment, making it an excellent option for those who want to keep rental costs low while enjoying the freedom to explore the area.

Top rated car suppliers in Bristol

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice for travellers in Bristol, offering 2 rental locations in the area. Known for its excellent service, Alamo provides well-maintained vehicles that ensure a comfortable driving experience. The most booked cars with this supplier are the Compact SUV and Midsize SUV, making it an ideal option for those looking to explore the city and its surroundings with ease.
• Europcar: With 2 rental locations in Bristol, Europcar is highly regarded for its competitive pricing and efficient service. Customers appreciate the cleanliness of their vehicles, and the most popular choices include the Compact SUV and Midsize SUV. Europcar's reputation for a smooth rental process makes it a convenient option for tourists looking to navigate the area at their own pace.
• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out with 5 rental locations throughout Bristol, providing flexibility and convenience for car rental. This supplier is well-liked for its exceptional customer service and a variety of vehicle options. The Midsize SUV and Compact SUV are the most booked cars, catering to a range of traveller needs. Enterprise is a reliable choice for those seeking a friendly and efficient rental experience.

Where to stay in Bristol

• Bristol City Centre: A vibrant neighborhood offering a mix of family-friendly and outdoor experiences, Bristol City Centre is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in city life. Attractions like the historic SS Great Britain and the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge are nearby, while the scenic Queen Square provides a perfect spot to relax. The area also boasts a variety of shopping options, dining experiences, and local distilleries for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration.
• Wotton-under-Edge: This charming city is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking adventure. Wotton-under-Edge features beautiful natural landscapes, including the Westonbirt Arboretum, which is excellent for a family outing. The historic Highgrove House and scenic national parks add to the allure. Visitors can also enjoy local bars and distilleries, making it a delightful place to stay while exploring nearby attractions.
• Clifton: Known for its stunning views and rich history, Clifton is an excellent choice for families and city explorers. Highlights include the picturesque Clifton Down and the scenic Brandon Hill, both offering opportunities for outdoor activities. The historic Clifton Suspension Bridge is a must-see, and the neighborhood is home to various dining options and shopping centres, making it a well-rounded destination for visitors looking to enjoy both culture and nature.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to attain lower prices and better vehicle availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel economy.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always review the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most economical choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also work, but ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: When collecting your rental car at airports, you may incur a surcharge, but the convenience it offers could make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively 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 simple to add car rental insurance when reserving through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bristol

The best value period to rent a car in and around Bristol is November, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. This month offers a great opportunity to save. October also sees moderately high prices with steady demand. For those looking for shoulder periods, February and March may be appealing, as February has moderately low demand and slightly low prices, while March shifts to average demand alongside slightly low prices. However, July tends to be the most expensive month with slightly high demand, making it a busier time for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
February	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
June	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
August	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
September	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly High
October	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
November	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average